How HARD is Jumpmaster School?

[@juanllanesdiaz2233]

I would rather go through SERE again than go back through Jumpmaster school. I passed JMPI on my last try. I was told to exit the room while the JMs had a discussion. When I came back to the room we discussed the first two jumpers and everything I found. We spent more time on the third and they told me to focus on the main curved pin area. I could not find the deficiency. They had to point out to the pack closing flap. I was so focused on finding the deficiency that I didn’t see the note they stuck there saying “congratulations, you passed!”

[@AltonJones-sh2sb]

Yeah,ain't stress a bitch.

[@kdgfx1]

Awesome! It was always a blast to have fun like that. SERE School? Naw!

[@victoraddison1952]

I passed Jump Master school on my 2nd attempt. I got my 1st no go on action in the aircraft and my 2nd no go on JMPI. My unit sent me back the following week and I got go's on all test. JMPI is the toughest part of the school.

[@Mikey-db9iy]

Wasn’t hard at all, but stressful. Retired Jumpmaster with 82 jumps. Go to sick call for every injury, even if you can double time off the DZ. You’ll be thanking me later, when you have to deal with the VA. (If it’s not in your med file, it never happened) That’s another discussion.

[@jaybee6505]

This man speaks the truth. Just got a hip after 20 years of arguing with the VA over this shit

[@rcfoley]

I wish I had done that--retinal detachments, both eyes. Certified legally blind by VA.

[@Phantom0fTheRouter]

Amen. If it's not in the file, it never happened. Weirdly, even if you go sick for injuries, it doesn't always make it into the record. No problem with the VA on recognizing my spinal injuries (other than the low %), but had an issue where a shoulder injury I filed for was "not found in record" while they suggested that I should file for my broken foot, that I did not file for, that occurred in the same accident, meaning it should be on the same intake form that they couldn't find for my busted shoulder. Of course, I had to walk myself to the other side of the hospital and back to get the x-rays of my foot and my shoulder, which was the gift of the perfect amount of a little extra suck that day. Thank you Martin ACH.

[@schweinhund7966]

Damn! You nailed it!

[@HeyMikeyLikesIt2]

@@Phantom0fTheRouter I know it sometimes doesn’t make it to your records. I was SF and when I got migraine headaches I went to my team medic for pain killers. History of Migraines never made it to my records. Guess what!?! That can be a 30% - 70% disability alone. My hips started hurting two years after I retired. Never in my records.

[@angryelf4213]

The best part of JM School was, absolutely, passing the JMPI test. I thought I’d failed, again, walked off all pissed of without the Black Hat telling me that I had my GO. He had to pull me back to let me know. My favorite JM Duty had to be my first PJ. Found out as we were loading the buses for Green Ramp that the right paratroop door was down and I’d be exiting all ~100 jumpers from my C-17 on my own. Fortunately, we had time to rehearse and didn’t find this out as we were loading. Unfortunately, my four AJs lost their duties; one of my AJs, this was supposed to be his Star Jump (night AJ to earn his Senior Jumpmaster Rating.) It was awesome because I was able to spend ~45 minutes in the door looking at the night sky over Bragg.

[@BadMoonRising92]

Easily the most stressful school I had attended until I went to pathfinder. Had to go to JM school twice, used all 5 tries the first attempt. Got it my 1st attempt the 2nd go through. What a feeling walking away with a Go.

[@101lifeanddeath]

@@BadMoonRising92 Yeah, Pathfinder is definitely harder

[@VikingPreparedness]

Did mine at 1st Group. Fond memory: Bringing the chutes home (they allowed that) to practice JMPI-ing my pregnant wife DOL

[@xenojester13]

When were you at 1st group? I was there 2000-2004

[@christianalvarez2081]

Did the same with my buddy’s gf. I was after inspecting the canopy release assembly then traced the harness down her nips. She liked it lol

[@supershaggy4271]

did not expect seeing you here 😅

[@mr.perfect1er]

@@caribbeanbantu The proper nomenclature for that item of equipment is, Right and Left Paratroop Doors.

[@anthonysmith7280]

I did the JM course when I was with 1st Grp at Ft Lewis back in the mid 1990s. It was demanding, but like others have commented - it wasn't really too hard. My most memorable experience was when I was testing for my JMPI event on my first jumper ....... I got to jumpers reserve chute and gave the "squat and hold" command to inspect the attachment points, coiter pint etc for the reserve chute ..... when I took a knee to do the inspection I blew out the crotch of my BDU trousers. Back in those days - I went "cowboy" in BDUs ...... so you get the picture. The instructor was in my ear letting me know that if my 'junk came in contact with any part of this jumper" I would be a no-go at this event. It was difficult not to laugh - for the both of us. But suffice it to say - I succeeded and maintained control of "my junk" and successfully inspected additional jumpers ........after being given three large safety pins to secure my blown out BDU trousers. Later in the day we took our JM school graduation picture with my trousers intact - sort of ...... Good times - and good memories.

[@mikebrase5161]

Its why I always had 3 safety pins from the first aid pouches in the inner seam of my BDU top. My uncle who had been in 'Nam gave me one of the Oh.Yeah BTW field craft speeches. He blew out the crotch of his Jungles during an Air Assault with 1st Cav. Also your story is fucking hilarious.

[@Twinkiiman1]

I love being a Jumpmaster. My time at Benning was fun and all but the course at Bragg was by far the best. They actually care about individuals passing and take the time to assist individuals that are struggling.

