The storied history of the United States military's Airborne units is nothing short of legendary. Many brave men and women have earned the right to be paratroopers and served bravely in one of the most daring and elite specialties within military service. At IHG® Army Hotels we are in awe of the service and sacrifices of these patriots: past, present, and future. Our team celebrates paratroopers every day, but takes special notice on August 16th, National Airborne Day.
In 2002, President George W. Bush established August 16th as National Airborne Day to commemorate the U.S. Army Parachute Test Platoon and their first jump, whose foundational efforts in 1940 mark the birth of American airborne forces. It's more than just a day on the calendar. For the IHG Army Hotels team, it's another opportunity to honor those who have jumped into the unknown for our freedom. This is especially true for our team serving you on Fort Benning, "the birthplace" of America's Airborne.
On Fort Benning, where many generations of paratroopers have earned their wings, celebrating National Airborne Day is sacred. This day gives everyone a chance to reflect on the countless sacrifices made by paratroopers and helps keep their stories alive for future generations.
Our team's commitment to proudly supporting service members, veterans, and their families helps honor and carry forward the legacy of military service. With upgraded, on-post lodging at Fort Benning and 39 other Army installations nationwide, IHG Army Hotels provides a safe and secure space that respects and supports military tradition, community, and well-being.
Fort Benning & the BAC
Since 1918, Fort Benning has established itself as a centerpiece of infantry training. Then came that fateful day in 1940, and with that first jump, the way was paved for Fort Benning to become the home of the U.S. Army Airborne School. Every soldier with dreams of earning silver wings must prove their mettle here.
The Basic Airborne Course (BAC) is a three-week program designed to train individuals on everything they need to know to parachute from airplanes and land safely. The course consists of the following phases:
- Ground Week
- Tower Week
- Jump Week
The first phase of the course is known as Ground Week, during which students must pass the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). Following the fitness test, the period of instruction focuses on teaching parachute skills, and students train on the mock door, a 34-foot-tall tower, and the lateral drift apparatus.
During week two, Tower Week, soldiers learn additional skills and qualify on the Swing Lander Trainer. They become proficient in exit procedures from the 34-foot-tall tower, gain canopy confidence, and learn to control the parachute on the 250-foot-tall tower, while also passing all physical training requirements.
The final week, Jump Week, is the culmination of everything the students have learned. Five jumps are completed out of a C-130 or C-17, sometimes with or without a full combat load. The jumps are from 1,200 feet, and one is at night. Those who complete all five jumps earn the right to wear the coveted "Silver Wings."
The History & Significance of National Airborne Day
Airborne forces have been part of the country's military for 85 years. From spearheading the invasion of Normandy during World War II to combat jumps into the dense jungles of Vietnam, and more recently, in conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, Airborne soldiers have proven their versatility, resilience, and unquestionable bravery.
What sets airborne troops apart from others? As we see it, it's the training and willingness to jump into uncertain terrain, many times under fire, with absolute courage and commitment. It's understandable why those who have earned their jump wings are uniquely proud. National Airborne Day is a reflection of that deep pride and nearly a century of excellence.
Since the observance began in 2002, the day has been marked by a wide range of events. Some of these include static displays of historic aircraft and equipment, jump demonstrations, memorial ceremonies for fallen paratroopers, and numerous speeches from current and former paratroopers. These events help us to remember and celebrate. For former paratroopers, these events are often a time for reunions and other special occasions.
National Airborne Day 2025
Although official schedules have not been released yet, Fort Benning typically celebrates the holiday each year with ceremonies and speeches. Most years, one of the key events is the graduation of the latest class of U.S. Army paratroopers. The day also includes a jump demonstration to commemorate the first jump ever taken in 1940.
Other ways to mark the day include checking in on the events at your nearest base, like the RCPT-USA National Airborne Day Tomb Wreath Ceremony and Dining Out 2025 taking place at Arlington National Cemetery Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, speaking with current paratroopers or veterans, and visiting museums like the Airborne and Special Operations Museum in Fayetteville, NC just 20 mins from our IHG Army Hotels Moon Hall property on Fort Bragg.
How IHG Army Hotels Supports the Legacy
If you plan to attend National Airborne Day at Fort Benning or other locations, we've got you covered. Our properties offer safe and relaxing accommodations with many locations right on-post. In addition to our locations being a convenient place to stay, we are committed to providing you with a range of amenities to enjoy, including affordable rates, complimentary hot breakfast and WiFi, extended stay options, pet-friendly accommodations, and a friendly staff dedicated to serving you.
At Fort Benning, our Holiday Inn Express Abrams Hall allows our guests to stay close to the history that enriches National Airborne Day. Our property is conveniently located near training grounds, jump towers, and the U.S. Army Airborne School, making it easy to share the day with your friends and family.
National Airborne Day is more than a commemoration of the heroes of our past. The day is a living tribute to the courage and sacrifice of our nation's paratroopers past, present, and future. Since that first jump took place in 1940 to the current class working hard to earn their silver wings, National Airborne Day is an opportunity to salute all who have jumped into the unknown for freedom and continue to answer the call. Whether you are visiting Fort Benning or another location, we would be honored to celebrate this important day with you and your family.
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