81 years ago today, paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne Division prepared to board their planes and fly into the night, toward Normandy — and into history. This powerful footage captures the tense final moments before they leapt into the fight for freedom on the Day of Days — D-Day. They paved the way for liberation. We honor their courage. 🇺🇸 #DDay #DayOfDays #82ndAirborne #Paratroopers #WWIIHistory | The History of the 82nd Airborne in World War II

The 82nd Airborne Division earned its nickname, “America’s Guard of Honor,” in World War II—and this footage shows exactly why. In January 1946, just seven days after disembarking the Queen Mary, following three years of warfighting against Nazi tyranny, the 82nd paratroopers marched through the streets of New York City: Disciplined. In step. In cadence. Sharp. Drilled. Heel-to-toe precision. A proud body moving as one. #AmericasGuardOfHonor #SloppyIsNotTradition #AATW #army250 | The History of

During the Normandy campaign, the 82nd Airborne Division engaged elements of five German divisions—91st, 243rd, 77th, 265th, and 353rd. Over 2,500 enemy prisoners were captured. The All Americans held the line—and pushed it forward. 🪂🔥 #82ndAirborne #WWII #Normandy #DDay #AATW | The History of the 82nd Airborne in World War II

WATCH! Paratroopers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division jump from an Air Force C-130 during Large Package Week! (Footage courtesy of 1st Combat Camera Squadron) | 82nd Airborne Division

WATCH: The 82nd Airborne is Fast, Lethal, Agile, and Expeditionary. | 82nd Airborne Division

On D 8 — June 14, 1944 the 82nd Airborne Division, alongside the 90th Division, made a determined push towards St. Sauveur Le Vicomte. At 10 AM, with the 82nd on the left and the 9th Infantry on the right, they charged forward, overcoming fierce, hedgerow-to-hedgerow combat to seize the line of departure. This footage captures mortar men of the division providing crucial fire support from the Picauville area, while General Gavin meets with some of his commanders. 🌟 #WWII #DDay80 #AATW #History

National Airborne Day The first official Army parachute jump was on August 16, 1940. This validated the insertion of U.S. ground forces behind enemy lines. In 2001, President George W. Bush designated August 16 as National Airborne Day. All Americans, may you always have fair winds and soft landings! #NationalAirborneDay #AATW #ThrowbackThursday | 82nd Airborne Division

Parachute Riggers from the 82nd Airborne Division jump from UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter on August 5, 1999. | Red Falcon Historical Society