One for Gil Boyd...and a few others...

[Gil Boyd]

Jim,
Yes 3 PARA went lock stock and barrel, and apart from a few broken bones, was a major success to show the Russians we still had a capability, but not as many aircraft as we once had in 16 PARA BRIGADE of the 60/70's!!
The opening sequence really does show how long you have in the air from 200 feet, which is the operational jump height, and in that time check your canopy, and get rid of your container strapped to your legs
Nigh on impossible, but saves being shot at in the air, which many in history had to endure from over a 1000 feet from a Dak!!
The droque chute and the task of the load master chucking it out is the hardest roll, you have to be quick on your feet in the hold and get out of the way, as once that heavy drop cradle starts moving inside on the rollers it will take everyhting in its way including the despatcher!!!!!
Thanks for the reminder Jim shivers up the spine!!