The 82nd Airborne Division has been central to US rapid response operations since its activation during World War I.

Known as the "All-American Division" and "America's Guard of Honor," the formation specializes in airborne operations and short-notice deployments.

Stationed at Fort Bragg under the XVIII Airborne Corps, the division is a centerpiece of the US Army's Immediate Response Force (IRF).

The division is structured around three Airborne Infantry Brigade Combat Teams. These formations are tasked with remaining constantly ready for short notice deployments.

These brigades are large, self-contained combat units that include infantry, artillery, engineers and support elements.

They train to move and operate with limited external support during the early stages of a conflict or a crisis scenario.

Speed is central to the division. Units begin preparation within two hours of notification and can deploy within 18 hours.

One of their primary tasks is forcible entry; entering hostile or unsecured territory by parachute to seize key locations.

Securing these sites allows for any follow-on forces to arrive and move more safely.

For example, in January 2020, the 1st Brigade Combat Team deployed to the Middle East after an attack on the US Embassy in Iraq.

Transportation aircraft

The mission is enabled by air mobility, relying on workhorse aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster III and the C-130 Hercules.

These transport aircraft move troops, vehicles and supplies over long distances, and paratroopers can drop straight onto target areas.

In a short assault lasting four to five days, the 82nd Airborne Division can deliver an integrated combined arms team of about 3,000 paratroopers.

Every soldier assigned to the unit can parachute, conduct ground operations and function in austere conditions.

This common standard allows the unit to assemble quickly for missions and ensure any soldier deployed meets a rigorous training standard.

The 82nd Airborne Division includes over 18,000 personnel: about 15,500 enlisted soldiers, 500 warrant officers and 2,000 commissioned officers. Every member wears a maroon beret.

The unit's proud discipline has historically propelled many 82nd Airborne Division members to the highest levels of Army leadership.

Its current commander, Brandon R. Tegtmeier, previously served as chief of staff at US Central Command.

Under his leadership, the division continues to focus on deployment readiness as central to its immediate response mission.