U.S. Army’s ‘Golden Knights’ drop in on Dubuque’s July 3rd airshow, fireworks display

Cedar Rapids, Iowa – It’s no small accomplishment to jump out of a plane around 10,000 feet over A.Y. McDonald Park in Dubuque, but on Wednesday, eight members of the US Army Parachute Team succeeded in doing just that.

The trio dubbed the Golden Knights, opened Dubuque’s July 3rd airshow and fireworks with a leap and a safe landing.

“Being able to represent all the past, future, and present soldiers that have served our country to give us what we have now and to give the people these freedoms to participate in Independence Day,” explained Staff Sgt. Dan Gerlach. “To basically know that when we do these shows and put smiles on their faces, it’s always a very rewarding feeling to give that to the people.”

Gerlach is taking part in the show for the fourth time. It’s one of his favorites, he claims.

“It’s not an easy jump,” Gerlach said. “It’s a small drop zone surrounded by a lot of obstacles. That’s what kinda gets the adrenaline going on that one.”

The show’s objective is to inspire the American people while showcasing the proficiency of the US military’s free fall program.

”I love seeing the planes up in the air, helicopters, a Chinook, paratroopers coming down from the sky,” said Marine Corps Poolee Sam Beckius. “They’re well trained. They’ve earned their place to fly those things. Takes a lot of skill, a lot of bravery to do what they did.”

Every year, each Golden Knight performs over 400 jumps and tours the country to showcase their ability.