Helicopter Wars | Vietnam Firefight! | Season 1 Episode 2 | Full Episode

Helicopter pilots in Vietnam were statistically twice as likely to be killed in combat in comparison to fellow foot soldiers. In this episode we listen as veterans reminisce on training days, old fallen comrades, and some of the scariest moments they encountered during their noble military tenures.
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[@airbrushken5339]

I was wounded at night, 2/502 Inf, 101st Airborne ... those "Dust Off" pilots came and flew me to the mash unit. I remember they put me on a "jungle penetrater" ... I remember hearing them cutting tree branches lifting off. Saved my life...thank you.

[@benrinehartjr2345]

This was my home for 6 years. Air rescue, door gunner, mechanic. Tough man. Good and bad memories. Would do it again if I wasn't so darn old.

[@traveltrailerlife]

This was my unit in Vietnam ..118th AHC ..... I was a door gunner on Blue 10 and 6 in 1970-71 2nd Platoon.....More than 5,000 Hueys operated in Vietnam; around 2,500 were lost to enemy fire.

[@senatorjosephmccarthy2720]

Welcome Home Brother!

[@ellen6229]

My Brother Ned did the same, my brother Kevin was a forward observer 🙏

[@nick9463]

Thank you to all Vietnam vets for my freedom!

[@jerryrichards2958]

@@senatorjosephmccarthy2720 0

[@nickmaihofer1084]

Truly grateful for your service! 🙏

[@astudentpilotlife]

My grandpa was the Huey Medic evac pilot during the Viet Nam War. And only was in training for a year and off he go to war. He told me story especially during the fall of Sai Gon. He told me that he keep on flying back and forth to help the U.S. and Vietnamese civilian to escape from the VC. And when it was his time to go he refused to go with the U.S. and stay back behind to defend his belive and the church. Because of his heroic act, many many life was life and his life was spared too. The VC seeing how he didn't just flee but stay back to protect the church and all who was innocent hiding inside the church . However, he was imprisoned for 13 year including the re-education camp. And when he was finally free, he have to fight another war to become a fully U.S. citizen and when he finally is and living in the U.S. he have to fight another one is with the VA and how many people view the Viet Nam veteran as a murdered and sometime accused my grandpa as one not known lying that he was a huey medic pilot that save life. He also told me story how his Friend at that time was the captain of the huey got shot by a sniper forcing my grandpa to fly alone while trying to save his life by his side while trying to land in the hot zone to save both the vietnamese soldier and the American soldier even occasionally some NVA and the Viet Cong. He also told me a story when he also got shot but save by the an inch only tearing his flight suit. He then reminded me that the red cross is taken as a bonus must do and will do their best to take them down. It is like a game target for the NVA. A few years ago, he give me his photo flying in the Huey by some American Journalists and we think he was on some footage but still can't find it. And as up today, he is alive and well.

[@terrenceescarda8951]

Please send my regards to him and please say thank you fo your service to the former South Vietnam in my behalf.

[@jacoballen3267]

So this was my motion picture debut. I was the door gunner in these scenes and I was VERY glad to portray the story of these heroic men performing an extraordinary mission. 😊

[@rusty3204]

Yes it was a nightmare that still haunts me to this day!... I fn hate it!

[@Joellikestobox]

Thank you for your service

[@TriNguyen-ug1qv]

We, the South Vietnam ,lost the war and some of us have been reluctanly exiled .But we would never forget what the young men from a half of globe called USA have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. RIP . May God bless their souls !

[@t.t.h.601]

I am old enough to remember Vietnam. I was 8 when Nixon pulled our military out. What I learned through history and ROTC classes, what was not known , the North was very close to surrendering. History Channel ran a series on underground bunkers. One of the bunkers they showed was under the former Presidential Palace. They stated the North Vietnamese overran Saigon. In a way it was true, because the military had already begun to pull out, leaving Saigon open for the NVA to take the city. Find and watch Ken Burns' documentary; "The Vietnam War".

[@jeffhicks1008]

Wow that brought tears to my eyes

[@xfounes8965]

What with the war crimes they did Nalpam bombs on civilians ?! god bless america with Millions of blood in there Hands Well done.

[@myleslong5584]

@@xfounes8965 In war,there are inevitable atrocities. Crimes are committed by both sides,all sides and sometimes,by the citizens themselves.Of course,America has taken part in it’s share of war crimes. But,so has just about EVERY NATION EVER INVOLVED IN ANY WAR. For as pushy as the U.S. can be (the gov’t leaders) in trying to impart their will upon the world,our military is OFTEN welcomed by the oppressed people of a given nation when they are weak from being beaten down and have no one to fight for them or no means of standing up and fighting on their own. I may be ashamed of our government leaders and their actions,sometimes,but I’m pretty damn proud of the people that make up our military branches. For the most part,they WANT to help the abused and oppressed who may not have any fair representation in their own countries. I see your point about being frustrated that America seems to get away with some war crimes. But,if you’re going to bitch about the U.S.,to be fair,you should actually call out every nation that has ever fought a battle in any war. And any oppressive government that tries to keep certain ethnicities or religious factions or political beliefs of their own citizens at a distinct disadvantage,making certain that they are contained,controlled or even eradicated should be called out,too.

