11 December 1961 To 2 April 1972

During 1961 a general survey of the situation throughout Vietnam was
made by General Maxwell Taylor, President Kennedy's military advisor. One
item which he emphasized in his report was the lack of mobility of the ARVN
troops.
To correct the situation, orders were sent to the 8th and 57th
Transportation Companies (Light Helicopter) in the Fall of 1961 to deploy
to Vietnam. Both units were equipped with Piasecki 21 Shawnee helicopters
(Flying Banana).
Early November found the officers and men of the 8th and 57th
Transportation Companies starting to think about Thanksgiving and Christmas
leaves. Little did they realize that Thanksgiving would be spent on the
Pacific Ocean and Christmas would be a sacred moment or two in South
Vietnam, crammed between maintenance and missions. When the flag went up
and the order to move was received, the procedures were old hat.
Inspections, checks, allotments etc., were more or less routine.
In four days, one hundred percent of all TO&E aircraft were flyable
and ready to depart. At 1000 hours, 6 November 1961, twenty H-21's from the
57th Trans Co. departed Gray Field, Fort Lewis, Washington for Stockton,
California. At 1900 hours, 8 November 1961, twenty Helicopters arrived at
Stockton, California without incident. This included a night flight over
the Sierra Mountains, reaching an altitude of 10,500 feet.
On 21 November 1961, the units of the 8th and 57th departed for
"destination unknown" aboard the USNS Core. Twenty-one days later, crowds
gathered to observe the Banana Helicopters docked at Saigon, Vietnam.
Hundreds and hundreds of people gazed with admiration at the big
helicopters with U.S. Army boldly written across the side. As rapidly as
possible the cacoons were removed, engines pre-oiled and the crowds waited
expectantly as the first helicopter prepared for flight. Smoke blew out of
the exhaust as the engine roared into action. Slowly the blades started to
turn. Faster and faster until the pilot made all of his flight checks. Then
with a powerful lurch, the first United States Army Cargo Helicopter to fly
in South Vietnam, lifted off the deck of the carrier USNS CORE and sped
down the Mekong River to the Saigon International Airport. Another first
for the 57th Transportation Company. One by one the H-21's moved noisily
off the carrier to their new home in a strange and unfamiliar land.
The units arrived on the USNS Core on 11 December 1961, 12 days later
the units carried out the first airmobile action of the Vietnam War. The
22nd of December 1961 will be long remembered by the men who served with
the 8th and 57th Trans Companies on that day. Operating jointly, members of
the 8th and 57th Transportation Company (Light Helicopter), a training
exercise was conducted north of the city of Saigon. Everyone knew that this
was a rehearsal for the real thing that was to follow. Thirty H-21
helicopters loaded to maximum capacity with crack Vietnamese paratroopers
raced across the docile countryside. Take-off, check points, release points
and the landing area were hit with exact timing indicating the degree of
professionalism and training that these two units possessed. The training
exercise was completed successfully in every detail and we know that we
were ready for the "big one ".
The first combat assault in Vietnam, on 23 December 1961, was
conducted in pineapple fields about 10 miles east of Saigon and just south
of the village of Duc Hoa with 30 aircraft from both the 8th and 57th
Transportation Companies participating. At dawn on the morning of 23
December 1961, the pilots examined their aircraft with unusual
thoroughness. Each item on the pre-flight check list was carefully
scrutinized. Simultaneously the Vietnamese paratroopers quietly and orderly
broke themselves into chalk loads and assembled around the helicopter that
was to make history for them. Slowly the time passed. One hour, two, then
three. The pilots laughed nervously as intelligence patiently tried to get
a fix on the radio that we were after. Then the word came. Go! With the
57th Transportation Company leading into a small page in history, thirty
helicopters formed in echelons right and left, gaining speed as they left
the Saigon Airport behind. On time, and on target, the helicopters flared
for a landing into and almost impossible zone. Perpendicular rows of
pineapple fields deep in mud and water. If ever pilot training and
technique paid dividends, this was the day. Small arms fire broke out
immediately and several of the aircraft were under fire as they departed
the area to return for additional troops and reinforcements. All the
aircrafts departed this area but one. As the pilots looked back they could
see the cloud of black smoke and orange flames reaching for the sky and
there was little doubt as to what had happened. Another, but undesirable
first for the 57th Transportation Company. The first aircraft to be lost to
insurgent activity while on an operational mission. Operation Chopper was a
great success.
On the 24th of December 1961, Specialist Fourth Class George F.
Fryett, was reported kidnaped by the insurgent Viet Cong. The 57th
Transportation Company and the 8th Transportation Company were jointly
alerted to prepare to mass a large number of troops as soon as the location
of this American soldier was determined. Frantic preparations were made to
continue making ready the H-21's for this most important mission. That word
wouldn't come untill June 1962.
On 2 January 1962, the word was received and for the first time, a
large number of troops were delivered into an otherwise inaccessible area.
One thousand and thirty six troops were flown into a hole in the jungle.
This landing zone was no more than 300 yards by 150 yards. The ground was
soft and the zone was further confined by isolated trees and brush growing
at random. Tall, towering jungle trees ridged the area and the Viet Cong
roamed at will throughout this dense foliaged area. Without incident, this
mission was performed to the amazement of the Vietnamese staff and
commanders who were now grasping the importance of helicopter in their
operations and the complete freedom and flexibility it would give them in
future actions.
The one problem which arose was with their limited range the units
could only be used in the countryside around Tan Son Nhut Airbase. To help
the situation the 93rd Transportation Company arrived in Vietnam the 26th
of January 1962 in the Da Nang area.
On 15 December 1961, the 93rd Transportation Company departed from
Quonset Point, Rhode Island, aboard the U.S.S Carr for their long voyage
from their deep rooted homes at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, to a new
challenge in the Republic of South Viet Nam. After arriving at Subic Bay,
Phillippines Islands, the company transferred their men and equipment
aboard the U.S.S Princeton and continued to Da Nang, Viet Nam, arriving on
25 January 1962. On 1 February 1962, only six days later, the 93rd
Transportation Company was operational and began their dangerous flying
mission in Viet Nam.
The 93rd Transportation Company readily accepted their new challenging
tactical mission of providing air transportation for combat troops of the
Republic of South Viet Nam to expedite the tactical operations and
logistical support in the forward areas of the combat zones. This also
includes transportation of troops, equipment and supplies into inaccessible
areas and evacuation of combat casualities.
Even with the third company the airmobile assets were still spread
thin and all three units experienced a serious shortage of spare parts. To
provide a utility supply network for the H-21s the 18th Aviation Company
equipped with U-1A Otter aircraft arrived in Vietnam 7 February 1962. The
339th Transportation Company arrived with the 18th AVN CO to provide
aviation and maintenance support to all aviation type units in Vietnam at
the time.
The 57th Medical Detachment (Helicopter Ambulance) arrived in February
1962 with the first "Hueys" in Vietnam. These new units were the beginning
of a greatly increased aid program aimed at improving the capability of the
South Vietnamese to fight the growing guerrilla force.
A one time priority of training became the goal for the 57th Trans Co.
Helicopters departed regularly to train the Infantryman on the minimum
procedures he must grasp prior to being sent on an assault mission. In
three months, the 57th Transportation Company adequately trained 26,364
men. We now had the flexibility to move anywhere in the Mekong Delta Area
and displace trained troops. At first awed by the helicopters, the
Vietnamese soldier soon came to look forward to an assault by the
helicopter. Slowly, the local commanders began to employ the helicopters
more and more in less stereotyped missions. New ideas were sought and in
every case the pilots of the 57th Transportation Company carried them out
to the letter. An entire new concept in thinking and maneuver against the
insurgent forces made the helicopter the most desired tool in their
inventory. The ratio of men employed, to Viet Cong destroyed, clearly
demonstrated the soundness of helicopter vertical envelopment.
With the arrival of the United States Marine Squadron came and even
greater lift capability. Instead of fifteen choppers, we could now employ
thirty or more. The men of the 57th Transportation Company eagerly greeted
the Marines and passed on to them the experience that they had gained
during the many assault missions they had flown.
The CH-21 Army helicopters rapidly became "the pack horses of the Viet
Namese mountains, jungles and rice paddies" flying dangerous supply routes
that a few months earlier took land parties week to negotiate. Soon the
helicopters crews of the 93rd were much at home shuffling equipment across
the mountains. Loads varied from howitzers attached to slings riding below
the ships to disassembled parts of two bull dozers which were flown to a
U.S. Army Special Forces outpost to build an airstrip.
On 22 April 1962, another first was recorded for the 57th
Transportation Company. A massive mission of thirty helicopters, lifting
1,104 troops, flown jointly by United States Marines and United States Army
Helicopter pilots descended upon a little known area in an effort to
suppress those who wish to overthrow the government. With minimum planning
and liaison, the mission was performed in training-film style. Each unit
moving directly to the appointed place at the appointed time with split
second timing.
Specialist Forth Class George F Fryett of the 57th Trans Co was
released by the insurgent Viet Cong forces on June 23, 1962, after being
held captive since the 24th of December 1961.
On 27 June 1962, General Hightower selected the 93rd Transportation
Company and attached units as the most outstanding company visited in the
Republic of South Viet Nam. General Hightower visited a majority of the
organizations in Viet Nam but chose an aviation unit, the 93rd
Transportation Company as the most outstanding.
To provide better command of the helicopter and fixed wing units the
45th Transportation Battalion was deployed from Fort Sill, OK. On 1 July
1962 the 45th Trans Bn. arrived in Vietnam.
On the 19th of July 1962, a triple threat was passed against the Viet
Cong. On this day, for the first time, forty helicopters deposited their
troops in an area south west of Ben Cat. These choppers were flown by the
57th Transportation Company, United States Marines, and Vietnamese Air
Force pilots. Four hundred and eighty soldiers were massed adjacent to a
suspected Viet Cong strong point. Landed in flooded rice paddies with mud
and water up to the waist and chests of the debarking men. A feat deemed
impossible just a few short months ago.
As of the 24th of July 1962 the 57th Trans Co has flown 4,583 hours in
support of the Vietnamese forces. A grand total of 133,464 ton miles of
cargo have been flown to assist this nation in its struggle for
independence and freedom form the Viet Cong. 51,358 troops have been
transported by helicopter to insure the eventual defeat of the insurgents.
On 2 August 1962, the 93rd Transportation Company conducted the first
large scale heliborne operation ever conducted in the I Corps Tactical Zone
which consisted of a two company raid on the Viet Cong 5th Region
Headquarters in th Do XA area. The participation of the 93rd Transportation
Company permitted the rapid capture of the Viet Cong radio station and
caused heavy casualties to be inflected upon the enemy.
On 30 August 1962, the 93rd Transportation Company participated in
Operation "Lam Son II" another air-mobile combat assault against a
hard-core Viet Cong Battalion deep in the jungles of Quang Ngai Province,
complimented by 10 CH-34 helicopters of the 1st Helicopter Squadron VNAF, a
heavy ground fog covered the landing zone preventing the first lift until
two hours after the pre-strike, instead of immediately after the strike as
planned. Despite encountering heavy fire from the alerted and prepared Viet
Cong the loss of two CH-21 helicopters to enemy ground fire and the
wounding of four crew members, the 93rd Transportation Company successfully
completed two air lifts into the heavily enemy infested landing zone. Of
the twelve helicopters from the 93rd Transportation Company, nine were hit
and damaged by enemy fire and two shot down. Six persons were killed and
five wounded in helicopters during "Lam Son II". All objectives were taken,
40 Viet Cong guerrillas were killed, six prisoners were taken, many enemy
supplies including an ammunition dump were destroyed and valuable
intelligence documents were seized. The psychological effect of this
successful raid deep within enemy held territory was immeasurable.
On 12 September 1962, the advance party departed Da Nang on a
classified mission to relocate the 93rd Transportation Company.
33rd and 81st Trans. Co. arrived in Vietnam on 17 September 1962. With
the arrival of the last two Companies the Battalion was complete, the first
of its kind in Vietnam.
On 19 September 1962 the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing of Soc Trang and the
93rd Transportation Company of Da Nang exchanged locations, the 93rd saying
farewell to the mountains and jungle thus moving to their present location
at Soc Trang Airfield in the flat Mekong River Delta. Air lifting the
company to Soc Trang required transportating 47 loads; 855,299 pounds of
cargo; 196,142.2 cargo-ton miles; 53,068 passenger miles and 96 hours of
flight time. On 23 September 1962, the first operational mission in the
Delta area was flown.
With the arrival of the Utility Tactical Transport Helicopter Company
on 3 October 1962 a whole new concept in airmobility was born. The UTT was
equipped with 15 UH-1A "Huey" Gunships, originally designated "Test
Escort". In November 1962 the UTT was reinforced with 11 new UH-1B model
Huey, the B models were greatly improved. Thus was born the first Combat
Aviation Battalion in Vietnam (and the world I believe) although it
wouldn't be designated as such until September 1963.
Here is a letter from Al Comptom who served with the UTT as a crew
chief when they arrived:
Dear James, With the data I have collected I am sending you some more
information on the old UTT.
I arrived on Okinawa SO 209, 28 July, 1961. The Company was located
on a high hill overlooking the China Sea. The area was known as Sukiran.
The airfield was located right next to the sea and known as Hamby Army
Airfield. I was originally assigned to the 25th Trans Det, the support
maintenance unit, but was assigned to the UTT on SO 208 11 Oct, 1961. I
was assigned to the 3rd platoon and SFC Francis "Smitty" Smith was my
Platoon Sgt. I believe we had 5 UH-lA models in our platoon. They were
all like new 1959 models. We had an old Papa-san who did nothing but
walk the line and wax them. They were beautiful. The finish was like
