Paratrooper
Paratroopers are soldiers trained in parachuting and formed into an airborne force. Paratroopers have a tactical advantage in that they can appear on the battlefield anywhere that aircraft can fly over. Thus they can evade enemy fortifications designed to repel an attack from a specific direction, and also force the enemy to devote manpower to protecting its rear. Paratroopers were first used extensively in WWII (and in German service, were referred to as fallschirmjäger.) A common use for paratroopers is to establish an airhead.
Basic Paratroop Safety
Paratroopers are advised to tape their rifle muzzles, to prevent dirt from damaging the weapon; in addition, they should tape any other loose objects, and ensure that all sharp objects are covered. If parachuting with a rucksack, it should be released on a lowering line, prior to impact.
Types of Military Parachuting
History
For a history of paratroop forces see Airborne forces.
