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USAF Colonel, Para-Commander Freefall Parachute Expert Personal Used Ripcord
Here\'s a piece of history from an Air Force veteran who graduated from Air Force Parachute School! Using his T-7A Reserve Parachute on a jump, the significance lies in the mystery—whether intentional or not, this ripcord represents that pivotal moment.
Preserved on his wall, it\'s a symbol of pride from a jump where the details remain intriguing. Whether it\'s the first use due to a failed primary chute or simply his initial experience with this type of parachute, the exact significance adds an air of mystery to this remarkable piece.
This holds unique historical value and comes from the estate of an Air Force colonel with an illustrious career. Beginning as a private in 1948, he was involved in the Berlin Airlift before attending officer school and volunteering for parachute duty. He became an expert paratrooper in various disciplines, including static, free fall, and halo diving. Notably, he was a member of the Blue Masters Air Force Parachute Demonstration Team in Europe for several years during the 1960s.
His service extended to international missions, such as being part of the Belgian Paratroop Battalion during the airborne assault on the Republic of the Congo in 1964 and participating in Operation Power Pack in 1965. In 1968, he was assigned to Vietnam as Chief of Combat Control, where he was wounded multiple times. He left Vietnam in March 1973 on the last aircraft carrying American troops. Shortly after, he was the commander of the Airlift Control Element in Tel Aviv, playing a critical role in supplying Israel during the Yom Kippur War.
He continued to serve in the United States until his retirement as a full colonel in 1976, accumulating nearly 30 years of military service. Throughout his career, he earned parachute qualifications in an astounding 38 different countries. His passion for collecting airborne insignia led him to amass a vast collection, once recognized as the largest military insignia collection in the world. This badge is a unique piece from his personal collection and holds significant historical and collector\'s value.
Please note that shipping within the United States is free, and we invite you to explore our other listings for more exceptional items from this remarkable collection. Don\'t miss the opportunity to own a piece of this unique Combat Control Team history.--Please see ourstore formorecool,collectiblestuff--We dedicate ourselves to providing a meticulous examination of each item\'s identity, history, and condition, delivering the most accurate descriptions possible. We operate with a steadfast commitment to transparency, never concealing any imperfections or misleading our valued customers.
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THE NEEDS OF THE MANY OUTWEIGH THE NEEDS OF THE FEW… _gsrx_vers_1651 (GS 9.7.3 (1651))
