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First U. S. Airborne unit to deploy overseas arriving in Land's End, England on 10 June 1942.

Executed the lowest altitude mass parachute jump in history exiting the aircraft at 143 feet in England during June 1942 rehearsals.

Initially awarded the "right" to wear Red Berets by Major General Sir Frederick A.M. Browning, Commander, 1st British Airborne, who made the 509th honorary "Red Devils."

Performed America's first combat parachute insertion on 8 November 1942, following the longest combat invasion in history of 1600 miles from England to North Africa.

First Airborne unit awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, 29 February 1942. Also awarded another Presidential Unit Citation in 1945.

The 509th's Scout Company was the first Pathfinder-type unit. A Scout Company platoon of 9 soldiers, led by Lts Perry and Rouse, jumped 30 minutes prior to the main body of 39 aircraft onto DZ "A" near Avellino, Italy on 14 September 1943.

Led amphibious invasion with Darby's Rangers at Anzio, Italy on 22 January 1944, and subsequently participated in a successful Allied campaign that lasted 70 days.

Corporal Paul B. Huff, a member of the 509th, was the first US Paratrooper awarded the Medal of Honor. He received that honor for actions at Anzio, Italy on 29 February 1944.

Conducted five combat jumps during World War II: three into North Africa, one into Italy and one into Southern France.