On August 16, 1940, 48 volunteer members of the United States Parachute Test Platoon performed the first official militay parachute jump at Fort Benning, GA. In 2002, President George W. Bush proclaimed August 16th to be National Airborne Day stating: "Airborne combat continues to be driven by bravery and daring spirit of the sky soldiers."

The Coachella Valley Airborne Association was formed to remember, honor and serve the memory of those men and women who fought to preserve America's freedom while serving in Airborne Units.