The construction of European Union of Parachutists

The Construction of the Union of European Parachutists (UEP) Evolving from the Second World War, the paratroopers made their mark through their spirit of audacity, courage and sense of honour. True knights of the 20th Century, these elite troops are known to history as ruthless fighters driven by an irresistible will to conquer. Convinced they were second to none, they often achieved the impossible. The first ties between European former-paratrooper associations dates to 1976 and involved Germany, France, Belgium and Italy. In 1979, General Von der Heydte, one of the most charismatic leaders of the last world war and president of the BundDeutcherFallschirmjager (BDF), suggested to Colonel Romain-Desfossés, president of the French Union Nationale des Parachutistes (UNP) that a European union of parachutists (UEP) be created. On the 3rd of October 1981, in Krems an der Donau, Austria, the national associations of former-paratroopers of Germany, Austria, France and Italy expressed their intention to create the UEP. On the 18th of April 1982, in the Belgian city of Gent, they adopted a charter based on the occidental values that are the foundation of our contemporary Europe. The binding link between our associations acts as an extension of European defence policy and as an instrument of peace. As this ideal strengthened year after year, the basis of the union was further defined. In 1989, Lieutenant-Colonel Reeb, member of the board at the French UNP, with the agreement of his chairman, Commandant Loustau, revived the association. Contact was made with Colonel Sanders, president of the German BDF, and a plan of action was established. Statutes were then drafted. Slowly, other nations rejoined Germany and France within the UEP, which now has 10 member countries: Greece – joined 26 June 90, hosted the first conference Spain – joined 26 June 91 Italy – joined 26 September 91 Portugal & Cyprus – joined 16 May 93 Poland – joined 30 October 99 Belgium – joined 24 October 05 Hungary – joined 24 May 06 Secular and non political, the union is a truly independent association founded on traditional military parachutist values. At the dawn of this XXI Century, terrorism, lack of morals, and contempt for human dignity are but some of the threats to our traditional values. Once more, our union, our determination and the strength of our convictions can bring support to the European Union.