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2005 Calendar, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) - VHPA 2005 Calendar
Document Item Number: 20080211001
[Number of Pages: 28]
Table of Contents

January
A CH-54 with a 155 mm howitzer sling load over the highlands. The aircraft, serial number 66-18430, was part of the 478th HHC. This photograph was taken by Ron Magnus during his tour in 1969.

February
The Kaaman Huskey HH-34 was an aircraft operated by the U.S. Air Force. It’s primary mission was to recue aircrews from disabled Air Force aircraft. By design, it created a downdraft and was able to spray a fire extinguishing agent down into the crash site to assist the firefighting crews. This photograph was taken by Don Joyce in 1967, at Pleiku.

March
This photo was taken by Ben Prieb during his tour in 1966. It is of the staging area in preparation of a combat assault, lifting ground troops into combat.

April
This photo was taken by Al Oliver during his tour with the 195th AHC Skychiefs. It is of a Navy UH-1B at Nha Be. The other photo shown below was taken by Al Oliver of a UH-1C gunship of the 195th gun platoon, the “Thunder Chickens”.

May
Steve Stephen took this photo in February 1972. It is of a medevac UH-1H, serial number 15780.

June
The photographs show above and below of the CH-21 Shawnee were taken by VHPA member Al Coucette while serving as a CH-21 crew chief at Campy Humphrey’s, South Korea. He, along with other crew members, volunteered for TDY to join the 81st Transportation Company in Pleiku in 1962.

July

This photo was taken by Bill Robie of a 92nd AHC, “Stallion” UH-1H conducting recondo training at Nha Trang in May 1968. After an all day hover mission involving the ladder and rappelling training, Bill climbed out of his Aircraft Commander seat, harnessed up and rappelled out of his own aircraft. “Exiting you own helicopter while it is still in the air is a strange feeling,” says Bill. The ladder assembly in the photo was used to extract recondo troops from areas where there was no possible landing sight. The other photos shown below are of a “Maguire” rig, which was similarly used to extract special forces troops from tall canopy jungle areas. The hardware consisted of nylon ropes 150 feet long with a parachute harness attached to the end. To penetrate the jungle canopy, a sand bag was tied to the harness to give the necessary momentum through the trees.

August
This photo was taken by Bill Robie of a UH-1B was operated by Air America in 1968-69. It is of the aircraft waiting out of a rain storm at Bao Loc.

September
Ken Rubin took this photo of two AH-1G Cobras enroute over III Corps to their next mission. They are from the Playboy Platoon of the 334th AHC, 145th Avn Bn, which was the first unit to fly Cobras in combat in Vietnam.

October
This photo was taken by Bill Robie of a CH-47 supporting Republic of Korea troops in Qui Nhon.

November
Steve Stephen took this photo of an OH-6A scout aircraft landing at Camp Holloway in early 1972. The aircraft is serial number 17327 assigned to H Troop, 10th Cavalry.

December
This photograph shows a Marine CH-53 with a sling load in the background with a 101st Airborne Division CH-47 in the foreground. It was taken by Fred Thompson during his tour.

Above
This photograph of an OH-13 from the D/14 Cav “Outcast” was taken by Ellwood Soderlind in December 1967, somewhere in the I Corps area.
Item Creation Date: 2005
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 30 Apr 2018 [Updated: 30 Apr 2018]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
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1998 Calendar, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) - Have Guns Will Travel
Document Item Number: 20080205001
[Number of Pages: 28]
Table of Contents
Front Cover Photo – Have Guns Will Travel by Joe Kline circa 1995. Featuring CUH-1C Huey Gunships.

January
In the Beginning…
Although these photos were not taken in Vietnam, few good photos of these helicopters exist. They were the forebears of the most successful helicopters in history, the UH1 series and the CH47 series. So they deserve to be shown. Clockwise from upper left: CH21 goes hot, CH34 Choctaw in flight, CH37 Mojave at a hover, CH21 with sling load. These sots were taken at Fort Rucker, source unknown. If you have better photos, please send them with captions to Ken Fritz, c/c VHPA Hqs, for a future calendar.

February
Big Boy at Rest
CH54A Sky Crane with pod removed at An Khe. This photo was taken by SP5 Allan Holm, USA SP Photo Det, Pacific, December 10, 1965. On the back it says, “An Khe, RVN where the 1st Cav Div. (Air Mobile) is stationed”. Note the Cav patch on the door and the logo on the nose. Further details are sought. Please send comments to the VHPA Newsletter.

March
Tomcat 31
UH1-B gunship of D Co. 229th AVN (AW) 1st Cav, December 1966. Near Phan Thiet with pilots WO1 John Mateski and CPT Dave Hockett. Photo by VHPA member Dave Rittman. Look carefully in the background below the clouds for the C-130 flying right to left. Inside the blue emblem on the door is a Smiling Tiger by Disney Studios. Disney sent them decals to use for their “nose art” after one of the crew members wrote complaining that they had no good artists, but since Disney had good artists, maybe they could help? Resourceful!

April
Flight Lead
A Minuteman UH1-H, 176th AHC, 14th CAB, 16th CAG, Americal Div. out of Chu Lai carries a load of grunts from 198th Lt Inf Bde into the mountains of southern I Corps on a late combat assault along the river west of Quang Ngai. Photo by VHPA member Ken Fritz, Minuteman 17, ’68-’69.

May
The Deans at Work
These CH21 Shawnees arrived in Saigon December 1961 aboard the USS Core, with the 57th Transportation Co., first helicopter company in Vietnam. The photo was given to the VHPA by LT. John “Peg Leg: Givhan, one of the Deans of the 120th AVN Co. Dated 1/17/64, the Kien Hoa assault was the largest heliborne assault in the history of Vietnam to that date. This date was taken after an all day series of lifts into bad Lzs and is good formation, especially after logging over 10 hours of assault work. Thanks John!

June
Looking For Holes
At LZ Oasis, Trp C, 1/9 area, April 1967, a USAF Kaman H-43 Husky landed to check out the ship for holes after receiving enemy fire over Cambodia on a rescue mission. Note the civilian blade antenna under the hose. 1/9 crew member was there to look over what he called a strange looking bird in their area.

July
Smiling Tiger
A Smiling Tiger UH1-B, D Co. 229th AHB 1st Cav Div. flies through the Bong Song pass June 1967. Armed with four flex mounted .30 cal machine guns, fourteen 2.75 inch rockets and m-6 40 mm grenade launcher, it is ready to go to work. Photo by VHPA member Al De Mailo, Smiling Tiger 21, ’67 – ‘68.

August
Cobra on the Move
Photo taken somewhere in the Delta by Don Agren, Emu 10 of the 135th AHC, LZ Bearcat and later Dong Tam, August ’70 – August ’71. Anybody who can identify the aircraft’s unit and location, please write to the VHPA Newsletter with details so Don will know whose photo he took.

September
Precision Delivery
CH47 delivering the goods near Hue, October 1968. Photo by VHPA member Curt Knapp, 2 Bde 101 Abn, ’67 – ’68.

October
Dust Storm
Troops of C Co. 1st Bn 50th Mech 1st Cav at LZ Quick hunker down from the dusty rotor wash from the CH47 Chinook after it unloaded. They are preparing for a search and destroy mission on the Cay Giep mountains, 29-30 October 1967. Photo by SSG Alfred Batungbacal, US Army Photo Det, Pac.

November
Minuteman Fly By
176th AHC UH-1H’s from 176th AHC, 14th CAB, 16th CAG, Americal Div. do a fly by over LZ Gator for this 198th Lt Inf Bde with smokes in the doors. Near Chu Lai, this was taken November ’69 by VHPA member Ken Fritz, Minuteman 17.

December
EMUs, Go Trail
“Emus, Go Trail” was the command from the lead ship as the group flew into the sunset at Moc Hoa Airfield, southwest of Saigon in the Plain of Reeds region. Although an emu is a flightless Australian bird, it was also the call sign of the Experimental Military Unit which was composed of both US Army and Royal Australian Navy Pilots. VHPA member Don Agren, Emu 10 of the 135th AHC ’70 – ’71 took the photo of his flight leader in 1971.

LZ English Goes Ballistic
Artillery illumination flares were drifting over and dropping into the ammo dump at LZ English, Bong Song, II Corps, June ’67. The gunships belong to D Co. 229th AHB , 1st Cav. Div. Note the shrapnel in the blade on the blade on the far ship. Although VHPA member Al DeMailo reported this when it began, he was later surprised by the sound of what he at first thought was incoming. In his attempts to photograph the fireworks he was almost wounded by the flying shrapnel. He speculates that the incident was probably attributed to enemy activity rather than the artillery group.
Item Creation Date: 1998
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 25 Apr 2018 [Updated: 25 Apr 2018]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
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Old Warriors (145th Comat Aviation Battalion (Vietnam) Association)
Newsletter Item Number: 2336Newsletter611213
[Number of Pages: 16]
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR BY James L. Bodkin


FEATURES:
Unit Historians
George "Pops" Ecker, 1923-1988
Financial Report
New People Located List
Issue: 7
Item Creation Date: July 1988
Collection: Larry Leonard Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 30 Mar 2018 [Updated: 06 Apr 2018]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
Old Warriors (145th Comat Aviation Battalion (Vietnam) Association)
Newsletter Item Number: 2336Newsletter611215
[Number of Pages: 28]
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR BY James L. Bodkin


FEATURES:
Cancer/PTSD Survey
Battalion History: 15 - 21 April 1966
Finanacial Report
New People Located List
Issue: 15
Item Creation Date: November 1990
Collection: Larry Leonard Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 30 Mar 2018 [Updated: 06 Apr 2018]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
Old Warriors (145th Comat Aviation Battalion (Vietnam) Association)
Newsletter Item Number: 2336Newsletter611216
[Number of Pages: 30]
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR BY James L. Bodkin


FEATURES:
145th Comabt Aviation Battalion (Vietnam) Association Reunion and Schedule
Battalion History: Battle of Dong Xoai, 10-20 June 1965
Financial Report
New People Located List
Issue: 16
Item Creation Date: January 1991
Collection: Larry Leonard Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 30 Mar 2018 [Updated: 15 May 2018]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
Fortitudine : Newsletter of the Marine Corps Historical Program (History and Museums Division, U.S. Marine Corps)
Serial Item Number: 2112Serial611015
  • NOT DIGITIZED
Issue: 20
Item Creation Date: Winter 1990-1991
Collection: Ronald P. (Phil) Marshall
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 21 Feb 2018 [Updated: 01 Mar 2018]
Fortitudine : Newsletter of the Marine Corps Historical Program (History and Museums Division, U.S. Marine Corps)
Serial Item Number: 2112Serial611016
  • NOT DIGITIZED
Issue: 20
Item Creation Date: Spring 1991
Collection: Ronald P. (Phil) Marshall
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 21 Feb 2018 [Updated: 19 Mar 2018]
The UH-IC Huey - The Cobra Company - Publication
Document Item Number: 8850931001
[Number of Pages: 59]
Author(s): Pete Harlem
Item Creation Date: No Date
Collection: Michael Sloniker Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 01 May 2025 [Updated: 01 May 2025]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
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From Khe Sanh to Chepone - Viet Nam Courier - Photocopy of Book Excerpt
Document Item Number: 8850921001
[Number of Pages: 47]
Item Creation Date: No Date
Collection: Michael Sloniker Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 11 Apr 2025 [Updated: 15 Apr 2025]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
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Report, U.S. Army, 9th Infantry Division - Operational Report, Lessons Learned, 01 November 1968 thru 31 January 1969
Document Item Number: 8850414002
[Number of Pages: 62]
Item Creation Date: January 1969
Collection: Michael Sloniker Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 29 Aug 2012 [Updated: 07 Apr 2023]
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Report, U.S. Army Center of Military History - RLG Military Operations and Activities in the Laotian Panhandle, 1961 - 1975
Document Item Number: 8850501001
[Number of Pages: 131]
Author(s): Brigadier General Soutchay Vongsavanh
Item Creation Date: 1 January 1981
Collection: Michael Sloniker Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 03 Sep 2012 [Updated: 13 May 2024]
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Pamphlet, U.S. Army - Historical Study of German Defense Tactics Against Russian Breakthroughs
Document Item Number: 8850520005
[Number of Pages: 94]
Item Creation Date: 1941-1945
Collection: Michael Sloniker Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 11 Sep 2012 [Updated: 16 Sep 2012]
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Airborne Mission Commander (AMC) Training and Qualification Regulation, ARRSR 51-4 - Department of the Air Force, HQ Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service (MAC)
Document Item Number: 2970406002
[Number of Pages: 28]
Item Creation Date: 25 March 1980
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: Manuals
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 05 Jun 2002 [Updated: 23 Jan 2019]
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The VHPA Aviator (Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)) - Citrus Heights, California
Newsletter Item Number: 293Newsletter611114
[Number of Pages: 36]
FROM MIKE LAW, PRESIDENT OF THE VHPA BY Mike Law


FEATURES:
Suggested Reading BY John Penny
One More Huey Driver BY Steve Bookout
So Others May Live BY Terry Garlock
Let's Smoke on this... BY Charlie Gossett
Please Gentlemen.... Embellishments must be allowed BY Howard D. Horton
Announcement of a Special Warrant Officer Veterans History Project
Federal Way pilot retires after front-line service spanning Vietnam, Afghanistan
Report on the Funeral Services for CW3 Andy Howes BY John Mateyko
VHPA'ers in the News
B Troop, 7/17 Cav re-flags to the Scalphunter Troop from the Vietnam Days BY Mike J. Hodges
Museum Announces Opening of "Tropic Lightning" Exhibit