glass. I was made crew chief around Dec, 1961 and my ship no. was
59-1659. I named her the "Virginia Creeper". The CO was Maj Robert L.
Runkle. Capt. Ivan Slavich was the Exec Off. Duty on Okinawa was good.
We flew missions to outlying islands and sometimes just tooled around
the main island. As crew chief I always flew co-pilot position. It was
not unusual for the chiefs to get in as much "stick time" as the pilots.
Sometime near the end of 1962 an uneasy feeling came over me as our
basic missions began to change. I had heard little of Vietnam. We began
altering and modifying the ships. Suddenly looks didn't mean as much as
they did before. Electricians were all over us making up wiring
harnesses and such. Then they brought on 30 cal machine guns. The old
air cooled type I had used in the 50's in Korea. These were mounted one
on each skid. Then came the tubes for the 2.75 rockets. One on each side
of the fuselage. By this time rumors were flying. Then came a briefing
and the rumors were confirmed. We were going to Nam as the first attack
helicopter formed in the Army. We trained and trained. We lived on the
firing range trying to get the bugs out. It was a real home made set up.
30 cal ammo for the guns was laid out in rows on the floor of the ship
and hand fed through a chute through the floor to the guns. It took 2
people, one on each side to accomplish this. Hence the door gunner was
born. He would assist the crew chief in his duties. This ammo on the
floor thing was terrible. Later on we devised a box to hold it. It had a
divider in the center so each half fed one gun. The ammo would still
overfeed so we installed a weighted bar to ride on top of it and help
control the feed. Then problems with the guns jamming. Once we lifted
off, the weight was so that the skids rode too low for us to reach the
guns to clear. So we installed a long arm to the bolt mech. Now we could
reach out and unjam them. Trouble was, the static electricity when we
grabbed the handle was eating us up. So we taped foam rubber to them and
it worked. The rockets worked pretty well once we got all the electrical
bugs out. Only thing was, the pilot had to put a grease pencil mark on
the windshield in front of him for a cross hair. Whenever a different
pilot flew the ship he would have to re-locate the mark. In Sept we
loaded up, bag and baggage, onto Airforce C-123's and C130's at Kadena
airfield, and said goodby to our families not knowing when or if we
would see them again. A platoon had previously been sent to Thailand and
would join us at Tan Son Nhut. We set up in a tent city and squatted
over slit trenches. Our main mission was to support troop-carrying
H-21's. My platoon was soon sent to Soc Trang. In the mean-time the
company had set up in new Quarters with roofs and screened in walls. Tho
we still had to sleep with our mosquito nets to keep from being carried
away. Right after we first arrived our beautiful ships were flown over
to a do it yourself paint shop and everything was painted over except
the tail number, with drab rough texture OD paint. Capt Slavich made Maj
and took over the company on Nov 25,1962. He was a former Marine and a
combat vet of Korea. He acquired the nick-name "Drivin Ivan". He was
hell when he was well and he was never sick. Our first casualty was
Johnie Lee. I don't remember his rank. Spec 4 or 5 I believe SSGT. He
was killed by a round that penetrated the bottom of the ship. He was in
operations but always wanted to fly. On this particular day in the first
part of November, Spec 5 Donald Bunner, a crew chief, let Johnie take
his flight. Don always felt bad about this afterwards. The old A models
were good but we were flying them into the ground. The hours were
adding up on them faster than we could count. We encountered severe
cracking and just plain not enough power. On the same mission with
Johnie Lee was a young Capt named Joel R. Steine. He was flying pilot
and took a round through the windshield, instrument panel and hitting
him in the chest just over his heart. His co-pilot a MAAG Lt Col took
the controls while Capt Steine removed a 30 cal round from the pocket of
his flak jacket. He was only bruised. In late Nov. 1962 we started
receiving the newer more powerful B models. They were fitted with
factory made rocket pods and quad 7.62 machine guns. I traded in my old
A model and received no 878. We took our second casualty around Jan 2,
1963. Sgt William "Bill" Deal. His ship was shot down in a battle at Ap
Bac near Tam Hiep in the Delta area. Bill had been my door gunner until
the B models came in and he was given a ship of his own. He was a good
friend. A buddy. I'm sorry I never got to meet his family. He was from
Mays Landing, N.J.
The location on the wall for Johnie Lee is 1 E 14. For Bill Deal
it's 1 E 15. Tom Derosier went back to the States and to flight school.
I next saw him at the 7th Army Aviation Safety and Standardization Det.
in Germany. He was a 1st Lt but was promoted to Capt while there. I
later found he had returned as a pilot to Nam and was killed. E 23 27.
He was a real decent person. Very quiet and shy. The last I heard of
Col. Slavich he was living in Charlotte, N.C. I believe he was in real
estate a middle-management executive with McGuire Properties. He was a
hell of a guy!
Enclosed is a picture of me (the one with the flight helmet on!)
taken by Richard Tregaskis. From his book "Vietnam Diary". The main
thing about the picture is that the whole time these were taken, and the
time we spent in the ship bringing him in, he had a frag grenade taped
to the back of his leg! It wasn't found until after we had turned him
over for interrogation! They gave it to me but Tregaskis asked me if he
could have it so I gave it to him. I don't know if he ever had it
de-fused! Hope you'll be able to use this information I'm sending. It
has taken several days to get it all together. I seem to have forgotten
a lot of things that happened back then. I do remember our movie house
was named in honor of Johnie Lee. I remember a bronze plaque being
installed with his name on it. I wonder what ever happened to it? So
long for now. Al Compton
On 17 December 1962, orders were received assigning the 18th Aviation
Operating Detachment from Okinawa to Soc Trang per General Order 45, USASG,
effective 5 December 1962. The 18th A.O.D. has the mission of facilitating
all Army flight operations by providing flight information planning data,
coordination of day, night and instrument flights, navigational aids, and
Air traffic control for the aviation unit to whom it is attached. The 18th
A.O.D. is established with 39 Enlisted Men and 5 officers to provide it
services for handling a daily air traffic count of 50. At Soc Trang, the
18th A.O.D. normally handles as aircraft count of 103 daily.
In December the 93rd Transportation Company established another
mile-stone and record by flying 1,017.2 hours in a single month in the
Republic of South Viet Nam.
On 20 December 1962, during an airmobile assault with ARVN troops near
Tuy Hoa, CWO Charles Raymond Holloway of the 81st was killed in action.
Subsequently the base at Pleiku was officially named Camp Holloway.
Throughout 1963 the UTT would be used as a test unit for the Army to
determine the effectiveness of armed helicopters. It was demonstrated that
armed helicopters employing the tactics and techniques developed by the UTT
could provide adequate protection for airmobile operations against an
insurgent force similar to the Viet Cong. The new year also brought many
changes in types of missions. In addition to escorting transport
helicopters, now providing reconnaissance, convoy protection, and close
support for ARVN ground troops became major roles.
AP BAC - 2 January 1963, on 2 January 1963 the 93rd Transportation
Company started the new year on a tragic note. While supporting the 7th
Infantry ARVN Division from a staging area located at a small dirt strip at
Tan Hiep, the entire flight of the CH-21, U.S. Army helicopters from the
93rd Transportation Company was ambushed by an entrenched hard-core Viet
Cong reinforced Battalion on the fourth assault rifle lift committing the
reserve forces. In the final stage of the approach from contour level, heavy
machine gun and automatic rifle fire was received. Without regard for
personal safety, the ten helicopters proceeded past the armored personnel
carriers and the main advancing body to land their troops in the designated
landing zone. Not one helicopter aborted or failed to complete its mission
of getting the troops into the landing zone.
Although hit by ground fire the first four aircraft were able to make
successful take-offs from the area. The fifth aircraft, however, was shot
down due to heavy ground fire. The crew of the sixth helicopter
unhesitatingly diverted their take-off and attempted to pick up the crew of
the downed aircraft and were immediately shot down also. The landing zone
was untenable due to enemy fire which prevented further rescue attempts. The
remainder of the flight departed for the staging area although the second
aircraft had to make a force landing due to damage from the ground fire
received. The downed crews were left to fend for themselves in the rice
paddies ahead of the main attacking force, where they remained under enemy
fire for the next eight hours. One man was dead and five had been wounded by
enemy fire.
Upon return to the staging area, assessment of damage to the seven
remaining helicopters revealed only two were flyable. Approximately one hour
later information was received from ground troops in the area that firing
had subsided and evacuation of the downed crews could be made. The rescue
aircraft was landed despite sporadic ground fire and damage to the aircraft.
When the loading of the wounded and crews was attempted, the tempo of enemy
fire increased and a heavy volume of fire entered the cockpit wounding the
pilot. This forced the aircraft to make an immediate take-off leaving the
wounded and crews behind. The aircraft was flown out of the landing zone,
but 1/2 mile away a forced landing had to be made due to damage from enemy
fire. Meanwhile, at the staging area, two other helicopters had been rapidly
repaired from parts of other downed aircraft. For the remaining hours of the
afternoon, ammunition and medical evacuations were flown by these ships into
the first three landing zones.
Approximately eight hours from the time they were shot down, the crews
and their wounded were finally picked up by ARVN armored personnel carriers.
Then they had to ride for approximately two hours through attacks with the
armored personnel carriers until an area was reached where they could be
evacuated by helicopter.
At the days end, nine Americans had been wounded and one killed in
action, Sgt William L Deal of the UTT in support of the 93rd Trans Co. Of
the ten helicopters committed on the mission, all ten had been hit by enemy
fire, four had been shot down and only three helicopters were flyable to
return to the airfield.
On 2 January 1963, Sergeant William L Deal was the first UTT man to be
fatally wounded. It was realized that the effectiveness of helicopters
against prepared positions was limited.
On 3 and 4 January maintenance personnel from the 93rd Transportation
Company flew to the downed aircraft and with disregard for their personal
safety and only concern for their equipment and the ultimate recovery of the
downed aircraft, they went into the areas for two days under hostile fire,
remaining there to effect repairs.
The heroism, esprite-de-corps and comradish displayed throughout the
entire action upholds the common knowledge of the spirit the officers and
men to the 93rd Transportation Company have as being perhaps among the best
if not the best in the Army.
On 10 January 1963, the 93rd and the 57th Trans Companies suffered
another air tragedy when a CH-21 helicopter from the 57th Transportation
Company enroute from Soc Trang to Saigon crashed with three 93rd officers
riding as passengers. All seven persons aboard the aircraft were killed. The
three officers from the 93rd Transportation Company were Captain Donald B.
Toth, 1st Lt Lewis L. Stone and 1st Lt Charles M. Fitts.
On the brighter side in January the 93rd Trans Co received a playful 9
month Bengal tiger mascot named "Tuffy" from MAAG Laos. After his arrival,
Tuffy was showered with attention and affection from Privates to Generals,
Tuffy was good natured, playful and usually harmless. For many in the
company a scratch or scar from Tuffy was a treasured memory never to be
forgotten. Tuffy's diet was not that of a normal tiger. His favorite dishes
included weiners, steaks, meat balls, and spaghetti. In the cool of the
evening, Tuffy always took his daily swim in his own private swimming pool.
Thus with a playful Bengal tiger as company mascot, the members of the 93rd
Transportation Company soon became widely known as the Soc Trang Flying
Tigers.
In February 1963 one platoon of the UTT was deployed to support the
Marines in the mountainous region around Da Nang.
On 4 March 1963, Major Edward C. Seymour, the present commander,
assumed command of the 93rd Transportation Company relieving Major Paul E.
Ewing who was reassigned to the 45th Transportation Battalion at Ton Son
Nhut.
In March of 1963 the Army started replacing the H-21 Shawnee
helicopters (Flying Banana) with the new UH-1 Huey helicopters.
On 27 March 1963, the first Machine Gun Platoon, of 1 officer and 20
Enlisted men, arrived for 90 days TDY from the 25th Infantry Division in
Hawaii for duty as gunners on the CH-21 helicopters of the 93rd
Transportation Company.
In April 1963, planning and coordination between UTT and ARVN
commanders brought about the operation called "Eagle Flight". Because of
it's success, this type of operation was used extensively in the months
following. Before the first year of combat was completed, 41 Eagle Flight
had been conducted.
In early June 1963 armed helicopters were initiated into four other
companies, and the UTT armament section was requested to assist with
installation of the weapons and to train personnel.
The Army redesignated most of the units of the 45th Trans. Bn. on 25
June 1963. The 8th Trans. Co. was redesignated the 117th Aslt. Hel. Co.,
33rd Trans to 118th AHC, 81st to 119th AHC, 57th to the 120th AHC, and 93rd
redesignated 121st AHC, retaining their men, equipment, location and
history. The 118AHC with its UH-1B gunships (Bandits) became the first
Assault Helicopter Company in Vietnam. The Bandits were credited with 150
enemy kills in the first month.
Also in June, Tuffy, the Soc Trang tiger mascot weighing over 250
pounds and 15 months old, departed the 121st Aviation Company for the Teledo
Ohio Zoo. Tuffy no longer will have his own private pool but will also
suffer a reduction in rank from Number 1 Top Tiger of the 121st Aviation
Company to Number 6 Bengal Tiger of the Toledo Zoo.
In July 1963, the 121st Aviation Company was transferred from the 45th
Trans Bn to the Delta Avn Bn (Prov), and topped their previous record flying
time by having a busy flying month totaling 1,064 hours. Also in July the
119th AHC was transferred to the 52nd Avn Bn.
On 23 August 1963, the 121st Aviation Company again established another
record by having the largest Decorations and Awards Presentations Ceremony
in the history of Viet Nam by decorating forty-four (44) individuals (almost
1/4 of the company). Lieutenant Colonel Wayne N. Phillips , Commanding
Officer of the Delta Aviation Battalion and Major Edward C. Seymour,
Commander of the 121st Aviation Company presented on the date, three (3)
Distinguished Flying Cross, one (1) Bronze Star with Valor, thiry-seven (37)
Air medals and fifty-four (54) Oak Leaf Clusters to the Air medal, and 14
Purple hearts.
In August the 121st Aviation Company again topped the 1000 hour a month
mark by flying 1,019.1 hours.

