The ongoing dedication of people around the world to preserving the legacy of the 506th continues to be truly inspiring. The “D-Day to Today” Project is a powerful example of honouring the men of the 506th by paying tribute to their courage by quite literally following in their footsteps and completing parachute training.
What is the origin of the “D-Day to Today” project? When, where, and how did it all start?
It started when we (the cast) were at the 75th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, looking up at the C47s flying over and the guys jumping. I thought ‘wouldn’t it be an incredible way to honour these great men, by learning to jump for real, and by jumping into Normandy for the commemorations.’ It evolved from there, into the documentary, which is about the lasting effect of Easy Company on us, the public and the real serving troops of today.
How did it feel to be at Camp Toccoa, knowing all the history that had gone before you?
Arriving at Toccoa and being the first people to do airborne training there for 82 years was surreal, amazing, emotional and everything in between. We had only seen the set on Band of brothers, but to actually be there where our characters had trained was incredible.
Did everyone get to go “three miles up, three miles down” and how did it go?
We ran Currahee a few times, and what an experience. It is a very tough run! More like 3 miles up and down in both directions! But worth it. The view from the top is incredible and knowing that this is the mountain that shaped Easy company’s physical strength was inspiring.
What were the most physically demanding aspects of the training, and how did they differ from what you expected?
Well, the most demanding thing physically, was practicing the PLFs, (parachute landing falls.) Getting that right is a big part of airborne school. But more than physical demands, I would say it was tougher mentally. There was a lot of information to take on board, and for good reason.
Was there a moment during this training where it hit home that “this is actually what Easy Company did?”
That was a constant thought for all of us… It kept hitting home, but for me, when we loaded up onto the C47 for the first time, with my brothers, it was very emotional, feeling the same things the guys of Easy did all those years ago.
Were there any surprises or unexpected aspects of the training that stood out to you
What surprised me was how its designed for you to absorb information safely, quickly and execute it without error.
How did the training impact your camaraderie with the fellow cast members that you were working with?
We are a close bunch anyway, but the training and time together pulled us even closer, especially with the magnitude of what we were doing.
What aspects of paratrooper training did you find most challenging or rewarding?
Exiting the aircraft safely and landing!!! Both equally challenging and rewarding!
How was the first jump? What goes through your mind?
I had the honour of being first at the door on our first jump. So many things go through your head, but as soon as the jump master gives you the tap and shouts “go, go, go,” you go into overdrive! The roar of the engines disappears and its silent, and beautiful.
Did the fear factor ever kick in?
Hell yeah!
Talk me through the 80th D-Day jump. What it meant to you all and how the day went.
The D-Day jump was incredible. We were taken down to Cherbourg Airport in a convoy of WW2 trucks, it was a beautiful clear morning. There was no wind, perfect for our jump. The Men of Easy were looking down on us that day. We had everything they didn’t. We had the sunshine, the peace, and no gunfire. They jumped into hell so we could jump that day. It was very emotional, and to land in Normandy 80 years after they did, was incredible.
We are here because of these guys, and that is why we jumped. To honour them and keep the legacy alive.
Did you spend time with any veterans during the training, and if so, how did that affect your approach to it?
We did, and some of Easy Company relatives too. It was humbling to be around these guys and really drove it home as to why we are doing this.
In what ways did the training help you understand the mindset of WWII paratroopers?
Brotherhood, not letting your buddy down, channeling your fears, wow, there were lots of things that helped us understand the mindset.
On reflection, did you learn anything new about yourself through the “D-Day to Today” Project?
Never give up. There is always someone who has had it or has it harder. So, it is about learning to keep going. And remain true.
What’s next for the project?
The Edit. We also have a few more interviews, but we are very close now. It has been a hard slog, and we have been hit with some events that put us back, but as I said… never give up.
For those who wish to follow the project please check out the links below.
Thank you sincerely for taking the time to answer these questions. It’s been a pleasure to hear from you and gain insight into how this project is progressing. Understanding its personal significance to you is a privilege we truly appreciate.
