I went to the New York Air Dot Show this past weekend with some friends. Besides viewing aircraft, the West Point Parachute Team performed a few jumps.
West Point is the the U.S. Military Academy that trains the future officers and leaders for the US Army. West Point is on the Hudson River in New York and is actually not that far from where this air show took place.
According to their website ” More than 54 fourth class cadets try out each year for the 8-10 coveted spots on the roster.”
They compete and medal in the Collegiate Skydiving Championships.
Some of the cadets after they jumped came up to the viewing area and high-fived kids who were watching.
According to its facebook page “WPPT recruits future USMA Cadets through outreach demonstration jumps and national competition.” The air show had different booths people could see and they allowed people to get on some of the older planes to take a look. Different branches of service were represented.
Have a great Monday!
Sharon's Iconic Travel Photography Blog 
Just a different bird. It has rotors.
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Ha! They had the Osprey there as well- the kind with an engine.
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This is such an engaging account of your experience at the New York Air Dot Show! The way you highlighted not only the aircraft but also the performance of the West Point Parachute Team adds so much depth. I really appreciate how you gave context about West Point itself and its significance — it makes the parachute demonstration feel even more meaningful, knowing it represents the dedication and discipline of future Army leaders.
Your inclusion of the fact that over 50 cadets compete for just a handful of team spots was especially powerful; it really underscores the level of excellence, commitment, and resilience behind those breathtaking jumps. Reading this, one can imagine the pride and precision in every parachute descent.
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Many of them go on to be leaders in the military and say their experiences on the team helped them learn how to deal with difficult or stressful situations in a dangerous environment.
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Briliant!
Gwen.
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Great shots.
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I often receive comments amount the sanity of my hobbies, but I completely tip my hat to individuals willing to jump out of a plane/copter. I was not aware there was collegiate sky diving competitions – something new every day, how I enjoy the blogsphere.
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I had no idea either. I have been on West Point’s campus when the parachuters were practicing for graduation. I had no idea they were students. I saw them dropped over the Hudson River, then they drifted back west over land right to their intended drop zone. It was amazing. I don’t think I could do what they do.
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Rather them than me. I prefer to stay inside a plane. 😁
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I remember after army training while waiting to be driven to the airport in a room on base, a drill sgt. came in and said they had slots left for airborne school. People could sign up and leave that day. No one took him up on it in the room. Ha! No I am not too keen on heights.
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