Black Team Jumps into Janesville High Schools

Black Team went back to work with a purpose today after a much needed day off for Memorial Day. Under pristine blue skies today, the Team jumped into two local High Schools in Janesville, WI.

Craig High School (1400 students) and Parker High School (1800 students) congregated around their respective soccer fields and watched the Team jump in from 12,500 feet, performing a mass formation then landing center field as the students cheered. The schools each had a special treat; each student body got to watch one of their teachers experience a tandem jump with the Golden Knights Tandem Team! Ms. Kate Jensen, a Spanish teacher at Craig High School, was nervous but enjoyed the jump immensely. Her students were very enthusiastic when she landed and were very proud of her. Mr. Bill Conway, a World History teacher at Parker High School, was all smiles from take off to landing. When asked if he was nervous by one of his students after the jump was over, he said of the Team, “They were so professional, I didn’t have time to be nervous. I figured, they look like they know exactly what they’re doing, what do I have to worry about?” He described the experience as “unforgettable”.

Since two Team members are advancing the Eau Claire show it was down to six jumpers from the eight they had all weekend, the Team Leader, SFC Will Fleming, organized six-ways for the High School jumps. They both came together flawlessly and produced some great photos, thanks to SSG Ben Borger.

The team had a chance to sign a few autographs after the jump and speak with some of the students, many of whom had attended the air show and had seen Black Team jump over the weekend. The local recruiters made several contacts and the mission was a success overall.

Story by SGT Rachel Medley; photos by SSG Ben Borger

1. Black Team completes a six-way formation over Craig High School in Janesville
2. SSG Howie Sanborn signs autographs and chats with Craig high School students after the jump
3. SGT Rachel Medley interacts with some Craig high School students while Spanish teacher Kate Jensen (center, red shirt) looks on
4. Kate Jensen poses with the Black Team after her tandem jump
5. Golden Knights exit the C-31 jump aircraft for the second jump of the day
6. Black team Leader SFC Will Fleming presents a signed lithograph to Parker High School History teacher Mr. Bill Conway
7. Black Team pauses to take a photo with Parker High School Principal Dr. Steve Schroeder.

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