145th Combat Aviation Battalion Begins

The 45th Transportation Battalion was redesignated the 145th Combat
Aviation Battalion on 24 September 1963 and brought to a close the 45th
Transportation Battalion and gave birth to the 145th Combat Aviation
Battalion. With the redesignation of the 45th a new chapter in aviation
history began. The second and last 45th Battalion Commander in Vietnam,
LTC. Kenneth D. Mertel, became the first Commander of the 145th Combat
Aviation Battalion and continued the "Old Warriors" proud history. The new
145th retained the slogan earned by the 45th, "First In Vietnam". The
slogan originally given to the 45th for being the first Aviation Battalion
in Vietnam would take on a new meaning in the 145th, the meaning of being
first and foremost in all aspects of airmobile tactics and equipment.
The 145th started it's history with the units of the UTT, 18th Avn,
117th AHC, 118th AHC, 120th AHC, 339th Trans, HHC 145th CAB, and elements
of the 57th MED DET., having lost the 119th AHC to the 52nd CAB and the
121st to Delta Avn. Bn.. I believe the 57th Med. Det. was assigned to and
supported by the 145th at this time. The units of the 145th continued their
mission of supporting the South Vietnamese Units and working out airmobile
tactics that would be the basis for all airmobile operations through out
the war.
LTC. Mertel turned over command of the 145th to LTC. Charles M.
Grandelli on the 29th of November 1963. After the riots and overthrow of
the Dien government in November 1963 the news media started to notice the
Vietnam War. Under the command of LTC. Grandelli the largest heliborne
assault operation ever executed to date by US Forces in support of ARVN
troops took place on the 17th and 18th of January 1964. LTC. Grandelli
carried on the very fine traditions of the 145th until the 30th of March
1964 when he turned over command to LTC. John C. Hughes.
Due to their efforts the 145th Battalion and Airlift Platoon, UTT,
118th AHC, and the 120th AHC was awarded the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry
for operations between 2 June 1964 to 12 June 1964.
21 July 1964 brought about another change of command when LTC. Hughes
turned over command to LTC. Robert K. Cunningham. Shortly there after in
August of 1964 the UTT was redesignated the 68th Aviation Company, this was
just a name change, the personnel, equipment, and mission remained the
same.
August 18, 1964 was the day the last CH-21C flew in Vietnam. CWO
Charles D. Holbrook from the 120th Aviation Company flew the last CH-21C
from Saigon to Vung Tau to be transported back to the United States on that
date.
In October 1964 the 18th Aviation Company (Fixed Wing) was transferred
to the 14th Combat Aviation Battalion.
Shortly after midnight on 1 November 1964, Viet Cong staged a mortar
attack on Bien Hoa Air Base. Four men were killed and 62 were wounded in
the enlisted compound. An estimated 30 rounds of 82mm mortar fire were
received. Troops of the 145th reacted with courage and determination as
standby fire teams were launched and defensive bunkers were manned. One of
the UH-1B's rescued a VNAF aviator whose A1-E had crashed in flames during
the attack, resulting in the battalion's first two Vietnamese Flying
Crosses with star.
In December of 1964, A Company, 501st Aviation Battalion was assigned
to the battalion and became operational very quickly due to an infusion and
training program conducted by the 118th Aviation Company.
Distinguished Unit Citation, 121st Avn Co: - Award of the
Distinguished Unit Citation by the President of the United States of
America to the following units of the Armed Forces of the United States is
confirmed in accordance with paragraph 194, AR 672-5-1. The text of the
citation as announced by President Lyndon B Johnson on 7 March 1966 reads
as follows: The 121st Aviation Company (Air Mobile Light) United States
Armed Forces, and attached units- 2nd Medical Dispensary (General), 80th
Transportation Detachment (Cargo Helicopter Field Maintenance), 82nd
Medical Detachment (Helicopter Ambulance), 134th Medical Detachment, 257th
Signal Detachment, Detachment 7, 30th Weather Squadron, United States Air
Force, 6th Airlift Platoon, and the 5th Gunner Detachment. By virtue of the
authority vested in me as President of the United States and as Commander
in Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States I have today awarded the
Distinguished Unit Citation to the 121st Aviation Company (Air Mobile
Light) United States Armed Forces, and attached units for extraordinary
heroism in the Republic of Vietnam. The 121st Aviation Company (Air Mobile
Light) and attached units distinguished themselves by extraordinary heroism
while engaged in military operations in the Republic of Vietnam on 5
December 1964. The members of this Company and the foregoing unit
demonstrated indomitablecourage and professional skill while providing
direct support for a Republic of Vietnam military ground operation in
territory know to be dominated by insurgents. Their outstanding
effectiveness resulted in the success of aerial troop lifts despite
exposure to intensive hostile gun fire, in the timely modification of
techniques which kept pace with the rapidly changing tactical situation,
and in the on-the-spot field maintenance for aircraft. Prompt medical
assistance was given to the combat soldier and a countless number of
friendly casualties were quickley evacuated from the battlefield. Through
their fortitude, perseverance, and gallant efforts, these brave officers
and men contributed in great measure to the progress of the
counterinsurgency effort conducted in the Republic of Vietnam. The devotion
to duty, outstanding achievements, and extraordinary heroism displayed by
the members of the 121st Aviation Company (Air Mobile Light) and the
participating units reflect great credit upon themselves and the Armed
Forces of the United States.
March of 1965 brought about many changes in the 145th. The 68th
Aviation Company, formerly the UTT, went through another name change, now
the 197th Aviation Company. The 74th Aviation Company (Fixed Wing) arrived
in Vietnam and was assigned to the 145th. With the addition of A Company /
501st Avn Bn and the 74th Avn Co the 145th was larger then ever before.
Here is a letter written to me by David Price about name and unit
patch changes of the UTT, 68th, 197th Armed Helicopter Company:
Dear Jim: I don't know who designed the UTT patch. The Company was
wearing it when I arrived in June 1964. However, I designed the 197th
patch. We had a contest in the company and I won. I have an article
from Stars & Stripes with a photo of me receiving the prize (a
Savings Bond) from our C.O. Maj Jim Jaggers. I think my design was
selected largely because we were sick of name changes and ripping off
one pocket patch and sewing on another. As you know we were UTT, then
68th Armed Hel Co, then 197th, same people, just bureaucratic Army
B.S. on what we should be called. We knew we were UTT! I could
probably find the article if your interested. Keep up the good work
Jim. I admire what you're doing. Dave Price