[@richardhayse7781]

I was in the 7th SFGA and went through a JM course run by the 5th SFGA in 1982. The POI included personnel and bundles, and required 100% total concentration when taking a performance test such as JMPI and PWAC. One advantage to the program vice one with the 82nd or Fort Benning was the number of JM jumps and aircraft we experienced. We had 8 graded JM jumps per student -- including one jump with student + large A21 container bundle we rigged -- from aircraft that included C-130, C-141, C-7A, Ch-47, and UH-60. With over a decade on jump status in Group and nearly 200 SL and MFF jumps before attending JM training, I don't remember any of it being particularly stressful, just demanding focus and precision in the performance of a potentially hazardous duty position, and, like the video's narrator, not allowing myself to become too comfortable and lax in the course. The video does a good job of providing an overview of JM school w/o unnecessary hype. That being said, the competition and pressure to attend and graduate JM school is tremendous in many units. For example, when I was a Branch Chief in the 4th Abn Training Bn, one of our Black Hats, after failing JM school twice due to failing the JMPI exam, sadly took his own life for having failed. Bottom line: it's a serious school for a serious profession and not to be taken just to earn another badge. DOL

[@rodneyjohnson3612]

My fondest memory of JM school was seeing students out by the tree of Whoa when I was a student. Then going back years later to be an Instructor at the Basic Airborne Course, then Jump Master before retiring!!!

[@brandonfranklin1428]

I made my last jump at Carson in 2018. I’ve been serving in LEG unit and I’m now moving into recruiting. I absolutely miss the Airborne community.

[@JohnGatesIII]

Barbara DZ, Sullivan Park DZ, Becca DZ, Freemont AirField DZ....Good times. If, during your 3rd point of performance, you look down and see you are drifting toward a patch of Green......Turn//Slip away. This is Colorado, anything green is NOT your friend (probably Yucca or some other cactus).....My last Jump with Group was in 07.....it was my 100th......after 17 straight years of being on Status.

[@kdgfx1]

HOOOORAAAHHHH - Former 82nd Airborne Division Jumpmaster School Instructor checking in !!!! Awesome Video!!!! Airborne All The Way!!!!

[@realburgergod]

Hoorah? 🧐

[@datroyer]

I passed JMPI with the time stamp of 4 minutes fifty nine seconds. Black hat showed me the stopwatch. First time go at the Ft Bragg Advanced Airborne School.

[@somedude2124]

I passed with the EXACT same time at Ft. Bragg in 1992!!!!

[@mr.perfect1er]

Braggarts, taking your sweet own time like that! LOL....ATW!

[@lilipuha]

Well done! Graduated Jumpmaster 1972… best, most professional training in the U.S. Army!!! Fond memories, especially the CWIE Jump & night jump at Ft. Bennington.

[@bobjohnson8206]

Terrific video I made E-4 in twelve months with the 101 Airborne with 23 jumps I was drafted at the age of 23 1/2 from 63 - 65 infantry. While in boot camp they asked for Airborne volunteers and would pay 55.00 a month extra officers got 110.00. If I would have extended for a year they would have sent me and I know I would have made it. An outstanding video thank you so much for posting it.

[@jimpage6533]

I went through Jump Master school in '67 with the 6th group on Smoke Bomb hill. The thing I enjoyed the most was the in flight exterior inspection love hanging out the door. I also loved all the jumps we made!!

[@edtravels7661]

I attended the Jumpmaster Course at the 82nd ABN DIV Advanced Airborne School at Ft Bragg, NC. I can easily say it was mentally one of the most challenging courses I have ever attended. I can distinctly remember my black hat saying ' Sgt. You are a current and qualified jumpmaster when I completed JMPI. I WILL NEVER FORGET THAT.

[@edbarneyjr]

In the summer of 1985 the 19th group conducted a JM school at Camp Williams in Utah. I was the test dummy for that class. I wasn’t scheduled for jump school until the following April at Fort Benning. I really enjoyed working with the Cadre there. I learned a lot from them

[@2shots.]

Always appreciate the memories your videos bring back up. I enjoyed the training immensely. Thank you.

[@RivetGardener]

one of the two best schools that I went to in the Army. The other one was LRSLC Long Range Surveillance Leaders Course (which gave you the Q6 MOS Identifier) back before they did away with LRSD units. Bummer! Jumpmaster school was definitely a gentleman's course, we were treated like intelligent adults and expected to act the same. No BS, the only stress was self-inflicted because we all wanted to pass and have the honor of being a Jumpmaster. Did mine at Ft Benning. My LRSD unit sent me and a buddy (both E-5) and we were stoked! All we did was attend class and practice, practice, practiced. Both graduated first-time-go. Loved it! Oh and by the way....that was before the "peeking out the door" rule started. We hung out full body from the door to inspect aircraft and locate DZ, both day and night. What a rush!

[@dallasyap3064]

LRSLC, I'm guessing it's the previous name for the current Reconnaissance & Surveillance Leader's Course (RSLC)?

[@dalehuitt]

Great video. I finished Jumpmaster School 1995 at 1/3 SFG(ABN) at Bragg. Not too difficult, but detail oriented. Kind of wished I could have gone to Benning for the school. Actions in the Aircraft was fun. The most stressful was the JMPI test. I think it took a good month for the knuckles to heal up after the course. The most heartbreaking part was my best friend failed his second attempt at JMPI and I was his final jumper to inspect. Missed a major. Loved jumping and loved Jumpmastering. Miss it to this day. Felt lucky to have in-house riggers that let us grab a chute whenever we wanted and Green Ramp just down the road.

