Categories timeline: US Airborne (1940-1945)
July 9 1940
Training starts at Lawson Field
On July 9, 1940, an 8-week specific training course in packing and parachute jumping techniques began in an old hangar at Lawson Field on the vast Fort Benning estate.
Back to the listJuly 1st 1940
Volunteers selection for the Test Platoon
On July 1, 1940, 200 volunteers from the 29th Infantry Regiment were selected. After a series of tests, 46 soldiers and 2 officers were selected and placed under the authority of Major William C. LEE.
Back to the listJune 25 1940
Major William C. Lee receives order to oversee the experimental platoon's formation
June 25 1940: Major William C. Lee receives order to oversee the experimental platoon’s formation, who settles among Fort Benning’s Infantry School
Back to the listApril 1940
Experimental Parachute Test Platoon
In April 1940, a plan recommending the formation of an Experimental Parachute Test Platoon was approved by the Commander in Chief of the Infantry, Major General George A. Lynch.
Back to the listJanuary 1940
The War Department
January 1940: The War Department authorizes the chief commander of the infantry to start a study on the development of airborne paratroopers.
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