The LEAPFEST turns 40

Earlier this month, paratroopers from throughout the US military and around the world gathered in Rhode Island for the 40th annual LEAPFEST static line parachute competition. This year’s event brought together teams from across the US, as well as 18 foreign countries.

Established in 1982 and hosted by the 56th Troop Command of the Rhode Island Army National Guard, LEAPFEST is the largest and longest-running event of its kind. LEAPFEST is dedicated to testing static-line parachuting skills and fostering airborne camaraderie. 

Each four-person team jumps from a CH-47 Chinook helicopter at an altitude of 1,500 feet using steerable MC-6 round canopy parachutes. Each jumper aims to land as close as possible to the X-shaped targets on the Drop Zone - touching the X to stop the timer for their jump-to-target - testing both individual and team proficiency. 

Strict eligibility requirements permit only currently serving active or reserve military personnel to take part, and in addition to the competition itself, LEAPFEST also features a jump exchange program whereby US participants can earn foreign jump wings, and foreign competitors can earn US jump wings. 

Reflecting the international nature of LEAPFEST, the top 3 teams included ones from the United States, Canada, and Hungary. The full results for all teams can be found on the event website.

We congratulate all involved in this year’s 40th anniversary event for their professionalism, dedication, and Airborne Spirit!

All photos: 982nd Combat Camera Company (Airborne).