[@joekay3348]

Physically, not difficult at all… Academically, emotionally, and psychologically = arguably, one of the most difficult schools in the U.S. military

[@rileyjg2]

My thoughts exactly! 82d JM Class 6-85.

[@joekay3348]

@@rileyjg2 That’s old school, right there 🙌🏻 … Before the T-10 days, I presume? BTW - USAF JM… Went to Benning in ‘09 (don’t remember the class #) - we had to JMPI the MC-1 and MC-6. Learning two parachutes was not fun.

[@hughwright1860]

@@rileyjg2 Graduated JM school at FT. Bragg in 1983. 8 yr.s in 82ND. CSC 1/325 Comunications Chief for most of my time.

[@chrism3872]

I attended jumpmaster school at Ft. Bragg while I had been on jump status for over three years with Special Forces. I agree with your assessment. It was difficult, and certainly more difficult overall than jump school itself, less physical but more psychologically demanding. I enjoyed the course though because I saw the value in it.

[@danielboone6481]

I thought JM was hard and it was, that was until I tried out to be a black hat at Advanced Airborne School. That was the hardest course/selection that I have ever tried to complete. You basically had to have a memory of a god and photographic memory at that. Much props to the black hats at AAS on Fort Bragg. Unfortunately I didn’t make it and was going to try again, until Army said I was on orders and PCSd to FLW

[@randomdudeonyoutube.]

Love your work , sir. Please make videos on what are the qualities of a military officer and what to do achieve them, how should youngsters shape themselves to become good officers in the military. Almighty bless you and your family.

[@j.r.zavala]

Attended the 82nd Abn Div jumpmaster school in 1996. Was very stressful and quite demanding, in many ways. I was a aviation warrant officer assigned to the 1/82 Atk Hel Bn, and was picked apart by the cadre as no aviator had any business jumping from airplanes let alone performing jumpmaster duties. For me, the stress management aspect throughout the course was most significant as the cadre, as professional as they were, had zero tolerance for those that couldn't handle the stress, despite rank. Airborne!

[@0321man1]

Marine Jumpmaster here. Went through in November of 1990. The instructors were the most professional I've ever seen.

[@Nikolai393]

Good timing with the release of this video. My 12th jump is this Thursday

[@davidgarfield1192]

I completed Jumpmaster Course at Ft. Bragg in 1992. I had to master both the H-harness and the harness single point release. You have to study and focus, you mind, eye's and hands must be in sync. I didn't pass JMPI the first time due to not knowing the proper name of a piece of equipment, but made time. I came back the next class and made it. GREAT COURSE, OUTSTANDING AND PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTORS.

[@wolfsave]

I ETSd in 68. Did one year in VN with the 173d (65 - 66). I would have stayed in but for VN. From what I saw and did, it looked like suicide given enough time in the "boonies." A friend in my squad was KIA with three days remaining in VN. Why he was even in the field made no sense; worse, he was on point in "War Zone D. " He arrived with the 173rd from Okinawa, the original "herd." (I hate that term. Makes us sound like cattle, but it stuck because of the battalion commander's infatuation with Rawhide, a TV show about cowboys. He had it played for the morning, battalion formations while in Okinawa, I heard.). My friend was "strack," meaning flawless, even in the field. Small, lean, loved to throw grenades and just the best soldier for sure. I and others were totally shooke up when he got hit. So, I've been out for over half a century and look back. I see these videos and others and it makes me think about life had I stayed in. Definitely, jumping out of an aircraft on a bad day is multitudes better than the best day in a factory or office. Airborn! PFC Evans, Alpha, 1st Bat. 173rd ABN, 65=66. Good videos here. I knew "lifers" that were first-rate soldiers and they paid the price. It hurt to hear Trump refer to McCain and other members of the military as losers. Thanks for the outstanding information and videos. To be young again.

[@droid4369]

Thanks for your amazing story. I agree with the cattle part.

[@edgaraquino2324]

Many thanks to all of you in comments for your service....

[@pauldavis7727]

JM since 1984. Without a doubt the most mentally challenging school I've ever been to. The black hats were the most professional I met in my life. Ruthlessly unforgiving of the slightest mistake, yet fair. The status as a Master Blaster was a huge boost in confidence for me, and trust from the troopers. I overheard my Battalion Cdr just before a jump one time. A senior Office from another unit was jumping with us that day, and asked which JM was the best. He got in my line and I did his JMPI. One of our Brigade Cdr's during my time at Bragg, had to go to JM school nine times before passing. That ninth time was at a "Gentleman's course" which they ran for senior Officers who wanted the badge but would never actually have to use any of the skills. Airborne! ATW!

[@rjones9000]

I was detailed to the Airborne and Test Board a few times during my time at Bragg and I personally saw this ......... Gentleman's Jumpmaster Course at least 2 times. The lowest rank in this course was a CSM with over 25yrs and a LTC. The highest was a full bird ....... and a One Star. We were actually the jumpers for them a few tymes. No way anyone gonna tell me that one star was going to be pulling duties like an E5 or E6. One full bird told me he hadn't even been on status for about 15yrs at that time. So yes, I agree on that Gentleman's Course.

[@jacobfedder6330]

Went to 82d jump master at green ramp pope afb in 1983 best part was when i got my final go at jmpi. I jumped for joy and clicked my heels . Because when your a jumpmaster you are an asset to your unit combat mission. Young soldiers look at you as a better leader when your a jumpmaster

[@seans.8999]

Great video, I remember going to jumper master school back in 1985 at FT. Bragg and back then it was one of the most difficult courses with a failure rate of about 70%. I was very fortunate to be a first time GO. I remember some many other never making it through.

