I only counted malfunctions.... 1
I was 12th man out on a 14 man stick and the 1st one to hit the ground at Bragg's St. Mere DZ. i had softball sized hole in the chute (T-10) and it ripped the entire section out to where you could drive a Jeep through it.
We were jumping at the standard 1250 ft. I was the smallest and youngest at the time. Once the chute opened and I cleared the canopy I noticed the hole. Figured I'd just ride it out and avoid the Peer pressure that normally happens later. All of a sudden there was an increase in speed of decent and I checked the canopy again and a section is waving back at the C-130.... Got the reserve deployed at about 550 ft level and it began to twist with the risors of the main...then trees.
It was the reserve/main, trees and the fact I didn't hit the big limbs that saved my life. I didn't bounce but came dam near close to it. I was bruised up SOB for a few Months.
After I healed I jumped many more times... to prove to me and others that I wasn't afraid. *our secret... I was scared chitlesss*
Now many years afterwards my back, knees and ankles are a waste. But when yer 18 you are young and dumb, bulletproof and 10 tall.
But all in all, jumping was the Ultimate High!
Mac