REUNION:
From the Chairman of the 2011 Reunion in Orlando BY Mike Law
VHPA leadership and Military Reunion Planners BY Julie Kink
Orlando Reunion Raffle BY Moon Mullen
The Members of the VHPA Are Invited


LETTERS:
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Al Roettger
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Kenneth Roach
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM George Hadeler
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Bill Campbell
Dear Editor the VHPA Aviator FROM Bob Thompson
August 10, 2011 Editor, VHPA Aviator FROM Thomas K. Farley
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM LeRoy R. Brown
Looking For - a Huey Crew in need of a GCA at Hue/Phu Bai on 10 Jan 1970 FROM Gary Breault
Gary (Roush) answered Gary (Breault) with the folling E-Mail FROM Gary Roush
Looking For tow long-lost friends FROM A.H. Timothy Wilson
Looking for help ID'ing a book about a Vietnam Helicopter Pilot FROM Doug Chadwick
Looking For anyone who might have known George Mellinger FROM Misty Reynolds
Looking For - Correction to a previous request for information FROM Seppo I. Hume


TAPS:
Aberlt N. "Al" Turner - David Jacob Feigert - Delmer Mason 'Mac' McConnell - Edward Tolfa Jr. - Frederick G. Funk - Glenn M. Ebaugh - James R. Grissom - James (Jimmy) Allen Smith - James Joseph Hughes Jr. - John Berrien Whitehead - John W. Alber - John M. Stoen - Kenneth Lindstrom - Lanley Jerry Chavis - Lee "Tex" Westbrook - Oscar L. 'Bud' Shuler - Richard Michael Levy - Robert Andrew Stroud - Wayne Rex Bryan - William "Bill" Barrett - William (Bill) Edward Rowe - William C. "Bill" Hinton - Bobby Gene "Bob" Walls - Michael E. Neufield


CHAPTER ACTIVITIES:
Alamo chapter BY Bob Dillon
California chapter north BY Ken Fritz
Central New York chapter BY Tom McMillen
Fort Rucker chapter BY Roscoe Souders
Fort Wolters chapter BY Mike Sheuerman
Georgia chapter BY Skip Bell
Louisiana Gulf Coast chapter BY Phil Ness
Montana chapter BY Todd Brandoff
Mid-South chapter BY Pete Norman
New England chapter BY Bill Williams
North Alabama chapter BY Jim White
North Carolina chapter BY J.D. Lawson
Ohio River LZ chapter BY Jim Miller
Rocky Mountain chapter BY Phil Lanphier
South Carolina (Celebrate Freedom) chapter BY Larry Russell
South Dakota chapter BY Harold Pardew
South Missouri chapter BY Russ Emory
VHPA of Florida chapter BY Gary Harrell
Virgina chapter BY Ben Gay
Washington State chapter BY Mark Hansen


BOOK REVIEWS:
Dear Mom, I'm Alive: Letters Home From Blackwidow 25 BY John Penny
Sharks, Dolphins, Arabs, and the High Priced Help BY John Penny
Strength and Honor: America's Best in Vietnam BY John Penny
Volume: 29
Issue: 5
Item Creation Date: September/October 2011
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: General Files
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 24 Jan 2018 [Updated: 22 Feb 2018]
Operation Double Eagle - Marine Aircraft Group 36 - Combat After Action Report
Document Item Number: 2930508001
[Number of Pages: 74]
Item Creation Date: 20 March 1966
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: General Files
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 06 May 2019 [Updated: 08 May 2019]
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United States Air Force Serials 1946 to 1977 - Merseyside Aviation Society - List with annotation
Document Item Number: 2930614002
[Number of Pages: 25]
Item Creation Date: 17 December 1997
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: General Files
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 23 Sep 2019 [Updated: 24 Sep 2019]
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Cloth Patch of the U.S. Armed Forces - American Society of Military Insignia Collectors - Booklet
Document Item Number: 2930807002
[Number of Pages: 60]
Item Creation Date: No Date
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: General Files
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 20 Aug 2020 [Updated: 23 Sep 2020]
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Unit Patches with descriptions
Document Item Number: 2930713005
[Number of Pages: 57]
Item Creation Date: No Date
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: General Files
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 15 Jan 2020 [Updated: 15 Jan 2020]
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Attitude Instrument Flying - Department of the Army - Technical Manual
Document Item Number: 4030208002
[Number of Pages: 77]
Item Creation Date: December 1958
Collection: Chuck Carlock Collection
Association: Rattler/Firebird Association
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Added: 28 Sep 2023 [Updated: 28 Sep 2023]
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The VHPA Newsletter (Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA))
Newsletter Item Number: 2299Newsletter610698
[Number of Pages: 32]
FROM THE PRESIDENT BY Joe Bilitzke


LETTERS:
Former VHPA counsel glad to stay the course FROM Jim "Gunny" Gunderson
Flying with Army pilots an adventure FROM Wade Hubbard
IP would have a tizzie FROM Jack Knotts
Directory best one yet! FROM Bob Paine
Vietnam acquaintances put reality back in focus FROM Robert "Russ" Jones
Chopper pilot writes story for scale model brochure FROM Roy Harris Olive
Attempt to ignore disorder perpetuates PTSD stigma FROM George W. Williams
Pilot/author participated in PTSD effects study FROM Rick Curtin, Dave Eastman
Few soldiers prepared for Vietnam experience FROM Bill Hull
Suggesting most pilots have PTSD is absurd FROM Rick Williams


TAPS:
James Harvey Brown Jr. - Eldon Ideus - Emmett F. Johnson - James D. O'Neill - Michael Russell - Bill Shobel


REPORTS:
VHPA announces election policy
Bunn resigns from selection position BY Kenny Bunn
UN honors VHPA member for rescues
Amendment to bylaws goes to a vote BY executive council
Bylaws of the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)


BRIEFS:
Author writes about Schilling
Membership directory correction BY Mike Law
Mini-reunion planned on July 3


REUNION:
Time draws near for reunion 2003 BY Dave Rittmann
VHPA shuttle service available at airport
Taking cruise after reunion? here is update
Reunion schedule
Volume: 21
Issue: 1
Item Creation Date: January/February 2003
Collection: Jack Swickard Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 24 Mar 2017 [Updated: 05 Sep 2017]
UpTight (U.S. Army Vietnam (USARV))
Serial Item Number: 2842Serial610914
[Number of Pages: 49]
Combat Action
A Lesson From History by CPT Gary McKillips the story of the Kit Carson Scout
Battle Report action from December through February
The Job of Gunner spotlight on doorgunners
The Edge of War by SGT Steve Banko pointment at work

Service and Support
Vietnam's Talent Scouts by SP4 Bryan Heliker the entertainment branch of Special Services
Every Minute Counts by SP4 Keith Pritchard a dustoff mission
Soldiers oof the Deep underwater engineers at work

Human Interest
High and Mighty by SP4 Keith McKeown life at Fire Support Base Fuller
the Center of a Culture by SP4 T. Jay Williams inside Hue
Between Country and People by SP5 Gene Cudworth the importance of RD cadremen

Special Features
Brief Bursts late news affecting you
Where East Meets West by LT Joe E. Moreland Jr. R&R in Japan
Combat Art impressions of an artist team
Nevah Hoppen humor under combat conditions
Volume: 2
Issue: 4
Item Creation Date: Spring 1970
Collection: Charles Winer Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 17 Oct 2017 [Updated: 30 Oct 2025]
The VHPA Aviator (Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)) - Citrus Heights, California
Newsletter Item Number: 2841Newsletter611006
[Number of Pages: 28]
FROM THE PRESIDENT BY Jack Salm


LETTERS:
A Shau Revisted FROM W.E. "Chico" Fernandez
Homecoming Friends FROM Art Jacobs
Dear Editor FROM Donald J. Smith
News from our Brothers in the CHPA FROM Jay Brown
The VHPA recieved a letter from Terry Wood FROM Terry Wood, Lisa Wood
The VHPA is looking for help... FROM Mike Law
Dear Editor FROM Lane Liston
Joe Kline responds FROM Joe Kline
Dear Editor FROM Phil Marshall
School loses high percentage of helicopter pilots KIA in Vietnam FROM Mike Sheuerman
Ed Freeman - "We Were Soldiers" FROM J. Michael Murphy


FEATURES:
Status of the 2009 VHPA Calendar Program BY Mike Law
Damn Helicopter Pilots
Old Eddie BY LaRue D. Wisener
Don Purser Recovers From Motorcycle Accident BY Tom Nesbitt, Don Purser
Vietnam veteran UH-1D takes final "Flight"
After Action Report - Return to Vietnam BY John Mackel
Farewell to an American Hero BY Joseph L. Galloway, Jack Heslin, Jim Stein


REUNION:
Help needed for the Philadelphia Reunion
San Antonio Reunion Followup BY Mike Whitten, Mike Maloy
2011 through 2012 Reunion Update... BY Jack Salm
Our next reunion in Phildelphia BY Dana Young, Dave Rittman, Joe Bilitzke
Pilots and Crewmembers celebrate together BY "MIK" Mikulan


CHAPTER ACTIVITES:
California chapter north BY Ken Fritz
Fort Wolthers chapter BY Adam Stezcko
Georgia chapter BY Bill Stanley
Mid South chapter BY "Pete" Norman IV
North Carolina chapter BY J.D. Lawson
Ohio River chapter BY John Flanagan
Rocky Mountain chapter BY Rick Beaver
Southern California chapter BY Ed Holguin
VHPA of Florida BY Don Welch
Washington State chapter BY Paul Fleming


TAPS:
Paul Michael Brennan - Ed (Too Tall to Fly) Freeman - Phillip H. Fisher - Gerald (Jerry) E. Froman - Robert L. Hartman Sr. - Michael B. Howe - Junius (Jay) Linwood Jones Jr. - Roger Montgomery - Elton G. Prine - Timothy P. Robbins - Ernest Rickenbacker - Bill Shadrick - Freddie A. Teaford - Gene Zacsek
Volume: 26
Issue: 05
Item Creation Date: September/October 2008
Collection: John Shafer Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 19 Oct 2017 [Updated: 22 Feb 2018]
Special History of 350th Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron Part II
Document Item Number: 27860107001
[Number of Pages: 159]
Item Creation Date: No Date
Collection: John B. Konek Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 25 Oct 2018 [Updated: 25 Oct 2018]
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Regimental Aviation Squadron FM1-114 - Headquarters Department of the Army - Booklet
Document Item Number: 28250102001
[Number of Pages: 56]
Item Creation Date: August 1986
Collection: James C. Smith Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 17 Oct 2018 [Updated: 23 Oct 2018]
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Woodstock One-Three - Manuscript Draft
Document Item Number: 30100420003
[Number of Pages: 54]
Author(s): Tom Marshall
Item Creation Date: 13 December 1994
Collection: William Thomas Marshall, Jr. Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 31 Jan 2022 [Updated: 08 Feb 2022]
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Woodstock One-Three - Manuscript Draft
Document Item Number: 30100420004
[Number of Pages: 63]
Author(s): Tom Marshall
Item Creation Date: 27 January 1995
Collection: William Thomas Marshall, Jr. Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 31 Jan 2022 [Updated: 08 Feb 2022]
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Woodstock One-Three (Patriot's Toll) - Manuscript Draft
Document Item Number: 30100421001
[Number of Pages: 89]
Author(s): Tom Marshall
Item Creation Date: 08 May 1995
Collection: William Thomas Marshall, Jr. Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 31 Jan 2022 [Updated: 08 Feb 2022]
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Interview with Bob Clewell
Oral History Item Number: OHD0115

[This Item may contain objectionable materials.]

Bob Clewell discusses his experiences in Vietnam with the U.S. Army. Clewell served as an artillery battalion advisor in IV Corps, August 1964 to September 1965. He returned for a second tour of duty as a fixed-wing pilot with the 145th Aviation Battalion, 74th Reconnaissance Airplane Company in March 1967.
Item Creation Date: 11 March 2024
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 11 Mar 2024 [Updated: 11 Mar 2024]
Warrant Officer Candidate Student Guide - United States Army Primary Helicopter Center - Handbook
Document Item Number: 25830101002
[Number of Pages: 94]
Item Creation Date: 01 July 1966
Collection: Loren Hall Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 26 Oct 2022 [Updated: 26 Oct 2022]
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Magazine Articles (4) with Cover, Newsweek - Vietnam: The Specter of Defeat / Vietnam's Thieu Fights A One Man War / Another Ordeal Looms For Hue / What Went Wrong in Vietnam: The Fallacies in U.S. Policy
Document Item Number: 8850721004
[Number of Pages: 7]
Item Creation Date: 15 May 1972
Collection: Michael Sloniker Collection
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Added: 30 Nov 2017 [Updated: 01 Dec 2017]
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2013 Calendar, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) - HOW BLUEGHOSTS KEPT SCORE
Document Item Number: 20080219001
[Number of Pages: 28]
Item Creation Date: 2013
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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2014 Calendar, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) - A 177TH AHC LRRP INSERTION
Document Item Number: 20080220001
[Number of Pages: 28]
Table of Contents
Front Cover Photo – A 117th AHC LRRP Insertion – VHPA Member Ray Johnson took this photo of two 117th AHC UH-1Hs in 1969 while escorting them in a Huey gunship someplace in western III Corps. #68-15582 is nearest the camera. In April 1969 #582 joined the 117th straight from the factory and in September 1970 it was removed from US Army inventory for unknown reasons. On this day they were inserting a Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol (LRRP).

