This manual contains basic and advanced training and techniques for static line parachuting. It is designed to standardize procedures for initial qualification and training of personnel in their duties and responsibilities in airborne operations. The jumpmaster, assistant jumpmaster, safeties, DACO, DZSTL, and DZSO occupy key positions in airborne operations. This manual contains the initial training and qualifications of the personnel designated to occupy these critical positions. SOF unit personnel must meet the requirements for static line parachuting contained in this manual as well as provide special training and instruction for nonstandard equipment, aircraft, and personnel procedures.
The Department of the Army (DA) is one of the three military departments within the Department of Defense of the United States of America. The Department of the Army is the Federal Government agency within which the United States Army is organized, and it is led by the Secretary of the Army who has statutory authority 10 U.S.C. § 3013 to conduct its affairs and to prescribe regulations for its government, subject to the limits of the law, and the directions of the Secretary of Defense and the President.
The Secretary of the Army is a civilian official appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The highest-ranking military officer in the department is the Chief of Staff of the Army, who is also a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Other senior officials of the Department are the Under Secretary of the Army (principal deputy to the Secretary) and the Vice Chief of Staff of the Army (principal deputy to the Chief of Staff.)
The Department of War was originally formed in 1789 as an Executive Department of the United States, and was renamed by the National Security Act of 1947 to the Department of the Army on September 18, 1947. By amendments to the National Security Act of 1947 in 1949, the Department of the Army was transformed to its present-day status.