A team of elite skydivers achieved a remarkable feat on December 7, 2025, by deploying a massive 3,200-square-foot American flag during a record-setting jump in Eloy, Arizona. This event, which coincided with Pearl Harbor Day, not only marked a patriotic tribute but also reclaimed the world record for the largest flag parachuted from an aircraft, previously held by Libya.
The record jump took place from a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet. The American flag used in the jump was nearly twice the size of the previous record holder, which was a 1,600-square-foot flag flown over Benghazi, Libya, on October 5, 2025. According to retired U.S. Army Ranger Jariko Denman, who initiated the project after seeing the Libyan jump on social media, the team aimed to bring the record back to the United States.
Denman reached out to entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, leading to the formation of a skilled team that included professionals from Skydive Arizona and Skydive Chicago, as well as Hall of Fame skydiver Rook Nelson. The effort also involved several veterans, including Tim Sheehy, a Republican Senator from Montana.
The date was chosen based on availability, creating a significant connection to American history. Denman noted that the size and weight of the flag, which weighed in at 170 pounds, posed unique challenges during freefall. “No one had ever attempted to fly a flag of this size before,” he stated, acknowledging the numerous risks involved in executing such a jump.
Team Efforts and Technical Challenges
During the jump, only the most experienced members of the team handled the flag due to its technical demands. Denman expressed pride in the collaborative effort that made the record possible, saying, “It was my idea, but Steve Curtis did the brunt of the work. And Sterling Becklin engineered the whole system from nothing.”
The jump was executed with precision, and all team members and equipment landed safely. The team plans to submit the record to the Guinness World Records for official recognition. Sheehy also highlighted the symbolic importance of the achievement, stating, “I was honored to be part of the incredible team of veterans, SEALs, Army Rangers, and some of the best skydivers in the world who returned the world record for the largest flag ever parachuted out of an aircraft back to the United States.”
He further emphasized that this accomplishment is fitting as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday next year.
The historic jump not only underscores the skills and bravery of the participants but also serves as a testament to community spirit and patriotism, reminding many of the enduring values represented by the American flag. As the team awaits formal recognition from Guinness, the excitement surrounding this achievement continues to resonate well beyond the skies of Arizona.