January
Iroquois Night Fighter And Night Tracker (INFANT)
UH-1M INFANT NETT – March 1971 – VHPA Subscriber Doug Elgin took this photo during a maintenance check at Phu Loi. Doug was a civilian engineer with Hughes Aircraft Company who built the AN/ASQ-132 image intensification system that worked at night sometimes augmented with infrared searchlights. The INFANT detachment deployed to Vietnam in Nov 1969 and inititally served with D/229th AHB 1st Cav Div at Lai Khe before being assigned to the 1st Avn Bde and based at Phu Loi. A total of about eight INFANT systems served in Vietnam from Nov 1969 through the end of 1971. This photo is dedicated to the crew (LTC Kvernes, 1LT Carmichael, WO1 Debner, and SFC Spivey) of #66-0726 who died on 2 Jan 1970 while on an early INFANT mission.

February
H Troop 10th Cavalry
OH-6A and AH-1G from H/10th Cav – May 1972 – VHPA Member Steve Shepard took these photos at Camp Holloway not long after C/7/17th Cav was reflagged H/10th Cav on 30 April 1972. Though C Troop had been based at Lane Army Heliport at An Son near Qui Nhon since April 1969, H Troop frequently conducted ‘dual operations’ around Pleiku or Phan Rang and the Bong Son for weeks at a time in 1972. The small photos were taken in the Cobra maintenance area at Phan Rang.

March
A PipeSmoke Recovery
A 357th Transportation Company team recovers a downed UH-1 – November 1968. VHPA Member Joel Nicoll provided these photos taken near Lai Khe. Starting at the top left – the Infantry secures the area, the rigging crew checks for booby traps, then in a little more than 60 seconds (if no one is shooting at them) the main blade is secured low to the toes of the front skids and to the tail boom. The rotor head adapter plus a second strap are secured to receive the Chinook’s hook. The rigging crew then depart for home to their Huey.

April
A Tribute to UH-34 Equipped HMM-361
HMM-361 – December 1967 and April 1968. VHPA Member Seppo Hurme took these photos. The main photo shows HMM-361’s aircraft leaving the USS Iwo Jima. The aircraft in the top photo is fresh out of PAR and has been retrofitted with a powerful AM/FM/SSB 2-30 MHz radio, whose antenna you can see on the port side. (See the small photos.) Squadron mechanics are working on the rotor head in the center photo. The ’34 has a relatively complex rotor head including lead and lag hinges with dampers and flapping hinges. Additionally there are bearing stacks that keep the rotor blades from detaching from the rotor head and that allow for pitch changes. All of these had to be lubricated periodically requiring lots of maintenance hours. HMM-361 arrived in Da Nang in June 1963 and served in or off Vietnam until late May 1968 when it returned to CONUS. There it was redesignated HMH-361 with CH-53s. HMH-361 arrived in Vietnam in August 1969.

May
DUSTOFF
UH-1H Air Ambulance – 1969. VHPA Member Ray Johnson took this photo someplace in III Corps during 1969. We’ll just use it as a tribute to all who crewed or flew DUSTOFF.

June
Gun Platoon 240th AHC
240th Assault Helicopter Company (AHC) UH-1Cs - 1968 and 1969. VHPA Members Glenn Hoffman and Ray Johnson provided these photos from their tours. We’ll use them as a tribute to all the MAD DOGs that served in the gun platoon.

July
1st Brigade 101st Airborne Division
OH-6As and UH-1Hs from the Aviation Platoon of HHC 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division in I Corps – 1968-1969. VHPA member Pete Rzeminski took these photos. Collectively they are a tribute to WO1 TS Michael (pilot), 1LT DM Noonaw (observer), and SP5 DE McGee (CE) who perished in a 1st Bde OH-6A on 4 July 1969. When Pete joined in Aug 1968 their Hueys used the Griffin radio callsign and the LOHs LITTLE GRIFFIN – as per the nose art in the B and W photo. The patch changed to the round ‘bullseye’ design and the nose art to the large red, blue square with the white ‘1’. The small photo shows part of the Camp Eagle Flight Line.

August
271st Assault Support Helicopter Company
CH-47 from 271st ASHC at Rach Soi in IV Corps – 1968. VHPA Subscriber Mike Treinen took this photo at the “Long Strip”, Rach Soi in Kien Giang Province of IV Corps while serving there with MACV Team 55. The 271st, based out of Binh Thuy Air Base at Can Tho, were known as the “Innkeepers.” The 164th CAG’s patch is shown on the calendar grid.

September
A Tribute to the H-3 Detachments of HC-7
US Navy Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HC-7) H-3As Yankee Station – 1967-1975. VHPA Member Tom Phillips and HC-7 Historian Ron Milam provided these photos. HC-7 were also known as ‘The Orphans of the 7th Fleet’ and Sea Devils. Commissioned 1 Sep 1967 and decommissioned 30 June 1975 the Squadron had 15 dets (detachments) that flew H-2s, H-3s, RH-3s, H-46s and H-34s. This collage is a tribute to Big Mother (slang for the large H-3 helicopter) Dets 110 and 111. The following attempts to describe what we see in the main photo. H-3A sitting on the makeshift flight deck of a Farragut class DLG (guided missile destroyer leader). Tail wheel is about six feet from the deck edge coaming. Blade tips are about six feet from the missile launcher. Another H-3 folded and stuffed tail first up along the portside of the missile house. Left engine cowling door/maintenance platform is open with a red engine host rigged to change #1 engine.

October
Doug Jackson’s Tour
OH-23s from D Troop, 1st Squadron 10th Cavalry, 4th Infantry Division – 1967-1968. VHPA Member Doug Jackson provided these photos of the first half of his tour with D/1/10th Cav at Camp Enari. He states: “I joined Delta Troop as a WO1 in Oct 1967. I flew 23s as a Shamrock scout for about six months until we got Oh-6As. On 28 Oct 1967 SP4 LP Lepage and I crashed in #64-15168 after the engine failed. We were hovering over some trees when the engine blew a jug. That’s why I wrote that message on the photo. That was the only one I crashed. I flew OH-6As for about two months then the rest of my tour I flew in the Troop Commander’s Command and Control Huey. I have fond memories of my friends and times in that Air Cavalry Troop.”

November
307th CAB Supports Operation Sealords
OH-6A #67-16013 from the 307th Combat Aviation Battalion at Rach Soi, IV Corps – December 1969. VHPA Subscriber Mike Treinen took this photo at Rach Soi in Kien Giang Province of IV Corps while serving there with MACV Team 55. Army Aviation Battalions had UH-1Hs and OH-6As in the Aviation Platoon of their Headquarters and Headquarters Company. The 307th CAB, based at Can Tho, was known as the “Phantoms.” This LOH is landing on a US Navy Armored Troop Carrier (ATC (H)) boat also known as a “Tango” Boat.

December
He Ain’t Heavy … He’s My Brother!
HMH-463 CH-53A recovers a UH-34D – 1967. VHPA Member Richard ‘Clutch’ Hendrie took this photo from a USMC gunship while covering this recovery mission somewhere southwest of Da Nang. A four-plane detachment from HMH-463 arrived in Vietnam in December 1966. The remainder of the squadron deployed during May 1967 to Marble Mountain where they participated in combat operations the next four years.

Above – Thank You 25th Aviation Battalion
VHPA Member Mitch Wilhelm received this memento after flying the 25th Infantry Division’s Commanding General’s Huey for three months ending in July 1969. The original artist is not known. The illustration tries to capture some of the 25th Aviation Battalion’s interesting missions. The little note tags are difficult to read. Starting near the tail rotor Leaflet Drop System, Aerial Observer, Frequency Monitor, Smoke Generator, Litter, C and C, Search Light, Radar, Camera, People Sniffer, supporting Rome plows, rockets, 750 lb bomb, dropping mortar rounds, dropping Phougas, sling load, flares, CS canisters, loud speaker, star light on door gun.
Below – 15 April 1968 HC-7 Rescues #30 and #32
Two F-4 from VF-114 apparently collided over North Vietnam near Vinh. All four ejected and landed in the water ¼ to ½ mile off shore. USS Halsey (DLG-23) on South SAR station had Clementine and Big Mother on deck. Both launched. Big Mother 72 was on scene first, locating two survivors and picked them up. Clementine 2 made two passes and put their swimmer in the water. Clementine made passes and picked up each survivor and the swimmer. Both helos received fire from shore batteries. During the rescue, Strike A-4s bombed shore batteries. Both helos returned to USS Halsey with survivors. LTJG Nicholson (pilot), ENS Wiant (co-pilot), AX3 Peters, ADJ3 English of Det 110 in H-3 BIG MOTHER 72 rescued LCDR Farnsworth and LTJG Sarnecky. LTJC Jansen (pilot), LTJC Armstrong (co-pilot), ADJ3 Leagon, AN Grubbs of Det 109 in H-2 CLEMENTINE 2 rescued LTJG Baer and LTJG McCrealy.
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Old Warriors (145th Comat Aviation Battalion (Vietnam) Association)
Newsletter Item Number: 2336Newsletter611227
[Number of Pages: 32]
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR BY James L. Bodkin


FEATURES:
Battalion History: Commander’s Combat Notes
Helicopter Tactics
New People Located List
Reunion Reports
Financial Report
Issue: 37
Item Creation Date: March 2002
Collection: Larry Leonard Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 09 Apr 2018 [Updated: 09 Apr 2018]
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2006 Calendar, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) - 2006 Calendar
Document Item Number: 20080212001
[Number of Pages: 28]
Table of Contents

January
This Sikorsky CH-53A was photographed by Robert Brackenhoff at Quang Tri in Feb 1971 during Lam Son 719. Other pictures this month are of Marine CH-53s; one taken by Dean Nelson at Chu Lai and another by Fred Thompson at Khe Sanh.

February
This photograph of three AH-1 Cobras assigned to the 3/17 Air Cav was taken by Robert Brightwell during his Vietnam tour in 1970. Other pictures appearing this month are a Bell AH-1G as it returns to Quang Tri on a late February afternoon in 1971 during Lam Son 719, taken by Rober Brackenhoff, and a picture of a camouflage-painted Cobra snapped by Larry Winters at Song Be in 1970.

March
This CH-54, Skycrane was photographed by Michael Inlow during his 1970-71 tour. It was taken at Khe Sahn during the Lam Son 719 operation. Michael Inlow also photographed the Skycrane during refuling at the Quang Tri POL site in September of 1970. The other CH-54 picture shown this month was taken by Joe Duvall.

April
Robert Brightwell photographed this OH-6A assigned to C Troop, 3/17 Cavalry during his 1968-69 Vietnam tour. Other photos: The two OH-6As were photographed in flight by Jack Cattilini. A Hughes OH-6A (serial number 67-16680) taken in Quang Tri revetment in Feb 1971 during Lam Son 719 by Robert Brackenhoff.

May
The three photographs appearing this month were taken by Robert Brackenhoff. They are of a Bell 204B of Air America (manufacturer’s serial number 2198 – civil registration N1306X). One of the photos shows the aircraft sitting at LZ Bronco, in front of the Headquarters of the 11th Infantry Brigade, “Jungle Warriors” in 1970 or early 1971. The aircraft survived the war and research shows it is recently registered as N204AQ. Another picture of this aircraft with an OH-6A in the background was taken at Quang Tri in Feb 1971 during Lam Son 719.

June
The photo of these two UH-1B helicopters was taken by Robert Brightwell at Sandy Point in IV Corps during his Vietnam tour. The aircraft belonged at one time to the U.S. Army and later transferred to the U.S. Navy. Other pictures shown during this month are of a UH-1 landing on a Naval ship, photographed by John Nielson in 1966, and of a CH-47 Gunship, call sign “birth control,” on the USNS Corpus Christi Bay taken by Al Doucette in 1967.

July
This Boeing-Vertol CH-47A of the 196th ASHC (serial number 66-19052) shoots a touch and go at Duc Pho in 1970. This aircraft survived the war and was later upgraded to a CH-47D. A second photo of a Boeing Bertol CH47A belonging to the 196th ASH (serial number 65-7997) is shown after a practice GCA approach to Duc Pho in 1970. Both photos were taken by Robert Brackenhoff during his 1970 tour. Te third picture was taken by Jack Cattilini.

August
Robert Brightwell photographed this UH-1 assigned to the U.S. Air Force during his 1968-69 tour. The other picture shown below is of a Air Force HH-43, Pedro sitting on a standby pad at Cam Ranh Bay.

September
The CH-37, Mojave, being towed to the flight line was photographed by John Nielson in 1965. John also took the picture of the two CH-37s framing the UH-1 landing formation. The other photo of a CH-37 on the ramp in Bangkok was taken by Don Joyce.

October
This OH-13 was employed as a scout aircraft of an Air Cavalry unit prior to being replaced by the OH-6A. Both photographs appearing in this month were taken by John Nielsen.

November
Al Doucette photographed all three of the pictures shown this month. This CH-21 is awaiting its next mission in 1962. Montagnaard villagers can be seen curiously inspecting the helicopter, a new sight to them. The CH-21 armament consisted of 30 caliber door guns shown in one of the photos below.

