I read an autobiography years back called "Baptism of Fire", about Frank Collins, a British SAS guy who "found God" and became a minister. Was a great book. Anyway, Collins did a stint in the US training with US Special Forces and described their HALO insertions from a great altitude from the rear of C-141 Starlifters at cruise (if you slow down, you divulge your intent to radar, eh?) Mentioned the incredible pain experienced by some of teeth exploding due to air trapped in cavities as the aircraft underwent sudden depressurization as the rear doors were opened....and the incredible slipstream as they exited. Also, I believe the C-141 also had side doors to the rear for parachute exits.
The bit about the teeth makes me feel for any passengers with imperfect teeth suffering an explosive decompression. Also, I understood the need for the scrutiny of the teeth of military pilot candidates.
So yes, some do parachute from great heights and at considerable high speeds.
