Two other clips from the same ITN report. Why Do Paratroopers "Jib" (Refuse To Jump)? | Brigadier Anthony Farrar-Hockley Interview | June 1966 ua-cam.com/video/SOKWYiKerho/v-deo.html Selecting British Army Paratroopers | Brigadier Farrar-Hockley Interview | Abingdon | June 1966 ua-cam.com/video/wlw_2cNbUIM/v-deo.html
The way they are so calm, thoughtful and non judgemental. Seems so different to people nowadays who are so quick to assume they know the full story and throw accusations.
I honestly think you’re overstating the difference in people then and now. For instance this same Regiment were responsible for massacres only 5 years later. We have problems now that are different to the problems then, but the rose tinted glasses of looking at those that came before dilutes the people to simpler 1 dimensional characters
Can we all take time to appriciate the remark from the officer. “ I’ve been in the para’s since ‘42…. Respect to you sir and thank you for service and sacrifice.
That's Farrar the Para. Legend in the Regiment. Fought with the Glosters at the Imjin River. His Son commanded a Company during the Battle of Goose Green.
Never respect service now we are living like this today and after afghanistan. I don't mean that horribly I mean remember the fallen but look what they died for Living in the eu a land of empires waving goodbye to Angels merkel
I read Anthony Farrar-Hockley's account of his time fighting with the Glosters during the Korean War "The Edge of the Sword" and I can highly recommend it.
The genuinely most impressive thing about his remarks there is that he outright stated that if the brigade is causing people not to come forward, that's entirely on his shoulders.
I did 10 years in the Parachute Regiment (2 Para) and seen commensurate actions in that time of service. From what I can perceive the ones that came through unscathed were the ones who could switch off mentally at will to an indifferent state. Which of course is what the 'powers that be' seek for the makings of a Paratrooper. No fear - if you can accomplish this state then you are what the Parachute Regiment seek. Of course - you also require the fitness and intelligence that goes along with this selection. It's true the training regime is very hard and deliberately Spartan. It is also true that most Paras do have a serious apprehension when it comes to exiting through that door - but they contend with it - and go through the door as a matter of course. If I can ever pass on anything to anyone who is on the verge of bottling it - just think of the relief you get - because you certainly get that feeling the minute you exit that door. The feeling of being free in that buffeting slipstream - especially if you've got heavy equipment strapped to your body - is bliss (you've been standing in line in the aircraft with all this weight strapped to you - it's heavy - really heavy - then believe me - it simply floats away as soon as you depart from the aircraft). You've done it - now land and survive. There is only a certain type who will meet these criteria - hence the Parachute selection. If you think you have got it - GO FOR IT! (It forms the rest of you life - you will always be a Para).
Hi, I was in 3 Bn, and agree with your comments 100%. The attitude of “can do and F..k it” can get you through most things especially as your mates will make sure that you will never feel sorry for yourself. When I looked around at the blokes who got through Arnhem like Joe Grout and China Mallone I always thought that relatively we had it cushy. I saw a bit of death and destruction before joining so was better prepared for the hardship. Once a Para, always a Para! Harera
Andy ham (ex 1 BW ). I agree with you, and wish to express my respect to all Battalions of the Parachute Regiment, I will never forget the bravery the Paras displayed in NI in late 80s. Of course inter regimental competitiveness will always matter as it does with me personally for BW, God Bless all Paras. Respect of course where it is certainly due. Andy Hamilton
The way the very first soldier actually stops and fully considers his answer before giving it is almost a relic of the past now. People seem to be thinking of their response even as a question is being asked these days.
Quite a leader who says “If they are, I oughta be sacked!”. That is the very essence of good leadership-personal responsibility in communicating with those in your care.
Its also one of the main reasons armies where so much more effective back in the day, High ranks actually did get sacked if they did not preform. Today this is very rare.
At first, I thought they were going to mock and talk awfully of their comrades i.e. as cowards. However, I'm pleased to see that I was proven wrong and love the way these men are non-judgemental. It must be a totally unnatural thing to jump out of a perfectly good aircraft and that amount of pressure must be pretty extreme for any person.
When British airborne forces were forming in WW2, most of the training jumps were done from static balloons. 800 ft. up and you were required to drop yourself through an open hatch in the bottom of the basket. Complete silence apart from the wind and the creaking of the basket. People said that was far, far more testing than static line jumps out of a plane. And, people really did get killed or greviously injured jumping back then.
To be honest with you, that makes my hands sweat just thinking about it. I recall watching a documentary in the early 80s on the training of Parachute Regiment recruits. They were jumping from a static balloon then. I recall their being given two or three chances and anymore and they were failed. Psychologically it seemed a much bigger hurdle than jumping out of an aeroplane and being in a queue of others jumping out in quick succession. Of course that's some hurdle in itself.
I found balloon jumps nothing but fun. You can't make a bad exit. My first jump there was a PSI in the cage doing a jump for fun and he went to the front of the cage and said "Cheerio" to the guy in charge as he stepped out. For days people had been shoutiing "GO" at us and I was impressed by this. I walked to the front , he shouted "GO and I stepped out. It has until now, been a matter of secret pride to me that, on my second jump, I said "Cheerio" and stepped out without the "GO".
As someone who’s jumped out of planes and also jumped out of bridges in cliffs, I can tell you that jumping out of a moving plane is a lot scarier but I guess you’re entitled to your opinion…
I was offered, and this is not a word of a lie, I swear on my late father’s honour (he was there and he saw this), to be taken up in a static balloon on the town moor in Newcastle and jump out with the paras that were training there when I was about eight or nine years old. Now my father turned to me and said I could do it if I wanted, but I refused and to this day, I cannot help but wonder what would have actually happened if I’d said yes. I will never know.
I will always remember our brigadier Farrar-Hockley - how he used to talk to us on the parade ground. We looked up to him and we felt we couldn't have had more of a hero for our Commander for the Parachute Regiment. Google what this guy went through and you'll get my drift.
I have added the short biographical note on Brigadier (later General) Farrar-Hockley which I put in the description box of the 2 other excerpts of the documentary I uploaded. He was apparently only caught by the enemy in Korea because he abided by the rule analogous to the naval one that a captain is the last to abandon ship.
Hi Peter, I served in C Coy and was proud to serve under him. Farra the Para was the only CO in my 20 year service in three different armies that knew the name of everyone one of his soldiers. #respect, Farra the Para’s green eyed boys!! Harera...
It says much for the quality of these men that they refuse to be rude about their comrades, no matter how much the journalist eggs them on. They show empathy and don't put others down. They've no need to boast, they just quietly and calmly carry their balls in wheelbarrows. An excellent bit of footage.
If there was no pressure to jump half the drop would refuse, you don't want to jump but letting everyone down and bottling it then being kicked out of a job you suffered months of evil depot shit to get into makes you swallow your fears and just get it over and done with, once you're out the door and see a good canopy it's a great feeling anyway.
I doubt that, having served in 2 Para, we got through a very intensive training course, not just the mental and physical arduity, but a very comprehensive Parachute course at RAF Abingdon (1970). The moto of the parachute training centre, Knowledge Dispels fear explains that. The men in the Parachute Regiment, are there because they want to be there with all it entails, so to say half would refuse if there was no pressure is an absurd comment, you have no idea of the type of men who join Pass P Company and then go on to be rather good at what they do. Or put it another way, would you say that sky divers are under pressure to jump? Being under pressure is what we do, we do not feel comfortable unless we are surrounded!
Pull up a sandbag - here's a (true) story. In May1971 I was a lowly Sapper guarding the house of the CLF NI in the grounds of Thiepval Barracks, Lisburn. I'd just finished my sneaky smoke when two men arrived at the end of the drive. The younger one saluted the Maj Gen (his father) and went off to the Officers' Mess. The CLF was Maj Gen Sir Anthony Farrar-Hockley. I challenged him and he stopped and chatted. He said he had lost a friend on the Springfield Road that day. The friend was Sgt Michael Willetts. Farrar-Hockley was very easy to talk to, even though he was a hndred ranks above me. Nice bloke. Waffle over, carry on.
