Step back in time to August 16, 1940, when a daring platoon of soldiers made history by taking a leap of faith—literally. This was the day that marked the birth of the U.S. Army's elite paratrooper units, forever changing the face of modern warfare. From those first groundbreaking jumps to the towering 250-foot monuments at Fort Moore (now Fort Moore) that now honor their legacy, the spirit of the Airborne lives on. Dive into the rich history of airborne operations and discover how Greenway Supply Company continues to support the brave paratroopers who carry this tradition forward.
The Birth of the Airborne: A Leap into Military History
On this pivotal day, August 16, 1940, amidst the growing turmoil of World War II and before the United States had officially joined the conflict, a courageous platoon of soldiers completed a series of parachute jumps that would lay the foundation for the Army's elite paratrooper units, known as the Airborne. These historic jumps, conducted between August 13 and August 16, established the U.S. Army Parachute Test Platoon, marking the dawn of a revolutionary era in military strategy.
Fort Moore’s airfield, drop zone, and the iconic 250-foot training towers, established in the 1940s, now stand as monuments to the soldiers who came before, inspiring new generations of paratroopers. Although no longer in use, these towers symbolize the legacy and enduring spirit of the airborne tradition. Fort Moore remains a pivotal site in the history of airborne operations, where the legacy of past warriors meets the future of military excellence.
A Glance at Airborne History
Under the leadership of Major William Lee at Fort Moore in Columbus, Georgia, the Parachute Test Platoon was instrumental in developing the techniques of combat jumping. This innovation allowed U.S. ground combat forces to be inserted behind enemy lines, fundamentally changing the way battles were fought. In November 1942, these techniques were put to the test during America's first combat jump. Members of the 2nd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment leaped from C-47 aircraft into North Africa, showcasing the transformative power of airborne operations.
The same airfield and drop zone where these historic events took place remain central to today’s training for paratroopers, reflecting the enduring legacy of Fort Moore. Each new generation of airborne troops continues to honor the traditions established 84 years ago.
Greenway Supply Company: Supporting Our Paratroopers with Sustainable Solutions
At Greenway Supply Company, we are proud to support and impact the lives of our paratroopers who continue this tradition by providing eco-friendly dining solutions at each Fort Moore DFAC and field training facilities. Our dedication to sustainability ensures they can enjoy their meals while we care for our planet.
As we reflect on the historic achievements of Fort Moore and the ongoing dedication of our paratroopers, we at Greenway Supply Company remain constant with our sustainable impact on the lives of our troopers. Join us in celebrating the courage and commitment of our paratroopers on this special day!