I took this picture on the way down on my last jump in May of 1992. This is over Holland Drop Zone, Fort Bragg, NC.  Note the two C-130 Hercules transport planes that dropped us, leaving in the distance. While the exit and landing are very violent experiences, this part is peaceful and quiet. You can talk to your fellow jumpers on the way down. There is no drug made by man that can equal this experience.

This is the next jumper over from me as we get closer to the ground. It's been several years since I made this jump, but I believe that this jumper was "jumping Hollywood", which means without a combat load/equipment. It is traditional to jump Hollywood on your last jump, so I believe that I may have been doing so as well. Most jumps made by the 82nd Airborne and other combat units are done at night, with little or no moon light. This is to reduce danger the the para-troopers and aircraft. Day jumps are a rare luxury.

This is absolutely the most beautiful sight that you will ever see as a paratrooper (T-10 Canopy). The only other feeling that equals the elation of seeing this full canopy above you is the jolt when you hit the ground, the pain letting you know that you're still very alive. Contrary to popular belief, you don't land softly. It is comparable to jumping out of a 2 story window. The Army Airborne makes you run a lot to keep your legs strong so that you can with-stand the landing. Additionally, they teach you how to fall down wonderfully. The square, "ram-air" canopies that you see sky divers use at air shows and on television and in the movies allow a jumper to land softly, but not these.

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