Is it mandatory to do airborne for 42a?

Moises Calderon — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 21:24:01 -0400

I'm in the process of enlisting and was wondering if it is mandatory to do airborne. What are some of the perks of doing airborne.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2019 9:26 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 21:26:52 -0400

No, it is not mandatory. Completely optional. Did someone tell you it was mandatory? Perks are if you are Airborne qualified, you are open to more broad assignments for units to be assigned to (82nd, 173rd, etc.) and will receive extra pay while on active jump status.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Oct 17 at 2019 3:57 AM

CW4 Craig Urban — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 03:57:18 -0400

It is not mandatory. Perks are extra pay because you may get hurt. Just like pilots

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Oct 17 at 2019 9:22 AM

SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 09:22:00 -0400

Airborne is always volunteer. Always. Even when you are Airborne-qualified and on Airborne status and hooked up in the bird. You can still refuse to jump. Your career would end at that point...but you could refuse.
Perks include getting to jump out of an airplane, and maybe even a helicopter. Also, they pay you extra money. $150 monthly for jumping every 1-3 months.
Document your injuries with medical so you can get your disability payments when you get out and most joints in your body and maybe your head as well are messed up...

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2020 7:01 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 07:01:24 -0400

I saw that you posted about seeking a waiver. Did you get it approved to enlist? I am doing the same thing as you. I am curious on a status update and if you may lend some advice in helping mine along?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2020 11:49 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 11:49:09 -0400

It definitely isn't, but if you are an Airborne 42A it will open additional duty stations and units for you to go to and it will help you get promoted ahead of your non airborne peers.