Who was Major James Dailey?

Major James Dailey is recognized as the first recipient of the Air Assault Badge. This honor was bestowed upon him for his role in the development and implementation of the Air Assault concept within the Army, particularly following the Korean War. The Air Assault Badge symbolizes an individual's proficiency in air assault operations, which includes tasks such as helicopter inserts and tactical ground maneuvers.

His contributions were pivotal in shaping air mobility tactics and are commemorated by the badge itself. This historical context emphasizes the significance of his achievement, establishing him as a key figure during the early days of air assault training and operations. The award, which has become a standard of excellence for soldiers trained in air assault techniques, draws its legacy from Major Dailey's foundational work in this field.