[@homescholed]

9:00 I had a talk with USAF retired Col. Kurt Buller and told me something similar, but it definitely has its consciences. God bless all the troop who willing gear up and jump behind enemy line.

[@Misfit1776]

I failed my 1st JMPI attempt badly! I was over time by more than 1 minute, and missed 3 minor and 1 major deficiency. My next attempt, I got my assignment and when I looked over to where I was testing, I saw the Black Hat they called, "The Terminator"! I figured I was toast. My face was 6-8 inches from whatever I was inspecting and he was 6-8 inches from me. Long story short, I figured I'd give it everything I had and just went for it. After my last jumper and I turned around and gave the "All Ok, Jumpmaster" to the Termintator, I was completely out of breath. He started showing me what I had done wrong, the whole time saying that when I get back to my unit, down the street (This is at Bragg), and was doing this for real to pay a little more attention to this or that. I thought I had failed and he keep saying, "When your back down the street, doing this for real...". Finally, he says that I was a go at this station, I couldn't believe it! I only missed 1 minor and had finished in 4 minutes, 45 seconds. I literally danced back to the table to turn in my go slip. The Black Hats at the table couldn't believe I had passed and had a good laugh at my expense! They told me that the "Planets must have aligned"! I loved being a JM!

[@jasonbourne2331]

Our class we did JMPI before PWAC because of the weather. I was first to test out on PWAC, I remember doing my door checks and when I did my final aircraft check, I saw the other jump master sitting back down because he failed something. I turned back to my door, looked at the black hat, got the nod, and jumped. Best feeling I had from an army school.

[@ThomasAnderson]

I went to law school after I retired. My 82nd Abn Jumpmaster certificate sits in a more prestigious place on the wall than my law degree.

[@russream3732]

Great Course. I went to Fort Benning. But then going back and strap hanging jumps with 82nd units they did not like that I went there instead of doing the Fort Bragg class, lol. 3rd Group - great group of men.

[@kananisha]

Don't know much about this, I was an Air Assault guy lol.

[@2shots.]

You sling loader! 🤣

[@jimgood1949]

The highly coveted helicopter passenger badge.

[@shanks0307]

Air assault!!!

[@maxwellnotthecoffee1560]

@@2shots. I prefer tier 2 rigger 😂

[@dallasyap3064]

Air assault is also tough

[@kellygavin9335]

Jump School was the most fun I ever had without taking off my clothes, lol! The Army offered ROTC Cadets Airborne School slots after Advanced Camp in '86 @ Fort Bragg, NC. I was 1st in my stick & the 1st in the door on our 1st jump - 1st jump is an amazing experience. We were five jump chump blood wing grads, but we still got the full, rich Black Hat experience, got in the best shape of our lives, faced our fears & enjoyed the comraderie with our peers that was second to none!

[@The_Black_Falchion]

I'm right on the cusp of going to JM school. Thanks for posting this!

[@russellwilliams4317]

I thought I had a good understanding and felt confident, until now. You made me nervous about pretest and now no bar weekend for me--THANKS ALOT!

[@ajc.7674]

Fondest memory of performing jump master duties was the ability to reduce the apprehension of young jumpers by the calm and professional manner of executing my and the rest of the jump master teams duties for an airborne operation. It is not natural to jump out of an aircraft into the darkness and being able to ensure the safe execution of my piece an airborne operation was always rewarding.

[@barhammd]

82nd JM in ‘85. I liked the detail orientation and the stress. Thoroughly loved hanging out the door. Noticed in the vids that some procedures have changed since my time.

[@combatjm89]

I went to AAS on Bragg. It was one of the best experiences in my career.

[@kdgfx1]

Hooooraaahhhhh

[@dallasyap3064]

AAS? 82nd's Advanced Airborne School?

[@combatjm89]

@@dallasyap3064 Yes

[@BillBellomy]

This was a great video. JMPI nightmares but so worth it.

[@robertarnold2521]

I went to JM School in December of 2000 at Bragg, we spent a lot of time outside in the cold, smacking the Canopy Release Assemblies over and over with cold knuckles or sliding fingers down the slide fastener on a M1950 weapons case sucked. You skipped over all the time you spend in the Parachute Harness, the deficiencies like a mis-sized harness (L1 and R4), Crossed leg straps, you didn't even mention " A Snug, but comfortable fit has been achieved" - ROTATE ONE JUMPER TO RIGHT!

[@charleygreycat3352]

A long time ago (1979) I went to Jump Master School at Fort Bragg. You had to be an E-5 or above with 10 jumps. We had no pre-selection, just the study guide. The "Nomenclature Test" was not too difficult, but the JMPI phase was brutal. One of our class-mates, during the door inspection in flight, fell out of the aircraft and landed in Spring Lake. He was uninjured and mightily embarrassed. He had to redo the course after six months. Many months later, our S-3 Air said the Special Warfare School on Smoke Bomb Hill was looking for volunteers to fill some chutes. We were issued MC-1Bravos and reserve parachutes. Once we went to JMPI, there was a crusty old E-8, with a cigar in his mouth, and he tapped us on the fourth point of contact and said "You are good to Go."

[@AltonJones-sh2sb]

Yeah,that tap on the ass says it all🤣🤣,the seal of trust by a Master Paratrooper👍.