December
This photograph of a UH-1H sling loading an OH-6A belonging to the 7/17 Air Cav was taken by John Kawa in October of 1968. The picture of the CH-47 with a UH-1H on a sling was taken by Jack Cattilini. The third photo is of the Chinook Flight Engineer’s most frequent view of UH-1D Huey. This busted bird is a “Minuteman” from the Lift Platton of the 176th AHC at Chu Lai as it was being lifted back to maintenance by a 178 ASHC, Boxcar Chinook. It was photographed by Dean Nelson.

Above
This photograph of a Bell OH-58A (serial number 68-16884) was taken by Robert Brackenhoff at Quang Tri in Feb 1971 during Lam Son 719.
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2009 Calendar, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) - 2009 Calendar
Document Item Number: 20080215001
[Number of Pages: 28]
Table of Contents
Front-Cover-Photo – An official US Army photo taken on 29 Mar 1970. Members of Company D, 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade return sniper fire and call in support while on a search and secure mission northwest of Bong Son. The Huey is from the Casper Aviation Platoon of HHC 173rd Abn Bde.

January
God’s Own Lunatics
This is another magnificent painting from VHCMA member Joe Klein. Joe attends all our Reunions and provides customized prints. The Casper Aviation Platoon pocket patch and the 173rd Airborne Brigade shoulder patch are presented here as a tribute to the soldiers shown on the cover photo.

February
The Case of the Disappearing Chinook
These photos were taken by VHPA member Joe Riley in April 1969 of a CH-47 delivering supplies and a water trailer to a fire support base some place in III Corps. Dust was a huge problem for helicopter operations during the war. The insert photo shows the dust storm caused by the Chinook’s rotor wash. VHPA member Ron Magnus provided the small photo of the Chinook lifting an artillery piece. VHPA member Steve Shepherd provided the photo of the Chinook flying overhead.

March
Views from Jim’s Office
Views from the Flight Engineer’s seat in a 355th Heavy Helicopter Company (HHC) CH-54A in late 1968. These photos belong to VHCMA Member Jim Sheridan. They were taken from #67-18425 that was nicknamed ‘The Hulk.’ The top left photo was taken at the Workhorse Corral at Camp Holloway, Pleiku. Jim arrived in Vietnam in May 1967 with the MOS of 67T30 (CH-54 mechanic) and served with the 478th HHC until March 1968. He extended and served with the 355th HHC as a Flight Engineer until late Jan 1969. The lower left photo shows a 155mm howitzer. The lower right shows a load of Class V (ammunition). The top right photo shows the fuselage of 478th HHC CH-54A #67-18414 that crashed at An Khe on 27 Sep 1968 with a pod carrying passengers. VHPA member Al Fink provided the photo of the Skycrane cockpit.

April
Welcome to Chu Lai Dustoff
54 denotes the revetment row for the 54th Med Det Hueys and 68 for the 68th Med Det Hueys. Dick was standing at the X when he took the colored photo of the flight line. M shows the Motor Pool area, S the shower and out house, C the club, H the living area hooches (about 8 in number), R the radio shack (received DUSTOFF calls), B the Bunker, V where the camp Veterinary team lived, HQ the administration building, CO the Commanding Officer’s hooch, and O the joint operations for both Dets. The down arrow points toward the area for the 68th Med Det’s buildings and the mess hall. These photos were taken by VHPA member Dick Lund about July 1970 at Chu Lai while he was with the 54th Medical Detachment. Dick says, “Chu Lai was a good base to work from. The pilots and other personnel in the 54th and the 68th were good to work with.”

May
Pop A Smoke
VMO-2 UH-1E in April/May 1968 at Da Nang. These photos belong to VHPA and Pop-A-Smoke member Seppo Hume. The large photo was taken from an HMM-361 UH-34D landing on the pad for the CG of the 1st Marine Division. Among its many missions, VMO-2 was tasked to support several VIPs, including the CG of the 3rd Marine Amphibious Force (MAF), the overall commander of all Marine forces in Vietnam. On this particular day VMO-2 apparently did not have enough UH-1E slicks so a gunship was stripped of its machine guns and rockets, although the supporting rails are still there, as well as the Emerson Electric TAT101 nose turret (which did not work half the time). The small photo shows Seppo in late May, after he and six other HMM-361 pilots had transferred to HML-167 when the former had stood down. HML-167 came into existence in April of that year. It shared crews and aircraft with VMO-2.

June
Sharks
The paint schemes for the UH-1Cs of the gun platoon, The Sharks, of 174th AHC were always special. The late VHPA member Fred Thompson took this photo in late 1970 in southern I Corps. He also provided the small photo of another Shark UH-1C being refueled

July
The 228th ASHB Goes To War
VHPA member Ron Ehmann took the large picture on 11 September 1965 as aircraft from the 228th Assault Support Helicopter Battalion, 1st Air Cavalry Division were leaving the USNS Boxer anchored in Qui Nhon harbor. The insert photo shows the aircraft in their protective shrouds or cocoons en route to Vietnam. This ship departed Mayport, Florida on 15 August, crossed the Atlantic, went through the Suez Canal, around Singapore and arrived off Qui Nhon on 10 September. From Ben Silver’s wonderful book Ride At A Gallop we learn there were 26 CH-47s, 4 CH-54s, 50 UH-1s, plus some OV-1s on the Boxer. Ron flew an H-13 from the Boxer. He served with HHC 1st Bde, 1st Cav until he was wounded on 5 May 1966 and evaced. VHPA member Ellwood Soderlind provides the small photo of a CH-47 in III Corps delivering supplies to an Armored Cavalry unit.

August
Almost A Super Gaggle!
VHPA member Pete Baxter took these photos about May 1967 of a 227th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Air Cavalry Division Combat Assault north of Qui Nhon and south of LZ English. We count 15 Hueys plus Pete’s. Pete says, “we used the term ‘super gaggle’ whenever multiple Huey companies were involved in the same insertion. While this was a pretty good sized operation, we had conducted a larger one about a month prior to this.” In the small photo Pete is looking back while his good friend and now VHPA member, Roger Gallagher, is driving.

September
This Is DMZ DUSTOFF
VHPA member Phil Marshall helped gather these photos from members of the DMZ Dustoff, 237th Medical Detachment (Helicopter Ambulance) Association. CW2 Bob Hill (KIA 9/27/1970) took the upper left and the small photo of UH-1H #66-01125 at the 18th Surgical Hospital in Quang Tri. This Huey was an upgraded D Model that no one liked to fly, hence it was named Black Bitch. Sitting in the right seat is WO1 Michael Bradley who was killed with Bob Hill while searching for another downed 237th ship. Bob also took the lower right photo of a hoist mission with the patient being loaded on to the Jungle Penetrator. Bob’s photos were contributed by his brother Bruce Hill. Former medic Geoffrey Morris took the upper right photo in Laos during Lam Son 719 while landing to a hilltop position manned by the ARVN. VHPA member R. Lee Wood took the lower left photo during some training on the use of the Stokes Litter.

October
OH-6A LOH
VHPA members John Kawa and Steve Shepard provided most of these photos of 7/17th Cav aircraft. In the upper left we see the left side of OH-6A #67-16326 about February 1972 with the minigun system without the cowling that was common in earlier years. The upper right photo shows the flames coming from the minigun and how near it is to the pilot’s left arm. The lower right shows just how close to the vegetation (and hence the enemy weapons) an air cavalry LOH (Light Observation Helicopter) was. The second to the right shows a small collection of homemade bombs that the enlisted gunners and scout observers loved to make! The second to the left shows how various grenades were carried for easy and quick access by the observers. The lower left shows the successful recovery of a downed LOH. However, LOH crews will testify that the US Army left many, many crashed, burned, and otherwise destroyed LOHs all over Vietnam! The small photo shows a Scout crew “training” for their next mission.

November
H Troop (Air) 10th Cavalry
VHPA Member Frank Beall contributed the color photo of him and these unusual black and white after-mission photos taken by a USAF reconnaissance aircraft on 5 June 1972 near the Phu My-LZ Crystal area about 30 miles NNW of Qui Nhon. 1LT Beall and SP4 Doug Hansen were shot down by an SA-7 “Strella” heat seeking missile in OH-6A #69-16049 while on an air cavalry visual reconnaissance mission. Frank’s right leg was badly injured in the crash. The Command and Control Huey #68-15485, flown by CPT Zane Brown, WO1 Theodore Clymer, SP4 Mark Ely as crew chief and SP4 Denver Richards as gunner, rescued Frank and Doug but was shot down by enemy fire almost immediately after takeoff. Doug and Mark were badly injured when the Huey crashed. Following an impressive fire-power demonstration by the USAF and USN fighter-bombers directed by the USAF Forward Air Control (FAC) radio call sign WOLFMAN and Cobra gunships from H/10th Cav and the 129th AHC, a 129th AHC UH-1H flown by MAJ Alan Jones (the names of the other crew members are not currently known) successfully rescued the six cavalry troopers. That evening the Eagle Battalion Intelligence/Operations staff showed Frank the photos taken by the USAF and gave him prints of these photos. The small photos are enlargements of another USAF ‘close-up’ photo.

December
Another Purple Fox Extraction
VHPA and Pop-A-Smoke member Walt Wise contributed this photo of three HMM-364 CH-46Ds extracting an infantry unit on a beautifully day in July 1970 about 8 miles southeast of An Hoa in what the Marines called The Arizona Territory, also known as the An Hoa Basin in Quang Nam province in I Corps. The white circle on the aft-pylons hosted their famous patch. If you happen to meet a veteran from the 1966s, ask him about the ‘Give a S---‘ patch. Most Purple Foxes love to tell that story!! VHPA and Pop-A-Smoke member Seppo Hurme took the small photo of an Army 478th HHC CH-54A recovering a Marine HMM-364 CH-46 in July 1968 at Da Nang.

Top
Welcome to the 339th Transportation Company
VHCMA Members Bob Elzer and Ed Buys provided these photos from their tours with the 339th Transportation (Aircraft Direct Support) Company based at Nha Trang in 1964. The 339th TC had two UH-1Bs (one was armed) plus four CH-37Bs. All the 37s had names like “BUF” and “Igor’s Numba Wun.” The photos on the left show what happened when a CH-37 lost power while taking a hanger-tug to another airfield about June 1964. The tail rotor was damaged during the landing. Luckily the water wasn’t too deep and they were still near Nha Trang. They opened the clam-shell doors, drove the tug out, brought in a metal stand, repaired the tail rotor, made carburetor adjustments and took off.

Bottom
Bob Snead Commemorates the Ruthless Riders
VHPA Member Bob Snead is a professional cartoonist. His cartoons appeared in the Pacific Stars and Stripes and the Army Times newspapers even while he was flying for the 170th AHC out of Pleiku in 1968. He is the author of ‘Hours and Hours of Boredom’ – a wonderful collection of cartoons about Army flight school, fixed and rotary wing aviation situations. For the 1992 VHPA Directory, Bob was kind enough to draw some cartoons from Mike Law’s ideas from the folklore of the 7/17th Air Cavalry Squadron who used the Ruthless Riders nom de guerre from 1967 until late 1972 in the II Corps area. The LOH has B Troop’s Scout Platoon pocket patch but it was taken from a picture of C Troop OH-6A #67-16096 that crashed on 20 Nov 1968 during a training flight. The Infantry cartoon was adapted from a John (Tim) Stidham photo of A Troop’s Blues taken in 1968 in the mountains near Dak To.
Item Creation Date: 2009
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Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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2002 Calendar, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) - A 174th AHC Shark
Document Item Number: 20080208001
[Number of Pages: 28]
Table of Contents
Front Cover Photo – Fred Thompson provided this photo of a 174th AHC UH-1C gunship. As mentioned in the 1994 VHPA Directory, this gun platoon loved to name and paint their UH-1Cs around things relating to the ocean. Dolphin and Seahorse were the favorite radio callsigns for the 174th slicks and Shark for their gunships. Several of their UH-1Cs displayed a very wide and colorful version of shark’s teeth. The back cover of the 1994 VHPA Directory shows the rescue of the crew of ‘Surfer Girl’ from Laos during Lam Son 719. This photo may be showing ‘Surfer Girl’ during a rest break in southern I Corps.

January
A Dusty Rearm Point
Rick Gillihan was a field rearmer for A Troop, 7th Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry from April 1970 until April 1971. This picture was taken about August 1970. A Troop was still based at Camp Holloway near Pleiku at the time. We believe the rearm/refuel point was located on the dirt strip near Plei Do Lim or possibly Plei Me. Most of the time fuel and ammo was prepositioned by Chinooks but on this day you can see the rocket boxes still on the truck. On a normal day, A Troop would position two field rearmers, mostly for their Cobras, at the staging area. The rearmers were also experts in weapons system maintenance, especially the mini-guns. Rick says that this was a slow day; but when the Blues had been inserting or the Cobras were firing a lot – that would be a fast day.

