Texas Tech University

Vietnam Home Movies: The True Story of Major Alfred Demailo and "The Smiling Tigers"

Moving Image Item Number: 069VI3772
Media Type
Moving Image
Physical Location
Stacks D27.5B
Copyright Statement
Item is copyrighted
Number of Media
1
Language(s)
English
Format
VHS
Digitized in HD?
No
Dates
Creation: 01 January 1989
General Note
My name is Major Alfred Demailo. I piloted a UH1 Huey Helicopter Gunship with Delta 229th Assault Helicopter Company in the 1st Cavalry Division during my two tours of duty in Vietnam.
Vietnam the way it was is my story – told in my own words and with the 8mm film I took during my years in Nam. It is my personal diary of a most unforgettable time in my life.
I flew hundreds of missions every week – sometimes non-stop for twelve straight hours. We called ourselves “The Smiling Tigers” and we were a tough group of guys.
Climb aboard my helicopter and watch me put the ‘wazoo’ on the enemy. Look down a rocket sight on a search and destroy mission. Follow me on a scary air strike through thick clouds. Feel the rough ride during the rainy season as my door-gunner ‘hoses down’ the jungle below. Meet the men who fought with me as we relax during a rare lull in the action.
This is my personal film diary – my tribute to the thousands of brave men and women who fought along side me in Vietnam. Thank you for letting me share my story with you.
Major Alfred Demailo

Perma Link
https://www.vietnam.ttu.edu/virtualarchive/items.php?item=069VI3772

Citation
Vietnam Home Movies: The True Story of Major Alfred Demailo and "The Smiling Tigers", 069VI3772. No Date, Richard (Dick) Detra Collection, Vietnam Center and Sam Johnson Vietnam Archive, Texas Tech University, https://www.vietnam.ttu.edu/virtualarchive/items.php?item=069VI3772, Accessed 26 Jan 2026.

Pub Credit Line
069VI3772, Richard (Dick) Detra Collection, Vietnam Center and Sam Johnson Vietnam Archive, Texas Tech University

Added: 24 Jul 2018 [Updated: 20 Jan 2026]