[@PapasDino]

I went thru a unit run school in Alaska in 1977 as a airborne rifle company XO...will never forget the NCOIC pleading with us to know our stuff -- "Gentlemen, I plead with you with tears in my eyes as big as alligator shit, you must know TM57-220 with changes 1, 2, and 3." In school I almost had a jump refusal as I was being tested JM'ing a CH-47...#1 jumper was some REMF Major who started backtracking on the ramp when I gave him the go comand. Fortunately there was a CW4 Rigger behind him who winked at me and "escorted him" off the ramp; saved my passing grade. Besides being in charge in the aircraft being able to move around as you accomplished your duties kept your mind off of getting airsick...one guy goes green and it's Katie Bar the Door but not if you're working. Hanging outside the door was just plain fun especially when it was -30 degrees to begin with, don't think they do much of that anymore, looks like more of a peek nowadays. Ahh, those were the days...

[@aaronrichman]

I was fortunate to become a JM through the 10th SFG(A) course, at Ft. Devens, MA.

[@williamsloan7857]

I don’t know if the rules have changed but when I was in the Army we had a couple corporals (E-4) go to jump master school.

[@T1Mike88]

I think if he or she is E-4 promotable.

[@Xinthisis]

CPL are authorized to attend the course but will not be able to pull any duties until making SGT. Theres talks of getting that fixed as some CPL's are having to attend JMR after getting promoted 6-9 months later for no other fault then not being the a SGT. It's especially needing to change now with all E4 P with BLC graduated being CPL's automatically.

[@schweinhund7966]

Nice video and I deeply respect your candor! I went through JM School taught by our very own 7thSFG(A) at Bragg in 1983. It was not a breeze, but they had zero “unnecessary male bovine feces.” We were NOT required to memorize a lot of nomenclature because as it was stated, “You are NOT a rigger, but you better know every fault.” Being a young 11B5G5S4X (no such thing as 18 series then) I listened intently and performed above board realizing that I was being evaluated. Since I was on a MFF team as soon as I graduated I was eligible for my star but as you know MFF is a lot different from static line. In my opinion, it was a consummately professional course. We were taught what we had to know, to know it extremely well and the rest of my career as a JM I never had a single incident. I credit that to my professional instructors and the degree of professionalismI was expected to exude in my career as an 18 series soldier.

[@raytuider3655]

I did JM school on line. Hahaha! No, it was Camp McCoy in the middle of summer. Hot and humid. The drop zone was an old artillery impact area. Really good school and I am proud of my master wings.

[@jimvazquez5203]

5SFG(A) run school in early 90’s. Fondest memory was strap hanging in line with about 30 guys camped out behind the isofac memorizing nomenclature and prejump. Four strap-hangs over six months. I was twelfth in line and the last to get a seat. d=rt

[@larryfromwisconsin9970]

I enjoyed leaning out the door to do the aircraft inspection.

[@danflores8445]

JM school and qualification is the ultimate level of duty, and responsibility of a true leader. Soldiers lives, mission accomplishment and mission success rests on the shoulders of Jump Masters across the US Branches of Service.

[@mikebox]

Best moment was being a COL at Bragg being sent to JMSchool and only having the day before to study the nomenclature test . And getting in. But this was back in the 90’s and I had 37 jumps already. Yes, we had a commander who chased jumps. We were jumping twice a week for nearly three months.

[@kolptroop9983]

Did mine in 82nd before heading to SF. It was very stressful but extremely rewarding. My first JM was shortly after school / a non-stop flight to Egypt in 1989.

[@luric6472]

I wanna be an 18D, do you recommend joining as a 68W and go through jungle,ranger, and airborne school then try for a sf contract?

[@kolptroop9983]

@@luric6472 If you are mentally and physically mature enough go big and grab an 18X or 68W RASP contract. You do not need to be a 68W to attend and pass 18D. If you think you need some time to mature then hit 68W and get a guaranteed airborne assignment. Having a few years as a 68W in a jump slot is a great feeder to 18D. On a side note, Ranger Medics are as legit as they come- same core medical component as 18D but assigned to the 75th which is obviously the Earth’s premier light infantry unit. SF team sergeants would literally fight each other to get an 18D with previous experience as a Ranger Medic. Whatever you do don’t quit and give it every ounce of energy you have. Last note- the honor grad of my Q course was a corporal with literally zero experience. He worked his damn ass off and got to where he wanted to be. Never underestimate what you can do. RLTW/DOL

[@thegreatdogzilla5855]

@@kolptroop9983 I thought you couldn't pick your 18 series mos.

[@Phantom0fTheRouter]

@@thegreatdogzilla5855- True, but not likely for them to make a 68W2V go Engineer.

[@andrewwhite8833]

Best memory from jm school was first time go on jmpi pre test with a time of 4:58. Best memory as a JM would be either airfield seizure in Poland as AJ or my 2nd safety on a night jump into Romania then flying back in the cockpit of a C-130

[@vincentschreiber9496]

I was never a jump master, but I was a paratrooper in Alaska from 85 thru 87, C Abn 6-327.All the jump masters I knew were awesome and highly professional. I had a great tour of duty.

[@ryanquerry8183]

Did a JMPI detail for 3rd over the Summer. While not a lot has changed over the years, a little gets added each year to the point where getting 3 jumpers JMPI’ed under 5min is quite difficult. Never seen so many E-6’s and 7’s stressing out so hard before. With good reason too, I believe there was only a 40% pass rate for that class.

[@Outdoor-Avenger]

I remember when my cousin got his jumpmaster wings. It’s so awesome to see what he actually went through.