February
Rescuing Grumpy
These photos originally appeared on the March 1970 issue of the 1st Aviation Brigade HAWK magazine and were republished on the covers of the 1990 VHPA Directory. In January 1970, CW4 Tom Pride and CW3 Walt Malson from the 273rd Aviation Company (Heavy Helicopter) experienced a transmission failure while flying a CH-54A named “Grumpy” about 160 miles south of Long Binh and made a successful forced landing. Field repairs were not possible, so the next day CW4 George Gagnon and CW3 Paul Eilers flew another crane to the rescue. Grumpy’s huge rotor blades were loosened by mechanics, then the assembly was lifted off and deposited on the ground. The blades were dismantled and loaded into a Chinook from the 205th ASHC. George said he was well “overgrossed” when he and Eilers pulled Grumpy from the Delta mud and took it to Can Tho where the engines were removed for the rest of the journey. Grumpy had to be unslung four times so the rescue crane could refuel; but nine hours later it was back on the Sanford Army Airfield maintenance pad. George finished the story by saying that Grumpy’s fuselage picked up a number of bullet holes in it during the return flight.

March
Robinhood and Crossbow Maintenance
Joel Dummer served in various maintenance positions with the 173rd AHC at Lai Kha, Dong Ha, and Da Nang during 1970 and 1971. This picture was taken while they were still at Dong Ha in June 1971. Robinhood was the favorite radio callsign for the 173rd slicks and Crossbow for their gunships.

April
A Rockpile Resupply
Dave Althoff provided this photo of an HMM-262 CH-46 on the famous Rockpile in 1967. This photo also appeared on the back cover of the 2000 VHPA Directory. Pop A Smoke is the name of the USMC Vietnam Helicopter Association.

May
A Dolphin CA
Fred Thompson took this photo of a 174th AHC Combat Assault someplace in southern I Corps during November 1970. This photo also appeared on the front cover of the 2000 VHPA Directory. The infantry are from the Americal Division. Dolphin was one of the favorite radio callsigns for the 174th slicks and Shark for their gunships. Fred was flying cover in a Shark gunship when he took this picture.

June
An Apache Troop Scout
Charlie Palek provided this photo of his A Troop, 7th Squadron, 1st Air Cavalry OH-6A taken in northeastern III Corps during the famous Cambodian Incursion of May and June 1970. This photo was taken with a 110 camera which explains why it is not very sharp. Today Charlie is a commercial photographer and wishes he had used a 35mm camera in Vietnam. A detailed account of Charlie’s second tour in Vietnam with the Blackhawks (7th Squadron, 1st Cavalry) of Vinh Long appeared in three installments in the VHCMA Newsletter starting with issue No. 49 for July 1999. Charlie is the guy in the back with the smile on his face and an M-60 in his lap.

July
Charlie Palek’s LOH Collection
Charlie Palek provided these photos of various A Troop, 7th Squadron, 1st Air Cavalry OH-6As. They were taken during early 1970 with a 110 camera.

August
A Ghostrider Ladder Ship
Former 195th AHC Crew Chiefs Don Hasse, Gene Neel and Jim Sallee provided several photos of their UH-1Hs wearing a camouflaged paint scheme. The unit’s primary mission was to support MACV-SOG operations in III Corps and over-the-fence in Cambodia. This ladder ship is heading for a SOG team extraction. During the summer of 1968, the 195th sought and was granted approval to repaint its aircraft; thus being the only ‘authorized’ camouflaged Army aviation unit. The U.S. Air Force at Binh Hoa agreed to provide the paint and do the work in a similar manner to their camo helicopters. This paint scheme consisted of a blue-white bottom to the aircraft and four tints of greens and browns on the upper surfaces. All markings indicating the aircraft ownership were eradicated. The 195th flew camo slicks and gunships during the last part of 1968, all of 1969, and the first half of 1970. Since the enemy could easily recognize these Hueys from all the other Army Hueys flying in III Corps, the camo birds found themselves frequent targets especially when operating out of Quan Loi. In mid-1970, the 195th repainted their aircraft to the traditional Army scheme.

September
Inserting the Blues
Jim Pratt provided these two photos of the same squad of B Troop, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry infantry being inserted west of Duc Pho in May 1967. Both photos were taken by SSG Howard C. Breedlove. Jim obtained the negatives from the National Archives. The photo on the right is one of the most famous Vietnam Huey photos because it has appeared on several book covers in several more books. Jim reports there is still a friendly rivalry as to who is flying the UH-1D in the ‘famous’ photo. McNally and Mike Covey think it was them while John Flannagan and Jim Pratt think it was them. Everyone believe the crew chief was Earl Hobbs. Jim flew ‘DARLIN JENNY II’ until it was traded in for an H model.

October
Wretched Mildred
Tom Dooling provided this photo of a D Troop, 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry Cobra taken in 1970 at Dau Thieng. During most of its tour in Vietnam, D Troop supported the 25th Infantry Division based at Cu Chi.

November
An OH-58 KIOWA
Tom Elliston provided this copy of an official US Army photo taken in April 1970 of this OH-58 Light Observation Helicopter from C Troop, 3rd Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry.

December
Paul Frett’s Sikorsky Collection
Paul drew the Navy SH-3 in 1989, the Marine CH-53 in 1987, the Air Force HH-53 in 1986, and the Army CH-54A in 1981. You can see Paul’s complete line of Aviation Art on the Wings Aviation Products website.

Paul Frett’s Army Collection
Paul drew the UH-1H in 1980, the lower UH-1H in 1990, the CH-21C in 1988, and the CH-47C in 1981. You can see Paul’s complete line of Aviation Art on the Wings Aviation Products website.
Item Creation Date: 2002
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
 (Click For More Item Information)
Added: 27 Apr 2018 [Updated: 27 Apr 2018]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
View all documents in this Folder : Box : Collection
The Observer (Information Office, U.S. MACV) - Saigon
Newspaper Item Number: 293Newspaper610946
[Number of Pages: 11]
Volume: 8
Issue: 24
Item Creation Date: 17 October 1969
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: General Files
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Added: 29 Aug 2018 [Updated: 29 Mar 2021]
Annex A: H Troop (Air) 17th ACS Operations Standard Operating Procedure - Administrative Manual
Document Item Number: 30080105001
[Number of Pages: 55]
Item Creation Date: 1971
Collection: John G. (Jack) Heslin Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 04 Mar 2019 [Updated: 18 Mar 2019]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
View all documents in this Folder : Box : Collection
The FWC-VHPA Newsletter (Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA))
Newsletter Item Number: 999Newsletter595231
[Number of Pages: 24]
FROM THE PRESIDENT BY Charles Holley


LETTERS:
Green inducted into aviation hall of fame FROM Retired Maj. Gen. M.J. Brady Sr.
February 1968 medevac crew still has not returned FROM Don Caldwell
Air museum small, but very impresive FROM Mel Latham
Australian member recalls terrific time at reunion FROM Andy Perry
Newsletter article answers pilot's 30-year question FROM Greg Smith
Pilot finds way to strengthen his system after exposure FROM Huey Walsh
Pilot may hold key to flood information FROM Koert Davidse
Promoting attendance draws pilots from units FROM Mike Sheuerman


TAPS:
William Thomas 'Bill' Graves - Terry A. Gunter - Bob Stafford - John B. "Brent" Morel - Merlin H. Olson - John Wallace - Jim Watkins


VHPA scholarship fund takes off BY Tom Payne


REUNION:
Rooms can handle maxi-reunions
United Airlines is official airline of Reunion 2001


FEATURES:
National reunion takes new direction BY Joe Bilitzke
Volume: 19
Issue: 2
Item Creation Date: June 2014
Collection: Vietnam Center Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 09 Jun 2015 [Updated: 05 Sep 2017]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
Book Excerpts from "The Blood Road: The Ho Chi Minh Trail and the Vietnam War" (John Wiley & Sons) - (pages 326-350 = part of ch.13: 1971, No Plug in the Funnel / 351-379 = ch.14: 1971-1975, The Road Turns South)
Document Item Number: 30100218001
[Number of Pages: 29]
Author(s): John Prados
Item Creation Date: No Date
Collection: William Thomas Marshall, Jr. Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 19 Jan 2021 [Updated: 19 Apr 2021]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
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The VHPA Aviator (Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)) - Citrus Heights, California
Newsletter Item Number: 300Newsletter611009
[Number of Pages: 52]
FROM THE PRESIDENT BY Bob Hesselbein


LETTERS:
From the VHPA staff at HQ! FROM Sherry Rodgers
To the VHPA Reunion Committee, FROM George Van Riper
To the VHPA Reunion Committee, FROM Ken Bartholomew
To the VHPA Reunion Director, FROM Tom Wood
To the Members of VHPA... Thank You! FROM Susan Clotfelter Jimison
Gary Sterling Fowler, a member of the Fort Wolters Chapter of the VHPA, tends to hang on to things FROM Edward T. "Edd" Luttenberger
A Member of the VHPA wrote us to say:
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM F.L. (Fritz) Gruetzmacher
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Michael Lazares
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Larry Smith
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM John Brennan
Looking For.... Members and Trainers of Task Force Sea Wolf
Looking For.... The crew of Inagodadavita FROM Denise Hart
Looking For.... Information concerning a 24 February 1967 Dustoff Mission FROM Jim Burns
Looking For... Mister Wilson FROM Jan van den Noort
Looking For... Lost COpies of the Charger, the Vietnam magazine of the 196th Brigade of the Americal Division FROM Les Hines
Looking For.... more information concerning my father, John Leaf FROM Jennifer Ray
Looking For... Members that can provide details about the loss of a medivac helicopter on 5 September 1969 FROM David R. Holdsworth
Looking For - any information about the attached patch FROM Dana Merrill
Looking For... anyone who knew my father Richard Pearcy FROM Sheryol Pearcy Miller
What Can I Do With My Vietnam Stuff? FROM Mike Law


FEATURES:
An afternoon Search and Rescue mission in the southern Gulf of Tonkin BY Tom Phillips
Eyes with Teeth BY John Shafer
Gentlemen, we're incredibly lucky to have Julie Kink working for us and our familes...
A 15-year dream comes to completion BY John Hagleroad
Cambodian Sunset BY Robert Graham
Bringing Tony Home BY Tom Phillips
So You Actually Considered a Career in the Helicopter Industry? BY Chuck Ramsdell
So Few Vets... BY Danny Fisher
Susan J. flies with the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation BY Jerry Mellick


REUNION:
And the praise for our 2014 Reunion keeps rolling in...
"HOT LZ" Honors Vietnam War Vets BY Jim Singleton, Mike Neu


TAPS:
Ralph L. Allison - Kent W. Bennetts - Charles Wayne Dickerson - Jesse E. Felter - William E. Finney Jr. - Terrence Gese - Charles David Jochetz - Charles F. Johnson - Duane C. Ingram - Stanford N. Kaplan - John Patrick Leonard Jr. - Louis J. Martinez - David A. Measels - Robert N. Norona - Albert M. Orgain IV - Cecil W. Parker - Steven Paul Rhule - John Larry Rovetto - Ralph Edward Saylor Sr. - David Auther Ware - Patrick M. Wilson III - Randall Vern Wolfe


CHAPTER ACTIVITIES:
Alamo chapter BY Chip Brown
Georgia chapter BY Bill McRae
Oklahoma chapter
Southern California
Upper Midwest chapter BY Bert Leach
Washington State chapter BY J.C. Combs
North Alabama chapter
Michigan chapter BY Rich Deer
Rocky Mountain chapter
South Missouri chapter BY Bill Thompson
Old Dominion chapter BY Tom Rountreer


REVIEWS:
Duty, Honor and Betrayal BY John Penny
Missile!Missile!Missile! BY John Penny
We Gotta Get Out of this Place, Volume 2 BY John Penny
Eleven Months and Nineteen Days: A Vietnam Illustrator's Memoir BY John Penny
Volume: 33
Issue: 05
Item Creation Date: September/October 2014
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: VHPA Newsletters
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 20 Oct 2017 [Updated: 03 Jul 2018]
The VHPA Aviator (Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)) - Citrus Heights, California
Newsletter Item Number: 293Newsletter611103
[Number of Pages: 40]
FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE VHPA BY Gary Roush


REUNION:
VHPA 27th Annual Reunion San Diego
Veteran's Day, 2009 BY Gary Roush
Remarks at the Ronald Reaggan Presidential Library BY Gary Roush


LETTERS:
Neither Rain ~ nor Snow ~ nor Bullets FROM Thomas H. Nadeau
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Paul Hart
Clarification FROM Tom Payne
To the members of the VHPA FROM Chuck Carlock
Hello David FROM Leo (Doc) Flory
I think I can add a small postscript FROM Lionel Shrago
Seeking the owner of a lost Class Ring FROM Linda Tuck
Dear Editor FROM Ron Garrison
ATTENTION: Pilots who flew the Central Highlands FROM John Everhart
We learn more about last issue's Found On Post Huey FROM John M. Harris
General Brady Needs Help FROM General Brady
More on the Unidentified Cav Guidon at Fort Irwin FROM William T. (Tom) Clary
Mr. Roush FROM Jack Stamps
Dear Sirs FROM Doug Robinett
Dear Sirs FROM Charles Johnson
Dear Members of the VHPA FROM Joe Parnar
To the Members of the VHPA FROM Joe Parmer
Dear members of the VHPA FROM Bill Parrish
Dear Sir FROM Stan Allen
Old Warrior, Hu1-D 64-13736 Seeks Crew Members FROM Bill Spies
Dear Sirs FROM Jack Morrison
Dear Sirs FROM Rod Henson
Webmaster FROM Chris Kohl
VHPA Members


