Jumping Beans

Description

In this enlightening book, former Parachute Jumping Instructor (PJI) Edward Cartner has compiled the reminiscences of former personnel from No.1 Parachute Training School RAF, crafting an informal history of what he refers to as an ‘oddball’ RAF unit.

This unit traces its roots back to World War II when, under the direction of Winston Churchill, British airborne forces were swiftly expanded, as they were believed to be pivotal in future plans to expel Axis forces from Europe. An intensive training program was essential to prepare thousands of parachutists, and since the RAF was the only branch of the Armed Forces with the necessary expertise, they were tasked with providing this training, while the parachutists themselves came from Army regiments.

Thus, the unique role of what eventually became the Parachute Training School (PTS) emerged: an RAF unit composed of RAF officers and NCOs, devoted to training members of the Army’s Parachute Regiments. This mission continued long after the conclusion of the Second World War.

The personal anecdotes shared by the various PTS staff members featured in this book offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily operations and history of this distinctive military unit. The unique challenges faced by its PJIs are often recounted with a touch of dark humour, reflecting the daunting task of teaching parachuting to sometimes hesitant students. The PTS motto, ‘Knowledge Dispels Fear,’ encapsulates this sentiment perfectly.

Anyone with an interest in parachuting — be it military, professional, or recreational — will find much to engage and entertain in this book, which captures a significant chapter in the history of military parachuting in the UK.