[@sheldonedmondson4041]

I went through Benning in 1984, favorite memory is having to get the Blackhat to move so I could get on the jump seat to hook up the static line for my door bundle..... Guess that is where the 84" requirement came from. They gave me a GO and I got through on my first attempt. Only 12 of the original graduated. Not hard, but was demanding.

[@snowroaches]

I was one of the people they tested on while a holdover at Benning. They don't fuck around with that 5 minutes. If you're at 5 minutes 1 second, no go.

[@Hlouszek]

Funny fact: In Czech army jumpmaster is a job for life. Jumpmasters could be assigned to different roles, for "ground training" of paratroopers jump master must have at leat 100 jumps. As guide on plane jumpmaster must have at least 300 jumps. Also in Czech army paratroopers pack their parashutes on their own under supervision of jumpmaster. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gninkquLqtGpbaM

[@marcwilliams2504]

I did the Jumpmaster Course at Fort Benning in 1983. I suck at memory work, so this was the toughest part of the course for me. I spent LOTS of hours memorizing nomenclature, jumpmaster briefing, and all the possible malfunctions on the JMPI. I passed the first time, but did not spend any time in the clubs drinking during this course.

[@ExpatriatePaul]

I went through JM school over 30 years ago in 3rd SFG, back then the JM had to get completely outside the aircraft to do the outside safety check. Fondest memory was when I JM'd a C-130 ramp exit and had guys that decided to "Superman" off the ramp, since I went out first and turned to watch the stick I saw some do so, and when they complained to me I told them I saw what they did, they knew it was their own fault for being idiots.

[@scottcusatis9071]

I was sent by the 1/75 th Ranger Bn in October of 78. I was an e4 and had been in the battalion for 2 years. I was honor graduate of my class

[@beatrocka5]

I got really lucky in JM school at Ft. Bragg. For PWAC, I was the first one testing in my stick, but the weather was foggy. In the middle of my turn, I was told to return to my seat, and the student who was to be next told me that I'd forgotten to trace when I was doing my door check. We'd looped around, and I got to start from the beginning, and passed. I always remember that time, because I lost a red Swiss Army knife that day, back in 98!

[@KE0RGP]

Wow, memories! I showed up to the 82nd in 1987 as a wide eyed cherry private. By the time I got to go to Jumpmaster School (Advanced Airborne School), every aspect of jumping had gotten repetitive, boring, and I was just plain 'ol tired of it. But, in JM school, my PWAC evaluation reinvigorated my motivation, and jumping became fun again. I went from a novice JM in 1992, to a Master Parachutist in 1994. Retired in 2014 with over 150 jumps. Good times!

[@RWebster325]

No, most go to school at Fort Bragg. The next largest source is Fort Benning. After that it may depend on where they schedule an MTT, usually from SF and sometimes from the AAS at Bragg.

[@flyingdutchman7585]

Went through JM with 3rd Batt back in '89. It was just battalion boys as I remember. The thing I remember was a guy going to hang out the door of the 130 and lost his grip as he was pushing out to look for the LZ....we were like...did that just happen?? Pretty sure he landed safely...not sure if he passed. I enjoyed the school. Wasn't that hard, but I had done lots of jumps by then so was pretty comfortable with the whole thing. Best thing I ever JM was a DC3 down in South America....same type of aircraft they used on D Day in WW2...very cool.

[@abdulqayumkhan3992]

To Perform the Actual Duty ,And you know That What is The Duties of Jump Master ,You Explain Well that To look and Check each and Everyone and At Everything's and every Situation Because The Mistakes is Not Allowed ,Security is the Everything

[@markelliott4969]

I was a Ranger Instructor on Morgan Team when I attended. Needless to say, the Black Hats hated us and we hated them. I passed but was constantly screwed with. Damn good school but mentally it was draining.

[@johnrodriguez3870]

JumpMaster, Ranger, SCUBA, MFF( HAHO/ HALO), Sniper and Pathfinder. These Schools were not offered to Me , a " Low Density" but High Speed, Low Drag Combat Service Support Soldier in USASOC's 75th Ranger Regiment. But at least, I can rest assured that Soldiers ( Sergeant and Above in the Army) and Sailors, Airmen,and Marines ( Petty Officer 3d Class, Senior Airman, and Corporal in the Navy , Air Force,and Marine Corps, respectively) can attend,pass, and successfully completed the Jump Master Course. I would not be surprised to see Coasties and Guardians of both the Coast Guard and Space Force, if Airborne 🪂 Qualified, to receive the Training.

[@denisberte778]

I failed my first attempt at Jumpmaster School with 1st Group in Okinawa, mid 80's, although I was disappointed it actually helped by providing me with additional experience and training preparing me for my second attempt at Fort Lewis, Wash., early 90's, where I pulled it off with no problem. It was high stress with attention to detail being the order of the day, also if you were a minute late for JM formation you were out, no questions asked; felt a great sense of achievement when I received my Jump Master Certificate. Regards, Denis Berte' SFC Ret

[@melgoy2094]

Well Denis, stumbled across this video and was reading responses. In fact I do believe I put you through JM school at north Fort. I was on the HALO team ODA 164. I was the head enlisted instructor for two course back to back as the NCOIC. Mel Goyen. Our team was tasked for it. I was selected to run it because I came out of the 82nd and that is where I went to JM school in the mid 80s and I was a HALO/MFF JM . Yes I ran it like the 82nd and did not put up with the typical SF crap. I believe I dropped one person from the course who was late for what ever reason and was dropping another person the next day for the same thing. I was force to reconsider by my OIC Cpt J.C Coldren who convinced me it was only one minute late. Not sure if it was you. I remember you well, very quite and professional. Man has time gone by. Hope all is well with you brother