The first unit in Army Aviation to receive the Presidential Citation
for Vietnam service was awarded to the 197th Aviation Company (Armed
Helicopter) for their actions from 1 April 1965 to 3 April 1965.
Valorous Unit Award, 121st Avn Co and attached units: By direction of
the Secretary of the Army, under the provisions of paragraph 202.1, AR
672-5-1, the Valorous Unit Award is awarded to the 13th Avn Bn, assigned
and attached units (121st Avn Co. and Detachments) for extraordinary
heroism while engaged in military operation during the period of 4, 5, and
6 April 1965 in the vicinity of Vinh Binh, in Chuong Tien Province,
Republic of Vietnam, in direct support of the 21st ARVN Div.
In May of 1965 Company A/82nd Aviation Battalion arrived in Vietnam
and would soon become officially part of the 145th. As with many units that
arrived before and after this one, many of the personnel from other units
of the 145th and the new unit would be exchanged. The reason for this was
to bring experienced personnel to the new unit and to help break up the
DEROS dates. This also served to unite the units of the 145th into one
fighting unit.
On the 17th of May 1965 the 197th Aviation Company flew the first
"Lighting Bug", or more commonly know as "Firefly", mission. Here is the
complete story told by Marvin Myers, captain at the time:
According to the log that I kept on my activities, the first
"Lightning Bug" mission was flown on 17 May 1965. The device was
placed in the door of a slick and consisted of seven (I think that
was the number), of C-123 landing lights. This was the brainchild of
LTC Dick Thrower of USARV and he flew on most missions. I heard he
was later killed while working the system, after I had gone home.
Once we reached the target area the light was folded out and lit up
an area about the size of a football field.
Dick Jarrard was my co-pilot on the 17th and we flew out to the
Duc Hoa area to coordinate with ARVN on what we were going to be
doing that night. Four ships from the 3rd (Dragons) Platoon were
involved on the mission. Jarrard and I flew the low ship, and Jim
Reed (Dragon 33- Later killed in an accident at Fort Sill), flew as
leader of his Fire Team with Jan Bingen flying his wing. I don't have
a record of who flew the light ship with LTC Thrower in back aiming
the light.
At some point during the night, a Mohawk called up with
information that boats were on the canals. I believe he was using
SLAR. Anyway, we jumped in the ships and headed for Duc Hoa. Flying
just behind the beam, we were able to see well enough to fly at tree
top level. The concept was that we would acquire the target in the
low ship, push out a flare that would go off when it hit the ground,
and then Dragon 33 would engage it.
We did engage several folks that night, but on one run a round
apparently hit a flare and it went off in the aircraft. When we were
finally able to get it out of the aircraft, both Jarrard and I had
vertigo so bad we nearly crashed trying to figure out where we were.
This action took place between the battle of Song Be and the
Battle of Dong Xoi. Since the Dragons were the first guns on the
scene at Dong Xoi at around 3:00 A.M. (0300), I think the experience
we had with lightning Bug probably saved our lives.
The 197th Aviation Company also flew the first combat mission using
the M-5 40mm grenade launching system on 29 May 1965. Here is the report
from Cpt. Marvin Myers:
I fired the system with a Jim Anderson (Cpt-possible Ordinance
Corp) on 27 May 1965. The first combat mission was flown on 29 May
65, and I believe we were just north of Tan Uyen when we encountered
a squad of VC in the open (every gun ship drivers dream). The tail
number of the aircraft was 986 and we moved in for the kill. I began
to pump out 40mm and the VC were running for all they were worth.
Still , the rounds fell short. We moved in closer and closer and I'm
sure the VC couldn't believe they were still alive. Finally, we were
so close, an M-79 would have done as well. I recorded that we fired
some 300 rounds and right now, I doubt if we hit anyone. Later the
ship was equipped with rockets as well as the grenade launcher, but
it was not one of our favorite weapons, because of its limited range.
BATTLE OF DONG XOAI
At 0100 hours, 10 June 1965, the 118th Aviation Company (Air Mobile,
Light) was directed by the III Corps Tactical Operation Center to send its
standby fire team immediately to Dong Xoai. They were told that the Dong
Xoai Special Forces Camp had been under extreme heavy mortar and small arms
fire since midnight. The fire team approached the town at 0130 hours and
started making firing passes once they were in position over the town. They
were engaged by the Viet Cong as soon as they began firing and the tracers
from their guns kept the enemy gunners aware of their position. Without the
slightest hesitation, the two armed helicopters kept up a steady stream of
fire to silence the enemy guns surrounding the Special Forces compound. Not
until after they had expended all their ammunition, and the fire team
leaders helicopter was hit by ground fire and the pilot wounded, did the
two helicopters leave the battle area.
At the time that the light fire team was closing Bien Hoa, III Corps
had decided to reinforce Dong Xoai by helicopters at first light with
Vietnamese infantry. At 0430 hours, flight crews of the 118th Aviation
Company were on flight line preparing for the combat assault at day light.
The town of Dong Xoai is situated at the most important road junction
in the heart of War Zone D. The United States Special Forces has
established a fortified compound and numerous strong points at strategic
locations taking the entire area under their command. Many parts of the
fortifications were still under construction when the first mortar shells
awoke the defenders.
At 0600 hours, 10 June 1965, all flyable 118th Aviation Company
aircraft departed Bien Hoa for a combat assault on Dong Xoai. The morale of
the company was high. They had grown fond of the Special Forces over three
years in which the company has served in Viet Nam. Many members of the
Special Forces B Detachment at Dong Xoai were friends of the company.
Although the tactical situation was extremely confused at Dong Xoai and
only scattered intelligence as to the enemy's strength and positions had
reached III corps, the 118th was ready to do anything within their
capability to aid the garrison under attack.
Phuoc Vinh, the nearest fortified town to Dong Xoai, was the staging
area. Elements of the 1st Battalion 7th Regiment ARVN, were going to make
the first assault with the 118th Aviation Company. Due to the urgency of
the situation, there was little time to gather data on the enemy situation.
The landing zone for the first assault was an open field two miles north of
Dong Xoai and next to the road that led to the Thanh Loi Plantation. In
case more ground troops were needed, two more landing zones were chosen at
suitable strategic areas in the vicinity of Dong Xoai.
The formation of 118th helicopters begin to receive fire as they began
to descend east of Dong Xoai. On final approach into the first landing zone
more fire was received. The flight held suppressive fire as it was not
known at the time whether friendly troops were in the area. Seconds before
the flight touched down the lead helicopter reported what appeared to be
friendly civilians waving to them from the edge of the landing zone. The
flight leader at once gave the order to the crews to hold their fire
because they were friendly civilians in the area. As soon as the ships
landed and the troops started unloading the civilians dove into concealed
fox holes where they had their weapons hidden and immediately engaged the
helicopters. Due to the fact the whole flight of helicopters were low on
fuel and were able to become airborne and out of the range of small arms
very quickly, no major damage to the flight element resulted. However, with
the departure of the helicopters, the Viet Cong directed their fire on the
assault troops in the landing zone. The enemy had utilized the lack of
intelligence on the part of the allied forces to their best advantage at
the crucial moment by deceiving the heliborne force. Once the troops were
committed, they were ambushed. The Viet Cong, from their well prepared
positions, systematically cut down the lead elements of the 1st Battalion,
7th Regiment. Later when the battle was over, it was disclosed that the 1st
Battalion ceased to be a fighting unit twenty minutes after it was
committed into the Viet Cong trap.
When the 118th Aviation Company returned to Phuoc Vinh for more
soldiers and fuel, they were informed that the Viet Cong had anticipated
heliborne reinforcements for the surrounded Special Forces Camp were
employing strong units with heavy weapons and they intended to occupy Dong
Xoai. It was also disclosed that all the friendly troops had been forced to
reposition themselves inside the main compound that had the best defensive
capability.
When the 118th helicopters, loaded with soldiers of the remaining
elements of the 1st Battalion, 7th ARVN departed Phuoc Vinh they set their
organic armed helicopter platoon ahead of the flight to conduct a
reconnaissance of the intended landing zone. The armed fire teams made
repeated passes over the air strip at the Thanh Loi Plantation. They
carefully check the entire platation for traces of the enemy concentrations
but were able to find no evidence of the Viet Cong using the plantation to
stag attack on Dong Xoai. The fact that the enemy up until the battle of
Dong Xoai, had never used a plantation openly as a headquarters and staging
area caused the flight elements to hold their suppressive fire power again
as the helicopters approached to land.
As the 118th Aviation Company's formation of fourteen troop helicopter
approached the landing strip a heard of cattle appeared and moved up the
strip to the intended landing area. The lead helicopter made a decision to
land the troops short of the original intended area. The decision saved
many lives. No sooner had the skids of the first helicopter touched ground
when a tremendous explosion was seen and heard and felt. The enemy had
detonated a hugh claymore mine planted at the original landing area. The
explosion of the mine was a signal. Within seconds of the explosion,
reports of automatic weapons came from all members of the formation. The
soldiers and helicopters were caught in a hail storm of bullets and
exploding mortar rounds. The enemy fire was coming from everywhere. In the
well kept and beautiful plantation mansions they were firing from windows
and roofs. Among the rubber trees fire from concealed bunkers and fox
holes. At once, the armed escorts of the 118th Aviation Company charged in
and fired everything they had on both sides of the helicopters still
unloading their troops. At the same time the door gunners of the troops
carries were burning up the barrels of their machine guns to suppress the
enemy fire. It was only a few seconds since the formation of the
helicopters had landed, and yet it was already eternity for the helicopter
crews and the ARVN solders on the ground. Scores of the brave little
Vietnamese solders were falling in front of the eyes of the helicopter
crews as they watched them leap from the aircraft and fall as enemy bullets
slammed into their bodies. The helicopters were also receiving heavy damage
in those seconds on the ground. One of the troops carriers had a mortar
round explode right outside the cockpit causing it to roll over immediately
on its side. A split second later it exploded in a ball of fire. The entire
crew was killed. The remaining helicopters were taking off at this time.
All guns were firing, but the enemy fire was not decreasing in intensity.
From roof tops, windows doorways and trenches, enemy bullets ripped into
helicopters, When at last the whole formation was out of range of the enemy
weapons, only one helicopter reported negative damage.
The Viet Cong had planned the attack on Dong Xoai with superb care.
There was no question left in anyone's mind that further heliborne assaults
into available landing zones would mean annihilation to the majority of the
ground troops and at tremendous risk to the aviation elements. The 118th
Aviation Company commander, in temporary command of the entire Army
Aviation efforts in Dong Xoai at the time ordered the remaining elements
with troops aboard back to the staging area. The last helicopters to land
at Phou Vinh were two armed helicopters from the 118th. The fire team
remained over the battle area to act as radio communication relay and fire
support for the ground troops. The light fire team had expended ammunition
and had lost all communications with the ground assault elements. It was
not known at this time whether the Special Forces compound was still
holding out after almost 18 hours of continuous attack.
The 118th Aviation Company's flight surgeon in charge of the medical
aid station at Phuoc Vinh was at the communication center requesting Air
Force C/130 transports to evacuate over a hundred wounded ARVN soldiers
when a relayed radio came through from Dong Xoai. It was one of the
Americans in the Dong Xoai Special Forces compound. The message was tragic
and heroic. It said I am using my last battery for my radio and there is no
more ammunition; we are all wounded, some of the more serious wounded are
holding grenades with safety pins already pulled. The Viet Cong are
attacking in human waves. The last wave has been defeated but we are
expecting the next wave now.
The commander of the 118th, Maj Harvey E Stewart, who was present and
heard the radio message stood up and said "I am going in". With that he
went to the parked helicopters. Five other officers followed him and
enlisted crew members just climbed into their seats and waited for take
off.
Three Helicopters departed Phouc Vinh for Dong Xoai to evacuate the
brave solders who were holding out to the last grenades. When they were
about to close Dong Xoai, A message to all air units in the Dong Xoai area
came over the radio. Dong Xoai was declared to a free strike area and
everything that moved would be bombed and strafed. The three helicopters,
nevertheless, pressed on without hesitation. Such was the moral present in
the 118th Aviation Company. Had there been need for the entire company to
go to Dong Xoai, the company would have volunteered to the man.
The 118th Aviation Company's own organic helicopters again played a
vital role in the successful execution of the mission. The armed escort
contacted Air Force fighter bombers in the area and ask for their fire
support. While the Air Force made their bomb runs over the town the armed
escorts went in from the south with all guns firing. One quarter of a mile
south of Dong Xoai compound was a water crossing. The Viet Cong had
concealed in the area two French armored cars that were captured earlier in
the battle. The armed helicopters were able to discover these mobile
weapons platforms during their low reconnaissance by fire and engaged them
with rockets. Their accurate fire effectively rendered the armored cars
incapable of further combat. Had the .50 cal. machine guns on those armored
cars not been put out of action, they would have taken a serious toll of
the troop carriers as they approached Dong Xoai.
The three troop carriers now moved in from the south. They were fast
and low and their door gunners were firing at any trace of Viet Cong
activity in range. There was constant firing and marking of targets all
along the flight route into the soccer field at Dong Xoai. With complete
surprise they touched down in the soccer field outside the Special Forces
compound. Hastily, the Viet Cong organized an attack. The crews reported
enemy standing up on the compound walls and firing down at the helicopters
not more then fifty feet away. While the helicopters were being hit from
all directions and the door gunners firing at point targets at close range,
a crew chief leaped from the helicopter and exposed himself completely to
the enemy fire. He fired a full magazine from his M14 at the compound
entrance, then with disregard for his own safety, fought his way into the
compound and brought out the last defenders of the outpost. For this act of
valor the crew chief was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. There were
nine wounded Americans and eight Vietnamese that were rescued from Dong
Xoai that afternoon. They were the last survivors of the original defenders
of Dong Xoai.
At the debriefing held at Phuoc Vinh after the three helicopters had
returned, an interesting event came to everyone's attention. Within seconds
after the take off of the evacuation helicopters, the area where they had
landed exploded into mortar fire and it was raked with large caliber
machine gun fire in all quadrants. The fact that the helicopters were able
to successfully complete their mission can be attributed to the element of
surprise and the daring courage of the 118th helicopter crews. The Viet
Cong were evidently expecting a landing in the heart of Dong Xoai. The
extra seconds it took them to reposition their weapons to bear down upon
the helicopters that were making the evacuation allowed the successful
accomplishment of that daring mission. For their courage above and beyond
the call of duty, the three crews were decorated with one Distinguished
Service Cross, five Silver Stars, one Distinguished Flying Cross and five
Air Medals for heroism.
With the evacuation of the compound, the armed helicopters and Air
Force fighter bombers were free to make strike over the entire area. The
armed helicopters made strike after strike stopping only to rearm and
refuel. There was constant rain of fire from the sky in the whole area, was
the remark made by III Corps advisor in a 118th Aviation Company command
and control helicopter.
Late in the afternoon of 10 June 1965, the 52nd Ranger Battalion
arrived in Phuoc Vinh. Plans were immediately put into effect to take them
to Dong Xoai. Verbal orders were given to the aviation company commanders
while the crews made last minute checks on their helicopters prior to
becoming airborne. As the battalion-sized airmobile force neared Dong Xoai,
the final decision was to put the Rangers into the soccer field where the
successful evacuation was made a few hours before.
The 118th Aviation Company was again given the honor of leading the
combat assault. The flight route was the same as we used on the previous
evacuation mission. The helicopter slipped into the soccer field receiving
only scattered small arms as they landed. Once on the ground, however, the
Rangers were being shot down as they tried to move from the landing zone to
the compound and toward the center of town. The enemy, nevertheless, must
not have expected another daring assault that day and the air strikes must
have done their job well. The Viet Cong hastily prepared a defense around
the church in town which had become their forward command post. However,
resistance was slowly put to an end, the compound was secured, the town
reoccupied. Dong Xoai was under control of the allied forces once again
when darkness came that day. The success of the last assault must be
attributed to the high degree of mobility and flexibility of our fighting
force, and the determination and willingness of our flight crews in their
helicopters.
The 118th Aviation Company returned to Bien Hoa after the lift of 52nd
Ranger Battalion on 10 June 1965. The day of heavy fighting had caused the
loss of one entire helicopter crew and aircraft, plus almost every
helicopter having received bullet and shrapnel damage. Ten purple hearts
were awarded to members of the 118th Thunderbirds as a result of this
action.
During the night, more detailed intelligence of the enemy situation
was developed. The enemy had initially committed a full regiment of regular
troops with heavy supporting elements. Seven Viet Cong anti-aircraft gun
positions were destroyed by air in and around Dong Xoai. Hundreds of mortar
round from enemy mortars had destroyed practically every fortification in
the Special Forces Compound. But the devastation air strikes and
bombardments had caused the Viet Cong to suffer heavy losses. During the
day a second regiment with headquarters at the Thanh Loi Plantation had to
be committed for the attack on the compound. The Viet Cong used human wave
attacks on the compound was repeatedly beaten back before the defenders
were evacuated when their ammunition gave out. However, even though the
Viet Cong occupied all of Dong Xoai by late afternoon 10 June 1965, it was
not long before they were overwhelmed by the allied forces. The arrival of
the battle wise ARVN Ranger Battalion was enough to break all organized
resistance in the immediate vicinity of the town.
The next morning 11 June 1965 118th Aviation Company was back in full
strength at Phouc Vinh. There was to be a battalion sized combat assault
with the 118th as the lead element. One hundred paratroopers of the 7th
airborne Battalion ARVN were lifted by the 118th into the soccer at Dong
Xoai. Although fire was expected by the aviation units, the armed escorts
flew low to draw fire from the enemy prior to the arrival of the troops
carrying helicopters, no enemy fire was received. The assault was completed
with the arrival of the remaining elements of the airmobile battalion.
Large scale medical evacuation of ARVN casualties began immediately
after the air landing of the paratroopers on 11 June 1965. Hostilities were
coming to a halt in Dong Xoai except for isolated and rear guard action.
The wounded were brought to the soccer field and loaded on helicopters.
There were almost no medical facilities at Dong Xoai all the casualties
were taken to Phuoc Vinh where the 118th Aviation Company flight surgeon
had set up a clearing station. The doctor had been working for over forty
hours with little rest when the mass evacuation of wounded ARVN soldiers
began. Helicopters continued to bring to Phuoc Vinh seriously wounded and
the medical personnel were overwhelmed with the work. At one time there
were over two hundred wounded awaiting treatment at Phuoc Vinh. The medical
personnel worked diligently and many soldiers lives were saved.
On 12 June 1965, again staging from Phuoc Vinh, Republic of Vietnam,
the company lifted elements of the first battalion 48 Regiment ARVN. The
mission of the 1st Battalion was to reinforce the garrison already located
at Dong Xoai. The troop strength at Dong Xoai was approaching a thousand
and sufficient strength was present to secure the town.
Except for isolated snipers and enemy soldiers that were trapped in
the town itself, the maine body of the enemy had vanished. There was only
small units engagements on 12 June 1965. The 118th provided armed
helicopters support on a continuous basis to give fire support to the
ground forces. There was enemy fire but no casualties were sustained by the
flight crews. The armed helicopters also made an extensive reconnaissance
and search of the areas where the elements of the 1st Battalion 7th
Regiment were committed to battle on 10June 1965. They were unable to
detect any signs of the ARVN unit. The 118th thus prepared for an assault
on the following day.
Also other action on 12 June 1965 is outlined by WO Ralph Orlando
letter about a rescue attempt that day:
"On day 3, the 12th, I flew a slick with Major Harvey Stewart since
the Bandit ships were long gone upon my return from R&R. Much of
this day was spent in and around Dong Xoai in poor flying conditions
& with a stick buddy whose flying skills gave me some worry. I
witnessed from him what I thought was a man pulling half a train,
but in latter years I realized I witnessed bravery at it's finest
but did not recognize it. We got involved in a rescue attempt of an
Air Force F-100 pilot calling a May Day over Thanh Loi Plantation.
The pilot parachuted into the rubber trees & sent up a flare to mark
his position. The Major had me land into the closest open area about
200 meters from the smoke. The Major & Lt Scott, the doorgunner,
took off into the heavy canopy of the plantation. William Quatse,
the crewchief, & I were told to wait only a few minutes & then leave
for Phouc Vinh since our fuel was very low. Finally, after about 5
mins. we saw the Major & Lt running toward us. They dove onto the
helicopter floor & said to pull pitch. The shots coming at us told
me that was probably a great idea. Back at Phouc Vinh, the Major
informed me that the pilot was hanging in the trees, the area was
covered by V.C. & it looked like the pilot had been killed. Ralph
Orlando
After being in continuous operations for over 72 hours, the 118th
Aviation Company still provided the majority of the helicopters for the
assault on 13 June 1965. Despite the heavy casualties and excessive damage
to the helicopters, the morale of the company remained extremely high. Many
of the helicopters now carried volunteer gunners consisting of clerks and
cooks from the company.
The company went to Xuan Loc to pick up soldiers belonging to the ARVN
43 Regiment. A hundred soldiers were lifted into a landing zone a half mile
north of the original assault area conducted on the first day of the
operation. From the landing area, the soldiers were to move through the
jungle and rubber trees to search for the troops that had disappeared
shortly after they were landed. During the conduct of the assault,
scattered small arms fire was received from the enemy hiding in the vast
Thanh Loi Plantation. The company did not sustain any damage to the
helicopters, nor any casualties. The enemy in this assault, turned out to
be the weather which came to be a serious hazard to flight.
The lift of the 43 Regiment was conducted at night under minimum
lighting conditions. All during the daylight hours, fire teams searched for
the 7th Regiment soldiers. Finally the situation become too urgent not to
risk an air assault and ground search. The 118th was the only airmobile
company experienced in night assaults. The assault was accomplished
according to schedule. However due to the rapidly deteriorating weather on
the return flights, the pilots were unable to hold their formation and
helicopters were scattered all over "War Zone D". There was hidden
thunderstorms through out the area. Heavy rain reduced visibility to bare
minimum and winds gusting up to forty knots made any helicopter flying
extremely difficult. Only the high degree of training and professionalism
of the aviators prevented sure disaster and loss of crews and helicopters.
The flight returned to Bien Hoa individually with every helicopter
accounted for at 2330 hours. Many of the helicopters had but few minutes of
fuel remaining.
The Dong Xoai battle was to have a final chapter on 20 June 1965. On
that date the largest heliborne operation in the III Corps area was to
climax the closing of the battle. The 118th Aviation Company was again
chosen to lead the assault of seventy-seven troop carriers and forty armed
escorts. Staging for Hon Quan, the mission of the heliborne force was to
conduct combat assaults to the area north of Dong Xoai where reconnaissance
patrols and intelligence indicated a concentration of Viet Cong forces in a
rubber plantation it was believed that they were remnants of the two enemy
regiments that had attacked Dong Xoai. It appeared that the enemy was now
attempting to withdraw and break contact.
One thousand and eighty-nine paratroopers which were the entire 3rd
and 8th ARVN Airborne Battalions, cream of the Vietnamese Army, were landed
by combat assault. Minor damages were sustained by a single helicopter
which was caused by one enemy small arms bullet. There was no other
incidents of enemy resistance that day.
On 20 June 1965, the battle of Dong Xoai came to a close for the 118th
Aviation Company.