Wow, you saw the troubles in the 70’s. If I’m not mistaken, those were the most intense years of the Conflict. I’m glad you were willing to share one of your stories.
Now there is a place I remember. Father was Int Corps on long tours, so I spent two years in the early 80's at Thiepval as a kid. Not a good place to spend part of ones childhood! Attended Friends Grammar, and it felt like everyone knew even though I gave the prepared lie that dad was a mainland contractor working in Lisburn. Probably the accent gave it away as I had a classic Army Brats accent at the time. Not a good time, was old enough to know the risks but too young to really do anything about it.
@@KarlPHorse Early 80s were very hairy but I couldn't fit it in - I finished my 10 years in 1979. Went straight back over there and did 2 years as a Prison Officer at HMP Maze Cellular (H Blocks). Brendan Hughes on the first hunger strike was great to talk to. I told him not to die on me while I was on duty in the hospital wing because I wanted his Christmas dinner (better than our canteen). His words were something like; "Don't you be worrying yourself mister, I'll not be dying in here."
I served in this brigade as a Combat medic, and I have followed 2 and 3 Para around the world. I'm yet to see anyone refuse to jump. However, I have seen a few catastrophic jumps. Broken bones and concussions are faily frequent in every training jump. We did train with the American 82nd Airborne at North Carolina, and I heard one of the American paratroopers lost his life during a night jump with us.
My Dad was going to join the Para's but decided to join the Royal Artillery insteadback in 1950. Many years after he did 23 years, he told me that the reason he changed his mind was because of what he saw - The result of a failed parachute - legs & shoulders if you get my drift.
on my jumps course four of mates had never been on a plane before we done 9 jumps over 10days got our wings and they went back up to glasgow having been on 9 planes but never landed on one
My pal was a para. He said, believe me you can't wait to get out of the plane. Low level for two hours, you're bursting for a pish (or worse), people have been sick, you've a huge container hanging off you. "Let me out" is - apparently - the mood.
Many years ago when I was a lad I went to No1 Parachute Training school. Its motto was "Knowledge dispels fear". As the bus took us out to the balloon for our first jump a voice came from the back of the bus. "Knowledge dispels f*ck all". He refused to jump and they sent him home pronto. I really enjoyed every jump and I had a great time. I'm 77 now but I would do a jump now if I could.
As a former paratrooper myself, I never regarded myself more courageous than other soldiers and I certainly didn't view other troopers that couldn't step out of that door as cowards. It's not a natural thing to jump out of a perfectly working airplane and some people are simply not made for that. Same applies to working in great heights. Some people can do it or get used to it, some people will never be able to do it and I don't think that has a whole lot to do with bravery.
I have never jumped out of a perfectly good aircraft, I could not, but I am a diver, Trimix and Advanced trimix, and have dived down to 200 metres. Things can go seriously wrong down there very quickly, and again, its not one of those things just anyone can do. Some people as you say can get used to it, but others will never really get over their fear of the black that lies below. Does not make them cowards, after all, its not a natural thing to dive so deep that should anything go wrong on the bottom your chances of getting to the surface unscathed are slim....
During my training a lad from Scotland completed all his jumps during parachute training at Brize Norton, but a few weeks later on exercise final fling he refused. The rest of the recruit platoon jumped into the exercise and we never saw the refused again. I believed he opted to serve in a line infantry regiment. In all reality if jumping into an exercise ladened full of kit and equipment especially after a long flight I was alway glad to jump out. I once had the disco leg jumping out of the balloon and asked the RAF PJI (parachute jump instructor), to give me a nudge. I wouldn’t change it for the world.
gday mate, was wondering if you could clarify what 'disco leg' is? never heard the term, I presume its some sort of slang for maybe like trembling legs you can't control? idk, am curious (: you ever combat jump?
Ironically my biggest fear was not the actual jump, but the fear of 'not jumping'. This fear of letting everyone down, or being seen by others and indeed, myself, as a coward or 'not having the bottle or courage' to do it. That's what drove me out the door.
Isn't that the reason we all did what we did, they can spin it how they like in films etc but it was the fear of letting those around you down that was the real driving force
Easy to say when you were never actually a paratrooper and you're just a kid in the UA-cam comments section... Jeez, the amount of people here who try to pass of as ex-paras here is enough to fill up and entire WW2 parachute division.
Agreed, arguably the braver person is the one who actually refused !! I couldnt do it. Youve passed P coy, got your wings, eat and breathe the para mentality. Synthetic training, RV drills, draw and fit etc etc. 2 hrs low level before every jump after getting pissed in the NAAFI at South Cerney the night before..... Let me out of this fucking thing.....
I respect these men in their resistance to being egged on by a reporter. On the otherhand within the ranks when going into battle if I was a soldier I would like to know everyone in my unit was ready to jump. Personally though I had a brother brother who loved to jump (101st Airborne) I would never jump out of a perfectly good airpane.
Elite troops all have this quiet confidence that requires no bluster. They possess this steely aura of competence and lethality. Glad British Paras are on our side!
I know a guy who missed the balloon jump and did all the rest.But he had to go back and do it.He couldn't he could jump out of every aircraft they put him in.But couldn't jump from the balloon.
Sounds like my mate we did he SAS(23) course passed no bother balloon jump was delayed did his Herc. Jumps went back to do our balloon jump and couldn’t do it he was gone in a jiffy😢
Definitely the Balloon is the worst! The silence and deliberateness of it all then the hundred foot dead drop before anything happens followed by less time than a gnats breath to do your checks before hitting the ground! Give me twenty guys up my back and a 120knot slipstream any day!
Canadian riggers are outstanding and I never went out the door, or off the ramp apprehensive about my equipment. On occasion I did question the conditions but you go. Those who refuse should be removed from the unit not because you asses them a coward but really an operational safety hazard that can interfere with a stick. You can't have that.
When I was on course to earn my Canadian parachutist wings, my classmates and I were given the weekend off to celebrate finishing the ground school portion of our training, knowing our first jump would be on Monday. This was deliberate. We had all weekend to think. One guy quietly withdrew from the course and never jumped. As far as I knew he suffered no repercussions from it --- he was a vehicle mechanic and was simply posted to another unit. Once you're posted an airborne unit, however, you'll find there is a considerable amount of prejudice against anyone who won't jump. They're called "LEGS", airborne slang for "Lacking Enough Guts".
During the jump tower day, I was assisted out of the tower. Never had any issues in the planes I jumped from. I preferred walking out the back ramp then going out the side doors to be honest.
My uncle was airborne during Vietnam and he said he only had one guy refuse, an officer at the end of the line who had an unknown ear infection and was in great pain once they got to altitude. He also said there were many more that considered it, but only the one at the end was able to overcome the peer pressure of the line moving forward. If you were in the middle or front of the line, you went. Simple as.
I knew a para who said he was so frightened of flying that he was glad to jump to get out of the plane. I don't think anyone who doesn't do this for a living has any business commenting on what it feels like.
The death was clearly the cause of the few refusals. Losing a mate like that can have a bad affect on someone’s confidence particularly if you were there when it happened
"I say old chap, we do seem to be flying at an awfully high altitude, and the engines seem to be working without a problem. Would it be all right, do you think, if one were to return to one's seat, so to speak?"
I completed my parachute jumps at Weston on the Green in 1971 the first two ballon jumps went well the next two C130 jumps went well the third one not too well, I had a bad landing and had heavy bruising to my lower back fortunately I had two days to mend. I was fortunate that my mates helped me on board for the next jump and the next ones to gain my wings...comrades.
I was an Engineer in the RAF and took the opportunity, with a colleague, to go to a Joint Forces training camp to do sky diving, (3 static line jumps, 3 static line dummy pulls and one free fall). After the course we joined the club and continued to do free falls at higher and higher altitudes, whilst also learning in-flight control maneuvers. One day we were both in the club's Cessna, about to jump out, when he said, "I can't do this anymore". I jumped and he landed with the plane. We never discussed his decision or his reasons, we didn't need to. Only a person who has jumped would truly understand.