[@melgoy2094]

I took the responsibility of putting silk in the sky very seriously. No one was gonna get hurt for an over site on my part. I loved being switched on. HALO is another animal, 10 years of that also. you remember TD (Tom D) David P and so on

[@denisberte778]

@@melgoy2094 What a fantastic surprise, to have received your text on this very special day, 4th of July. The name sounds familiar and if I saw a photo, I'm sure I would recognize you. I still look at my Jumpmaster Certificate with pride, probably because I had to work my ass off for it! It was a first rate course, I'm not surprised though, you coming from the 82nd, a "Top Draw" outfit. I was late once, but not by a minute, still had twenty seconds to go when I stepped through the door. My team sergeant was hotter than a pistol when he saw me, took some heat rounds for sure on that one, never did again! You're right Mel, the time sure has rocketed by, but it's still not over yet sir; there's a 75 year old Vietnam Vet fighting in the Ukraine, wild huh? Also, in the past, they had Roman Legionnaires in their 70's still fighting on the front lines; that's definitely a tenet I need to ascribe to. I'm 71 myself, and training 6 days a week, weights, martial arts and cqb; my mission now is to protect the people around me, moms, dads and kids; it's in my DNA I guess. Sorry, I don't remember those gentlemen TD and DP; thanks for the complement "quiet professional," coming from you it means the world! Thanks again Mel for the text, and profuse thanks for your many years of service to our country; it's because of troopers like you that we have aspired to greatness, and even though were having problems now, I believe they will be resolved in the future by the Almighty. Ok Mel, I'll keep you in my prayers, and my best to the family. Denis "....he dug down deep from within to draw strength were most would have nothing left....." SF Trooper

[@brianoswald1067]

There’s some familiar names. No slots available when I was on 145. Got one when I was on 115. Passed everything 1st time goes. Got tossed for being 1 minute late for manifest. The power went out in my building. Ended up going NavSpecwar JM a few years later. They had some jumpers in swimmer gear too.

[@MuffAficionado]

Jumpmaster School wrecked me mentally, I came back from a combat mission and went to JM after ten days notice. I crammed nomenclature in a day and pre jump in a couple days. At school I crammed general knowledge. I feel like I forgot everything about my entire life to memorize all the things for this class.

[@-will-1389]

Your video editing skills have gone up a lot, videos are looking much nicer, keep it up

[@nicktodoroff7836]

It might be that he's retired now and has more time to fine tune them.

[@doc3162]

I wasn't a jump master but I was airborne and the first time I jumped I got scared cause I had a fear of heights, so I yelled to him I don't think I can do this, he said you'll thank me later and with his free arm pushed me out. He was right I found him later and thanked him, it was a great think he did for me. Jump masters are a speci

[@doc3162]

Special breed. I thank them all for keeping us safe and being very professional on their jobs.

[@AltonJones-sh2sb]

You weren't the one I kicked out the door🤔🤣🤣,fear is a normal thing,blocking my jump door isn't,Strikehold,black hat AIRBORNE INSTRUCTOR Dco 1994-1997,a knee in the ass has produced many a Paratrooper 🤣🤣.again, Strikehold.

[@robertsmith6068]

I had to re test air operations. My jumper was on his 100th and last jump

[@wadeboothe4397]

Pain in the ass to remember all of the nomenclature, but it’s all memory and you go over it hundreds of times.

[@eurofjr]

My first AJ duty (night combat), I got oddly fixated on the green light after sending out the last jumper. As I approached the parachute door to exit, I remained fixated on the green light and walked right into the trail edge of the door. I then whirled out into the night like a spinning top. Funny thing is I don’t remember any of that. It wasn’t until the video was shown at the next St Michael’s Day Ball that I even knew it happened. Loadmaster must have had a great time videoing that one.

[@bear7889]

That dude is wearing a Husker shirt. Glad to see Nebraska still has some fans out there.

[@drauldeanda]

Always a pleasure to watch your videos

[@josephsorrendino4920]

I had 22 jumps when I took the course. Pretty much knew the routine.

[@Blackmoon9u9]

What is your best military related movie or TV show, most realistic and accurate?

[@manofaction1807]

Memorize that study guide. And the just go. Don't think twice about it, no second guessing, no bullshitting. Get in, or you're going to leave a biscuit on the table that you're going to wish you had on your plate.

[@docstew75]

I went to the 82nd JM course. One thing you forgot to mention is that if you pass the first three tests with over 80% on all three, you get two more chances at JMPI (it's called being reentry qualified, and it's designed to keep people who can pass the academic parts from being recycled for JMPI and repeating the whole course). I was lucky to have those, because I got it on my fourth attempt. PWAC exam was about 6 weeks later, three hours of circling Luzon DZ exiting one jumper at a time. I followed that up about a year later by trying out to be a blackhat. THAT was WAAAAYYY more difficult than JM school, because you were expected to learn a module (some had to be verbatim) and pitch it to your trainer and eventually the whole committee and school commandant. While your pitching the module, your trainer is asking you questions that are at least tangentially related, but are very specific and will reveal if you have been studying or at least paying attention to detail. I was asked once how many sets of airborne wings were on the wall of plaques (It was 77). They also might act like fools to make sure you can control the classroom. Unfortunately, I didn't make the cut on that. I loved doing JM duties in the aircraft, always liked to look out and see the countryside (except for the one time the loadies opened the door before the 10 minute warning). However, because my brigade deployed a couple of months after I had surgery on my heel, when they came back a year later, I was the only current and qualified DZSO (Drop Zone Safety Officer) in the brigade. Since a requirement to be DZSO is to be an assistant DZSO, guess who got to do nothing else for the first couple months after redeployment? I swear, I could have walked to Sicily DZ and set up the RAM and flanker lights blindfolded.