Distinguished Unit Citation were awarded to the 145th C.A.B., 117th
AHC, 118th AML, 120th AHC, 197th AHC, and Company A/501st Avn. BN. for
their actions between 10 June 1965 to 13 June 1965.
24 June 1965 LTC. Cunningham turned over command of the 145th to LTC.
Charles M. Honour Jr.. As it would turn out LTC. Robert K. Cunningham would
be the longest 145th Battalion Commander in Vietnam, serving as Battalion
Commander for 11 months and 2 days. And LTC. Honour would be the only
Battalion Commander to be Killed in Action with the 145th.
In August of 1965 the 117th Aviation Company would be transferred to
the 52nd Combat Aviation Battalion not to be returned until January 1968.
During the month of October 1965 the 145th C.A.B. supported the 173rd
Airborne Brigade in numerous search and destroy operations in the "Iron
Triangle" and "War Zone D". The first combat assaults in support of the 1st
Infantry Division were also made during the month of October. A Co, 82nd
Avn Bn was re-assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade on 18 October 1965.
November of 1965 brought about another award for the 145th C.A.B., the
Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm for its service from 29 December
1964 to 4 November 1965. On November 16, 1965 the second youngest Army
Aviator to be Killed in Combat in South Vietnam was Dana Edward Brann, 19,
born August 8, 1947. He died in action while serving with the 120th
Aviation Company, may he rest in peace. November also brought the return of
the 68th Aviation Company to the Battalion. Although the 68th got its name
from the other 68th that served with the Battalion, this 68th was a brand
new unit. The new 68th worked hard to up hold the image of the other 68th
it was named after, after a short time the members of the other 68th
(197th) began to accept the new unit. The Meritorious Unit Commendation was
awarded to the 197th AHC for its outstanding service from May to November
1965.
In the months of November and December 1965 the 145th C.A.B.
participated in an allied operation called "Operation Rice Bowl". The
object of the operation was to secure the rice fields in the valley North
of Vo Dat, and deny the Viet Cong use of the freshly harvested rice. Also
during this same period the battalion welcomed the recently arrived 68th
Aviation Company to Bien Hoa which was initially stationed at Vung Tau.
1 January 1966 started off with LTC Charles M Honour commanding the
Battalion. In the next two years the 145th would be credited with many
"First" and many awards. Starting in 1965 the Army started building up many
new helicopter units and battalions, Vietnam would become known as the
Helicopter War. The 145th played a large part in the build up and set the
example for other battalions to follow.
On New Years Day 1966, the 335th AHC was involved in Operation
Marauder in the bao Trai area, then Operation Crimp in the Hobo Woods.
On 18 February 1966 LTC Charles M Honour was killed in a helicopter
crash between Bien Hoa and Saigon. LTC Horst K Joost, who was the executive
officer of the 173d Airborne Brigade at the time, replaced LTC Honour on 20
February 1966. The 335th AHC gave support to the 1st Inf Div at Di An
during the month of February 1966.

SUBJECT: Commanders Combat Note #1 23 February 1966
I am proud to have been designated to command the 145th Aviation
Battalion. This organization has distinguished itself on many occasions. It
enjoys an esteemed reputation and has set the pace for other similar units
arriving in Vietnam.
I intend to maintain this high state of professionalism while being
cognizant that we are all first and foremost ground combat qualified and
then are qualified to provide aviation combat support.
Army aviation has changed the course of this conflict from a ground
bound, ambush-susceptible slugging match, to a highly mobile and flexible
posture that has been instrumental in keeping the Viet Cong off-balance.
Army Aviation is providing the Free World Forces an offensive capability
which is confronting the Viet Cong with an unpredictable nemesis. You are
writing this chapter in history.
We must be mindful however, that our enemy carefully studies our every
move and attempt to predict our pattern so that he can strike our weak
spot. We must not be complacent with our past successes. We must constantly
strive to improve our techniques and procedures. We must also be efficient
with our resources of manpower and materiel. A non-combat loss of personnel
and aircraft through an accident is a score for our enemy.
This battalion is an integrated team. Although basically the slick
helicopter crew is the "bread and butter" of our many tasks, they are
supported by everyone that makes up the organization. This includes the
gunships, which provides protective fires, to the maintenance, avionics,
operations, mail clerks, cooks, and all others that make the team. The
success of each operation is the result of a contribution from each team
member. Always bear this in mind!
Keeping everyone in this battalion informed is one of my goals. To this
end, I will periodically publish a Commander's Combat Note which is
intended to be disseminated to all members of the organization.
CLEAR LEFT AND RIGHT
HORST K JOOST, Lt Colonel, Inf
Commanding

The 1st Aviation Brigade was formed on the 1st of March 1966 and the
145th served under the 12th Group of the 1st Aviation Brigade. This was
done for better command and control of all army aviation units and
operations.

