82nd Airborne Division Historical Society

27/08/2026

Passing the Torch & Honoring Legends: August 27 in 82nd Airborne History

Today, we look back at two monumental moments that shaped the legacy of the "All-American" Division! 🇺🇸

On August 27, 1944, Major General Matthew B. Ridgway completed his historic command of the 82nd Airborne Division, having led our paratroopers through the grueling battles of Sicily, Italy, and the drops into Normandy. He passed the reins to another icon, Major General James Gavin, who officially assumed command the following day.

We salute the 307th Engineer Battalion, which the army organized on this day in 1917 at Camp Gordon, Georgia, beginning over a century of elite combat engineering service.

20/08/2026

20 August 1944 Shielding the Division's Secrets

On this day in 82nd Airborne Division history, we look back at World War II milestone that highlights the critical operations running behind the scenes. Eighty-two years ago today, the Army activated the 82d Counterintelligence Corps (CIC) Detachment in England. Composed of highly skilled and specialized operatives, formed during the lead-up to massive airborne assaults like Operation Market Garden. Their mission was vital: safeguard operational security, neutralize enemy espionage, and ensure that the "All Americans" kept the element of surprise.

The legacy of excellence defined by these World War II veterans continues to guide the "All Americans" today as they stand ready to deploy anywhere in the world within 18 hours.

Airborne! All the Way!

13/08/2026

August 13th is the true cost and commitment of being America’s Guard of Honor. Today, we look back at two pivotal moments in our Division’s modern legacy.

2021: Within hours of receiving the call, paratroopers of the Immediate Response Force (IRF) deployed straight into Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan Serving under Operation Allies Refuge, these brave paratroopers secured the airfield under chaotic conditions, helping to save and evacuate over 124,000 lives

2017: We also pause to honor the ultimate sacrifice of two of our own. Sergeant Roshain E. Brooks and Sergeant Allen L. Stigler Jr., cannon crewmembers with the 2-319th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd BCT, were killed in action during combat operations in Iraq. Posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, their dedication to defeating tyranny will never be forgotten.
From rapid response in times of crisis to the ultimate defense of freedom, our paratroopers stand ready.
Lest we forget. Airborne, All the Way!

06/08/2026

On 6 August 2003, during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq, two outstanding paratroopers from 2-325th Infantry Regiment made the ultimate sacrifice when their unit was ambushed by enemy gunmen. We continue to hold their families and comrades in our thoughts, and their courage in the face of danger will never be forgotten.

05/08/2026

On This Day in Military History: August 5, 1917 🇺🇸

Today, we celebrate the birth of a legend! On this day in 1917, the 82nd Division—now the world-famous 82d Airborne Division—was officially constituted in the National Army.

Formed to support America’s entry into World War I, this division was comprised of soldiers from all 48 states. Because of this nationwide brotherhood, the unit earned its famous nickname—the "All-American" division—and created the iconic "AA" shoulder patch still worn with immense pride by our paratroopers today.

From the trenches of the Western Front, to the drop zones of Normandy, to modern rapid-response deployments around the globe, the All-Americans continue to stand ready to deploy within 18 hours to defend freedom.

Join us in honoring 109 years of courage, legacy, and unwavering readiness! Airborne All The Way!

10/07/2026

On This Day in 1943: The All-Americans Leap into History!
Shortly after midnight on 10 July 1943, the 505th Parachute Regimental Combat Team paratroopers, commanded by Col. James M. Gavin, leaped into the night skies over Sicily.
This marked the first regimental-sized combat parachute assault in U.S. Army history, starting Operation Husky and opening the second front in Europe.
Despite gale-force winds scattering troopers miles off course, the All-Americans adapted and fought with incredible tenacity.
Near Ponte Dirillo, Lt. Col. Arthur Gorham and the men of the 1st Battalion landed directly among enemy pillboxes. Outnumbered and facing heavy German Tiger tanks, these paratroopers formed small, aggressive groups to repel Axis forces and secure vital ground.
Today, we honor the courage, innovation, and ultimate sacrifice of the thirty-nine paratroopers who gave their lives at Ponte Dirillo to pave the way for Allied victory
"All the Way!"

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27/06/2026

Flashback to Operation Enduring Freedom! On this day, paratroopers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division—were actively conducting critical combat, security, and clearing operations in the volatile Ghazni Province of Afghanistan.

From the hedgerows of Normandy in 1944 to the rugged terrain of Afghanistan in 2012, the All American Division has consistently answered the nation's call. Their unwavering dedication ensures our security at home and abroad.

Proud of our history. Proud of our Paratroopers. Airborne, All The Way! 🪂

19/06/2026

907th Field Artillery Battalion ordered into active military service, less personnel, and organized at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana, 25 March 1942. Lt, Col, John E, Roy commanded from 25 March 1942 to 19 June 1942. ,

11/06/2026

12 June 1944 The 508th Parachute Infantry, reinforced and under command of Brig. Gen. G. P. Howell, was ordered to attack across the Douve on 12 June to seize the area between the river and the Prairies Marecageuses and join with the lOlst Airborne Division at Baupte.

22/05/2026