Sheep Dog Spotlight: Joseph Collins Honors WWII Heroes During Operation Dragoon Commemorative Jump in France
Honoring the past. Carrying their legacy forward. Never forgetting.
More than 80 years after American paratroopers descended into Southern France during World War II, longtime Sheep Dog and Marine Corps and Army veteran Joseph Collins returned to the skies over France to honor their courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy.
As part of a special commemoration of Operation Dragoon, the Allied invasion of Southern France on August 15, 1944, Joseph joined fellow jumpers for a commemorative parachute jump near Le Muy, France.
For Joseph, this was more than an opportunity to revisit military history. It was a personal tribute to the warriors who came before him and a powerful reminder that the responsibility to remember their sacrifices continues across generations.
Remembering Operation Dragoon and the Saint-Tropez Raiders
On August 15, 1944, Allied forces launched Operation Dragoon, a major invasion of Southern France that helped accelerate the liberation of the country during World War II.
American airborne troops were among those who played a critical role in the operation, parachuting behind enemy lines to secure strategic positions and support advancing Allied forces.
Among these courageous warriors were members of the 509th Parachute Infantry Battalion, remembered as the Saint-Tropez Raiders.
Joseph’s commemorative jump paid special tribute to Major John Apperson, who led his paratroopers from a C-47 aircraft into Southern France during the invasion.
Tragically, just six days after the operation began, Major Apperson was killed when his jeep struck a German land mine.
His sacrifice, along with those of countless others who fought to liberate France, remains an important part of America’s military history.
More than eight decades later, Joseph and his fellow jumpers helped ensure those stories continue to be told.
Walking Through History, Honoring Those Who Served
The commemorative experience extended beyond the parachute jump.
Joseph and his fellow participants visited historic sites connected to the Allied campaign, participated in remembrance activities, and paid their respects at an American military cemetery in France.
Standing among rows of white crosses, the group honored American service members who never returned home.
The experience brought together military history, remembrance, and the shared bonds of service.
Through their participation, these Veterans helped connect the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation with those who continue to serve and honor their legacy today.
A Sheep Dog's Commitment to Continued Service
As a Marine Corps and Army veteran and longtime member of the Sheep Dog Impact Assistance (SDIA) family, Joseph Collins embodies the values of courage, service, camaraderie, and commitment that unite our nation’s Sheep Dogs.
His participation in this historic commemoration reflects a belief central to SDIA’s mission: service does not end when the uniform comes off.
Whether through honoring fallen heroes, supporting fellow Veterans, participating in Outdoor Adventures, or finding new opportunities to serve, Sheep Dogs continue making a difference long after their military or first responder careers.
At Sheep Dog Impact Assistance, our mission is to engage, assist, and empower Veterans and First Responders to Get Off The Couch™ and live their best lives.
Through programs including Warrior PATHH, Outdoor Adventures, and Disaster Response Missions, we help our nation’s Sheep Dogs rediscover purpose, strengthen connections, and continue growing through service and shared experiences.
Joseph’s journey is another meaningful example of what it means to remain connected to something greater than ourselves.
Keeping Their Legacy Alive
More than 80 years after Operation Dragoon, the courage of those who fought for freedom continues to inspire new generations.
We are proud of Joseph Collins and his fellow jumpers for their dedication to honoring Major John Apperson, the Saint-Tropez Raiders, and all those who served during the liberation of Southern France.
Their commitment reminds us that remembrance is more than looking back. It is choosing to carry those stories forward.
To Joseph and everyone who participated in this extraordinary tribute: thank you for honoring our heroes, preserving their history, and demonstrating the enduring Sheep Dog spirit.
Their sacrifice will not be forgotten. Their legacy lives on.
🇺🇸 Never Forget. Get Off The Couch™.
Hear More of Joseph's Story
Joseph’s commitment to service extends well beyond this commemorative experience.
Learn more about his personal journey, military service, resilience, and continued connection to the Sheep Dog community in Episode 6 of the Sheep Dog Nation Podcast.
🎧 Listen to Episode 6: Joseph Collins | Sheep Dog Nation Podcast
Support the Sheep Dog Mission
Sheep Dog Impact Assistance is dedicated to empowering our nation’s Veterans and First Responders through meaningful opportunities for connection, healing, adventure, and continued service.
Join us in making an impact.
Visit Sheep Dog Impact Assistance to learn more about our programs, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support the mission.