SUBJECT: Commander's Combat Note #7 5 March 1966
\SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS 21 FEBRUARY THROUGH 3 MARCH 1966\
1. During this period the 145th Aviation Battalion, in addition to
moving to Bien Hoa, conducted nine major airmobile operations, two of which
were conducted in one day. Our armed helicopters operating at night,
accounted for 18 sampans or boats sunk, one of which was carrying VC troops
and explosives, 15 sampans were damaged, and five VC huts were destroyed.
On 23 February, armed helicopters of 197th Aviation Company were
responsible for the VC withdrawal from an attack on as ARVN compound when
they brought fire to bear on the attackers.
2. This battalion supported by the 2d Brigade, 1st U.S. Infantry
Division, on 21 February, during operation MASTIFF, by conducting six
combat assaults with three infantry battalions, into two landing zones, 15
kilometers southeast of Dau Tieng. Forty-four troop carriers and 32
gunships were employed. Enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire was
received during the landings. Aircraft damage was slight. Suppressive fire
from aircraft placed on enemy positions was possible for decreasing the
volume and intensity of VC fire.
3. On 22 February this battalion airlifted a regiment of the 10th ARVN
Division from An Loc, vicinity of Xuan Loc, and conducted an airmobile
assault 43KM to the south, near Binh Gia. Thirty UH-1D's and 17 UH-1B's
(armed) were employed in the operation. No air or artillery preparation of
the LZ was used in order to achieve surprise during the landing, and to
preclude the possibility of setting the dry grass which covered the LZ on
fire. The gunships of the 197th Aviation Company led the way by a few
minutes and placed accurate and deadly fire on the treeline which encircled
the LZ. The initial assault was accomplished with no enemy fire on the LZ.
The gunship preparation however, necessitated the subsequent lifts to be
diverted to an alternate LZ. The response on the part of all elements was
immediate when modifications plans were made from the battalion command and
control aircraft. Gunships diverted to the new LZ and began to place fire
on suspected areas. The troop carriers modified the formation while
airborne to compensate for the new conditions on the LZ. Between lifts, Air
Force tactical air placed strikes on enemy ground fire along the helicopter
flight routes, which had begun to become active. This operation
demonstrated the flexibility of airmobile operations by being able to
adjust to changing conditions with a minimum amount of radio transmission
from a single command element. It also demonstrated the team work inherent
in the gunships, troop carriers, and Air Force tactical air.
4. The 2d Brigade, 1st (US) Infantry Division was extracted from two
landing zones by this battalion on 25 February, employing 31 UH-1D
helicopters and 17 armed helicopters. These troops were lifted back to Dau
Tieng prepared to be re-committed to another airmobile assault. Enemy small
arms and automatic weapons fire was received by flight elements in the
vicinity of the extraction zones. Three aircraft hits were sustained.
5. The morning of 26 February found this battalion assembling 20 troop
carriers and 14 armed helicopters to airlift elements of the 25th ARVN
Division and assault two landing zones located 15 KM Northeast of Ben Luc
in order to conduct search and destroy operations against Viet Cong forces,
supplies and installations. Ground fire was received and one aircraft was
hit.
6. At 1700 hours that evening, the battalion lifted elements of the
173rd Airborne Brigade into one landing zone in war zone D, 11KM Northwest
of Bien Hoa. This assault was designed to commit a reaction force into a
blocking position to entrap a VC main force element, that was being engaged
by the paratrooper elements previously lifted into area. Enemy fire was
received from numerous locations around the assault LZ as the helicopters
landed. Two aircraft received damage. During the extraction one UH-1D troop
carrier from the 118th Aviation Company experienced a flame out and was
successfully landed without damage in a rice paddy in the vicinity of the
operational area. A night recovery of the downed aircraft by a CH-47
helicopter was executed. This latter accomplishment demonstrated the
teamwork that we have developed in accomplishing any mission.
7. Early in the morning of 28 February, a main force Viet Cong,
estimated to be a regiment, attacked and over ran the ARVN secured town of
Vo Xu located east of Vo Dat in the Rice Bowl area. At 0455 hours the 145th
Aviation Battalion was alerted to provide a rapid reaction airmobile
capability to reinforce the friendly forces in Vo Xu. By 0630 hours, forty
UH-1D troop carriers and 17 UH-1B armed carriers were on alert at Bien Hoa,
Vung Tau and Tan Son Nhut. All aircraft and crews were assembled, briefed
and organized for combat by 0730 hours. One Ranger Battalion was airlifted
from Duc Hoa and positioned at Vo Dat. Another was lifted from Bao Trai and
positioned at Vo Dat. Another ARVN Ranger Battalion was then lifted from An
Loc and an airmobile assault conducted south of Vo Xu. One of the Rangers
Battalion positioned at Vo Dat next conducted an assault on the same LZ.
These assaults were designed to entrap and intercept the VC that had
attacked Vo Xu earlier in the day. Three aircraft were hit by enemy ground
fire. During the assault, one troop carrier experienced a hard landing, and
could not be flown out of the LZ. Immediate action was taken to prepare the
aircraft for liftout. A CH-47 helicopter arrived and within seconds
snatched the aircraft out of the LZ. This recovery was performed with such
speed that it did not interfere with the tactical plan of the ground
elements. This day's operation proved on several occasions that Army
Aviation are more responsive to rapid reaction than are the ground
elements. Planning for the conduct of the operation was accomplished in the
cockpit by commanders and staff while flying to assembly areas. Short,
standardized briefings and mission type orders are the keys to rapid
reaction.
8. On 1 March 2/503 Inf Battalion, 173rd Airborne Brigade, was
extracted from their operational area in War Zone D, to the Brigade base.
Three lifts employing twenty-eight UH-1D and thirteen UH-1B (armed)
helicopters. Hostile ground fire was encountered during the lift out.
9. In the early morning of 2 March, the battalion again assembled its
elements for an airmobile assault. Thirty UH-1D troop carriers and eighteen
UH-1B armed helicopters were employed. This time elements of the 25th ARVN
Division were lifted from Trang Bang and Cu Chi to assault three landing
zones were prepared by tactical air strikes and armed helicopters, however,
light to moderate automatic and semi-automatic enemy weapons fire was
encountered. Gunships and tactical air was placed on this ground fire. One
troop carrier was hit. During the airmobile assaults an air observer
detected approximately 40 VC fleeing west toward the Cambodian border.
Gunships gave chase and worked the area over with their weapons. Damage to
the VC was unknown.
10. On the last day of the reporting period, 3 March, this battalion
conducted an airmobile assault with element of the 10th ARVN Division south
of Baria, immediately adjacent to the sea coast. Twenty-seven UH-1D and 25
UH-1B armed helicopters were employed. Troop pick-up was from a road north
of Baria. Four lifts completed this operation. Light to moderate hostile
fire was encountered during the assault. Armed helicopters and tactical air
strikes worked over these enemy locations during and between lifts. No
aircraft hits were sustained.
11. In addition to these operations this battalion provided normal
command and liaison, administrative and logistical support for III ARVN
Corps.
12. A wrap-up for this period is as follows:
- A total of 5,547 U.S. and ARVN forces were committed in airmobile
assaults. Extractions of forces from areas of operations consisted of 1,525
U.S Forces. Repositioning of 639 ARVN troops was accomplished.
- The total sorties flown was 6,118 for a total of 2,192 flying
hours.
13. This was a full period and every member of this battalion are to be
congratulated for their accomplishments. Added congratulations must go to
the maintenance personnel who have kept us ABOVE ALL.
14. In the area of civic action, which I feel is as vital as combat
operations, this battalion is making great strides. In addition to our
heavy operation schedule for the period, the 145th Aviation Battalion was
active in the areas of Community Relations, Education and Training, and
Health and Sanitation. A total of $VC 16,020 was collected by the 197th
Aviation Company to purchase baby beds for Saigon orphanage. Officers and
enlisted men from A/501st Aviation conducted 4 one-hour English classes for
the Bien Hoa National Police. Members of the 118th Aviation Company
continued to provide support to Bien Hoa orphanage in the form of 320 lbs
of rice, 100 lbs of peanuts, powered milk, cooking oil, condiments and
various cleaning products. In addition, two doctors visited the Leprosy
colony for the purpose of treating patients. Letters received by members of
the 68th Aviation Company indicate that local drives in their hometowns are
making progress and donations for distribution to the local populace will
be forthcoming.
"FIRST IN VIETNAM"
HORST K. JOOST, Lt. Colonel, Inf
Commanding

SUBJECT: Commander's Combat Note Number 9 13 March 1966
\SUMMARY OF OPERATION 4 MARCH THROUGH 11 MARCH 1966\
This week the 145th Aviation Battalion accomplished a variety of combat
and combat support missions which contributed significantly toward beating
Victor Charlie.
The battalion, or elements thereof, conducted three multi-ground
battalion airmobile assaults or extractions; two airmobile assaults in
which company sized ground elements were employed; and one airmobile
company reinforced the lift of another aviation battalion.
The 197th Aviation Company, in addition to providing their normal armed
reconnaissance and marking of LZ's, and armed escort for all airmobile
operations, sank 6 sampans and damaged 9 sampans by their lightning Bug
operations.
The battalion effort on the VC score board for this week is as follows:
An estimated 58 VC killed, a body count of 36 VC killed, 27 structures
destroyed and 20 damaged, and 31 sampans destroyed and 31 damaged. This one
weeks toll is a commendable figure. It is especially significant when it is
realized that some ground combat units of brigade size can't match this
claim.
On 4 March, the 118th Aviation Company, reinforced by A/501st Aviation
Battalion, supported the 1st Aviation Battalion with 15 UH-1D troop
carriers and 6 armed helicopters to lift 405 troops of the 5th ARVN
Division from Lai Khe into an operational area Northeast of Phu Loi.
On 5 March, the 118th Aviation Company reinforced by A/501st Aviation
Battalion, employed 11 troops carriers and armed helicopters to lift 111
troops of the 1st Bde, 1st U.S. Inf Div from a pick-up site fifteen
kilometers North of Tan Uyen into a landing zone at Tan Uyen. In the
afternoon the same ground element was lifted back to its original departure
point.
A major operation was conducted by this battalion, reinforced by
aviation elements of the 1st U.S. Infantry Division on 6 March 1966. The
unit being supported was the 25th ARVN Division. Fifty UH-1D troop
carriers, 27 UH-1B armed helicopters, and 2 O1-D fixed wing aircraft were
assembled to execute this operation. The plan was to extract four infantry
battalions from two pick-up sites twelve kilometers south of Tay Ninh
during the hours of darkness, and conduct two combat assaults into two
landing zones four kilometers Southwest of Cu Chi at daybreak. Due to a
dense ground fog in the pick-up area, the pick-up had to be delayed until
later in the morning. Eight hundred and twenty-two ground troops conducted
the assault. Moderate automatic weapons fire was encountered during the
landing, resulting in one helicopter being hit. The fires of the organic
gunships of the airmobile companies, and of the 197th Aviation Company were
placed on this enemy fire which served to suppress it. Armed helicopters
committed to ground battle also took a toll of nine structures destroyed
and eleven damaged. During the airmobile assault of the last ground
elements, a group of 10 VC were spotted fleeing the area. Gunships of the
197th were immediately over the spot and opened fire. The result - eight VC
killed and two possibles. Body count was confirmed by ground elements. It
is worthy to know that we had some frustrated crews when they realized that
their mission didn't permit them to land and recover the VC weapons. It is
also regrettable that the weather conditions did not permit the night
extraction and the dawn assault to be executed as planned. As the tactical
information permits, it is intended in the future to conduct more night
operations.
At 1440 hours on 8 March, a CIDG company conducting search and destroy
operations 10 kilometers west of Tay Ninh was attacked and surrounded by an
estimated two company size VC force. The 118th Aviation Company
(reinforced) was assembled for a reaction operation and flown to Tay Ninh.
There they picked-up 200 troops of the 25th ARVN Division and airlifted
them into an operational area to reinforce the CIDG unit. This operation
again demonstrates the flexibility and rapid response capability of
helicopter units. From the time the alert was received by the Battalion
Operation Center, until troops were landed in the operational area, only
105 minutes had elapsed. This is an amazingly short time considering that
the aircraft had to be recalled from other missions.
The last large operation of the period was conducted on 9 March when
two battalions of the 173rd Airborne Brigade assaulted an operational area
deep into War Zone D, 16 KM East of Phouc Hoa. During the troop carrier
lifts, ten attached CH-47 helicopters lifted 41 sorties of artillery and
supplies into the operational area. Five lifts of the fifty assault
helicopters were required to complete an airmovement of the ground
elements. Twenty-seven armed helicopters provided air escort and
suppressive fire support. Automatic weapons fire was received by flight
elements enroute to the operational area and sniper fire was encountered in
the landing zone. One aircraft was hit.
During the period the 145th Aviation Battalion provided administrative
and combat support to the 1st (US) Infantry Division, 173rd (US) Airborne
Brigade and III ARVN Corps.
Operational statistics are as follows:
Rotary Wing: Total Sorties - 4,948
Total Flying Hours - 1,818
Passengers Flown - 5,984
Fixed Wing: Total Sorties - 224
Total Flying Hours - 339

The aviation company of this battalion, thus far not mentioned is the
68th. In its silent, modest approach to mission accomplishment, it is
already flying 293 hours over program for the month. This is 104 hours over
the next highest company. It also has one aircraft less than the other
companies.
This battalion has been assigned a new, unique, and challenging mission
which will enable us to operate with the U.S. Navy. Plans are being
developed at this time and more information will be released as the project
develops. Captain Brofer, 197th Aviation Company has been assigned as the
Battalion Project Officer.

\SUMMARY OF CIVIC ACTIONS\
During the period units of the battalion were active in the areas of
Community Relations, Education and Training, Health and Sanitary,
Construction and Communications. Personnel from the 197th Aviation Company
constructed a fence within the An Loc Orphanage, along with organizing a
drive to obtain materials to repair a perimeter fence damaged by Viet Cong.
In addition the officers and men donated 400 pounds of cookies and candy, 1
case of body soap and 1/2 case of mosquito repellent. The majority of these
donations were sent to members of the unit from supporters in the United
States. The 118th Aviation Company performed loudspeaker and leaflet
support for Psychological Welfare operations for Voice of America for a
period of three hours. The officers and men also donated 3,000 $VN to the
Bien Hoa Orphanage along with 300 pounds of rice, 10 pounds of sugar and
1/2 case of wash soap. Doctor Altomonte attended to the sick at the
orphanage. Members of the 120th Aviation Company continued to provide
support to the Go Vap Orphanage in the form of $47.50 MPC, and 2,540 $VN,
one-hundred bags of cement for building projects, 2 cases of cornmeal, 4
cases of evaporated milk and 60 pounds of beans. Captain Wurster from the
129th Med Det surveyed the health needs at the orphanage and concluded that
the children receive adequate treatment from their own doctor. A
conversational English class was conducted by A/501st Aviation Battalion
for the Bien Hoa National Police. Coordination has been made with the MACV
Sector Advisor to sponsor a Now Life Hamlet in the Ho Nai Refugee area.
Many units work in this area but with 80,000 refugees and more arriving
each day, there is a tremendous opportunity to help in the traditional
American spirit. Our first project will be to field a MEDCAP team.
HORST K. JOOST, Lt Colonel,
Inf
Commanding

