RCPT-USA Teamed up with Skydive Palatka and American Airborne Group for Operation SandSnake 6-12 February 2017. On 6 February, 8 RCPT-USA JMs participated in the annual JM refresher, to synchronize procedures for the upcoming Air Show Season. All set up Release Points, calculated wind drift using Pilot Balloons, and verified RPs by calling in VIRS from the ground with streamers released to confirm the calculated RP.
On 7-9 February, 2 skydivers learned round canopy procedures, round canopy packing to prepare for the Foreign Wings jumps on the weekend. On 8-9 Feb, Dave Munoz taught SF 10 A packing to new and experienced jumpers. 9 February provided a SF10A refresher for several returning jumpers.
10-12 February provided static line round and free-fall jumps with Foreign JMs from Thailand, Estonia, Italy, and the Philippines, thanks to the American Airborne Group.
All in all, it was a great event, with lots of camaraderie and Airborne fun! Despite aircraft cancellations, competing events, severe weather the resourcefulness and flexibility of the Skydive Palatka staff and JM teams