Leapfest Tests Skills of U.S., International Paratroopers

U.S. Army and International Paratroopers conduct a static line Airborne jump using their MC-6 parachutes out of a Ch-47 Chinook Helicopter during Leapfest at Glen Rock Drop Zone, Exeter, Rhode Island, August 2, 2025. All competing Paratroopers use the MC-6 parachute, a steerable canopy, to navigate towards designated target areas on the drop zone. Their performance is judged on how quickly they can land, execute a parachute landing fall and reach a specific target area. The competition is both individual and team-based, with the fastest combined times determining the winners. Leapfest is the largest, longest standing, international static line parachute training event and competition hosted by the 56th Troop Command, Rhode Island Army National Guard to promote high level technical training and esprit de corps within the International Airborne community. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Eric Kestner)

AUGUST 8, 2025 – U.S. Army and international paratroopers jumped against each other during Leapfest, Aug. 2, 2025.

Hosted by the Rhode Island Army National Guard’s 56th Troop Command, the event is the largest and oldest global static line parachute training event and competition.

The competing paratroopers jumped from a CH-47 Chinook helicopter and used MC-6 parachutes — which have steerable canopies — to navigate toward designated target areas within the drop zone.

Their performances were judged on how quickly they could land, their execution of a parachute landing fall and their ability to land at the specific target area.

The competition is both individual and team-based, with the fastest combined times determining the winners. However, the greater purpose of Leapfest is to promote the camaraderie and esprit de corps of the airborne soldier through international competition.

DOD News

USS George Washington Returns to Yokosuka

DECEMBER 12. 2025 – Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), the flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5, returned to Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, on Dec. 11 after completing operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. George Washington departed Yokosuka on June 10 to conduct routine operations with embarked Carrier […]

Air National Guard Unveils New Bonus Program

MARCH 11, 2023 – On March 1st, the Air National Guard (ANG) launched a new bonus program to attract and retain personnel in critical specialties. The initiative offers significant financial rewards, with bonuses of up to $90,000 for eligible members, depending on their Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSCs). This strategic move aims to strengthen the […]

Military Students’ Tips to Balance Service and Studies

OCTOBER 10, 2025 – Studying in college while serving in the military can be highly rewarding but also extremely demanding in some respects. Military members, veterans, and their families typically balance demanding duty schedules, deployments, family responsibilities, and school schedules. It requires careful planning, flexibility, and being willing to seek and take advantage of available […]

Former Soldier Navigates Job Hunt

NOVEMBER 19, 2024 — In early 2017, Michael Quinn endured what he called the worst day in the worst year of his life. Quinn, then a sergeant major and 24-year Army Soldier, had weathered deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Philippines. As an Army counter-intelligence agent, he said he learned to operate under grave circumstances […]

How Military Families Can Avoid Financial Panic During a Shutdown

OCTOBER 23, 2025 – Government shutdowns create unique challenges for military families who live on tight budgets, frequently relocate, and manage the constant demands of military service. While the uncertainty can feel overwhelming, following these five strategies can help you navigate the crisis with confidence. Keep Perspective. This financial disruption will end, just as the […]

Comments