Skyward Warriors: Soldiers Perform Duties High Above the Ground

Soldiers in the sky take on daring jumps, execute precise aerial maneuvers, and carry out high-risk operations that demand skill, endurance, and unwavering focus. Whether parachuting into remote locations, fast-roping from helicopters, or engaging in airborne assaults, they rely on rigorous training, split-second decision-making, and teamwork to navigate the challenges of aerial warfare.

These images showcase soldiers in action, capturing the intensity of their jumps, the accuracy of their aerial maneuvers, and the complexity of their high-stakes operations.

A U.S. Army Soldier Watches Over South Korea During Dragon Lift 2024

A U.S. Army aircrew Soldier from the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, gazes out the door of an HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter, taking in the sweeping views of South Korea during the Dragon Lift 2024 exercise on June 26, 2024.

This biannual medical exercise, known as Dragon Lift, is a collaborative effort between United States Forces Korea and Republic of Korea personnel. The exercise is designed to maintain and enhance proficiency in joint patient movement operations, ensuring that both nations’ forces are well-prepared to respond to medical emergencies and provide critical care in a coordinated manner.

A 160th SOAR Soldier Conducts Ramp Check Procedures

A U.S. Army Soldier assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), based at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia, meticulously conducts ramp check procedures on September 18, 2024. The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, renowned for its expertise and precision, is dedicated to organizing, equipping, training, resourcing, and deploying Army special operations aviation forces on a global scale.

This elite unit plays a crucial role in supporting special operations missions, ensuring that their aircraft and personnel are always mission-ready and capable of executing complex operations in diverse environments.

Army Aviators Celebrate a Successful Flyover at the 2024 NFL Pro Bowl

U.S. Army soldiers assigned to the 5-159th General Support Aviation Battalion and the 244th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade share a celebratory fist-bump during a flight over the Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, on February 4, 2024.

These soldiers were part of the impressive flyover for the 2024 NFL Pro Bowl. The flyover featured a CH-47 Chinook, a UH-60 Blackhawk, and an HH-60 Blackhawk, demonstrating the versatility and capability of Army aviation assets.

Arctic Angels Honor International Women’s Day with All-Female Paratrooper Jump

Female U.S. Army paratroopers from the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, known as the “Arctic Angels,” performed a commemorative jump from a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 176th Wing, Alaska Air National Guard, on March 7, 2024, in honor of International Women’s Day. The jump took place at Malemute Drop Zone, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska.

This special event was conducted entirely by female members of the 2/11. The operation included jumpers and jump masters from all battalions within the 2/11th, with all ground and air duties executed by female Soldiers and Airmen.

This impressive demonstration of skill and coordination highlighted the vital role of women in the military, recognizing their contributions, expertise, and dedication to service.

4th Infantry Division Leaders Make a Bold Entrance with Fast Rope Descent

Maj. Gen. David S. Doyle, commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, along with Command Sgt. Maj. Alex Kupratty, the division command sergeant major, made a dramatic entrance by fast roping from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter on June 14, 2024, at Fort Carson, Colorado. This impressive arrival marked the beginning of a physical training event, setting an inspiring tone for the participants.

West Point Cadet Takes on Air Assault School Rappel Training

A United States Military Academy Cadet rappels from the rappel tower during Air Assault School at West Point, NY, on Friday, June 28, 2024. This rigorous 10-day school, conducted by instructors from the Sabalauski Air Assault School, takes place at West Point during the summer.

The training is designed to develop the cadets’ skills in air assault operations, including rappelling, sling load operations, and helicopter insertion techniques. The cadets undergo intense physical and mental challenges, preparing them for future leadership roles in the Army.

Parachute Team Partners with 160th SOAR for Training Jumps

The U.S. Military Academy’s Parachute Team collaborated with the 2nd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, for an exhilarating day of parachute jumps on September 6, 2023, at West Point, NY.

This joint event provided an excellent opportunity for cadets and seasoned special operations soldiers to share their expertise and enhance their parachuting skills. The day was filled with multiple jumps, fostering camaraderie and mutual respect between the academy’s cadets and the elite members of the 160th SOAR (A)

Texas Army National Guard Paratrooper Drops Under Crescent Moon at Bright Star 23

A Texas Army National Guard paratrooper gracefully descends to the drop zone under the light of a waning crescent moon during airborne operations at Bright Star 23, held at Mohamed Naguib Military Base, Egypt, on September 7, 2023. Bright Star 2023 is a multilateral exercise organized by U.S. Central Command in collaboration with the Arab Republic of Egypt.

This extensive exercise spans air, land, and sea domains, aiming to promote and enhance regional security and cooperation. It also focuses on improving interoperability among participating forces in irregular warfare against hybrid threat scenarios. 

Georgia Army National Guard Flight Paramedic Observes Moroccan Coast During African Lion 23

U.S. Army Sgt. Andrew Wilwol, a flight paramedic with the 1-111th Aviation Regiment, 78th Aviation Troop Command, Georgia Army National Guard, gazes out at the Moroccan coast passing below him while en route to Inezgane Airfield in Agadir, Morocco, on June 11, 2023. This flight was part of Exercise African Lion 2023, U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual combined, joint exercise.

African Lion 2023 saw the participation of eighteen nations and approximately 8,000 personnel, taking place across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia from May 13 to June 18, 2023. The exercise aimed to enhance regional security and cooperation, improve interoperability among participating forces, and prepare for irregular warfare against hybrid threat scenarios.

Army Pilot Oceana Chamberlain Practices Flight Maneuvers Over Idaho

Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Oceana Chamberlain skillfully practices flight maneuvers over the scenic landscapes of Idaho on January 13, 2022. As a dedicated and experienced aviator, CW2 Chamberlain’s training flights are crucial for maintaining proficiency and readiness. These maneuvers ensure that she remains adept at handling various flight scenarios, contributing to the overall mission success and operational effectiveness of her unit.