46 | September/October 2017
M I L I T A R Y
The
Golden
Knights
BY K ATHRYN KELLY
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED
BY SE AN C APOGRECO
THE GOLDEN KNIGHTS, also known
as e United States Army Parachute Team, are
conquerors of the sky. In addition to their sky
expeditions that can reach an upwards of 12,500
feet, they also believe that the sky's the limit
when it comes to advocacy, raising awareness
for Army recruitment, and giving back to the
community. Whether they are on the ground
or flying among the clouds, these brave men
and women have become the gold standard for
service, parachute demonstrations, and spirit.
Golden History
Although the Golden Knights have always
showcased their signature color, they haven't
always adorned the name that has made them
famous. Back in 1959, when the team was first
started, they were known as the Strategic Army
Command (STRAC) Parachute Team and
contained 19 members. In 1961, the Department
of Defense officially announced that the team
would be called the U.S. Army Parachute
Team. It didn't take long in the international
competition circuit for them to build an
outstanding reputation, and by 1962, they had
become known as the "Golden Knights" due to
their golden medals around their necks.
Fast forward 50 plus years, and these daring
jumpers are still making a name for themselves
as the golden boys (and girls) of the sky. ey
have completed over 16,000 shows in all 50
states and 48 countries worldwide. In both
national and international competitions,