SUBJECT: Commander's Combat Note #11 21 March 1966
\SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS 11 MARCH THROUGH 17 MARCH 1966\
The 145th Aviation Battalion conducted six major airmobile assaults
this week. Four of these major operations were conducted in two consecutive
days. Two of these operations were rapid reactions requiring recall and
assembly of aircraft from other tasks.
The 197th Aviation killed 4 VC confirmed by body count. The company
also destroyed 9 sampans (one being 35 feet in length). Four VC
installations were destroyed and 8 damaged.
This week the armed helicopters of A/501st Avn Bn, and the 118th, 68th
and 197th Aviation Companies had numerous occasions to prove their worth by
protecting the troop carrier aircraft and the ground elements they were
supporting. The gunners on the troop carriers also had several
opportunities to prove to the VC that it isn't healthy to fire at a
helicopter.
On 11 March 1966, the 145th C.A.B. (Reinf) assembled at the forward
command post at 0600 hours to receive the final briefing and organize for
combat. This operation was the second airmobile assault conducted in
support of operation "Silver City" in War Zone D. Fifty UH-1D troop
carriers and thirty-one UH-1B armed helicopters were committed in support
of the 173rd (US) Airborne Brigade. The Battalion combat assault landed six
hundred and fifty-six troops from Bien Hoa into the landing zone eighteen
kilometers east of Phouc Hoa.
Since their employment into this area, the 173rd Airborne Brigade has
achieved phenomenal success against the enemy. At last count (which is
incomplete) for operation Silver City over 300 emeny dead have been
counted, and a vast store of arms, documents, and supplies have been
captured.
Two major operations were conducted on 14 March 1966. At 0935 hours,
two companies of the 145th C.A.B. (68th and A/501st), attached to the 11
C.A.B., landed at the staging area two kilometers north of Cu Chi. Twenty
UH-1D troop carriers and six UH-1B armed helicopters were committed in
support of the 25th (US) Inf. Div.. Two hundred and seventy-two troops were
airlifted in two lifts from the staging area into the operational area
twelve kilometers southwest of Cu Chi. Hostile small arms and
semi-automatic weapons fire was encountered. This was the first airmobile
operation conducted in support of the 25th (US) Inf. Div since its arrival
in the Republic of South Vietnam.
At 1100 hours on 14 March 1966, fifty-two UH-1D and twenty-nine UH-1B
armed Helicopters were committed in support of the 25th ARVN Division. The
Battalion flew to intermediate staging areas located at Trang Bang and Tram
Vang where five hundred and twenty troops were loaded and later combat
assault landed into an operational area seven kilometers northwest of Duc
Hoa. Light to moderate small arms fire was encountered during the first
combat assault. The Battalion then flew to Tan An and Ben Luc where an
additional five hundred and twenty troops were loaded and combat assault
landed into the second landing zone seven kilometers southwest of Duc Hoa
and airlifted one hundred troops from that location into the second landing
zone. During the entire operation, one aircraft was hit.
At 0230 hours on 15 March 1966 the 145th Aviation Battalion reacted
immediately to a rapid reaction request from III ARVN Corps. Under the
cover of darkness the 145th Aviation Battalion assembled for final briefing
and to conduct final organization for combat.
The flight elements departed the assembly area at 0620 hours and
picked up the first lift of troops of the 5th ARVN Division at Lia Khe
during darkness. With the assistance of the 145th Battalion Pathfinders,
the loading proceeded in an orderly fashion. At dawn, two hundred and
forty-six troops were combat assault landed into a landing zone eight
kilometers south, southeast of Ben Cat. The troop carriers then returned to
Bien Hoa and airlifted an additional three hundred and twenty troops into a
second landing zone twelve kilometers south of Ben Cat. During the
operation the 197th Aviation Company was responsible for evacuating twelve
casualties, destroying four structures and damaging eight others.
This reaction operation was initiated with the purpose of reinforcing
ARVN elements in the area that had been attacked during the night. The
landing areas were chosen with the intent to block the enemy and destroy
them. During the landings an intense amount of automatic weapons fire was
received from the south eastern edge of the "Iron Triangle". Information
was relayed from the ground elements to the 5th ARVN Division Commander,
located with the 145th Aviation Battalion Commander in the Command and
Control aircraft, that the enemy was in fact withdrawing to the Iron
Triangle. It was determined that tactical air would not be on station for
at least one half hour. The Division Commander asked what the 145th
Aviation Battalion could do to engage the enemy. He was informed we could
turn all guns on enemy. As the last elements were landed in the assault,
the order was given to all 145th Aviation Battalion elements to prepare for
offensive firing. Instructions were transmitted while companies were making
a forming turn to echelon the Battalion. Four companies consisting of a
total of 37 troop carriers and 19 gunships were spaced one minute apart,
echelon right, at an altitude of 1500 feet. On the signal of the lead
company all weapons of the gunships and slicks fired into the suspected
enemy areas along the eastern edge of the "Iron Triangle". The width of
area was covered extensive, and the density of strikes within the beaten
zone was awesome. It is frustrating not to know the extent of damage
incurred on the enemy. It is certain that we caused damage, since this fire
covered the area from which we were receiving automatic weapons fire. A
total of seventy-eight thousand rounds of 7.62 ammunition, three hundred
and fifty 2.75 inch rockets, and one hundred and thirty-five rounds of 40mm
ammunition were expended during the one firing pass.
At 0830 hours, on the same day, the 145th Aviation Battalion (Reinf),
again assembled for combat in support of another airmobile assault.
Forty-three UH-lD troop carriers and twenty-seven UH-lB armed helicopters
flew to intermediate staging areas at Cu-Chi and an area eight kilometers
northwest of Duc Hoa. From these two locations four hundred and ten troops
of the 25th ARVN Division were airlifted in one combat assault into the
operational area six kilometers west of Duc Hoa. Small arms and
semi-automatic fire was received in the vicinity of the landing zone and
one of the attached aircraft was hit.
On 15 March in support of Operation Silver City the 335th AHC
responded when two thousand VC encircled the 2/503rd Inf, the attacked
began just after sunrise, the Cowboys responded by sling-loading ammunition
into the landing zone under withering hostile fire. The VC left behind four
hundred of their dead.
On 16 March, the 145th Aviation Battalion (Reinf) reacted immediately
to a rapid reaction initiated by the 1st (US) Infantry Division in support
of the 173rd (US) Airborne Brigade. At 0935 hours the battalion Operations
Center was notified of the rapid reaction. By 1200 hours, twenty-eight
UH-lD troop carriers and sixteen UH-1B armed helicopters had been recalled
from III ARVN Corps support missions, assembled at the forward command post
and lifted two hundred troops of the 1st (US) Infantry Division (2nd
Brigade) into a landing zone twenty-two kilometers north of Bien Hoa.
Throughout the remainder of the day an additional twelve hundred and thirty
troops were lifted from Lai Khe, Long Than North (Bearcat), and Phuc Ving
into two landing zones in the operational area. Due to the immediate
requirement for additional support in the second landing zone, troops were
repositioned from one landing zone to the other. Small arms and
semi-automatic weapons fire was encountered in the vicinity of the landing
zones; however, there were no aircraft hit. Throughout the entire
operation, the flight elements arrived at the pickup sites prior to the
time the ground elements were organized for air movement. The rapidity
with which this rapid reaction was accomplished indicates the flexibility
which is ever present within the companies of the Battalion.
On 17 March, the 68th Aviation Company was attached to the 11th
Aviation Battalion to support the 25th (US) Infantry Division in search and
destroy operations being conducted eight kilometers southeast of Tay Ninh.
Ten UH-lD troop carriers and two UH-lB armed helicopters were involved in
the operation which was staged from Phu Loi. One hundred and twelve troops
of the 2nd Brigade, 25th (US) Infantry Division were airlifted in one lift
and combat assault landed into the operational area.
During the 11-17 March time period, the 74th Aviation Company
conducted the following missions:
Command and Liaison - 39 Air Escort - 21
Radio Relay - 13 Visual Reconnaissance - 76
Artillery Adjustment - 27 Photo - 1
Air Control - 30 Forward Air Control - 1
Surveillance - 12 Logistics - 5
During 11 March through 17 March 1966 the 145th Aviation Battalion
also provided normal administrative and combat support to the 1st (US)
Infantry Division, 173rd (US) Airborne Brigade and III ARVN Corps.
Operational statistics for rotary wing aircraft in support of
operations are as follows:
Total Sorties - 4221
Total Flying Hours - 1668
Passengers Flown - 6196
Operational statistics for fixed wing aircraft in supportations are as
follows:
Total Sorties - 252
Total Flying Hours - 538
Due to the large influx of new aviators in the Battalion a vigorous
training program is now under way within the companies to insure that all
newly assigned personnel receive a detailed and thorough standardization
flight check prior to flying on III Corps aviation support missions.

\SUMMARY OF CIVIC ACTIONS\
This week 11 March to 17 March 1966 the 145th Aviation Battalion
accomplished a variety of Civic Actions in its effort to expand the Civil
Affairs Program. In the area of commerce the Battalion and subordinate
units provided approximately 300 jobs for the local populace on a
continuous basis, broken down as follows:
Bn Hq & HHD - 30 118th Avn Co - 70
68th Avn Co - 50 197th Avn Co - 50
74th Avn Co - 28 A/501st Avn Bn - 41
The 68th AVN CO relocated 201 ARVN and refugees on three separate
operations conducted in the Xuan Loc, Tanh Ninh area. In addition they
transported 3,500 lbs of food and personal belongings associated with the
move. Preliminary planning was accomplished with U.S. Advisors at Can Co
for the company's sponsorship. The 68th has also extended an offer to help
the An Phong welfare organization when assistance is needed.
The 74th accomplished initial coordination with the Phu Loi Civic
Actions Coordinator and it is anticipated that work will begin very soon.
Help is needed in the education, Community Relations and Construction
fields.
The 118th accomplished Civic Actions in virtually all areas. One
hundred civilians were evacuated from a village in the Song Be area that
was supposed to be over-run by Viet Cong. At the same time two gunships
evacuated two civilians that needed immediate medical attention. Both of
these operations were done under extreme hazardous conditions and in only a
few hours duration. The gunship received several rounds of small arms fire
while completing the medical evacuation. Twenty-two bags of rice which were
located on a search and destroy mission in the operational area north of
Phu Loi were lifted to home station. The rice was donated to help relieve
some financial burden of the Bien Hoa Orphanage. In addition the officers
and men have volunteered their off-duty time to help construct plywood and
tin-lined cupboards at the orphanage. Donations for the week were: Two
cases of jam, 50 cans of bread, 12 lbs of sugar, 100 lbs of peanuts, 600
lbs of white rice,200 lbs of powdered milk, 1 case of bath soap, 1 dozen
wash clothes, 15 tooth brushes and tooth paste packs, 6 dozen diapers,
assorted children's clothes, 10 lbs of salt, and 2 cases of candies. The
following medical supplies and cleaning products were donated by the
officers: 1 case of chlorine bleach, 1 case of insect spray, 1 case of
auromycin eye ointment, and 2 boxes of assorted vitamins to fulfill their
daily needs. The 118th also flew a psychological warfare mission for three
hours duration. During the mission the Voice of America and leaflets
offered the words of freedom and safety from the South Vietnamese
Government in the Tan Uyen area. Doctor Altomonte treated patients again at
the Leper Colony for various illness other than leprosy. This assistance
has greatly helped in isolating the disease and has lessened the suffering
of those afflicted with leprosy. SP4 Amisano has been giving English
classes to the children around Cong-Ly. He is affectionately known as the
"teacher" and this kind of people to people program is the very foundation
of our civic actions here in Vietnam.
The 197th continued to provide support to the An Lac Orphanage in the
areas of Health and Sanitation, and Community Relations. Donations included
1 case of body soap, 5 lbs of tooth brushes and tooth paste, 40 lbs of
flour, 15 lbs of sugar and 20 lbs of candy. Emphasis is being placed on
improving the cleanliness of the children. Civic organizations in the U.S.
supporting the 197th sponsoring of the orphanage have indicated that 80 lbs
of clothes is on the way and it will be a continuous program from then on.
A/501st Avn Bn was active in the areas of Community Relations,
Transportation and Education. An English class was taught for the National
Police of Bien Hoa. The officers and men donated 12,875 $VN worth of
clothes, writing pads, readers, and coloring books which were presented to
the Catholic Orphanage of Bien Hoa. On 13 March two helicopters assisted
the 5th ARVN Division in relocating 45 civilians, bag and baggage, from
Song Be to Duc Phoung. Also during the course of normal missions 300 lbs of
US AID rice and 200 lbs of school supplies were transported to a remote
village northeast of Song Be.
The effort to expand civic action activities has shown some real
progress in the last week (11-17 March 1966) despite the loss of the 120th
Aviation Company which was very active in Civil Affairs.

