Vietnam Vet Parachutes Off World Trade Center 45 Yrs Ago

(Photo from pinterest)

French high-wire artist Philippe Petit completed the most famous aerial feat at the World Trade Center, walking eight times between the two buildings in August 1974. But he wasn't alone in his quest for glory among the New York City clouds: Nearly one year later, on July 22, 1975, Bronx native Owen J. Quinn became the first person to parachute off one of the word's most iconic — and massive — towers.

Quinn reportedly became fascinated with skydiving during a stint with the Merchant Marines in Vietnam, where he witnessed soldiers leaping from helicopters. After returning home in 1964, he signed up for a course and made his first jump at a nearby airstrip.

Read More:45 Years Ago: Owen J. Quinn Parachutes Off World Trade Center|


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