A team of elite skydivers established a new world record on December 7, 2025, by successfully deploying a massive 3,200-square-foot American flag during a jump over Eloy, Arizona. This achievement nearly doubles the previous record set by Libya, marking a significant moment not only for the skydiving community but also for American patriotism, as the jump coincided with Pearl Harbor Day.
The record-breaking jump was a response to Libya’s achievement on October 5, 2025, when they flew a flag measuring 1,600 square feet during a freefall over Benghazi. The new record is now under review for certification by the Guinness Book of World Records.
Retired U.S. Army Ranger Jariko Denman took the initiative to reclaim the record after seeing the Libyan jump on social media. He reached out to entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, and together they began assembling a team of experienced skydivers, including Hall of Fame skydiver Rook Nelson, to undertake the ambitious project.
Planning and Execution of the Record Jump
The record attempt took place in one of the country’s major skydiving hubs, with the date chosen based on logistical considerations. The team jumped from a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter at approximately 10,000 feet, deploying the enormous flag in freefall.
Denman noted the unprecedented challenges of flying a flag of this size, weighing in at 170 pounds. He described the situation as presenting “a lot of unknowns,” making the jump a daunting task. Only the most experienced skydivers in the group were tasked with handling the flag due to the technical demands and associated risks.
Denman emphasized the collaborative effort required to make the jump successful, stating, “It was my idea, but Steve Curtis did the brunt of the work. And Sterling Becklin engineered the whole system from nothing. I’m really proud of what the team pulled off.”
A Symbolic Achievement for America
The team included several veterans, such as Senator Tim Sheehy from Montana, who participated in the jump but did not control the flag itself. The operation also involved a ground crew, ensuring that all personnel and equipment returned safely.
Sheehy expressed pride in being part of the record-setting team, which included veterans and some of the best skydivers in the world. “I was honored to be part of the incredible team… who returned the world record for the largest flag ever parachuted out of an aircraft back to the United States,” he stated. He added that this achievement serves as a fitting precursor to the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence.
This remarkable event not only showcases the skills of the skydiving team but also reinforces a sense of national pride, as they successfully brought the record home on a day of significant historical importance. The achievement is a testament to teamwork, dedication, and the spirit of adventure that characterizes the skydiving community.