WWII U.S. Glider Troops in Action – Combat Training Jump – July 20, 1942 – ACME / NEA Press Photo

This original WWII press photograph—dated July 20, 1942—captures a dramatic moment in U.S. Army airborne training, as glider infantry leap from a nine-place combat glider moments after landing “behind enemy lines” during large-scale maneuvers at a Midwest training field.

Armed with rifles and submachine guns, the troops emerge in formation, simulating a rapid assault to seize a landing zone. This exercise was part of the U.S. Army’s newly developed glider-borne infantry tactics, designed for silent insertion deep into enemy-held territory—a method later employed in pivotal operations such as Normandy (D-Day), Operation Market Garden, and the Rhine crossings.

Issued by ACME Newspictures and distributed by the Newspaper Enterprise Association (NEA), this image was cleared by Army censors and circulated to newspapers nationwide to boost public awareness of the new glider assault forces. It is part of the same press series as your previously listed glider loading photo (Ref. #656021), making it especially desirable for collectors assembling a complete set.

Details:

• Date: July 20, 1942 (caption and press date)

• Photographer / Agency: ACME Newspictures, distributed via NEA

• Subject: U.S. glider troops exiting a landed nine-place combat glider during a training jump

• Aircraft: Likely an early Waco CG-4A prototype or predecessor model

• Reverse: Original paper caption; ACME and NEA stamps; Army censor approval

• Condition: Excellent contrast; very good paper quality; minor editorial markings typical of press handling

• Format: Original silver gelatin press photograph

Historical Significance:
Glider infantry represented a bold tactical innovation of WWII—capable of landing troops, jeeps, and artillery silently in areas where powered aircraft could not go. Training photographs like this one were part of an Army public relations push to demonstrate the skill, speed, and striking power of America’s airborne forces.