FIRST ALLIED AIRBORNE ASSOCIATION

THE UNITED STATES ARMY AIRBORNE HISTORICAL DISPLAY GROUP

Named after the Allied Airborne organisation responsible for the planning, co-ordinating and undertaking of Airborne operations in the European Theatre of Operations in World War 2, the FAAA was formed in 1994 as an historical display group dedicated to preserving the history and traditions of the WW2 American Airborne soldier.  Within the group can be found individuals whose interests span all of the war raised American Airborne formations, as well as other more conventional units

The FAAA does not take part in organised private battles, preferring to concentrate their skills and authenticity in organising static display dioramas at the increasingly popular military vehicle events and air shows, and when not supporting a show the Association is organising their own events.  The First Allied Airborne Association is arguably one of the most versatile and flexible WW2 living history groups in the UK and can adapt displays and living history scenarios to represent any American Airborne unit in any of the campaigns in the ETO, MTO and PTO.  Within the Association ranks can be found some of the most authentic and accurate re-enactors in Europe.  Many are historians in their own right and some have been involved in the film industry either as extras or in production.

All are enthusiasts! 

The Association is very much a veteran orientated organisation and has constant links with the surviving airborne veterans of WW2.  Members have also been involved in forming the Airborne Memorial Fund, raising money for a memorial to Troop Carrier Command.  It is, however, in the hobby of living history where the FAAA excels.  When an event requires living history as opposed to static displays, the FAAA can deploy personnel to represent any number of American Airborne units, including the independent 509^th Parachute Infantry Battalion, the 11^th Airborne Division in the Pacific and units of the 17^th Airborne However, their parent unit is 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 82^nd and 17^th  Airborne Divisions and it is this unit that new recruits to the Association remain focused on whilst uniform and equipment is sourced.

The FAAA is run along military lines with a rank structure and a visible disciplined approach to its operations.  It also welcomes women, who serve within its “Army Nurses” detachment.  Very special to the organisation is the Honour Guard, trained in all aspects of ceremonial tasks.  Although it has a very varied social calendar, the FAAA is not a drinking club, preferring to concentrate on attending events throughout the show season.

Through the wearing of uniform and display of weapons, some members of the public may feel that the group seeks to glorify War.  This is not the case.  Many of its members have previously served, or are still serving, in the British Armed Forces.  Some are Parachute Trained and some have seen active service, however all are aware of the real horror of combat and the stupidity and futility of War.  Through their displays, the FAAA aims to keep alive the history and traditions of the wartime American units and the memories of the young Americans who volunteered to be the first into battle, jumping from aircraft or crash landing in gliders, who all too often paid the ultimate price for the freedom we now enjoy.

IN THEIR MEMORY, THE GROUP DEDICATES ITS DISPLAYS AND THIS WEB SITE

The rights to all images on this website, unless stated otherwise, remain the property of the FAAA and associates.  As such, images may not be reproduced in any way without the express permission of the FAAA.