On my first operational jump at Brize Norton which was my 04th jump, I switched off released my harness too late, Landed awkwardly and I broke both my Tib/Fib, So ended with a metal plates and screws in my leg, This was June 1980 & I was well and truly gutted that I didn't get my (Wings) This is December 2021 and I still wonder (WTF) I did wrong, Although I am still very proud to have received my Red Beret after my Pre Para at Aldershot & I still have to this very day have my Red Beret and extremely proud to have passed all of my training, As I say the downside was not getting my (WINGS) 😥😥 "BUT" ??
This is pushing 40 years ago, but even then parachute assaults were about as relevant as volley fire. You could argue that Crete was the last truly successful parachute battle and even then German casualties were enormous. With the advent of helicopters airborne assaults have forever changed.
Wrong. Sure, jumping into a hot zone is to be avoided, but an airborne assault using C17's can put an entire regiment on the ground in short order (with artillery and armored vehicles too). Putting that many troops down by helicopter would be much slower and require vastly more sorties. Additionally, parachute airborne (whether US or UK) can travel hundreds, even thousands, of miles quickly (with aerial refueling) and deploy a large infantry element almost anywhere in the world (deploying from Bragg) in 24 hours or less. Simply can't do that with helicopters. ua-cam.com/video/R-2puqqmycM/v-deo.html
I suppose no one knows what it's like til you're looking out of that door. Fears are a very unique thing between men. I remember working on roofs when I was about 17, I'd sometimes forget and get told off for not having a harness on whereas some men twice my age and more would climb the ladder and clip themselves on to every single rung all the way up and shuffle across to the rails, only when clipped to it would they stand up and they'd never dream of going near the edges. Some people wouldn't even go up. I think some just realised it was unnecessary risk for not much more gain. I was earning good money but looking back I tool all the risks on that job. Maybe I was stupid. Well, I definitely was. Sometimes I'd even climb down the walls rather than use the ladder
To anyone saying the journalist is asking these questions in order to make them look bad, it's the job of the journalist to ask questions for the public. Otherwise, what do you think the public assumes about those that don't jump? Would you rather people assume they're cowards without giving their fellow soldiers a chance to defend them? The journalist has to ask these questions, it's his role. Also, none of these men seemed offended by the questions, just wanted to set the story straight. Sometimes you have to ask tough questions to get real answers. There's plenty of bad reporters out there just looking for a scandal or a soundbite, but this guy was diggin in to get them to share their true opinions.
Surprises me that they were only traking 4 jumps a year. Had a good mate who was a sergeant in SAS at Swanbourne Barracks. Fittest guy I have ever known and had much more stringent allowances on jumps. I believe he had to make 3 jumps aq month to remain relevant. In water, in storms, in the dark, and over wooded country. Nicest, calmest guy I have known but alwaysw knew he could kill me in a second lmao. In fact i met him on the Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth) when he was coming back from honeymoon and he invited me to stay at his place till i found some digs. Wayne, you were an absolute champion and a credit to the Aussie armed forces
In 1970 I spent 8 days in browning barracks guard house as an sus in the cell next to me was young para awaiting a court Marshall for refusing to jump .He past out as best recruit and was airborne qualified and was making a night jump his 13th. He told me they stood up ready to jump and some thing was not attached properly to quote him my bottle went and there was no way I was going out of that door . The strap ?equipment was reattached at this time he told the Raf flight sergeant he would not jump !! he refused at the door twice and was sent back . when the plane was empty we was taken back to the door and given a direct order to jump he again refused which is how he ended up in the cells he was court marshalled that week ! he was sentenced to 6 months and a discharge subject to confirmation as member of the airbourne brotherhood he was not allowed to refuse to jump . I was transferred back to Buller barracks on the Sunday night to be discharged from my sentence Monday morning so don't know if his sentence was reduced or confirmed ? II have not used his name but remember it well had nice relaxing time in browning barracks and got one with all the staff and other prisoners this lad was apara through and through fate can be cruel some times .
Part of it could’ve been on the inefficiency of riggers to setup properly safe kits for the guys the jump with. Other than that why’d they join a Paratrooper Regiment
People may sudddenly get nerves. Perhaps a recent accidental death unduly weighs on their mind. It is likely a multiplicity of reasons. Incidentally, I recall a former member of the British Army telling me that although he was an infrantryman, he had to perform one jump (not sure if this is a mandatory thing), but he said he saw grown men "wetting themselves" prior to the jump or alternatively being literally shoved out of the aircraft.
@@adeyinkamakinde6164 You are shoved out the Aircraft because the the Dropping Zone is tight the C130 flies at around 140 miles an hour so they need you to be out the door "Post Haste" no hanging around.
@@adeyinkamakinde6164 , sounds a bit strange. You don’t do one jump, you have to attend parachute training at Brize Norton and complete at least a two week course to get your wings. We marines had to do 8 jumps which included a water jump.
My dad said first jump out plane ok he said second one he didn’t like because he knew what to expect . And in Second World War he had jump out balloon as well in training
Spent 7 years on jump status (82nd & 11th Special Forces). Never saw anyone refuse to jump. Once you get past jump school, it shouldn't be an issue. I was on a jump with the 11th and one of our guys was making his first night jump; his class in jump school didn't do one. He was pretty scared, but he jumped nonetheless. I'll will say, contrary to one of the two officers, that the longer one goes between jumps, the harder it is. No doubt whatsoever.
To get to that point of being in The Para's about to jump, I can only presume one would have proved themselves previously beyond what most can imagine. Making the word ' coward ' inappropriate and rejected by the men in this interview. Thank you for posting it.
Absolute solid bunch of men so thoughtful with there answers sincere makes me feel so proud to be British. My only hope is that the Paras or any other regiment have characters and leadership that is as close to the values of these men in todays military it would be a crying shame if it isn't.
I’ve never jumped out of an airplane but I spent 4 years in the marine grunts. Never had the desire. Jumping out of an airplane is not for the faint of heart. One would appear to have to have ultimate confidence in self, gear, and comrades along with having no fear. Like going headlong into all out combat. Also, like he said, “pride” might come into play. If one of these is faulty, no-go.
Am I weird for not having the desire to jump out of a plane militarily but would still go sky diving? There’s other sections of the army of interest to me.
When I was in jump school in 89 I watch brave men walk off and refuse to get back on a plane to do the next jump. So that was it they were removed from the school. It's not for everyone, nor should it be.
Rational Fear is nothing to be ashamed of. Some overcome it easier than others. It takes great courage to do something you’re terrified of. Like going to war. Some people take up these tasks with ease but that’s Not courageous because it doesn’t bother you.
Did 10 years in the RAF 70-80 and I remember one of my SNCO's stating that he questioned the mentality of anyone who jumps from a perfectly serviceable Aircraft. Of course, it was said in jest. You can hear these guys coming from miles away though. Their balls clang together. Roll On Para's
Farrar hockley's son did the para course in the 70's, probably thought he had to because of his father, failed the p company physical but was gifted a pass because of his father!
My dad was a medic in the 5th Scottish Para’s chute battalion in 1944to 47….he made 13 jumps and was jumping at ringway in Manchester when someone had a Roman candle …the C.O. Got them all together and took them over to the mark left by the mans body on the grass runway (at the time ringway was a grass runway ) …the para body indentation in the grass was about 6 inches deep but the head mark left only a 1inch deep impression (because it bounced and the energy) ……anyway according to my dad the girl who had packed his parachute was dragged out too to see the marks and then they were all transferred to a hut where they where given a choice….they could have a confidence jump ..what was that l asked him ..he said that if on the confidence jump you refused to jump then you wouldn’t be court marshalled………to a man the rest of his stick all refused the confidence jump as they said it was another chance to have a “candle”..(Russian roulette)…..my dad went on to serve in Athens and then Bloody Palestine ….he was as English as a longbow by the way born in Horwich..Bolton . P.S.the girl who packed his schute actually packed hers and did a jump too to prove her credibility l suppose …
I spudded in on a night jump, after being dropped off the DZ by 400m, and ended up with compression fractures in my vertebrae. I heard my pack hit the ground and then I hit a small bush. The bush kicked my legs up and I landed on my arse. Next jump i did was a hard one, I paused in the door, got a big boot in the back and out i went...still had the heebie jeebies for a long time about jumping after that. One of the new blokes on a jump course made the mistake of looping the static line round his hand, which was promptly degloved flesh and all on exiting the plane. Another chap, on the same jump as I got injured popped his reserve in the plane and was sucked out over the wedge. Broken legs, dislocations, tree landings....all part of the fun.
