On Memorial Day, it’s important to remember and honor all those who have served and sacrificed for our country. While we often think of soldiers on the ground or pilots in the sky, there is a group of individuals who play a crucial role in modern warfare but often go unnoticed – military drone pilots.

Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have become a vital tool in the military’s arsenal in recent years. These unmanned aircraft can be used for a variety of purposes, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and even targeted airstrikes. They provide valuable intelligence and support to troops on the ground, helping to keep them safe and informed in dangerous situations.

The first recorded use of drones in military operations dates back to World War I, when the U.S. military experimented with remote-controlled aircraft. However, it wasn’t until the 21st century that drones became a mainstream tool in warfare. The U.S. military has been at the forefront of drone technology, using them extensively in conflicts such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

Military drone pilots operate these aircraft from remote locations, often thousands of miles away from the battlefield. They have the important task of controlling the drone, collecting data, and making split-second decisions that can have a significant impact on the success of a mission. Despite the physical distance between them and the battlefield, these pilots experience the same mental and emotional stress as traditional pilots, and their contributions should not go unnoticed.

This Memorial Day, let’s take a moment to thank and honor the military drone pilots who work tirelessly behind the scenes to protect our country and keep our troops safe. Their dedication, skill, and sacrifice deserve our utmost respect and gratitude. So to all the military drone pilots out there, we salute you and thank you for your service.

About the Author:

Roxane Romulus is the Founder and CEO of Black Girl Drone World, a drone education company inspiring and empowering girls of color aged 8-24. She holds her FAA Part 107 Certification, making her one of the few women of color with a commercial drone pilot license. Roxane has degrees from Suffolk University and Simmons University, with over 20 years of business and risk management experience. Ms. Roxane Romulus contributes her expertise to the advancement of diversity in the drone industry.