The 82nd Airborne Division Association – The Living Legacy of All-Americans

The 82^nd Airborne Division Association – The Living Legacy of All-Americans

The 82^nd Airborne Division Association is leading the charge in bringing all the previous and current warriors of the All-American Division together and inspiring them to keep the fighting spirit alive. Its roots go back to the Great War, but the organization still grows. Let's look at how this organization is leading the charge in the Airborne Community and how you can support it.

Origins and Purpose

The Association was formed in 1944 in England by pioneer paratroopers and Glidermen to keep the bond together even after the war. This historical establishment before the Normandy landings makes the Association a historical one, and its founders are real visionaries, besides being the greatest generation in the modern history of America. The vision was establishing an Airborne fraternity for life; however, the Association almost perished several years later. But, just like in many battles, the All Americans rose to the occasion and ensured that the Association would be run by the highest standards, the same ones keeping it going 80 years later!

The goals of the organization are set out in the very same foundations that have formed into these primary objectives, which aim:

• Establish a permanent organization to further nurture the bonds between all those who served under the 82^nd Airborne Division Patch and other Airborne units.
• To serve as a catalyst for maintaining and publishing the successes and historical significance of the Association.
• To honor and preserve the memory of the fallen heroes of the 82^nd.
• To maintain close contact with all the members of the 82^nd who have become disabled serving their country.
• To provide help and support in matters about Veteran benefits.
• To maintain close connection and liaison with the active 82^nd Airborne Division.

An Association That Stands Out

The 82nd Airborne Division Association stands as a vibrant force dedicated to preserving the indomitable legacy of the 82nd Airborne Division. Across the United States, its network of local Chapters embodies the Spirit of the 82nd Airborne Division, actively engaging with communities through events like Veterans Day and Memorial Day celebrations. From JROTC recognition to Holiday toy drives, our chapters extend a helping hand to Active-Duty Troopers, fostering a sense of connection and camaraderie.

Active Duty Troops find a supportive community within the Association, where they can affiliate with local chapters during membership registration. This affiliation ensures a seamless transition, informing them about local events and establishing vital networks in their new communities. The diverse membership, comprising individuals from all walks of life, stands ready to assist fellow Association members, creating a valuable support system for those transitioning out of the military.

Members contribute to their impactful programs, including the Holiday Troop Support Program, providing meals to Troopers and their Families during the Holidays. Their support also sustains the Educational Fund, offering grants to Troopers post-military service, and aids the Wounded Warrior Fund, bringing our heroes back to Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty for events and conventions at no cost to them.

Joining the 82nd Airborne Division Association means being an integral part of its progress and supporting initiatives that benefit both Active-Duty Troops and Veteran Members. The division collaborates with associations and organizations that preserve its history, annually honoring our fallen heroes with wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery and attending funerals locally.

Members enter the Brotherhood of those who came before them—living legends who served in the 82nd Airborne Division during WW II and every conflict since. It's an excellent opportunity to attend events, have small talks with heroes, and absorb their firsthand accounts. , members continue their journey as "All American Troopers" and become an everlasting part of the 82nd Airborne Division legacy. Embrace this opportunity to connect with the greatest warriors, ensuring that their pride in serving your country resonates forever. By becoming a member, they sustain the legacy, and stand with the 82nd Airborne Division Association.

The 82^nd Airborne Division Association Annual Convention

The Association organizes its Annual Convention annually, bringing together past, present, and future paratroopers. This military convention is a great way to keep the camaraderie alive and organize veteran reunions. The event is marked by prestigious keynote speakers, memorial events, and banquets.

The 77^th National Convention was co-organized and hosted by the Washington D.C. Chapter of the Division Association in the nation's capital. The convention was honored by the presence of the 82^nd Airborne Division Color Guard and 82^nd Airborne Division All-American Chorus. In addition to the traditional Memorial Dinner and National Banquet, the participants also visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, laying an 82^nd Airborne Division wreath. The convention was signified throughout all the events by the All-American camaraderie and the fighting spirit.

The 78^th National Convention will be held in Orlando, Florida, from August 14 to 17, 2024. Do not miss your chance to attend this great event.

The Paraglide – The Official Magazine of the 82^nd Airborne Division Association

"The Paraglide" serves as the official magazine of the 82nd Airborne Division Association, acting as a vital communication channel for members. Published quarterly, this magazine provides a platform for staying informed about the latest developments within the 82nd Airborne Division, bridging the gap between past and present. Through its pages, members can access updates on association activities, announcements regarding upcoming events and reunions, and insightful historical features that dig into the division's rich legacy.

The publication goes beyond mere informational updates by featuring veteran profiles, offering a glimpse into association members' personal experiences and contributions during their service in the 82nd Airborne Division. "The Paraglide" also highlights community spotlights, recognizing outstanding achievements within the 82nd Airborne Division community. Coverage of annual reunions and events, complete with photos and recaps, adds a personal touch, fostering a sense of camaraderie among members. Special attention is paid to the Association's Chapters, serving as a window of information for airborne veterans

nationwide.

The magazine serves as a collective voice for the 82nd Airborne Division Association, with sections dedicated to letters, personal stories, and community contributions. As a comprehensive publication, "The Paraglide" contributes to preserving the division's history, celebrating achievements, and maintaining the strong bonds forged through shared military experiences. To access the latest information and enjoy the content, members are encouraged to check the official website of the 82nd Airborne Division Association, where the magazine is published for free.

A special section of the magazine is titled "Taps," it is dedicated to the troops who have landed in their last drop zone. This is another way to honor those who dedicated their best years to America's best unit and to properly honor their names one last time.

The All-American Week – courtesy of the 82^nd Airborne Division Association

The Association organizes its members' participation in the annual All-American Week, which holds special significance as it provides a unique opportunity to reconnect with the 82nd Airborne Division community. The last event, held on 22-25 May, commemorated the 40th Anniversary of Operation Urgent Fury, adding a profound layer of nostalgia and allowing veterans to reflect on their contributions during the invasion of Grenada in 1983.

The week-long celebration not only honors the division's history but also serves as a platform for veterans and active soldiers, to come together and celebrate their shared service in the "Guard of Honor." It's a chance to pay tribute to fallen comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice. The annual events include the 82nd Airborne Division Run, Old Timers Breakfast, and the All-American Week 10-Miler, which offer veterans an opportunity to relive the camaraderie and esprit de corps that defines their time in the division.

Participating in events like the All-American Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and the 82nd Airborne Division Review allows veterans to witness the continuity of the division's legacy. The 34-foot Tower at the U.S. Army Advanced Airborne School adds a touch of nostalgia, symbolizing the enduring spirit of airborne training.

The next annual All-American week will occur on May 20-23, 2024, in Fort Liberty, providing an excellent opportunity to reaffirm the enduring bonds forged in the crucible of the airborne community.

New Leadership: 1SG (R) Jimmy Grimes, Chief Executive Officer

Recently, the Association said farewell to the outgoing Executive Director Bill Bauer, CSM (R), and his wife, Laura. The organization thanked them for their 8 years of humble and selfless service to the organization.

The new Executive Director of the Association is 1SG (R) James "Jimmy" Grimes. With an illustrious career in the U.S. Army, among many other units, he has served in 5-73 Cav, 4-68 Armor, and the U.S. Army's Advanced Airborne School. He has deep knowledge and practical experience which will certainly come handy in his new role.

Jimmy brings a wealth of experience and unmatched energy to move the organization forward. He has laid out his plan to modernize the organization, making it more attractive to younger troopers and taking it to the next level. He is very open to new ideas and always willing to open new frontiers, with one goal in mind: further enriching the Airborne Community.