Anthony Mackie portraing Sam Wilson in Captain America: Brave New World.
Go get’em Cap!
In a thrilling display of art imitating life, Anthony Mackie, the actor portraying Sam Wilson—better known as Captain America—took to the skies above Fyrosity® drop zone located 45 minutes outside of Las Vegas to promote his film inspired by the serviceman of 58th RQS.
On February 3, 2025, just days before the release of “Captain America: Brave New World,” Mackie joined forces with the elite pararescuemen of the 58th Rescue Squadron for an unforgettable tandem skydive from a C-130 aircraft that took off from Nellis Airforce Base. The tandem skydive was performed at Fyrosity® Skydiving Center in Overton, NV.
The 58th Rescue Squadron, stationed at Nellis Air Force Base, is renowned for its dedication to saving lives under the most challenging conditions. Their motto, “That Others May Live,” reflects their commitment to conducting combat search and rescue operations, often deploying from aircraft like the C-130. This particular model is a specialized variant of the C-130 Hercules, designed for personnel recovery missions and equipped with advanced avionics and systems to support operations in hostile environments.
For Mackie, this jump was more than just a promotional event; it was a chance to step into the boots of his character in a very real way. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Sam Wilson is a former pararescueman who served in the 58th Rescue Squadron before taking up the mantle of Captain America. This shared history made the experience deeply personal for the actor, bridging the gap between fiction and reality.
The day began with a comprehensive briefing, where Mackie was introduced to the team and familiarized with the equipment and procedures. The pararescuemen, or “PJs” as they’re colloquially known, are among the most highly trained personnel in the U.S. Air Force, skilled in parachuting, scuba diving, mountaineering, and emergency medical treatment. Their training regimen is rigorous, ensuring they’re prepared for any scenario they might encounter in the field.
As the C-130 ascended to an altitude of nearly 13,000 feet, the atmosphere inside the aircraft was a mix of anticipation and camaraderie. Mackie, strapped securely to his tandem instructor, exchanged final words of encouragement with the team. The rear ramp of the aircraft opened, revealing the stunning beauty of the Valley of Fire and Lake Mead below. With a nod and a shared sense of purpose, they leaped into the void.
The freefall lasted approximately 60 seconds, a whirlwind of wind and adrenaline, before the parachute deployed, bringing a serene silence as they glided towards the drop zone. Upon landing, Mackie’s exhilaration was evident. He expressed profound respect for the pararescuemen, stating, “Experiencing even a fraction of what these heroes do daily gives me a deeper appreciation for their service and dedication.”
This skydive was part of a broader promotional effort for “Captain America: Brave New World,” set to release on February 14, 2025. The film follows Sam Wilson as he navigates the complexities of his new role as Captain America, facing international challenges and internal conflicts. The narrative delves into themes of identity, duty, and the burdens of leadership, all while delivering the high-octane action sequences fans have come to expect from the franchise.
Director Julius Onah, remarked, “Seeing Anthony embrace this experience firsthand adds an authentic layer to his portrayal of Sam Wilson. It’s moments like these that blur the lines between actor and character, bringing a unique depth to the film.”
The collaboration between the film’s production team, Fyrosity®, and the U.S. Air Force highlights a mutual respect and admiration. The military has long been a part of the Captain America narrative, and this partnership underscores the commitment to accurately and honorably representing service members on screen.
As the release date approaches, anticipation for “Captain America: Brave New World” continues to build. Fans are eager to see how Sam Wilson’s journey unfolds as he steps into his role as the new Captain America. Mackie’s skydive serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and bravery of both the character he portrays and the real-life heroes who inspired him.
In reflecting on the experience, Mackie shared, “Jumping out of that plane was one of the most intense and rewarding experiences of my life. It gave me a newfound respect for our servicemen and women and a deeper connection to Sam Wilson’s journey. I can’t wait for audiences to see the film and share in this adventure.”
As the sun set over Fyrosity® drop zone, the day’s events left an indelible mark on all involved. The fusion of Hollywood storytelling and real-world heroism created a moment that transcended promotional efforts, honoring the spirit of service and sacrifice embodied by both Captain America and the brave men and women of the 58th Rescue Squadron.
At Fyrosity®, we take immense pride in supporting our nation’s military and are honored to serve as the home drop zone for the elite 58th Rescue Squadron. Hosting this extraordinary event has been a privilege beyond words, as we strive to inspire the young generation to chase their dreams and take to the skies as future rescuers, pilots, and skydivers.
Our deepest gratitude goes out to the exceptional warriors of the 58th RQS, Mr. Anthony Mackie, Disney, Marvel Studios, Nellis Air Force Base, and every individual who played a role in bringing this breathtaking experience to life and providing Fyrosity® with the opportunity to be the host of this incredible skydiving adventure.