When I was at Bragg one jump the static line went around the helmet of this one person and hung them behind the plane. I was careful like crazy with my static lines when I went out. Worse I had was when I landed and was drug for a while luckily nothing serious out of it other than scaring me pretty bad.
very interesting... seems in any discipline there are days when something is "off" and it is better to rest up but hard to put a finger on why, and so easy to either try to push through and get in a downward spiral (perhaps literally as a parachutist) or give up and never be able to get back in the groove or not without extreme effort and mishaps but what strikes me is that he says they occurred in clusters so either a social contagion type thing or perhaps factors we can't yet identify influencing them
Served in both the 101st Airborne, 5th Sneaky Forces, 10th SF and the 82nd and never saw a troop refuse to jump. Hell, it was the only real fun we had in garrison duty anyway.
I had an uncle who served in the SOE during WW2. Talking about Arnhem to him, he was quite dismissive of allied paratroops who refused to jump with them. I asked him why they wouldn’t jump, he said they said we were too low, I said what height were you jumping from, he said 200 feet😊
I hated parachuting. The balloon jump was the worst then the second aircraft descent. After doing these I knew that there is nothing in life I cannot do if I put my mind to it. It would have been easier to have joined a line regiment. But I didn't.
Para…important to any mission. You get the equipment on, focus on the mission and be concerned about who’s shooting at you when you hit the ground. Focus, mission, focus, mission.
I've always been extremely interested in the military and eager to join, especially the elite forces. I had the opportunity to go do a parachute course with cadets a couple years back(static line) I enjoyed it thoroughly added with the instructor commending mw on a near perfect exit, I believe is what has field me to desiring to join the paras. Currently 18 and training towards it, hopefully one day soon!
Might want to choose a career path where you wont be used as an expendable political pawn mate all my mates that joined up young agree it was the stupidest decision they made in their lives and they're not talking about combat when they're saying that they're apparently just took for absolute mugs having to do things mostly for the news and good publicity and trying to make it look exiting so kids want to join my mate jokes that if any bullets gonna find his dome while he serves itll be his own
As an American who exited aircraft for Uncle Sugar, I can't stress enough how great the British Paras are. Go for it. You will be part of an extraordinary unit and a member of a fellowship for the rest of your days. Good luck and I'll stand you a pint of Auntie Stella in the NAAFI if we cross paths.
I was a paratrooper in the 82nd ft Bragg black panther delta company . For me when jumping I just went numb mentally no thoughts and also being sleep deprived for most jumps but once out the door it is so peaceful short lasted as the ground comes fast but airborne training is good and you do remember how to handle yourself if wind makes for awkward landing or twist of the lines and luck does have a little to help out. 35 jumps 13 night jumps no injuries other than being cinched up with full battle rattle and just waiting forever. I had that numb mindset from being an athlete as well so it helped with stressful situations.
I mean, you've got to consider how safe things are now compared to then. I doubt many Paras these days would feel happy about jumping out with 60's tech and training.
As an American career Army officer and parachutist, the only man I ever met who refused was an Airborne Student. Never met a man in a line unit who hesitated. They exist I heard, but I never saw one. Many men have worries, concerns, superstitions, but once you are in the aircraft, you commit yourself. It’s courage. It’s trust. It’s the Airborne way.
It's incredible how rational, thoughtful, and empathetic these people are. They really don't have a problem trying to see things from an outside perspective. I dearly wish I could say the same about my generation. It's all extremism and vitriol now - no room for introspection or even pausing to think before screaming our opinions to the world.
I was a Para Dispatcher (ALM) for five years and never had a single refusal in hundreds of operational or post qualifying sorties! Those I did have were in basics and they were gone from barracks before the rest of the drop got back home! In most cases the guys couldn’t wait to get out of the door!
The old man joined the British Airborne regiment in 1943. Did 40 odd jumps and served in Anzio. He was a mad we 18 year old Scotsman. When the war ended he had a spell and rejoined with the British Peace Keepers and was promptly sent to Palestine in 1947. Saw some bad stuff in both theatres but hid a hell of a lot but always had a joke was the life of the party.
Whenever I see something talking about the parachute regiment it makes me so upset. My grandad died at the age 22 at the 27th of August 1979 he was killed in northern Ireland by a IRA bomb and 18 other paratroopers died. It makes me so upset even mentioning his name. RIP to everyone that died you will be missed. ❤🕊
![My Grandfather Met Napoleon: Bertrand Russell Interview 1952 - Enhanced Video & Audio [60 fps]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/4OXtO92x5KA/mqdefault.jpg)
Two other clips from the same ITN report.
Why Do Paratroopers "Jib" (Refuse To Jump)? | Brigadier Anthony Farrar-Hockley Interview | June 1966 ua-cam.com/video/SOKWYiKerho/v-deo.html
Selecting British Army Paratroopers | Brigadier Farrar-Hockley Interview | Abingdon | June 1966 ua-cam.com/video/wlw_2cNbUIM/v-deo.html
"Im not in a position to comment" this sentence needs to come back into fashion
SORELY
Honestly…
definitely.
Just what every politicians comment 😂
Top comment👌
The way they are so calm, thoughtful and non judgemental. Seems so different to people nowadays who are so quick to assume they know the full story and throw accusations.
Amen Sam, Amen.
Just because water is still doesn't mean that it is deep.
People just speak better then. I’ve seen it on interviews with pop stars, admin stars, soldiers etc
I honestly think you’re overstating the difference in people then and now.
For instance this same Regiment were responsible for massacres only 5 years later.
We have problems now that are different to the problems then, but the rose tinted glasses of looking at those that came before dilutes the people to simpler 1 dimensional characters
I would imagine these men behaved a lot differently amongst themselves, away from the camera. They are no different than the men currently serving.
“If they are, I ought to be sacked” what a morally upstanding thing to say
talk about taking responsability, 100% stating its all on his shoulders!
Thats an officer and leader who understands both his duty to the cause and his responsibility to his men.
yeah but I want to know if he ordered the code red
That was back before the phrase “passing the buck” was coined.
It was a different time, and I for one am sad to see it go.
Can we all take time to appriciate the remark from the officer. “ I’ve been in the para’s since ‘42….
Respect to you sir and thank you for service and sacrifice.
Takes some thing to tell Farra the Para about that
That's Farrar the Para. Legend in the Regiment. Fought with the Glosters at the Imjin River. His Son commanded a Company during the Battle of Goose Green.
Never respect service now we are living like this today and after afghanistan. I don't mean that horribly I mean remember the fallen but look what they died for
Living in the eu a land of empires waving goodbye to Angels merkel
I read Anthony Farrar-Hockley's account of his time fighting with the Glosters during the Korean War "The Edge of the Sword" and I can highly recommend it.
The genuinely most impressive thing about his remarks there is that he outright stated that if the brigade is causing people not to come forward, that's entirely on his shoulders.
I did 10 years in the Parachute Regiment (2 Para) and seen commensurate actions in that time of service. From what I can perceive the ones that came through unscathed were the ones who could switch off mentally at will to an indifferent state. Which of course is what the 'powers that be' seek for the makings of a Paratrooper. No fear - if you can accomplish this state then you are what the Parachute Regiment seek. Of course - you also require the fitness and intelligence that goes along with this selection. It's true the training regime is very hard and deliberately Spartan. It is also true that most Paras do have a serious apprehension when it comes to exiting through that door - but they contend with it - and go through the door as a matter of course. If I can ever pass on anything to anyone who is on the verge of bottling it - just think of the relief you get - because you certainly get that feeling the minute you exit that door. The feeling of being free in that buffeting slipstream - especially if you've got heavy equipment strapped to your body - is bliss (you've been standing in line in the aircraft with all this weight strapped to you - it's heavy - really heavy - then believe me - it simply floats away as soon as you depart from the aircraft). You've done it - now land and survive. There is only a certain type who will meet these criteria - hence the Parachute selection. If you think you have got it - GO FOR IT! (It forms the rest of you life - you will always be a Para).
