Mister “Airborne All the Way”: 96 Years Old and Still Jumping
In honor of both his birthday and Veterans Day, Les traveled to Thomaston, Georgia, on Saturday, November 16, 2024, to make a tandem parachute jump with the Atlanta Skydive Club. Partnered with Mark Staffen of the Silver Wings Freefall Team from Fort Moore (Fort Benning), Les took to the skies with unwavering determination.
After meeting his freefall partner and securing his harness, Les boarded a 12-passenger aircraft and ascended to an altitude of 14,000 feet, where the temperature dropped to a brisk zero degrees. Attached to each other, Les and Mark exited the aircraft and free-fell approximately 10,500 feet before Mark deployed the parachute. The jump was a success, ending with a smooth landing and a warm welcome from family and friends who greeted Les with cheers in the hangar.
Les, who has meticulously kept a logbook of all his jumps, has now completed a total of 489 military and freefall parachute jumps.
A Legacy of Service
A veteran of 27 years in the U.S. Army, Les served as a Jumpmaster Instructor for 25 years, teaching at:
- Fort Moore (Fort Benning, GA)
- Fort Campbell, Kentucky
- The Republic of West Germany
He completed two combat tours in Vietnam, first with the renowned 173rd Airborne Brigade and later with the 199th Infantry Brigade. Les was combat wounded during his service and received the Purple Heart, along with numerous other awards.
Even in civilian life, Les has remained the epitome of an Airborne Soldier. Known for his engaging conversations and positive outlook, he continues to inspire those around him.
Community Leadership
Les is a Gold Legacy Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in Eufaula, Alabama. He served as the Commander of Post 5850 for three years, contributing his leadership and dedication to the veteran community.
Command Sergeant Major (Retired) Les Kapelka’s unwavering commitment to service and his adventurous spirit are a testament to his extraordinary character.
Thank you, Les, for your sacrifices and contributions to the safety and freedom of the United States.
This tribute was submitted by dear friend and fellow serviceman, Captain (Retired) Chuck Wilson. We are equally grateful for his service and dedication to our freedom.