FEATURES:
Story of a Warrior BY Tara Dixon Engel
Doing the right thing pays your Heart Dividends! BY Paul Bartlett
Liz's Story... BY Liz Rick
The VHPA Needs a Few Good Men... BY Moon Mullins
Head Up Members BY Jim Fulbrook
UH-1 Retirement Ceremony at Ft. Myers BY Jim FUlbrook
Army Aviation Association of America Hosts Ceremony BY Michael J. Wheeler
Downed Pilots Endure 30 Minutes of Intensity Before Rescue BY Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Mills
Dinner at the Cattleman's BY Howard D. Horton
I Should Have Never Let Dusty Go On That Crappy Little Mission by Himself BY David Adams
Chief WOPA BY Dan Grigsby
Where Eagles Dared: Focke and Flettner's WWII German Helicopters BY Ken McElroy
We Return to the Battle of An Loc... BY R.D. Toms Jr.
Scholarship Awarded
Attention VHPA Members ~ Now is the Time! BY Mike Sheuerman


CHAPTER ACTIVITIES:
Fort Wolters chapter BY Pat Richardson
VHPA of Florida chapter BY Jim Basta
Rocky Mountain chapter BY Gary Hurelle
Southern California chapter BY Tom Crosby
North Carolina chapter BY J.D. Lawson
South Missouri chapter BY John Sorensen
Georgia chapter BY "Skip" Bell
Montana chapter BY Todd Brandoff
San Antonio chapter BY Jon Osborn
Washington State chapter BY Frank Jones


TAPS:
Alfredo Coy - Billy J. Slusher - Bryson Ernest Penny - David (Dusty) Rhodes - Gary Eugene Pidock - George Wilson Derrick - Howard M. Moore - James H. Brahney - James Howard (Lucky) Edwards - John Hodnett - Larry Carmichael - Lee Kohl - Lloyd Dennis Lessor - Michael A. Martin - Michael Wayne Haley - Orville Elmer Bilhofner - Ray L. Chase - Vincent Joseph LeDuc - Willard M. "Will" Bennett Jr. - William "Bill" Robert Menucci - William Harold "Bill" Miller - William Gregg Stegemann - Michael J. Novosel Jr. - Dennis R. Freeman - Richard Eugene Warren


BOOK REVIEWS:
Distant War BY John Penny
Centaurs in Vietnam BY John Penny
Volume: 28
Issue: 1
Item Creation Date: January/February 2010
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: General Files
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 22 Jan 2018 [Updated: 22 Feb 2018]
The VHPA Aviator (Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)) - Citrus Heights, California
Newsletter Item Number: 293Newsletter611113
[Number of Pages: 36]
FROM MIKE LAW, PRESIDENT OF THE VHPA BY Mike Law


FEATURES:
The 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion is Back on Active Duty BY Lewis J. McConnell
Retirement Ceremony fot the last Huey assigned to Fort Rucker BY Lawrence (Larry) Castagneto
The Wall That Heals BY Terry Garlock
Museum Activities continue to build through 2010-2011
"Why We Went" BY Charlie Gossett
US Army Special Operations Aviation Unit Activated BY Henry Cuningham
Helicopter Squadron 4 (HS4) sails into the sunset.... BY Robert Aguilar
The Vietnam Vet BY Michelle Riley Taylor
The VHPA visits the AAAA Convention in Nashville, Tennessee BY Christopher Horton
A Red Flag BY Randolph E. Crew
After Action Report - Smokey III is placed in the Smithsonian BY Al Watkins
Hall of Fame Inductee's



LETTERS:
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Gene, Spider Man, Franck
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Bob Mabey
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Bob Eustice
To the Members of the VHPA FROM Lanny Julian
To the Members of the VHPA FROM Andrew "Sam" Hover
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Neil Lee
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Mike Bergman
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Richard Deer
Gary Gluth FROM Ron Pepper
To Gary Roush, Author of the last issue's story about "Preserving Our Heritage" FROM A.H.T. Wilson
Gary Roush answered Tim with FROM Gary Roush
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator, I must share this with the VHPA membership FROM A.G. McEntire
To the Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Jerry R. Martin
To the Members of the VHPA FROM Doug DeMint
Dear Editor of the VHPA Aviator FROM Bob Thompson
Looking For....... Gary Gluth FROM Ron Pepper
Looking For - Anyone who might have known WOC James A. Godfrey Jr. FROM Edward W. Horton
Looking For - Gunship and Transport Pilots involved in "Nine Days in May" battles FROM Warren Wilkins
Looking For.... members of D Troop 229th FROM Nick "Animal" Nicolai
Looking For... Dustoff Pilot from 1969 FROM Rich Hoffman
Looking For... Information on a CH-37 Mohave Helicopter FROM Stewart W. Bailey
Looking For..... the widow of Glenn Peter Burns FROM Brian Foulkes
VHPA'ers in the News BY Ramon Antonio Vargas


TAPS:
Andrew Benton Banks, Jr. - Bertram Arthur Maas - Bobby G. "Bob" Franklin - Chuck Johnson Pickett - David Blinn McLean - David Sherman Crighton, Jr. - Edward McClellan Lowry - Edward G. Quinlan - Emil "Jack" Kleuver - Frederick G. Funk - George J. "Joe" Montgomery - Jack E. Hughes - Jerry Rawlings - Joe W. Hill - John Douglas "Doug" Perrin - John McKinley Wilson - John Kettlewell II - Joseph F. Rutkokski - Phillip Moore Lee - Michael D. Pierce - Richard C. Warren - Robert Douglas McWilliam - Ronald H. Lilly - Roy J. Lowery - Tom Buckley - Theodore W. "Ted" Pratt - William John Derus - William Thomas Hargrove, Sr.


CHAPTER ACTIVITIES:
The Alamo chapter BY Chuck Oualline, Bob Dillon
Fort Rucker chapter BY Roscoe V. Souders
Georgia chapter BY Skip Bell
New England chapter BY Bill Williams
Southern California chapter BY Carl Cortez
South Carolina (Celebrate Freedom) chapter BY Larry Russell
South Dakota chapter BY Harold Pardew
Washington State chapter BY Doug Decker, Mark Hansen
North Alabama chapter BY Jim White
North Carolina chapter BY J.D. Lawson
Virginia chapter BY Ben Gay
Central New York chapter BY Jack Salm
Hawaii chapter BY Don Harlor
Montana chapter BY Todd Brandoff
Rocky Mountain chapter of the VHPA BY Ed Fickes
South Missouri chapter BY John Sorenson
Louisiana Gulf Coast chapter BY Phil Nuss


BOOK REVIEWS:
Crusader 23, I'd Rather Be Lucky Than Good BY John Penny
Before the Memories Fade BY John Penny
The Rise and Fall of Captain Methane: Autobiography of a Maverick BY John Penny
Wind Loggers BY John Penny
Volume: 29
Issue: 4
Item Creation Date: July/August 2011
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: General Files
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 22 Jan 2018 [Updated: 22 Jan 2018]
The VHPA Aviator (Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)) - Citrus Heights, California
Newsletter Item Number: 293Newsletter611115
[Number of Pages: 40]
FROM MIKE LAW, PRESIDENT OF THE VHPA BY Mike Law


FEATURES:
Returning Fire: In the Beginning BY James W. "Pete" Booth
Let's Smoke on this... "Why We Went" BY Charlie Gossett
Christmas Day 1967
More than a Gunship Pilot...... BY Joseph M. Sheridan
VHPA'ers in the News BY Patrick Brady
Christmas Trick or Treat, thanks to some beautiful Australian girls... BY Bob Potvin
Christmas of 1966 with the 25th Infantry Division BY Benjamin R. Crabtree
Walt Winters recognized by the FAA
Another Close Call BY Robert C. Scarbrough
Eighteen VHPA Applicants Receive Scholarships From AAAA BY Mike Sheuerman
Welcome to the VHPA!
VHPA Membership Numbers Really Growing....... BY Mike Sheuerman
Chapter Six - My friendship with Bob Hope BY Ron Miller


LETTERS:
Dear David FROM John M. Schmidt
To the Editor of the VHPA in response for your request for Christmas in Vietnam stories... FROM Arthur Nussel
Looking for pilots on a mission in May of 1968 FROM Lloyd Crowl
Looking For pilots flying from Bearcat in 1968-70 FROM Eugene (Gene) Hansen
Looking for anyone knowing CWO Paul Rasmussen FROM Julie (Rasmussen) Osina


REUNION:
It's New Orleans - you're different there! BY Gary Roush


TAPS:
Charles D. Perriguey - Conrad "Buz" Keister - David Franklin Bunting - Donald C. Gray - Donald Lee Nichols - Donald Wayne Pickens - Douglas Scott - Dwight L. Lorenz - Edward A. Parnell - Frank Joseph Daniel Vassett - Gary Aus - Gary E. Lott - Glenn M. Erbaugh - Harry F. Pellett - Jack Harlan Carpenter - James "Jim" Riovo - James Snyder - Jimmy Dale "Jim" Helm - Jimmie Mitchell - John Anthony "Tony" Musci - John E. Pirkle - John G. Daneker - Ronald Ehmann - Kenneth Linville - John M. Stoen - Kenneth Francis Wilson - Leon Sidney Skeen - Martin Walker - Otis R. Key - Richard C. Brunell Jr. - Richard Michael Levy - Robert "Bob" Everett Durie - Ronald F. Young Jr. - Ronald R. Garner - Ronald Gordon "Rock" Rhoades - Richard Dean Baker - Thomas Daniel Casey - Thomas William Moritz - Floyd Ray Burchett


CHAPTER ACTIVITIES:
California chapter north BY Ken Fritz
Central New York chapter BY Tom McMillen
Fort Rucker chapter BY Roscoe Souders
Fort Wolters chapter BY Mike Sheuerman
Georgia chatper BY Skip Bell
Louisiana Gulf Coast chapter BY Vic Lent
Mid-South chapter BY Pete Norman IV
Montana chapter BY Todd Brandoff
New England chapter BY Bill Williams
North Alabama chapter BY Jim White
North Carolina chapter BY J.D. Lawson
Ohio River LZ chapter BY Jim Miller
Southern California chapter BY Sven Akesson
South Missouri chapter BY Russ Emory
South Carolina (Celebrate Freedom) chapter BY Larry Russell
VHPA of Florida chapter BY Jim Basta, Gary Harrell
Washington State chapter BY Mark Hansen
Volume: 29
Issue: 6
Item Creation Date: November/December 2011
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: General Files
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 24 Jan 2018 [Updated: 22 Feb 2018]
Aviation, Army Lineage Series - U.S. Army Center of Military History - Book
Document Item Number: 2930606001
[Number of Pages: 206]
Item Creation Date: 1986
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection: General Files
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 15 Aug 2019 [Updated: 19 Aug 2019]
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Helicopter Primary Flight Training Manual - United States Army Primary Helicopter School
Document Item Number: 4030515001
[Number of Pages: 148]
Item Creation Date: 01 July 1966
Collection: Chuck Carlock Collection
Association: Rattler/Firebird Association
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Added: 04 Dec 2024 [Updated: 06 Jan 2025]
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Attitude Instrument Flying - Department of the Army - Technical Manual
Document Item Number: 4030208003
[Number of Pages: 88]
Item Creation Date: December 1958
Collection: Chuck Carlock Collection
Association: Rattler/Firebird Association
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Added: 28 Sep 2023 [Updated: 29 Sep 2023]
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Old Warriors (145th Comat Aviation Battalion (Vietnam) Association)
Newsletter Item Number: 2336Newsletter611217
[Number of Pages: 32]
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR BY James L. Bodkin


FEATURES:
145th Combat Aviation Battalion 1991 Reunion and Schedule
Battalion History: June 1966 to November 1967
Financial Report
New People Located List
Issue: 17
Item Creation Date: April 1991
Collection: Larry Leonard Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
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Added: 30 Mar 2018 [Updated: 06 Apr 2018]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
1997 Calendar, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) - Widow Maker
Document Item Number: 20080204001
[Number of Pages: 28]
Table of Contents
Front Cover Photo – An Ah-1G Cobra from the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry. Late 1971. This photo belongs to VHCMA member Donivan Earhart. From 1970 to 1972, Donivan was at Pgu Loi and during his spare time setup a camera in POL (the refuel point). The name “Bill” is on the helmet of the pilot in the backseat and we think CPT Billy Johnson is the front seater because of the distinctive helmet. The white stenciling near the rear canopy reads AC CPT P.E. LE?? And CE SP4 ?HITCH???. The XM134 minigun nearest the camera in the turret, could fire 2,000 or 4,000 rounds per minute. Up to 4,000 rounds for this gun could be stored in the ammo compartment marked by the crossed sabers. The XM28 40mm grenade launcher or “chunker”, on the right in the turret, fired at 450 rounds per minute. Up to 300 rounds could be stored for this weapon. The M158 and M200 rocket launchers on the wing carried seven and 19 2.75” rockets. The exact date this picture was taken is not known. ACT/11th ACR was based at Phu Loi and pilots from that period believe “Widow Maker” stood down with the unit in early 1972.