Hi, I was in 3 Bn, and agree with your comments 100%. The attitude of “can do and F..k it” can get you through most things especially as your mates will make sure that you will never feel sorry for yourself. When I looked around at the blokes who got through Arnhem like Joe Grout and China Mallone I always thought that relatively we had it cushy. I saw a bit of death and destruction before joining so was better prepared for the hardship. Once a Para, always a Para! Harera
Andy ham (ex 1 BW ).
I agree with you, and wish to express my respect to all Battalions of the Parachute Regiment, I will never forget the bravery the Paras displayed in NI in late 80s. Of course inter regimental competitiveness will always matter as it does with me personally for BW,
God Bless all Paras. Respect of course where it is certainly due.
Andy Hamilton
"Switch off mentally at will to an indifferent state." Just described dissociation
Great comment respect to you.
Thank you both.
The way the very first soldier actually stops and fully considers his answer before giving it is almost a relic of the past now. People seem to be thinking of their response even as a question is being asked these days.
The internet ruined us. Everyone is "safe" behind their screens now.
Quite a leader who says “If they are, I oughta be sacked!”.
That is the very essence of good leadership-personal responsibility in communicating with those in your care.
Its also one of the main reasons armies where so much more effective back in the day, High ranks actually did get sacked if they did not preform. Today this is very rare.
A man with a spine a rare sight these days.
At first, I thought they were going to mock and talk awfully of their comrades i.e. as cowards. However, I'm pleased to see that I was proven wrong and love the way these men are non-judgemental. It must be a totally unnatural thing to jump out of a perfectly good aircraft and that amount of pressure must be pretty extreme for any person.
When British airborne forces were forming in WW2, most of the training jumps were done from static balloons. 800 ft. up and you were required to drop yourself through an open hatch in the bottom of the basket. Complete silence apart from the wind and the creaking of the basket. People said that was far, far more testing than static line jumps out of a plane. And, people really did get killed or greviously injured jumping back then.
To be honest with you, that makes my hands sweat just thinking about it. I recall watching a documentary in the early 80s on the training of Parachute Regiment recruits. They were jumping from a static balloon then. I recall their being given two or three chances and anymore and they were failed. Psychologically it seemed a much bigger hurdle than jumping out of an aeroplane and being in a queue of others jumping out in quick succession. Of course that's some hurdle in itself.
I found balloon jumps nothing but fun. You can't make a bad exit. My first jump there was a PSI in the cage doing a jump for fun and he went to the front of the cage and said "Cheerio" to the guy in charge as he stepped out. For days people had been shoutiing "GO" at us and I was impressed by this. I walked to the front , he shouted "GO and I stepped out. It has until now, been a matter of secret pride to me that, on my second jump, I said "Cheerio" and stepped out without the "GO".
As someone who’s jumped out of planes and also jumped out of bridges in cliffs, I can tell you that jumping out of a moving plane is a lot scarier but I guess you’re entitled to your opinion…
I was offered, and this is not a word of a lie, I swear on my late father’s honour (he was there and he saw this), to be taken up in a static balloon on the town moor in Newcastle and jump out with the paras that were training there when I was about eight or nine years old. Now my father turned to me and said I could do it if I wanted, but I refused and to this day, I cannot help but wonder what would have actually happened if I’d said yes. I will never know.
I will always remember our brigadier Farrar-Hockley - how he used to talk to us on the parade ground. We looked up to him and we felt we couldn't have had more of a hero for our Commander for the Parachute Regiment. Google what this guy went through and you'll get my drift.
I have added the short biographical note on Brigadier (later General) Farrar-Hockley which I put in the description box of the 2 other excerpts of the documentary I uploaded. He was apparently only caught by the enemy in Korea because he abided by the rule analogous to the naval one that a captain is the last to abandon ship.
Hi Peter, I served in C Coy and was proud to serve under him. Farra the Para was the only CO in my 20 year service in three different armies that knew the name of everyone one of his soldiers. #respect, Farra the Para’s green eyed boys!! Harera...
@@pierevojzola9737 yes i served with farra the para in the late 60s decent bloke.
Yea a remarkable man. Having the greatest generation as ones role models is a marvellous but intimidating thing
He presented me with my beret in aldershot
I never worry about my chute not opening, I worry about am I going to have a nasty landing. This is why I love water jumps! LOL
It says much for the quality of these men that they refuse to be rude about their comrades, no matter how much the journalist eggs them on. They show empathy and don't put others down. They've no need to boast, they just quietly and calmly carry their balls in wheelbarrows. An excellent bit of footage.
If there was no pressure to jump half the drop would refuse, you don't want to jump but letting everyone down and bottling it then being kicked out of a job you suffered months of evil depot shit to get into makes you swallow your fears and just get it over and done with, once you're out the door and see a good canopy it's a great feeling anyway.
I doubt that, having served in 2 Para, we got through a very intensive training course, not just the mental and physical arduity, but a very comprehensive Parachute course at RAF Abingdon (1970). The moto of the parachute training centre, Knowledge Dispels fear explains that. The men in the Parachute Regiment, are there because they want to be there with all it entails, so to say half would refuse if there was no pressure is an absurd comment, you have no idea of the type of men who join Pass P Company and then go on to be rather good at what they do. Or put it another way, would you say that sky divers are under pressure to jump? Being under pressure is what we do, we do not feel comfortable unless we are surrounded!
hmm, so why would you join paratroopers then? The hint is in the name.
Alot of people that are airborne enjoy jumping....
please use punctuation for the love of god.
Pull up a sandbag - here's a (true) story. In May1971 I was a lowly Sapper guarding the house of the CLF NI in the grounds of Thiepval Barracks, Lisburn. I'd just finished my sneaky smoke when two men arrived at the end of the drive. The younger one saluted the Maj Gen (his father) and went off to the Officers' Mess. The CLF was Maj Gen Sir Anthony Farrar-Hockley. I challenged him and he stopped and chatted. He said he had lost a friend on the Springfield Road that day. The friend was Sgt Michael Willetts. Farrar-Hockley was very easy to talk to, even though he was a hndred ranks above me. Nice bloke. Waffle over, carry on.
Wow, you saw the troubles in the 70’s. If I’m not mistaken, those were the most intense years of the Conflict. I’m glad you were willing to share one of your stories.
Now there is a place I remember. Father was Int Corps on long tours, so I spent two years in the early 80's at Thiepval as a kid. Not a good place to spend part of ones childhood! Attended Friends Grammar, and it felt like everyone knew even though I gave the prepared lie that dad was a mainland contractor working in Lisburn. Probably the accent gave it away as I had a classic Army Brats accent at the time. Not a good time, was old enough to know the risks but too young to really do anything about it.
Did bloody Sunday make you proud ? Cowards
@@KarlPHorse Early 80s were very hairy but I couldn't fit it in - I finished my 10 years in 1979. Went straight back over there and did 2 years as a Prison Officer at HMP Maze Cellular (H Blocks). Brendan Hughes on the first hunger strike was great to talk to. I told him not to die on me while I was on duty in the hospital wing because I wanted his Christmas dinner (better than our canteen). His words were something like; "Don't you be worrying yourself mister, I'll not be dying in here."
If only we saw more leadership like the officer at the end - where the responsibility was taken upon oneself
I served in this brigade as a Combat medic, and I have followed 2 and 3 Para around the world. I'm yet to see anyone refuse to jump. However, I have seen a few catastrophic jumps. Broken bones and concussions are faily frequent in every training jump. We did train with the American 82nd Airborne at North Carolina, and I heard one of the American paratroopers lost his life during a night jump with us.
