This came out a few months ago, but for some reason has left a huge pain in my gut, like a low blow. The Army has decided to do away with paratroop operations completely. I highly disagree with the tactical reasons; Airborne ops have ther place, particularly in desert warfare with no appreciative enemy air capabilities.
http://www.duffelblog.com/2014/04/82nd-airborne-legs/FORT BRAGG, N.C. — The nation’s premier Airborne infantry division, the 82nd Airborne, will lose its hallowed airborne status in the next fiscal year, Army officials announced Thursday.
Reasons for the change include the high cost of maintenance and fuel in the face of looming budget cuts, and the higher-than-average injury and fatality rate for soldiers conducting training jumps, according to a statement from U.S. Army Forces Command.
“As much as it helps esprit de corps and a sense of unit pride,†said Army spokesperson Col. Mike Mulally, “It hurts in terms of readiness, injuries and the bottom line. The time spent on jumps could be used for more relevant training. We would save over $4 million a year in facility and equipment upkeep.â€
More at link above
At least they keep the airborne designation, but for some reason this has hit hard. This wasn't just about a tactic, but about building an espirit that was unparalled in the US Army on a divisional basis. I am guessing that Der Leader's obsession with downsizing the military has indirectly, or even directly, led to this decision.
"All the way, sir, and then some. Airborne!"
