On June 6, 1944, forever on known as D-Day, the 82nd Airborne Division jumped into history as more than 12,000 All American glider and parachute infantry took part in the Airborne assault over Normandy, France. As they landed among the farmhouses and fields, they quickly realized they were not facing their enemy alone. French Patriots quickly came to their aid, often risking their lives to assist their would-be liberators. Under normal circumstances, the All American Division would be in France

81 years ago today, paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne Division prepared to board their planes and fly into the night, toward Normandy — and into history. This powerful footage captures the tense final moments before they leapt into the fight for freedom on the Day of Days — D-Day. They paved the way for liberation. We honor their courage. 🇺🇸 #DDay #DayOfDays #82ndAirborne #Paratroopers #WWIIHistory | The History of the 82nd Airborne in World War II

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WATCH! Paratroopers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division jump from an Air Force C-130 during Large Package Week! (Footage courtesy of 1st Combat Camera Squadron) | 82nd Airborne Division

WATCH: To ensure 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division maintains the tactical edge as nation's rapid response force. The #82ndCAB ensures their light tactical all-terrain vehicles (MRZRs) are able to move within the battlefield. | 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division

WATCH: Last week, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, the Panther Brigade completed their Combined Arms Maneuver Live Fire Exercise in Fort Bragg, N.C. This exercise validated units to be ready to deploy and fight as the Nation's Global Response Force (GRF). The 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, the Pegasus Brigade got into the fight as well, providing a Multifunctional Aviation Task Force led by 1st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade,

National Airborne Day The first official Army parachute jump was on August 16, 1940. This validated the insertion of U.S. ground forces behind enemy lines. In 2001, President George W. Bush designated August 16 as National Airborne Day. All Americans, may you always have fair winds and soft landings! #NationalAirborneDay #AATW #ThrowbackThursday | 82nd Airborne Division

Parachute Riggers from the 82nd Airborne Division jump from UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter on August 5, 1999. | Red Falcon Historical Society