January
A Pink Team Taking a Day Off
An AH-1G and an OH-6A from the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. During 1971. This photo belongs to VHCMA member Donivan Earhart who was at Phu Loi from 1970 until 1972. From about 1968 on, Air Cavalry tactics were based on a team of one or more Scouts in OH-6As and one or more Guns in AH-1Gs. The Scouts were called “Red Birds,” “6s,” “LOHs,” “Little Birds,” “Low Birds” and even “White Birds” by various troops. The Guns were called “White Birds,” “Snakes,” “Cobras,” “High Birds,” “Bad Birds,” and even “Red Birds.” The term “Pink Team” was very popular and meant some mix of Red and White Birds. A “Heavy Pink” had at least one extra Cobra.

February
A UH-34D from HMM-163. Early 1964. This photo was donated by VHPA member Dan Ross, who flew with HMM-361 during the SHUFLY Era. SHUFLY was the code name of the USMC helicopter support operations in Vietnam that began in April 1962, when HMM-362 moved into Soc Trang. The exact date and location this picture was taken is not known and neither is the owner. This photo has been a favorite with Marine helicopter pilots for years and appeared on the cover of the 1991 VHPA Directory. The Sikorsky-built HUS was first delivered to the Marines in 1957 as a utility version of the Navy HSS developed for anti-submarine duties. In 1962 the Department of Defense changed the name to UH-34, but to Marines all over the world the slang word HUSS stood for the reliability, simplicity and capability of this legend. Before the last one was delivered in 1964, the Marine Corps had received over 540 of this type. At the height of the Vietnam War when its more-sophisticated cousins were grounded periodically for technical problems, or when a ground unit absolutely needed assistance, the radio would say: “Give me a HUSS!”

March
Cheap Thrills
An OH6A from the 11th Armored Cavalry. During 1971. This photo belongs to VHCMA member Donivan Earhart who was at Phu Loi from 1970 until 1972. “The Blackhorse Regiment” came to Vietnam in September 1966 with 51 tanks, 296 armored personnel carriers, 18 self-propelled 155mm howitzers, nine flame-throwers and 48 helicopter. There was an aviation platoon in the headquarters with 10 aircraft and each of the three cavalry squadrons had four more (two OH-6As and two Hueys). With the passenger seat installed in the aft compartment, “Cheap Thrills” most likely belonged to one of these units versus the Air Cavalry Troop. The OH-6As were used for courier, C&C (command and control) and scout missions. The passenger is not wearing a flight helmet in this picture, so this might be a courier mission. The names stenciled in white read AC Cpt H…tt and CE Sp 5 Fa…. In all the US Army lost 954 OH-6As during the war.

April
Extracting the Apache Blues
Hueys from A Troop, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, landing in a pickup zone near Tay Ninh. April 1970. This photo was taken by Art Dockter from the fourth ship in the Aero Rifle Platoon and was donated by Kregg P.J. Jorgenson, author of Acceptable Loss, published by Ivy Books. Each of the 28 Air Cavalry Troops that served in Vietnam was a miniature self-contained, combined-arms team. Besides a maintenance platoon and the headquarters section, each troop had 10 Scouts and nine Gunships, plus five Lift helicopter for the 22 men in the Rifle platoon. Most Air Cav Troops called their Rifle platoon “The Blues” because that is the color of the Infantry Branch. Kregg served with the Blues and Art was a doorgunner in A/1/9th CAV, whose members called themselves the Apaches. Inserting and extracting Infantry units was Job One for many helicopter crews in Vietnam, but there are surprisingly few good pictures of these operations.

May
One Red Dog
An OH-58 from the 11th Combat Aviation Battalion. During 1971. This photo belongs to VHCMA member Donivan Earhart. From 1970 to 1972 he was at Phu Loi, and during his spare time set up a camera at the refuel point. The aviation detachments within the Signal, Engineer, and Field Artillery units were the first to receive the 58 during 1970. It replaced their OH-6As which were needed by Air Cavalry units. Because the 58 required only a one-man crew and comfortable carried four passengers, it soon bacem the aerial equivalent to the jeep. The 58 also replaced the Huey in the aviation sections of aviation battalions. This picture clearly shows the 1st Aviation Brigade shoulder patch on the pilot (wearing a flight helmet) and passenger (not wearing a helmet). The 11th CAB came to Vietnam in 1965 and supported the 1st Infantry Division plus other II FFV units. “Red Dog” was its radio callsign. Obviously someone within the 11th CAB had a sense of humor and could paint cartoon characters!

June
This is DMZ Dustoff
A UH-1H from the 237th Medical Detachment (Helicopter Ambulance). About June 1969. This photo was donated by VHPA member Phil Marshall, who was flying in this very aircraft, #66-17626, for the 237th Med the night he was wounded. This photo appeared in the 1993 VHPA Directory. The exact date and location this picture was taken are not known and the name of the professional photographer who took it is not known. MAJ Don Hull, the CO of the 237th, was the Aircraft Commander and the Crewchief was John D. Tyler. The co-pilot and medic are not known. The 237th used the radio callsign “DMZ Dustoff” because they were the northern-most Army medevac unit. Note the bomb just exploding on the left in the tree line and the blur of the “fast mover” (jet aircraft) climbing out of the valley. Note also the medic has left the ship and is helping the grunts with their wounded friends. This Huey does not have even one skid on the ground – just hanging there rock-solid for minute after tense minute. Not long after the picture was taken a machine gun opened up from the tree line but was silenced by some gunships. On 27 April 1970, this aircraft crashed into the sea near Da Nang and only the co-pilot survived. This photo is “classic DUSTOFF.”

July
Comin’ Hot
The Weapons System Sight Reticle as seen by the pilot in the back seat of an AH-1G. Late 1968. This photo belongs to VHPA member Jack Dale Jordan and was taken in 1968 near Happy Valley in northeastern II Corps. Jack flew with the 361st Aviation (Escort) Company from Pleiku. This gun sight was used to fire the weapon systems mounted on the stubby wings on each side of the Cobra. After pulling the trigger on the cyclic, the next thing you heard was “FROSSH” as the rockets left the tubes, or “GRRRRR” from the mini-guns. Almost instantaneously you saw the white exhaust trails from the rocket motors or what seemed like a red-golden rod formed by the tracers streaking towards the target. The hundreds of guys who flew and fought from the back seat of a Snake should remember this picture all too well!! Generally, “Comin’ Hot!” was a nice way to tell others on the radio that you were firing.

August
A New Black Cat Super Hook
A CH-47 “Super C” Chinook from the 213th Aviation (Assault Support Helicopter) Company. About 1971. This photo belongs to VHCMA member Donivan Earhart. From 1970 to 1972, Donivan was a Crewchief for the Blackcats at Phu Loi and was asked by the company leadership to take this picture of a newly-new “Super C” they had just received. SGT ???, the Crewchief, is clearly visible wearing a headset at the front window. All C models had the distinctive square shape to the aft part of the rear pylon, plus bigger and longer blades than the earlier models. The “Super C” had more powerful engines than the “Small C.” Naturally, the pilots preferred the more powerful model because they could really get the work done, but had to be careful not to overstress the drive train with these engines. For a while, the #2 engine had a harmonic problem that caused the turbine blades to come apart, which severed hydraulics lines and caused a fire. There must have been great peace of mind for these crews – knowing that not only were the bad guys against you, but you could actually catch fire and die all by yourself!! Still, most everyone enjoyed flying the “Super C” because they were low-time machines.

September
Refueling a Taipan ‘Hog’
A UH-1C from the 135th Aviation (Assault Helicopter) Company. About September 1970. This photo belongs to VHCMA member Donivan Earhart. From 1970 to 1972, Donivan was at Phu Loi, and during his spare time set up a camera at the refuel point. Traditionally, the 3d platoon in an AHC contained armed helicopters and used a different radio callsign from the transport helicopters in the 1st and 2d platoons. The 135th’s guns were Taipans and their slicks were Emus. The Charlie Model was an extremely popular gunship because of its power, speed, and its doorgunners. The distinctive features of the UH-1C are the cambered shaped of the tail rotor pylon and the “540” rotor head with a wider blade. Taipan 31 is armed with the XM200 launcher full of 2.75-inch rockets with 17 lb. high explosive warheads. To put this warhead in perspective, it had more destructive capability than a 105mm howitzer round! The rocket pod was big and heavy, hence the name “Hog.” The helicopter once had a “thumper” (a M-5 40mm grenade launcher) mounted in the nose. The small rectangular covers on the battery compartment door mark where that weapon system was. The names on the pilot doors read AC Smith and CE Jackson. It might be possible to date this picture because the 135th lived at Bear Cat (not far from Phu Loi) until about October 1970, when they moved to Dong Tam. The 135th was unique among all Army AHCs because about one-third of its personnel were Australian. The Australians’ hard-working, fun-loving attitude always was appreciated by the Americans.

October
One Purple Fox
A CH-46D Sea Knight from HMM-364 at Duc Pho. November 1970. This photo is owned by VHPA member Fred Thompson who took a lot of good pictures while flying for the Army in I Corps. This picture was taken at the refuel point at Duc Pho. The Marine Corps acquired the Boeing Vertol-built CH-46 as the turbine-powered replacement for the venerable UH-34. The A model was first delivered to operational squadrons in June 1964. HMM-164 brought 27 CH-46As to Marble Mountain, Vietnam, on 8 March 1966. On 28 October 1967, HMM-364, officially known as the PURPLE FOXes, was denoted by the white circle around the fox head on the rear pylon. This aircraft has the same emblem painted on the front pylon immediately over the windshields. The PURPLE FOXes stayed in Vietnam until March 1971.

November
Another Seawolf Lift Off
A Navy UH-1B Seawolf from Helicopter Attack (Light) Squadron Three. November 1967. This is official U.S. Navy photo number 1129035 and was donated by Philip Chinnery, a British aviation author and friend of the VHPA. This photo appeared in his book, Vietnam: The Helicopter War, published by the Naval Institute Press and in the 1993 VHPA Directory. HA(L)-3 was born during the summer of 1966 to provide armed helicopter support for the River Patrol Boats. The UH-1B Hueys came from the Army, which also provided some initial crew training and logistical support. Ultimately, nine detachments based on ships and air fields covered III and IV Corps. On a nice day without much ammo and fuel, flying off a ship in a B Model would be easy. Think about doing it at night or in some rotten weather, when you are armed to the teeth, to go help someone in real trouble….

December
Chalk 2’s View Going to Work!
A UH-1H from B Troop 7th Squadron 17th Cavalry. About December 1969. This photo belongs to VHPA member Doug Stenberg and was taken from the second ship during a morning flight from Ban Me Thuot to Bu Prang in southwestern II Corps. The traditional names for the positions within a formation flight of troop transport helicopters were “lead” for the first ship, “Chalk 2” for the second, “Chalk 3” for the third, and so on. Even though the war and sometimes the weather was ugly, you did not have to fly in Vietnam very long to see something beautiful. Listening to Armed Forces Vietnam on the AM radio, joking with the guys in your crew, flying with some great friends, sipping a little warm coffee, seeing the sun just coming up, looking at some pretty white clouds, marveling at the endless shades of green below, watching the seemingly-peaceful countryside go by – remember the good times? Luckily Doug has a picture of one of his!

Two Purple Foxes
Two CH-46D Sea Knights from HMM-364 at LZ 401 Recon pad. 1971. This photo is owned by VHPA member Doug Orahood who flew for HMM-364. LZ 401 was the recon pad at Da Nang. Those who flew from Da Nang will certainly remember the hills in the immediate area, especially on bad weather days. The Sea Knights had 50 cal doorguns and their crewchiefs spent a lot of their time leaning out of the window. HMM-364 had three tours in Vietnam: with UH-34s from 1 Feb until 30 Jun 64 and from Sep 65 until Dec 66 for 578 days and with CH-46s from 28 Oct 67 until Mar 71 for 1221 days.
Item Creation Date: 1997
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
 (Click For More Item Information)
Added: 23 Apr 2018 [Updated: 23 Apr 2018]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
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1995 Calendar, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) - The Long Green Line
Document Item Number: 20080202001
[Number of Pages: 28]
Table of Contents
Front Cover Photo – “It’s dawn in the central highlands of Vietnam. The air is heavy with the smell of rain and moist vegetation. The thunder of a passing monsoon rumbles through the mist-shrouded valley as a scouting platoon arrives on a rocky outcropping. Soon, however, the tranquility of this seemingly pastoral setting is shattered by a new thunder – the sound of a long, green line of UH-1 Iroquois helicopters (Huey) winding down the valley to a landing zone. The “Huey” was the chosen vehicle for U.S. Army’s Air Cavalry. It served as a troop transport, provided armed support and was used for casualty evacuation.” William S. Phillips, himself a veteran, painted this as a tribute to the men who served in Vietnam and to the machines they flew.

January
Medina Medevac
A Ch-34D from HMM-361 (Flying Tigers). 13 Oct 1967. This drawing was recently rendered by VHPA member A. Michael Leahy from photos he took during this mission. C Co 1/1 Marines sustained 39 WIAs (wounded in action) in an encounter with the North Vietnamese Army during operation MEDINA. Here we see a crew from HMM-361 delivering C rations and ammunition prior to picking up the wounded in a zone in the Hai Lang forest about 15 kilometers south southwest of Quang Tri. Mike served as helicopter crew chief and pilot during the Korean and two tours in Vietnam as a helicopter pilot and combat artist. Mike has interviewed several pilots and airman that flew for HMM-361 on this day. One is VHPA member Roger Herman. In recent years Roger has worked tirelessly for the USMC Vietnam Helicopter Pilots and Aircrew Reunion organization which has had several extremely successful reunion. Mike is a faithful supporter of both the VHPA and USMC Vietnam Helicopter Pilots and Aircrew Reunion. Mike has a fine collection of USMC Vietnam Era helicopter drawings; some customized for every Marine Corps helicopter squadron that served in Vietnam.

