A Knight is traditionally a symbol of honor and the embodiment of courage and
valor. Despite our fast evolving world, we have retained our heroes.
For fifty years, the men and women of the U.S. Army Parachute Team
“Golden Knights” have exemplified these traditions through their dedication and service to our country in the form of sport and competitive skydiving. The pursuit of perfection has made them a force to be reckoned with around the world. Like knights of old, the Golden Knights promote esprit de corps throughout our Armed
Forces and support the Army’s recruiting goals through public demonstrations.
Annually, the Black and Gold Demonstration Teams tirelessly traverse the country
performing at air shows and sporting events for more than 14 million spectators. Golden Knights assist recruiters by delivering the Army’s message to future
Soldiers. The Golden Knights embody the Army values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage in everything they do. They exemplify the Warrior Ethos and remind us what an honor it is to serve our country. Golden Knights answer the ‘Call to Duty’ by reminding all Americans to support our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines by honoring their service and
welcoming them home.
Starting in 1959 with 13 men, known as the Strategic Army Corps Sport Parachute Team, the team was re-designated two years later as the Department of Defense’s official aerial demonstration team, the U.S. Army Parachute Team. The Golden Knights swept the competition circuit and conquered the skies, in what was then the Soviet dominated sport of skydiving. “The goal I pursue is simple yet bears a responsibility I must discharge without reservation; when I have gained the respect, admiration, and gratitude of the American public and my teammates, then I have fulfilled my mission as a Golden Knight.”—Golden Knight Creed, paragraph five. Service members who want to become Golden Knights must first apply to attend the annual Assessment and Selection Program. Selection is held once a year at the team’s headquarters and home of the airborne, Fort Bragg, N.C. Enlisted members from any of the Armed Services can apply, however only those who meet the demanding qualifications are selected. All applicants must have a minimum of 150 freefall parachute jumps, a flawless military and civilian record and be willing to attend Army Airborne school. Through the rigorous Assessment program, the Golden Knights are able to ensure the right Soldiers are chosen to carry on the mission by maintaining very high standards both personally and professionally.
