41st FAB Soldiers Graduate Air Assault School

GRAFENWÖHR, Germany - Soldiers from the 41st Field Artillery Brigade (FAB) recently earned the coveted Air Assault Badge after successfully completing the Army's rigorous school, demonstrating the discipline, physical endurance and technical proficiency required to operate in demanding environments.

The Soldiers endured a physically and mentally challenging course designed to develop proficiency in air assault operations, including aircraft safety, sling-load operations, rappelling and tactical movement. Their graduation adds another layer of capability to the 41st FAB, increasing the brigade’s ability to rapidly integrate air assault operations into future missions if needed.

One Soldier, Pfc. Samuel Collaro, assigned to 589th Brigade Support Battalion, 41st FAB, distinguished themselves during the course by recording the fastest ruck march time among the class, completing the required 12 mile march in 1 hour, 50 minutes. The accomplishment reflects the physical readiness and determination expected of Soldiers within the unit.

“Air Assault School pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged me to build the confidence and skills necessary to pass the course,” said Collaro. “I learned a lot from the other Soldiers and instructors in the class. They pushed me to perform to the best of my ability.”

For the 41st FAB, individual development directly contributes to collective readiness. Soldiers who are qualified in specialized skills expand the brigade’s pool of trained personnel and improve its ability to support complex operations alongside maneuver, aviation and other joint and multinational partners.

The graduates now return to their respective units with additional knowledge, confidence and experience that can be shared with fellow Soldiers through training and leader development.