The Egyptian Gazette in the company of army paratroopers
Sarah Saad
In line with President Abdel Fattah El Sisi’s directives to raise national awareness, the Morale Affairs Department of the Armed Forces organised a special field visit for journalists and university students, in co-operation with the Popular Defence Forces, to the headquarters of the Egyptian Paratroopers.
The visit offered an extraordinary opportunity to experience life within one
of Egypt’s most important military units that has an impact on protecting the homeland.
It also gave those visiting the chance to spend a good time with the paratroopers who embody the true spirit of Egyptian fighters.
Discipline, strength
Upon arrival, the sight of soldiers training along the road immediately caught the attention of the visitors.
The reception, led by paratrooper commanders and accompanied by military music, highlighted the discipline and commitment that the Egyptian Armed Forces are known for.
A commander mentioned at the beginning of the trio of Egypt’s sacred symbols, namely the land, the people, and the army.
History engraved in the sky
The tour began with a lecture about the history of the paratroopers.
Senior officers recounted the story behind the establishment of this important division of the Egyptian Armed Forces in 1951.
The Paratroopers Unit, they said, was founded under the late Maj. Gen. Abdel Moneim Khalil.
They outlined key milestones in the history of the unit, including its role in the War of Attrition and the October 1973 War, all the way to the vital role it plays today in securing Egypt’s borders and its participation in humanitarian operations.
From combat to humanitarian missions
The journalists and university students visiting got the chance to witness free fall demonstrations and military parachute training.
They also witnessed impressive displays of glider control and the paratroopers’ skill in air operations and landing.
They also listened to an explanation about the paratroopers’ humanitarian efforts, including the supply of aid to the Palestinian territories, which showcased their multifaceted role.
Close views of paratrooper training
A visit to the air assault training ground revealed the dramatic “thunder falling from the sky” – a reference to the paratroopers’ ability to carry out missions in any situation.
The group also observed a parachute interlocking training, which began with nine jumpers and now includes 49, aiming to set a record by forming the “Egyptian Diamond”.
Experienced voices
The participants shared their thoughts after the visit.
Volepteer Osama, a student at the Egyptian Chinese University, expressed a long-held dream of joining the military.
“Today, I saw with my own eyes the sacrifices of the paratroopers and their role in protecting our country,” he told The Gazette.
Mustafa Mosaad, a veterinary medicine student, said the visit to the Paratroopers Unit gave him a real sense of the sacrifices the army makes, and how they protect the nation amidst regional challenges.
Mohamed Abdel Wahid, a Suez Canal University employee, expressed pleasure at learning about the humanitarian role played by the paratroopers, including the delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of the Gaza Strip.
“These humanitarian efforts add a new dimension to my understanding of the role of the army,” Abdel Wahid told this newspaper.
“This role exceeds the mere delivery of aid and assistance, regardless of all challenges,” he added.
Rahma Mohamed, a student of agriculture, said: “After seeing the paratroopers’ readiness, I feel reassured about the safety of my country”.
Omar Abdel Aziz, a student at the College of Education, said this was his first visit to a military unit.
“I attended the line- up of the 6th Division of the Third Field Army in the past,” he said.
He added that he also visited the Mohamed Naguib Military Base in the Western Desert as well.
“Nonetheless, this visit adds a lot to my knowledge,” he added.
Sama Sharif, a College of Mathematical Sciences student, said she did not expect her first visit to a military unit to leave such an impact on her.
“I feel happy and proud to see everyone co-operating to answer our questions with such open hearts,” she said.
“I believe these visits are necessary to familiarise young people with the role of the army,” she added.
“I believe such visits need to be repeated to enhance national awareness,” Ahmed Naguib, an employee at the Egyptian-Chinese University, told this newspaper.
Mohamed Ismail, a teaching staff member of the Egyptian-Chinese University, highlighted the educational value of the visit.
“This visit will have a great impact on my upcoming lectures,” he said.
“I will dedicate a few minutes in my next lectures to talk about it,” he added.
He described the visit as a ‘practical experience’ that enriches the participants’ sense of belonging to their country.
Mohamed Sharif, a coordinator of the Students for Egypt group, said the visit was a real reassurance that Egypt has a strong army that protects its people.
Arwa Maher, a College of Arts student at Suez Canal University, expresses pride in the paratroopers’ training.
“It was not just theories or empty words, but rather a practical application that embodies patriotism and true belonging,” she said.
This day, she added, is a source of pride for every Egyptian whose heart beats with love for his country.
National Legend
The paratroopers are more than just army troops who protect Egypt’s borders. They embody the spirit of discipline, sacrifice, and dedication that every Egyptian should aspire to.
This visit was not just a passing event, but a powerful lesson in national pride, one that will stay etched in the memory of all those who participated in it.