My Dad was going to join the Para's but decided to join the Royal Artillery insteadback in 1950. Many years after he did 23 years, he told me that the reason he changed his mind was because of what he saw - The result of a failed parachute - legs & shoulders if you get my drift.
on my jumps course four of mates had never been on a plane before we done 9 jumps over 10days got our wings and they went back up to glasgow having been on 9 planes but never landed on one
Haha I had a guy in my unit who never landed in a plane. Good ol’ boy from the Appalachian mountains.
My pal was a para. He said, believe me you can't wait to get out of the plane. Low level for two hours, you're bursting for a pish (or worse), people have been sick, you've a huge container hanging off you. "Let me out" is - apparently - the mood.
Many years ago when I was a lad I went to No1 Parachute Training school. Its motto was "Knowledge dispels fear". As the bus took us out to the balloon for our first jump a voice came from the back of the bus. "Knowledge dispels f*ck all". He refused to jump and they sent him home pronto. I really enjoyed every jump and I had a great time. I'm 77 now but I would do a jump now if I could.
As a former paratrooper myself, I never regarded myself more courageous than other soldiers and I certainly didn't view other troopers that couldn't step out of that door as cowards. It's not a natural thing to jump out of a perfectly working airplane and some people are simply not made for that. Same applies to working in great heights. Some people can do it or get used to it, some people will never be able to do it and I don't think that has a whole lot to do with bravery.
I have never jumped out of a perfectly good aircraft, I could not, but I am a diver, Trimix and Advanced trimix, and have dived down to 200 metres.
Things can go seriously wrong down there very quickly, and again, its not one of those things just anyone can do. Some people as you say can get used to it, but others will never really get over their fear of the black that lies below. Does not make them cowards, after all, its not a natural thing to dive so deep that should anything go wrong on the bottom your chances of getting to the surface unscathed are slim....
During my training a lad from Scotland completed all his jumps during parachute training at Brize Norton, but a few weeks later on exercise final fling he refused. The rest of the recruit platoon jumped into the exercise and we never saw the refused again. I believed he opted to serve in a line infantry regiment. In all reality if jumping into an exercise ladened full of kit and equipment especially after a long flight I was alway glad to jump out. I once had the disco leg jumping out of the balloon and asked the RAF PJI (parachute jump instructor), to give me a nudge. I wouldn’t change it for the world.
gday mate, was wondering if you could clarify what 'disco leg' is? never heard the term, I presume its some sort of slang for maybe like trembling legs you can't control? idk, am curious (:
you ever combat jump?
Ironically my biggest fear was not the actual jump, but the fear of 'not jumping'. This fear of letting everyone down, or being seen by others and indeed, myself, as a coward or 'not having the bottle or courage' to do it. That's what drove me out the door.
Isn't that the reason we all did what we did, they can spin it how they like in films etc but it was the fear of letting those around you down that was the real driving force
That was a very common feeling with soldiers in WW1.
Easy to say when you were never actually a paratrooper and you're just a kid in the UA-cam comments section...
Jeez, the amount of people here who try to pass of as ex-paras here is enough to fill up and entire WW2 parachute division.
Agreed, arguably the braver person is the one who actually refused !! I couldnt do it. Youve passed P coy, got your wings, eat and breathe the para mentality. Synthetic training, RV drills, draw and fit etc etc. 2 hrs low level before every jump after getting pissed in the NAAFI at South Cerney the night before..... Let me out of this fucking thing.....
I respect these men in their resistance to being egged on by a reporter. On the otherhand within the ranks when going into battle if I was a soldier I would like to know everyone in my unit was ready to jump. Personally though I had a brother brother who loved to jump (101st Airborne) I would never jump out of a perfectly good airpane.
Elite troops all have this quiet confidence that requires no bluster. They possess this steely aura of competence and lethality. Glad British Paras are on our side!
They aren't on mine considering how they acted around here
@@klyk69 Irish I take it?
@@carterjones8126 British paras in Ireland? Judging by his name, he's probably not from Europe.
@@klyk69 one Sunday?
@@klyk69 where are you from?
I know a guy who missed the balloon jump and did all the rest.But he had to go back and do it.He couldn't he could jump out of every aircraft they put him in.But couldn't jump from the balloon.
Sounds like my mate we did he SAS(23) course passed no bother balloon jump was delayed did his Herc. Jumps went back to do our balloon jump and couldn’t do it he was gone in a jiffy😢
I talked to a Para Reg veteran who said the balloon jump was the worst because of the silence.
Easy to run out behind the rest, harder to deliberately contemplate it.
When he missed the balloon jump they should have ignored it especially when he made the aircraft jumps.
Definitely the Balloon is the worst! The silence and deliberateness of it all then the hundred foot dead drop before anything happens followed by less time than a gnats breath to do your checks before hitting the ground! Give me twenty guys up my back and a 120knot slipstream any day!
Canadian riggers are outstanding and I never went out the door, or off the ramp apprehensive about my equipment. On occasion I did question the conditions but you go. Those who refuse should be removed from the unit not because you asses them a coward but really an operational safety hazard that can interfere with a stick. You can't have that.
When I was on course to earn my Canadian parachutist wings, my classmates and I were given the weekend off to celebrate finishing the ground school portion of our training, knowing our first jump would be on Monday. This was deliberate. We had all weekend to think.
One guy quietly withdrew from the course and never jumped. As far as I knew he suffered no repercussions from it --- he was a vehicle mechanic and was simply posted to another unit.
Once you're posted an airborne unit, however, you'll find there is a considerable amount of prejudice against anyone who won't jump. They're called "LEGS", airborne slang for "Lacking Enough Guts".
Walking across two wet scoffold poles in DMS boots 30ft up kinda weeds out these people.
It didn't because they passed out and later on it happened.
I didn’t want to jump on my second drop, thankfully I was ‘“assisted” out the door. Screaming as I went !
During the jump tower day, I was assisted out of the tower. Never had any issues in the planes I jumped from. I preferred walking out the back ramp then going out the side doors to be honest.
I remember my 2nd jump more then any other, I hated it!
I served 5 years in 2 REP with over 100 static line jumps under the belt and never seen anyone refuse to jump. it just was not allowed
The respect they have back then is mind blowing you dont see that in are day
My uncle was airborne during Vietnam and he said he only had one guy refuse, an officer at the end of the line who had an unknown ear infection and was in great pain once they got to altitude. He also said there were many more that considered it, but only the one at the end was able to overcome the peer pressure of the line moving forward. If you were in the middle or front of the line, you went. Simple as.
They don't talk bad about eachother. Sign of a good leader.
I knew a para who said he was so frightened of flying that he was glad to jump to get out of the plane.
I don't think anyone who doesn't do this for a living has any business commenting on what it feels like.
absolutely no one has any right to question someones heart or why they do or don't do something .. people judge other peoples fears way too often
Any soldier that jumps, doesn’t jump, finishes or doesn’t finish training, is or isn’t deployed. They all deserve respect
The death was clearly the cause of the few refusals. Losing a mate like that can have a bad affect on someone’s confidence particularly if you were there when it happened
its called brains
Cant agree.
Old school interviewers who patronise and put words into the mouths of the interviewees. Gotta love 'em
The General who takes that much responsibility should be a leader.
"I say old chap, we do seem to be flying at an awfully high altitude, and the engines seem to be working without a problem. Would it be all right, do you think, if one were to return to one's seat, so to speak?"
😆😂
Frightfully sorry!
"I ought to be sacked" That's a really good way to view it, he's taking responsibility for the way he runs things both good and bad
“I’m not in a position to comment “ should be the You Tube motto.
I completed my parachute jumps at Weston on the Green in 1971 the first two ballon jumps went well the next two C130 jumps went well the third one not too well, I had a bad landing and had heavy bruising to my lower back fortunately I had two days to mend. I was fortunate that my mates helped me on board for the next jump and the next ones to gain my wings...comrades.
I was an Engineer in the RAF and took the opportunity, with a colleague, to go to a Joint Forces training camp to do sky diving, (3 static line jumps, 3 static line dummy pulls and one free fall).
