Scope and Contents

Less than a quarter of a linear foot of materials documenting Marty Nelson's U.S. Army service as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. The materials include U.S. Army Primary Helicopter School and U.S. Army Aviation School Element graduation ceremony programs, clippings, periodicals, and a Chieu Hoi toiletry kit. The materials are dated 1968-1970.

Biographical / Historical

Martin E. Nelson was born in 1945 in Rockford, Illinois. He volunteered for the United States Army in 1967. He served for 25 years and spent one year in Southeast Asia from 1969-1970 in B Company, 228th Assault Support Helicopter Battalion, 1st Cavalry. Nelson was stationed in Bear Cat III Corps as a Captain and helicopter pilot for Chinooks CH-47's. He was involved in a Cambodia Operation from May to June 1970. Nelson received multiple awards including air medals, a bronze star, and a distinguished flying cross. In 1992 he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. Since his service Nelson has been self-employed and is a member of the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association.