February
A Super Jolly Green Giant
A CH-53C from the 37st Air Rescue and Recovery Squadron (ARRS). Late 1969. This photo belongs to VHPA member Bill Byrd and came to the VHPA via Philip Chinnery, the author VIETNAM, The Helicopter War, and a good friend of the VHPA. Besides flying CH-53s for the US Air Force, Bill was also one of the PIOs (public information officers) for the 37st ARRS. It comes as no surprise that Bill has a rather impressive collection of photos. The USAF CH-53B and later C models were close cousins to the US Navy and Marine Corps CH-53 Sea Stallion and shared many components with the US Army CH-54 Skycrane. The USAF CH-53Cs were powered by two 3,435 shp General Electric T64 engines. With the two auxiliary jettisonable 450 gallon fuel tanks and its internal tanks, the CH-53 could fly about 800 miles without refueling. It was well suited to leave bases in Thailand and Vietnam for missions over Laos and North Vietnam. Like the HH-3 it replaced the CH-53 had the air refueling capability as a standard feature. It is safe to say that those who flew other types of helicopters in Vietnam would have loved to have this feature! If you flew in a helicopter in Vietnam, you should remember the seemingly endless variety of greens in the landscape. Bill’s photo provides this statement!

March
The Ride Back
Two UH-1Hs from the 176th Aviation (Assault Helicopter) Company. May 1969. This painting was rendered by Sam Lyons, Jr. from several photos owned by VHPA member Ken Fritz. Ken was Minuteman 17 with the 176th AHC based at Chu Lai. He took the pictures while hauling some 11th Infantry Brigade troops back to LZ Fat City, their base camp. The 176th arrived in Vietnam on 20 Feb 1967 and served with the 14th Combat Aviation Battalion until standing down on 10 Nov 1971. The 176th was part of Task Force OREGON which became the 23d Infantry Division (AMERICAL). Sam’s painting was issued as a limited edition print in late 1993 and captures the feelings of many a dirty, hungry, exhausted grunt who gladly enjoyed an air conditioned ride back to the base camp. It also captures a moment in the lives of those who crewed a Huey. The Ride Back is copyrighted by Sam Lyons, Jr. and reproduced with his permission.

April
Inserting the Infantry
A squad from the Rifle Platoon, B Troop, 1st Squadron, 9th Air Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division dismount a UH-1D. 24 Apr 1967. This famous photo has graced book covers and appeared in many Vietnam publications. It is an official U.S. Army photo taken by SSG Howard C. Breedlove. It was taken on a hill top about three kilometers west of Duc Pho in Quang Ngai Province during Operation OREGON, a search and destroy mission. This picture “says it all” for many an infantryman and many an aircrew member. A pile of rocks on the spin of a ridge in I Corps. Naturally, the winds are always tricky during pinnacle operations and you are completely silhouetted for the enemy gunners. Single ship and don’t even think about putting a skid on the ground. Sounds like the ideal place to land a helicopter or roll down the slope in a ball of fire with a few of your closest friends.

May
PEDRO
A U.S. Air Force HH-43B from the Det 3, 40th ARRS at Ubon Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand. May 1974. This photo belongs to VHPA member Tuck Kemper. The HH-43 Husky was manufactured by Kaman Rotor Works. In Southeast Asia it was used almost exclusively for air rescue of downed aircrews. Its unique sombrero shaped rotor system was especially well suited for a local base rescue where they used the PEDRO radio call sign. With no tail rotor, and a main rotor system tilted aft 15 degrees and each pylon tilted laterally 7 ½ degrees, the Husky was able to hover into a downed, burning aircraft and blow the flames away from advancing rescue personnel. It could also be in the air in 45 seconds after the stand-by crew climbed in. Years before automatic flight stabilization systems were introduced, the Husky could sustain a very stable hover because it had no horizontal torque. It was a powerful aircraft for its size; indeed, it once held the world load/altitude record with 3,000 lbs. at 26,000 feet. It was developed before hydraulics were used in helicopters, so it had the unique characteristics of vibrating the cyclic about 1 to 2 inches fore and aft. A lot of guys are growing old naturally today because Charlie Kaman built one fine helicopter many years ago!!

June
A Helping Crane
An Army CH-54A recovers an Air Force HH-3. Date unknown. This photo belongs to VHPA member Bill Byrd and came to the VHPA via Philip Chinnery, the author of VIEtNAM, The Helicopter War, and a good friend of the VHPA. The CH-54A was powered by two Pratt and Whitney JFTD12A-1 turbine engines, each capable of producing 4,500 take-off horse power. With more powerful engines and without the large fuselage found on the USMC CH-53s and USAF HH-53s, the US Army CH-54A was correctly labeled the Sky Crane. The USAF HH-3, Jolly Green Giant, belonged to the 37th Air Rescue and Recovery Squadron (ARRS). This picture may have been taken in Laos because the makings on the crane do not match any of the three CH-54A companies that were based in Vietnam. However, the 478th Aviation Company, which covered I Corps, often sent a bird to Laos to provide heavy lift support. During these missions they were instructed to wear civilian clothes and act like a civilian contractor. Right!! To this day we are certain these instructions completely fooled the North Vietnamese.

July
A Super C Chinook
A CH-47C Chinook from the 213th Aviation (Assault Support Helicopter) Company. About 1971. This photo belongs to VHCMA member Donivan Earhart. From 1970 to 1972, Donivan was a crewchief for the Black Cats at Phu Loi. All C models had the distinctive flat back end to the aft part of the rear pylon plus bigger and longer blades than the earlier models. The CH-47C was developed in response to an Army requirement calling for a helicopter capable of transporting a 15,000 lb. sling load at 4,000 feet over 30 nm radius on a 95 degree day. The CH-47C had a usable gross weight of 46,000 lbs., could hover with a 22-981 lb. pay load at sea level or carry 15,775 lbs. at 4,000 feet on a 95 degree day. In Vietnam, the C model had twice the performance of the A model. VHPA’s aircraft databases show that aircraft 18515 did not have an easy tour. On 12 Dec 1969 one of aft blades struck a steel antenna tower and the aircraft landed on a row of concertina wire. The engineer stakes that held the wire punctured the aircraft’s belly but no one was hurt. On 10 March 1970, while setting down a sling load a sandbag went through the rotor system and damaged one forward blade. On 6 May 1970, while taking off from an LZ a mortar round exploded near the aircraft and one crew member was wounded. On 8 July 1970 it was involved in a minor accident but the details are not known. This aircraft may well have departed Vietnam with the 213th ASHC on 31 Mar 1972.

August
Plantation Lightship
A UH-1H from the 117th Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter). August 1970. This photo belongs to VHPA member Bob Hamilton who flew for the 117th AHC from May, 1970 until May, 1971. This Huey is on the stand-by pad at the Plantation airstrip, just outside of Bien Hoa as part of a “Night Hawk” team. It has a cluster of seven C-130 landing lights, a mini-gun mounted on one side and a 50 caliber machine-gun on the other. The 117th flew “Night Hawk” with the lightship flying lead and low level (about 100 foot AGL at about 70 knots) followed by a set of gunships. The light cluster could be focused to about a 100 foot square or to cover a large area. Anyone caught in the spot light usually died in the next few seconds. Almost everyone that served in Vietnam has memories of some marvelous incandescent sunsets; certainly Bob’s photo has to be ranked near the top!

September
A Deuce in Action
A CH-37C from MAG-16 recovers a UH-34D. Oct 1965. This is official U.S. Marine Corps photo A186125. This aircraft originally came to the Marines Corps in the early 1950s named the HR2S (Helicopter Transport #2 from Sikorsky). The “2” designation became the base for the nickname “Deuce” even when the Department of Defense officially named it the CH-37C “Mohave”. This huge helicopter’s five main rotor blades swept a 72 foot diameter and the fuselage was 55.5 feet long. It was powered by two Pratt & Whitney R-2800-54 piston engines that generated 2,100 bhp for take-off. The Marine CH-37Cs had special features for ship-borne operations (e.g. a rotor brake and a main rotor blade folding mechanism) that the Army CH-37Bs did not have. A Deuce detachment arrived in Vietnam about 1 Sep 1965 and on the 12th recovered their first UH-34D for HMM-263 eight miles southwest of Da Nang. The Deuce’s normal 6.673 lb. payload capability was reduced because it had to hover our of ground effect to lift a UH-34 from a zone or crash site. So one Deuce recovered the transmission and rotor head while a second retrieved the fuselage. The UH-34 squadrons had long since developed a QEC (Quick Engine Change) capability; so we can assume they pulled the engine from the fuselage first. In all about six to nine CH-37Cs served in Vietnam and all were assigned to H&MS-16 as part of MAG-16 based at Da Nang. The last operational “Deuce” flight in Vietnam was made on 14 May 1967 and by that June there were none listed in the active Marine Corps inventory.

October
Goooooood Morning Vietnam!
A full prep of mini gun fire and rockets from a UH-1C prior to an air assault. October 1967. This photo is owned by VHPA member Al DeMailo, Smiling Tiger 21, who was the aircraft commander of the UH-1C from the 2nd Platoon, D Company, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Air Cavalry Division (Airmobile). The dissipating gray smoke is from artillery and ARA (aerial rocket artillery). The white smoke is from a white phosphorous (also known as willie pete) artillery round, indicating that it is the last one fired for this mission. Note the C&C (command and control) ship near the top right of the smoke. The gray explosions on the right are Al’s impacting rockets. The tracers are from the mini guns, a 7.62 mm electrically fired gattling gun. It was not uncommon to do a full prep air assault four to eight times a day in the 1st Cav. This picture was taken prior to the first assault of the day as indicated by the rising fog and low clouds. Sometimes during the LZ preps a 229th pilot would come up on the UHF radio and announce to the flight “GOOOOOOOD MORNING VIETNAM!”

November
This is Red 15
An OH-6A from C/7/17 Cav. November 1968. This photo is owned by VHPA member John Kawa who deployed to Camp Enari, Vietnam with C Troop in June, 1968 and flew Scouts until December when he joined the 170th AHC. During this period, C Troop flew “2 on 2” (two OH-6A LOHs (Light Observation Helicopter) as a low level Scout team covered by two AH-1G gunships). The Scouts used the radio call sign RED plus a number. The Scout leader’s aircraft was configured for a pilot and an observer/crewchief/gunner in the front and another observer/gunner in the rear compartment. The wingman’s ship mounted a mini-gun in lieu of the second observer/gunner. Many a great scout pilot preferred to fly wing because he had the mini-gun advantage during a shoot-out. Air Cavalry LOHs were war birds in the truest sense. If you could walk over and look inside this ship you’d find so much ammunition and smoke grenades that you’d swear it couldn’t fly! For sure there’d be a case of every type of grenade available at the time! The LOHs flew right on the trees and hovered down trails looking for the enemy. Many times they found enemy camps by smelling their cooking areas. Tear Gas and White Phosphorous grenades as well as their machine guns and the mini-gun were especially usefully when working a bunker complex.

December
First in Vietnam
Three CH-21C Shawnees from the 57th Transportation Company (Light Helicopter) Circa 1962. This photo is owned by Philip Chinnery the author of VIETNAM, The Helicopter War, and a good friend of the VHPA. The Army obtained 334 CH-21Cs from Piasecki Helicopter that became Vertol Aircraft and eventually a division of Boeing. Its piston engine was rated at 1,425 hp. The wooden blades swept a 44 foot diameter. With a gross weight of 14,700 lbs. and a useful load of 4,700 lbs., the Flying Banana was also known as the Workhorse. The 8th and 57th Transportation Companies (Light Helicopter) arrived in Vietnam on 11 Dec 1961 with 32 CH-21Cs. The 33rd, 81st, and 93rd Transportation Companies soon followed. These five companies were the only CH-21 units to serve in Vietnam. The only records the VHPA has for aircraft 62061 indicate it belonged to the 57th TC and later the 120th AVN Company. It was involved in a minor accident on 2 Dec 1963. During the summer of 1963 the CH-21 companies were redesignated Aviation Companies and started receiving Hueys to replace their CH-21s. The CH-21s were still flying combat missions as late as June 1964.

Heading Home
An AH-1G from C/7/17 Cav. December 1968. This photo is owned by VHPA member Jim Cunningham who frequently flew in the Command and Control (C&C) Huey for C Troop during the last half of 1968. In early 1969 he joined the 155th AHC. While on he way home to Camp Enari one evening, Jim took this picture out the door of the Huey at the lead Cobra passing one of the mountains in the Kontum – Dak To area. Jim has been a faithful VHPA member for a number of years and some time back sent a copy of this picture to the VHPA. It is such a good picture that it really needed to be used. The Newsletter Editor sent it to the Directory Committee saying that it was just too beautiful to be included in a black and white Newsletter. Jim’s picture finally found a home in the VHPA Calendar.
Item Creation Date: 1995
Collection: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) Collection
Association: Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)
 (Click For More Item Information)
Added: 20 Apr 2018 [Updated: 03 Apr 2019]
Item is Copyrighted – Check for access via the Vietnam Reading Room portal.
View all documents in this Folder : Box : Collection
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