[@sheltonpoteat6241]

I went the the 82nd’s course back in the day.

[@Blackmoon9u9]

Enjoy your contenant, good general informations ever for no military guy

[@rmerlin733]

As jumpmaster - C130 flight from Ft Wainwright with Generals Schwarzkopf and Jenes Alaska command changeover. Jump into Kotzebu, AK. Didn't tell either adjutants mission was piggy backing USAF 5 - C130 low level insertion run through mountains. Wild as hell ride yanking and banking through the mountains. Forget shuffle to the door. Jumpers piled out like their asses were on fire. At least everyone took their barf bags along with them.

[@paulgoss7596]

during PWAC and myself and two other dudes were the students jumpers for the JM and Safety portion of training. Our student JM had his glasses fly off his face when he did his clear to the rear check, and he was nearly blind. He looked back at the cadre and said I can't see with out my glasses..... then the green light came on and the cadre through his grade sheet out the aircraft (C130) and waved good bye to him and told him to exit the aircraft cause he has a NOGO.....

[@samsammy6210]

Attended Jump Master school at Ft.Benning Ga. 1978. Had two chutes to learn. T-10 outer rotating disc and MC-1 B model harness. 15 or 20 years later I was attending 82nd Div review. Few of the young troopers and I was shooting the breeze when one of said in a questionable way “ you jumped the dial a death chute”. Had to think about that one for a second. He was referring to the old T-10 no bells or whistles. I got a kick out of that one. Strange chute I jumped at Bragg was all T-10 with the exception the risers could be pulled left , rear, etc. That was after the pins where pulled above the canopy release assembly. On the risers there was line up lines about worthless at night and day. Only jumped that chute one time. Not many troopers had jumped that chute. I was making a jump with SF when I ran into that type of chute. Think it was called T-10 steerable.

[@AltonJones-sh2sb]

Yeah,the old T-10 Dail of Death with safety fork and lanyard,yeah one hell of a parachute harness and parachute the T-10 love the anti- inversion net.

[@mr.perfect1er]

Best memory: JMPI: "You are a Go!" Worst: My class was supposed to start PWAC on 09/11/2001 Edit: RIP SFC Sluss-Tiller AAS FT Bragg (JM Branch) ABN! ATW! 2/505 PIR

[@cyclingtj]

First tour at Bragg (77-80) got to go to the Pretest....got to leave the pretest. Second tour at Bragg (93-96) got to go again...got to leave again. Even with age, my mind cannot remember nomenclatures. Second tour I was Air NCO for awhile. Got to pick my spot in the stick so I'd have a better chance to landing close to the turn-in point....hey...I was 15 years older than most other jumpers. Still...loved jumped and still treasure my wings.

[@hughwright1860]

My first tour was in 77-80. Was in HQ CO. 2nd Brigade. Did 3 tours thru 1986. Was in 1/325 80-86. Graduated JM course in 80.

[@RoscoesRiffs]

I went through this school TWICE. Failed the first time on the jumper inspection. The last instructor in the line was wearing black socks -- and NO BOOTS. 😆 (Yeah, it's funny -- NOW.) 😆

[@elturrro9085]

Going through it right now and its a lot of fun but very demanding

[@grayharker6271]

folks keep saying 82nd JM school. When I did it in 83, the course was run by 18th ABN Corps. One of the most intense courses you can attend. Exiting troops from an aircraft in flight is deadly serious business. Uhraa!

[@jaybee6505]

I'm 42. 100% broken and out with the VA and I'd give anything for one more. 82nd 2/505 PIR C company

[@Mikey-db9iy]

LOL, I’m 52 and regret not getting another 18 jumps to be a member of the 100 Jump Club.

[@JohnGatesIII]

I'm 53, spent 22 years in the Army, 17 straight years on Jump status (hiding behind a rucksack/parachute as DA told me). My last jump was my 100th jump. I only pulled a 60% VA rating (all of it back/hips/knees/ankles/structural). I miss EVERYTHING about Jumping/Jumpmastering but that sudden stop at the end.

[@randymedina6973]

I remember the black hat removed me from the door during PWAC cuz my foot wasn’t centered on the platform which showed a lack of confidence. Once that happened, my AJ went to turn around to give me the thumbs up and saw I wasn’t there and didn’t know what to do after that so they removed him from the door as well🤣 all in all I passed but it was stressful

[@andrewcantrell5075]

My black hats were actually really chill. It was all business during training, however they weren't afraid to crack a joke every now and then.

[@pillscottvt6628]

I always had my slot BUMPed for E7/E8s that could not pass the CE/JMPI.

[@ohiowrencher8650]

There was nothing like spotting a DZ on a Wednesday morning... I have never felt more alive. Never forgot my fist 'real' jumpmster student.... he went out no problem.'; chute opened!! I did catch one persons canopy release assembly not put together properly with the snap of my knuckle.... it was dark and did not knock properly... Had to hang our heels in those days to prove confidence... doubt that is done anymore.