After the course we joined the club and continued to do free falls at higher and higher altitudes, whilst also learning in-flight control maneuvers.
One day we were both in the club's Cessna, about to jump out, when he said, "I can't do this anymore". I jumped and he landed with the plane. We never discussed his decision or his reasons, we didn't need to. Only a person who has jumped would truly understand.
On my first operational jump at Brize Norton which was my 04th jump, I switched off released my harness too late, Landed awkwardly and I broke both my Tib/Fib, So ended with a metal plates and screws in my leg, This was June 1980 & I was well and truly gutted that I didn't get my (Wings) This is December 2021 and I still wonder (WTF) I did wrong, Although I am still very proud to have received my Red Beret after my Pre Para at Aldershot & I still have to this very day have my Red Beret and extremely proud to have passed all of my training, As I say the downside was not getting my (WINGS) 😥😥 "BUT" ??
This is pushing 40 years ago, but even then parachute assaults were about as relevant as volley fire. You could argue that Crete was the last truly successful parachute battle and even then German casualties were enormous. With the advent of helicopters airborne assaults have forever changed.
60 years ago! 60!
Wrong. Sure, jumping into a hot zone is to be avoided, but an airborne assault using C17's can put an entire regiment on the ground in short order (with artillery and armored vehicles too). Putting that many troops down by helicopter would be much slower and require vastly more sorties. Additionally, parachute airborne (whether US or UK) can travel hundreds, even thousands, of miles quickly (with aerial refueling) and deploy a large infantry element almost anywhere in the world (deploying from Bragg) in 24 hours or less. Simply can't do that with helicopters. ua-cam.com/video/R-2puqqmycM/v-deo.html
Crete wasn't nearly as successful as Varsity in 1945
I suppose no one knows what it's like til you're looking out of that door. Fears are a very unique thing between men. I remember working on roofs when I was about 17, I'd sometimes forget and get told off for not having a harness on whereas some men twice my age and more would climb the ladder and clip themselves on to every single rung all the way up and shuffle across to the rails, only when clipped to it would they stand up and they'd never dream of going near the edges. Some people wouldn't even go up. I think some just realised it was unnecessary risk for not much more gain. I was earning good money but looking back I tool all the risks on that job. Maybe I was stupid. Well, I definitely was. Sometimes I'd even climb down the walls rather than use the ladder
To anyone saying the journalist is asking these questions in order to make them look bad, it's the job of the journalist to ask questions for the public. Otherwise, what do you think the public assumes about those that don't jump? Would you rather people assume they're cowards without giving their fellow soldiers a chance to defend them? The journalist has to ask these questions, it's his role. Also, none of these men seemed offended by the questions, just wanted to set the story straight. Sometimes you have to ask tough questions to get real answers. There's plenty of bad reporters out there just looking for a scandal or a soundbite, but this guy was diggin in to get them to share their true opinions.
Surprises me that they were only traking 4 jumps a year. Had a good mate who was a sergeant in SAS at Swanbourne Barracks. Fittest guy I have ever known and had much more stringent allowances on jumps. I believe he had to make 3 jumps aq month to remain relevant. In water, in storms, in the dark, and over wooded country. Nicest, calmest guy I have known but alwaysw knew he could kill me in a second lmao. In fact i met him on the Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth) when he was coming back from honeymoon and he invited me to stay at his place till i found some digs. Wayne, you were an absolute champion and a credit to the Aussie armed forces
In 1970 I spent 8 days in browning barracks guard house as an sus in the cell next to me was young para awaiting a court Marshall for refusing to jump .He past out as best recruit and was airborne qualified and was making a night jump his 13th. He told me they stood up ready to jump and some thing was not attached properly to quote him my bottle went and there was no way I was going out of that door . The strap ?equipment was reattached at this time he told the Raf flight sergeant he would not jump !! he refused at the door twice and was sent back . when the plane was empty we was taken back to the door and given a direct order to jump he again refused which is how he ended up in the cells he was court marshalled that week ! he was sentenced to 6 months and a discharge subject to confirmation as member of the airbourne brotherhood he was not allowed to refuse to jump . I was transferred back to Buller barracks on the Sunday night to be discharged from my sentence Monday morning so don't know if his sentence was reduced or confirmed ? II have not used his name but remember it well had nice relaxing time in browning barracks and got one with all the staff and other prisoners this lad was apara through and through fate can be cruel some times .
Real Men, demonstrating how to be a Man. There casual bravery is stunning!
Part of it could’ve been on the inefficiency of riggers to setup properly safe kits for the guys the jump with. Other than that why’d they join a Paratrooper Regiment
People may sudddenly get nerves. Perhaps a recent accidental death unduly weighs on their mind. It is likely a multiplicity of reasons. Incidentally, I recall a former member of the British Army telling me that although he was an infrantryman, he had to perform one jump (not sure if this is a mandatory thing), but he said he saw grown men "wetting themselves" prior to the jump or alternatively being literally shoved out of the aircraft.
In other forces but have to say the RAF are top class Boys n girls in this respect. Maybe their 2 hours of low level flying gets to some of the guys!
@@adeyinkamakinde6164 You are shoved out the Aircraft because the the Dropping Zone is tight the C130 flies at around 140 miles an hour so they need you to be out the door "Post Haste" no hanging around.
@@adeyinkamakinde6164 , sounds a bit strange. You don’t do one jump, you have to attend parachute training at Brize Norton and complete at least a two week course to get your wings. We marines had to do 8 jumps which included a water jump.
Riggers generally jump their chutes.
My dad said first jump out plane ok he said second one he didn’t like because he knew what to expect . And in Second World War he had jump out balloon as well in training
Interviewer desperate to get one of them to call his colleagues cowards.
Spent 7 years on jump status (82nd & 11th Special Forces). Never saw anyone refuse to jump. Once you get past jump school, it shouldn't be an issue. I was on a jump with the 11th and one of our guys was making his first night jump; his class in jump school didn't do one. He was pretty scared, but he jumped nonetheless.
I'll will say, contrary to one of the two officers, that the longer one goes between jumps, the harder it is. No doubt whatsoever.
To get to that point of being in The Para's about to jump, I can only presume one would have proved themselves previously beyond what most can imagine. Making the word ' coward ' inappropriate and rejected by the men in this interview.
Thank you for posting it.
Wow. These guys get it. They just get everything. Legendary lads.
Absolute solid bunch of men so thoughtful with there answers sincere makes me feel so proud to be British. My only hope is that the Paras or any other regiment have characters and leadership that is as close to the values of these men in todays military it would be a crying shame if it isn't.
I’ve never jumped out of an airplane but I spent 4 years in the marine grunts. Never had the desire. Jumping out of an airplane is not for the faint of heart. One would appear to have to have ultimate confidence in self, gear, and comrades along with having no fear. Like going headlong into all out combat. Also, like he said, “pride” might come into play. If one of these is faulty, no-go.
Am I weird for not having the desire to jump out of a plane militarily but would still go sky diving? There’s other sections of the army of interest to me.
@@JaySmurkzTVNo, going sky diving for fun is completely different to being in an airborne regiment
When I was in jump school in 89 I watch brave men walk off and refuse to get back on a plane to do the next jump. So that was it they were removed from the school. It's not for everyone, nor should it be.
surprisingly understanding and respectful
The fella at the end was clearly a very clever man probably well ahead of his time in understanding the mental health of men
No judgement. Not cowardice. That’s true brotherhood.
Rational Fear is nothing to be ashamed of.
Some overcome it easier than others.
It takes great courage to do something you’re terrified of. Like going to war.
Some people take up these tasks with ease but that’s Not courageous because it doesn’t bother you.
I really like and respect their attitude. Makes a change from a lot of people.
They seem very relaxed , well spoken.
Did 10 years in the RAF 70-80 and I remember one of my SNCO's stating that he questioned the mentality of anyone who jumps from a perfectly serviceable Aircraft. Of course, it was said in jest. You can hear these guys coming from miles away though. Their balls clang together. Roll On Para's
Farrar hockley's son did the para course in the 70's, probably thought he had to because of his father, failed the p company physical but was gifted a pass because of his father!
