The Airborne Creed

AIRBORNE!

Darrel Harris recounts his graduation from the Fort Benning, Georgia:

Major Routh gave the command to “QUICK MARCH!” and in a single file we proudly marched right under the nose of the Dakota and took our places on the chairs. Colonel Howell (later General Howell) made us feel rather special when he congratulated us on our achievement. He informed us that we had lived up to the expectations of the Parachute School, Airborne Command of the United States Army. Colonel Howell then read the American Airborne Creed.



AIRBORNE CREED

I am an Airborne trooper! A paratrooper!

I jump by parachute from any plane in flight. I volunteered to do it knowing well the hazard of my choice.

I serve in a mighty Airborne Force--famed for deeds in war--renowned for readiness in peace. It is my pledge to uphold its honour and prestige in all I am--in all I do.

I am an elite trooper--a sky trooper--a shock trooper--a spearhead trooper. I blaze the way to far-flung goals -- behind, before, above the foe’s front line.

I know that I may have to fight without support for days on end. Therefore, I keep my mind and body always fit to do my part in any Airborne task. I am self reliant and unafraid. I shoot true, and march fast and far. I fight hard and excel in every art and artifice of war.

I never fail a fellow trooper. I cherish, as a sacred trust, the lives of men with whom I serve. Leaders have my fullest loyalty, and those I lead never find me lacking.

I have pride in the Airborne. I never let it down!

In peace I do no shirk the dullest duty nor protest the toughest training. My weapons and my equipment are always
combat-ready. I am neat of dress, military in courtesy, proper in conduct and behaviour.

In battle I fear no foe’s ability, nor under-estimate his prowess, power and guile. I fight him with all my might and skill -- ever alert to evade capture or escape a trap. I never surrender though I may be the last.

My goal in peace of war is to succeed in any mission of the day, or die, if needs be, in the try.

I belong to a proud and glorious team--the Airborne, the Army, my Country. I am its chosen pride to fight where others may not go--to serve them well to final victory.

I am a trooper of the sky! I am my nation’s best! In peace and war I will never fail. Anywhere, anytime in anything.

I am Airborne!

AIRBORNE ALL THE WAY!!!