Commander's Combat Note #12 28 March 1966
Summary Of Operations 18 March Through 24 March 1966
The 145th Aviation Battalion conducted two major airmobile assaults,
and two extractions, and on five occasions provided aviation reinforcement
to other units during the period. Included was reinforcement to the II
Corps and IV Corps aviation.
The 197th Aviation Company sank three sampans and damaged three. The
company also destroyed two V.C. structures. During the support of the 25th
ARVN Division, three armed helicopters evacuated 14 ARVN casualties.
On 18 March 1966, the 145th Aviation Battalion employed 28 UH-ID troop
carriers and UH-13 armed helicopters to support 25th (ARVN) Division in air
assaults operations 13 kilometers southwest of Duc Hoa. From the staging
area at Duc Hoa, 595 troops were airlifted in three successive assaults.
Light small arms and automatic weapons fire was encountered on the 2nd and
3rd assaults. Three aircraft were hit.
During the 2nd assault ten Viet Cong was sighted in the open 400
meters north of the landing zone. Although tactical air, organic artillery
and mortars were available and could have been used, the airmobile force
commander took advantage of the flexibility, fire power and rapid response
of the armed helicopters. The target was immediately engaged and
neutralized with seven Viet Cong estimated killed.
At 1620 hours, the 145th Aviation Battalion responded to a rapid
reaction notification to air land one battalion (317 troops) from the 25th
(ARVN) Division to reinforce the troops that had been air landed earlier in
the day. The responsiveness of the Aviation Battalion was clearly evident
as the entire operation, from notification to termination, took only one
hour and thirty minutes. Moderate ground fire was received from the
vicinity of the landing zone and two aircraft were hit. Thirty one ARVN
casualties were evacuated, under fire, after the assault troops had landed.
Only through the close covering fire provided by the gun ships was it
possible to remove those casualties without losing an aircraft to the enemy
fire. All personnel participating are to be commended for their courageous
behavior in the face of enemy fire. I also want to commend Lieutenant
Holcomb, 74th Aviation Company for his quick thinking and actions, while
flying fixed wing cover in support of this operation.
The 118th Aviation Company, also on this day, committed five UH-1D
troop carriers and four UH-1B armed helicopters to extract 46 ARVN Special
Forces from a site 25 kilometers north of Suoi Da, in support of operation
MARCH EAGLE I.
On 19 March 1966 Company A/501st and 118th Aviation Company teamed
together to extract troops of the 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division (US),
from a site 20 kilometers southeast of Phuoc Vinh. Ten UH-1D troop carriers
and two UH-1B helicopters were used to extract 112 troops in two airlifts.
The 145th Aviation Battalion employed seventeen UH-1D troop carriers
and ten UH-1B armed helicopters in support of III (ARVN) Corps missions on
20 March 1966.
On 21 March 1966, the Battalion supported the 173rd Airborne Brigade
in Operation Silver City by employing thirty-three UH-1D troop carriers and
eight UH-1B armed helicopters to extract 1186 troops of the 1st and 2nd
Battalion 503rd Airborne Infantry in six air lifts.
In the afternoon the Battalion supported III (ARVN) Corps with twenty
nine UH-1D troop carriers and eight UH-1B armed helicopters. Three hundred
CIDG troops were extracted from the landing zone 16 kilometers of Xom Cat
and air lifted to Bien Hoa.
Operation Silver City terminated at 1635 hours on 22 March 1966, as
the 145th Aviation Battalion employing forty UH-1D troop carriers and
nineteen UH-1B armed helicopters, extracted six hundred and ninety troops
of the 1st Battalion, RAR from landing zone along the Song Be River. In
addition to the troops, the Aircraft lifted 4.2 mortars, several Engineer
assault boats and other crew-served weapons.
The flexibility and rapid reaction of the 145th was proven again as
the Battalion responded to a late request by the ground commander to depart
the staging area thirty minutes earlier then scheduled.
Offensive firing highlighted the operation. Seven UH-1B armed
helicopters conducted offensive firing along the banks of the Song Be River
opposite the landing zone. The remaining twelve UH-1B armed helicopters
were placed in support of the commander. While in orbit east of the landing
zone they received small arms and automatic weapons fire from a location
four kilometers east of the landing zone. The target was immediately
engaged and neutralized.
On 23 March, the 68th Aviation Company, reinforced by the 118th
Aviation Company, responded to a rapid reaction request to support the IV
(ARVN) Corps. Ten UH-1D troop carriers and UH-1B armed helicopters air
lifted two hundred and seventy nine troops in one air assault and four
extractions in the vicinity of Muc Hoa.
Three UH-1B armed helicopters from the 197th Aviation Company
supported the 25th (ARVN) Division at Duc Hoa.
On 24 March, the 118th Aviation Company reinforced the 1st Aviation
Company, 1st (US) Infantry Division, Airlifting 185 troops with five UH-1D
troop carriers in five combat air assaults. Enemy fire was received in
vicinity of the landing zone.
On 24 March 1966, A/501st Aviation Company departed this station to
reinforce the aviation of the II Corps. The unit departed in a posture
prepared to operate in the field for an extended period. With only a short
warning, aviation again proved their responsiveness to mission
accomplishment, when this company moved a couple hundred miles and was
ready to operate on arrival. These short notice, field operations will
become more frequent. Therefore, all companies must update their plans for
such contingencies.
During the week, 18 March 1966 through 24 March 1966, the 74th
Aviation Company accomplished the following tasks:
\TYPE MISSION\ \TOTAL NUMBER\
Visual Reconnaissance 64
Forward Air Control 2
Radio Relay 20
Surveillance 25
Artillery adjustment 21
Naval Vessel escort and road column
Observation 35
Command Liaison 19
Logistics 3

Operational statistics for rotary wing aircraft in support of
operations are as follows:
Total Sorties 4315
Total Flying Hours 1551
Passengers Flown 5045
Operational Statistics for fixed wing:
Total Sorties 229
Total Flying Hours 538
This week, I am pleased to announce that the first Combat Crewman's
Badges were awarded to Sergeant Major L. A. DuBrey, the Battalion Sergeant
Major, and SP5 Buster R. Timberlake, crew chief for the Battalion
Commander's Command and Control aircraft. These were the first awards of
the many Combat Crewmen wings and Combat Aviator wings that have been
earned by members of the Battalion. Wear these wings proudly.

\SUMMARY OF CIVIC ACTIONS\
During the week the 145th Aviation Battalion Hq & Hq Det continued its
plans to expand Civic Actions in the surrounding communities. Three
thousand pounds of Viet Cong captured rice was donated to the parish
through the chief. The parish, in turn, will distribute the rice to
refugees who are unable to provide for themselves. In this category there
are many blind, incapacitated, ill, and elderly refugees. Approximately one
hundred adults and children observe this demonstration of good will which
will do much to foster the Vietnamese-American Relations. On Sunday,
several officers attended Catholic Mass at the refugee village, and
surveyed the school needs. Pictures were taken, and information gathered to
send home in an effort to solicit home town help.
The 68th Aviation Company was active in the civic action area by
evacuating two hundred and fifty eight ARVN dependents and refugees on four
different operations in as many days. One of the evacuation operations was
from a village recently over-run by the Viet Cong on two separate
occasions. Incident to the movement of the dependents and refugees, 12,000
pounds of foodstuff, and personal belongings were moved.
This week the 74th Aviation Company obtained volunteers, written
material, and classroom spaces to teach Conversational English classes to
Vietnamese children in Phu Cuong, two afternoons each week. Two volunteers,
are aiding a Regional Forces Platoon in construction of new living quarters
in Phu Cuong. The Platoon presently lives, with dependents, in two crowded
buildings. The officers and men donated condensed milk, fresh milk, canned
hams, and orange juice to a local school to supplement the children's diet.
For construction at the school, five bags of cement were donated.
The 118th Aviation Company was active in many areas of civic affairs.
The officers of the 118th Avn Co donated thirteen dozen "Dixie-Cups" of ice
cream to the Bien Hoa Orphanage. The celebration was a complete surprise to
the children who gave their hardiest thanks. It will be a long time before
this act of generosity is forgotten. The company also donated the following
list of items to the orphanage: Flour, sugar, cases of canned food, soap
for personal use, baby night shirts and assorted children's clothing, salt,
cooking oil, powdered milk, and a few toys of various kinds donated by
relatives from the States. Doctor Altomonte donated another six hours work
at the Leper Colony on Sunday. SP4 Amisano again donated time each day this
past week to teaching the children on Cong La Street English at night. The
classes are approximately 1 1/2 hours long and recently a couple of the
Bien Hoa National Police also attended.
The 118th Aviation Company, in the course of their operational
missions, transported a total of 250 lbs of medical supplies and dressings
and evacuated ten civilians from Da Thelgen area because of injuries and
tuberculosis.
Despite the fact that the 197th Aviation Company was engaged in moving
from Saigon to Bien Hoa, the company still found the time to accomplish
civic actions in their support of the An Lac Orphanage. The company has
already explored the possibility of supporting a boys farm in the Bien Hoa
area that is affiliated with the An Lac Orphanage. The soap was a gift from
the people of the state of New Hampshire, in response to a request for
support. The officers and men donated: rice, dried beans, cases of
cherries, cases of dehydrated potatoes, cases of dehydrated eggs, cases of
egg noodles, cases of jello, a case of orange juice, a case of cocoa, and
approximately 20 pounds clothing.
A/501st Aviation Battalion was active in the area of community
relations and education. On 24 March, 1500 pounds of Viet Cong captured
rice was donated to the Catholic orphanage of Bien Hoa. Also a
conversational English class was taught to the National Police of Bien Hoa.
Horst K. Joost, Lt.
Colonel, Inf
Commanding

Commander's Combat Note #
SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS 25 MARCH THROUGH 31 MARCH 1966
A total of one hundred and eleven troops were landed on two landing
zones nine miles northeast of PHU CUONG.
On 30 March, Company A/501st, employing eight UH-1D troop carriers and
two armed helicopters, airlifted ninety-nine troops of the 1st (US)
Infantry Division from Bien Hoa to a landing zone fifteen kilometers north
of Tan Uyen. In the afternoon the company again supported the 1st (US)
Infantry Division by lifting two hundred and seventy-two troops in five
assaults from Bear Cat.
On 31 March 1966, Company A/501st reinforced the 1st Aviation
Battalion, 1st (US) Infantry Division with seven troop carriers and
airlifted one hundred and ninety nine troop in five combat air assaults
from Vung Tau to a landing zone three kilometers east of Phu My.
During the week the 74th Aviation Company conducted the following task:
Sorties
Visual Reconnaissance 87
Radio Relay 22
Forward Air Control 1
Surveillance 42
Command Liaison 16
Escort 49
Artillery Adjustment 47
Logistics 9
On 26 March the 74th Aviation Company celebrated their first
anniversary since activation. During the one year period they have set a
commendable record of 22,438 flying hours, consisting of 15,503 sorties.
Congratulations and continued success.
Operational statistics for the rotary wing aircraft of the Battalion
for this week's period are as follows:
Total Sorties 5004
Total Flying Hours 1495
Passengers Flown 4865
Operational statistics for fixed wing aircraft for the Battalion are as
follows:
Total Sorties 333
Total Flying Hours 519
The 145th Aviation Battalion has gone to sea. We now have a task force
of gunships which are operating with the U.S. Navy with the mission of
providing aerial fire support for naval patrol boats operating in the river
and delta areas to destroy the Viet Cong and to secure shipping lanes. At
present two armed helicopters operate from the deck of the Seventh Fleet
Dock Landing Ship U.S.S. Belle Grove. The team work developed between the
Army helicopter crew and the Navy landing teams is something to behold when
a helicopter is launched and landed.
The helicopters were first landed aboard the vessel on 25 March 1966.
The first rapid-reaction was called on 26 March, to assist the Marine
Landing Force during operation JACK STAY in the Rung Sat Special Zone. The
operation consisted of directing an ambush party from the air to move to a
safe area, and to escort a river patrol boat employing Underwater
Demolition Teams. On 27 March, the gunships were launched to escort medical
evacuation patrol boats. Also on that day the fire team was launched to
support a swift boat that was attacked by V.C. gunfire. The fire team
expended twenty four rockets and 5,000 rounds of 7.62 caliber ammunition
against the VC ground fires.
Captain D. R. Brofer is the Project Officer and commander of the
gunship task force. This project will soon be expanded and all companies
will provide crews and aircraft for the Task Force. The army crews are
enthusiastic about the duty and I was pleased to have the Captain of the
U.S.S. Belle Grove tell me that he has worked with the Army on numerous
occasions but he has never met a more gung-ho, mission-oriented group of
army people as these gun crews.
In the field of training, a program has been initiated by the Battalion
in the adjustment of artillery fire. The goal is to have every rotary wing
and fixed wing aviator proficient in the adjustment of artillery fires.
SUMMARY OF CIVIC ACTIONS
The 145th Aviation Battalion Hq and Hq Det conducted its biggest
operation to date, in the area of Community Relations. 30,000 pounds of
bulgur wheat were obtained from the Catholic Relief Society through
coordination with the III Corps G-5. The bulgur was transported to the Bui
Vinh refugee village during a two day operation. This donation consitutes
the basic staple for approximately 2000 refugees for one month. The bulgur
will be distributed to the needy by members of the Hq and Hq Det and
members of the community under the supervision of the GVN. A fund was
established by the Battalion Headquarters to provide money for
approximately 60 school children to attend the elementary school, and also
buy school supplies. Contributions received on March 31st amounted to
17,000 piasters, enough to sustain the program for the remaining school
year. 2000 piasters were turned over to the Parish Chief for March and
April. In the area of communication, 150 pounds of books, magazines and
leaflets were obtained through JUSPAO and donated to the Bui Vinh refugee
center. These materials will be used to stock a reading room and will
contribute to the psychological warfare effort.
In addition to normal missions the 68th Aviation Company evacuated or
relocated 119 ARVN dependents and refugees on four separate operations.
11,500 pounds of personal belongings and foodstuffs were also transported
in conjunction with these movements. In coordination with the Korean
Hospital, four Vietnamese civilians were transported from Phu My to the
Korean Hospital for surgery. Aircraft returning from normal missions
provided this transportation. On the spot first aid was also administered
by a gunship crew, on a normal mission at Vo Dat, to two small children
with severe cuts.
The 74th Aviation Company was active in the areas of Community
Relations, Sanitation, Health, and Construction. The officers and men
donated 20 cartons of dixie cups to the Phu Cuong school. In addition, 1
case of tooth paste was donated to the school along with instructions for
its use. Two volunteers continued to assist a Regional Forces Platoon in
the construction of new living quarters.
The 118th Aviation Company was very active this week in civic action
activities. Armed elements evacuated two injured children and one woman
from a village over-run by the Viet Cong, thus saving their lives. The
Officers and men donated the following to the Bien Hoa orphanage: Brown
sugar, powdered soup, assorted jams, canned vanilla pudding, raisins, corn
beef, canned beef, peanut butter, egg noodles, white rice, powdered milk,
boxes of clothing, and toys. Doctor Alomonte made his weekly visit to the
Leper Colony and treated fifteen patients for common illnesses. A project
was also completed at the orphanage to improve the sanitation of the toilet
area. SP/4 Amisano again held Conversational English classes for the local
residents of Cong Ly Street. In addition to normal missions, the airmobile
elements relocated approximately 50 refugees from a Viet Cong controlled
outlying area of Song Be to a New Life Hamlet in Song Be.
The 197th Avi