He wasnt a patch on his dad.
My dad was a medic in the 5th Scottish Para’s chute battalion in 1944to 47….he made 13 jumps and was jumping at ringway in Manchester when someone had a Roman candle …the C.O. Got them all together and took them over to the mark left by the mans body on the grass runway (at the time ringway was a grass runway ) …the para body indentation in the grass was about 6 inches deep but the head mark left only a 1inch deep impression (because it bounced and the energy) ……anyway according to my dad the girl who had packed his parachute was dragged out too to see the marks and then they were all transferred to a hut where they where given a choice….they could have a confidence jump ..what was that l asked him ..he said that if on the confidence jump you refused to jump then you wouldn’t be court marshalled………to a man the rest of his stick all refused the confidence jump as they said it was another chance to have a “candle”..(Russian roulette)…..my dad went on to serve in Athens and then Bloody Palestine ….he was as English as a longbow by the way born in Horwich..Bolton .
P.S.the girl who packed his schute actually packed hers and did a jump too to prove her credibility l suppose …
hey mate, whats a Roman candle? some sort of parachute malfunction?
You do know the longbow was a Welsh innovation?
I spudded in on a night jump, after being dropped off the DZ by 400m, and ended up with compression fractures in my vertebrae. I heard my pack hit the ground and then I hit a small bush. The bush kicked my legs up and I landed on my arse. Next jump i did was a hard one, I paused in the door, got a big boot in the back and out i went...still had the heebie jeebies for a long time about jumping after that.
One of the new blokes on a jump course made the mistake of looping the static line round his hand, which was promptly degloved flesh and all on exiting the plane. Another chap, on the same jump as I got injured popped his reserve in the plane and was sucked out over the wedge. Broken legs, dislocations, tree landings....all part of the fun.
When I was at Bragg one jump the static line went around the helmet of this one person and hung them behind the plane. I was careful like crazy with my static lines when I went out. Worse I had was when I landed and was drug for a while luckily nothing serious out of it other than scaring me pretty bad.
very interesting... seems in any discipline there are days when something is "off" and it is better to rest up but hard to put a finger on why, and so easy to either try to push through and get in a downward spiral (perhaps literally as a parachutist) or give up and never be able to get back in the groove or not without extreme effort and mishaps
but what strikes me is that he says they occurred in clusters so either a social contagion type thing or perhaps factors we can't yet identify influencing them
Served in both the 101st Airborne, 5th Sneaky Forces, 10th SF and the 82nd and never saw a troop refuse to jump. Hell, it was the only real fun we had in garrison duty anyway.
I was going to say, when they wanted to jump, I went. Garrison was boring and just detail work.
I had an uncle who served in the SOE during WW2. Talking about Arnhem to him, he was quite dismissive of allied paratroops who refused to jump with them. I asked him why they wouldn’t jump, he said they said we were too low, I said what height were you jumping from, he said 200 feet😊
"...but then, I've been parachuting since 1942, when, mmm,..." . The humility of it humbles me.
Great Britain has lost so much since 1966......I wish we could turn back time.
General Sir Anthony Farrar-Hockley gave an address to our graduating class in 2001. Tough cookie.
What an honour to be part of the Para regiment!
Great team spirit and respect. It's rare, currently.
I hated parachuting. The balloon jump was the worst then the second aircraft descent. After doing these I knew that there is nothing in life I cannot do if I put my mind to it.
It would have been easier to have joined a line regiment. But I didn't.
Para…important to any mission. You get the equipment on, focus on the mission and be concerned about who’s shooting at you when you hit the ground. Focus, mission, focus, mission.
I've always been extremely interested in the military and eager to join, especially the elite forces. I had the opportunity to go do a parachute course with cadets a couple years back(static line) I enjoyed it thoroughly added with the instructor commending mw on a near perfect exit, I believe is what has field me to desiring to join the paras. Currently 18 and training towards it, hopefully one day soon!
Go for it - a fine unit indeed.
p company is a b*tch, good luck lad
Good luck mate.
Might want to choose a career path where you wont be used as an expendable political pawn mate all my mates that joined up young agree it was the stupidest decision they made in their lives and they're not talking about combat when they're saying that they're apparently just took for absolute mugs having to do things mostly for the news and good publicity and trying to make it look exiting so kids want to join my mate jokes that if any bullets gonna find his dome while he serves itll be his own
As an American who exited aircraft for Uncle Sugar, I can't stress enough how great the British Paras are. Go for it.
You will be part of an extraordinary unit and a member of a fellowship for the rest of your days.
Good luck and I'll stand you a pint of Auntie Stella in the NAAFI if we cross paths.
Farrah enlisted at age 15 until they discovered his age. 2 years later he reenlisted. Amazing man.
This is the most British thing I've ever seen.
So calm, collected and well thought opinions. These are proper men's men. Hail.
I was a paratrooper in the 82nd ft Bragg black panther delta company . For me when jumping I just went numb mentally no thoughts and also being sleep deprived for most jumps but once out the door it is so peaceful short lasted as the ground comes fast but airborne training is good and you do remember how to handle yourself if wind makes for awkward landing or twist of the lines and luck does have a little to help out. 35 jumps 13 night jumps no injuries other than being cinched up with full battle rattle and just waiting forever. I had that numb mindset from being an athlete as well so it helped with stressful situations.
1966 say no more. To say:" I am scared" takes a lot of courage.
I mean, you've got to consider how safe things are now compared to then. I doubt many Paras these days would feel happy about jumping out with 60's tech and training.
What great, thoughtful individuals. 2022 could do with a few more like them.
Wow I can't believe that they were so understanding of people who refuse to jump
My grandmother was excused gaiters on night jumps.
Is she the one with the sopping wet nickers?
As an American career Army officer and parachutist, the only man I ever met who refused was an Airborne Student. Never met a man in a line unit who hesitated. They exist I heard, but I never saw one.
Many men have worries, concerns, superstitions, but once you are in the aircraft, you commit yourself. It’s courage. It’s trust. It’s the Airborne way.
What a stupid question. Paras jump. That's it. I never knew any one who refused .I was 15 para
Farrar-Hockley was a fantastic man. He was the Adj of the Gloucester's when they became The Glorious Gloucester's" at the Imjin river.
It's incredible how rational, thoughtful, and empathetic these people are. They really don't have a problem trying to see things from an outside perspective. I dearly wish I could say the same about my generation.
It's all extremism and vitriol now - no room for introspection or even pausing to think before screaming our opinions to the world.
It's 2021 it didn't turn out to be significant Mr journalist. Good luck to you paras best there is.
"they aren't considered cowards" wow
I swear, that was brilliant,
I thought the men from back then we're toxic.
2:28 - It's very difficult to pin down what it is.
*It's the fear of going SPLAT*
I was a Para Dispatcher (ALM) for five years and never had a single refusal in hundreds of operational or post qualifying sorties! Those I did have were in basics and they were gone from barracks before the rest of the drop got back home! In most cases the guys couldn’t wait to get out of the door!
Thats cos you shoved us out !!! ;)
Brave men who know bravery isn't necessarily a constant.
"Then I ought to be sacked!" Never an honest man if I've seen one.
The old man joined the British Airborne regiment in 1943. Did 40 odd jumps and served in Anzio. He was a mad we 18 year old Scotsman. When the war ended he had a spell and rejoined with the British Peace Keepers and was promptly sent to Palestine in 1947. Saw some bad stuff in both theatres but hid a hell of a lot but always had a joke was the life of the party.
Whenever I see something talking about the parachute regiment it makes me so upset. My grandad died at the age 22 at the 27th of August 1979 he was killed in northern Ireland by a IRA bomb and 18 other paratroopers died. It makes me so upset even mentioning his name. RIP to everyone that died you will be missed. ❤🕊
Colonists reap what they sow.
I was there, me and the OC were the only survivors out of my wagon.Who was your grandad, they were all my mates.