[@gerryfkno5499]

@@xfounes8965 @Nepu Neptune yeah everyone curses America till they're in trouble then they're begging for backup or holding their hand out for aid. We do what we can. War is hell for all parties involved, you think those guys wanted to be there fighting for someone else??? Hell no but they did what they were told and what they thought was right at the time. Every country has stains on their history but America has done more and continues to do more for other countries than all others combined. So stfu

[@oby-1607]

When one values another's life more than their own, that is a definition of a hero.

[@tamatoa8261]

I wish I could give you a thousand thumbs up. Best quote I've read in a very long time 🤙

[@phillipzx3754]

Roger that! It ticks me off when someone is called a "hero" for changing a tire or some other nonsense. If your own life isn't at risk saving another person, you're not a hero.

[@ronniedudley2697]

​@@phillipzx3754😂I totally agree 👍 I was in the ARMY... THE 'NAM 69-70 🫡😎

[@Fighthead75]

One more sorry, but when the pilot was thanked for picking up that last soldier made me tear up. After 40 years of thinking of that soldier, now he knows that he was saved. Excellent short film. Thank you

[@johnburrows1179]

To all the pilots and crew... we can never thank you enough. You guys were our angels from above. They would fly into anything to get us out. There is no sound like that of a Huey coming in. I’m alive today because of these true heroes. God bless all of you. ‘69-71

[@hippiedaveshappyplace1797]

Thank you for your service all you guys made your country proud!! Welcome home badass

[@thomastulupan1599]

It's a story of unbelievable courage. Thanks for sharing John and thanks for the very freedom I enjoy today!

[@wolfofrhodeislandx7462]

You all are heroes from the sky to the ground and back home in factories. medics ect love you all god bless each and every one of you

[@anraegodley-cooper6321]

Welcome Home Family.

[@mattysee24]

So wait...they sent you guys in, knowing they didn't have any helicopters available 🤔 who was running this circus?

[@radamson1]

These were our heroes, I can't imagine what it would have been without them. They brought us food, water ammo, they took out the dead and wounded, they brought in replacements. But most of all they supported us in fights.

[@bradr2142]

Wow what a relationship. Welcome home.

[@motorcop505]

These men were young men, barely out of their childhood, engaged in some of the most difficult and deadly jobs on the planet. Thank God for such men (and women). 🇺🇸⚔️

[@toshiromifune2188]

今上天皇徳と日本の永遠の帝国、バンザイ！

[@romulocarbungco169]

GOD Bless You All...

[@toshiromifune2188]

🔴さくらんぼは欲しくないの？ くるくるとバンザイ！

[@rusty3204]

I thanked the Lord for every moment that I could still breathe, ... Without illness... Yet I felt what I did was wrong but my country sent me for a reason that no one could understand 🤔.mmm, I again was at the wrong place at the moment and didn't know what to say

[@Sixstreetdisciples0420]

God bless 🇺🇸. Women did not see battle in Vietnam. Even though women won the right to vote, they weren’t drafted like men.

[@rickchristensen3636]

The mechanic's did a hell of a job keeping those chopper's and birds flying, I want to thank them for doing such a good job without the mechanics the pilots wouldn't be able to fly to rescue so many of our hero's. With that said thanks to pilots, mechanic's, cooks, EVERYONE from a C-121 Constellation engine mechanic Air Force Korat RTAFB Thailand June 70-71.

[@skeeball88]

You’re a good man doc. I lost a good friend, Cpl Charles Salter, C company 1/9 USMC, KIA 04/05/1967, His name is on the wall, panel 17. My Father was in the 182nd Inf. On mop up action at Guadalcanal after the Marines did their job, he ran the flame thrower. My parents were divorced after 4 years and I have no doubt that his problems adjusting to civilian life were due to PTSD. I’m glad you got the help you needed. I wish every combat veteran did. Thank you for serving our country. Never underestimate your contribution. You made a difference.

[@tomburns3541]

As a former Marine Corps helicopter pilot (H-34) of RVN vintage (1968) I have to say this was a fantastic flying story. These guys did a terrific job pulling these ARVN soldiers out of a very bad situation. A great piece of flying plus lots of guts. Well Done!

[@MrThenry1988]

You should know. Good work man.

[@bazzinbulgaria4826]

@Tom Burns...I agree 100% with what you say. This is the stuff that a real hero is made of. I was there in '67 and '68 and I am very proud to call these guys my brothers in arms.

[@worldalvin]

Much respect to the ARVN and US forces.

[@jennaw723]

Semper Fi

[@jamestuccillo]

Thank you sir! To all our veterans I thank you! 🙏 💙🇺🇸 💯

[@marisadoran4871]

Thank you for this, my father was a gunner on a river boat, I lost him when i was 14yrs old. He was an amazing man and i miss him terribly. All of our Vietnam Vets are Heroes.

[@coolbreezejoe44]

Your dad in good hands! He cross over, I never feared death even when Vietcong trying kill us! I’m dealing now with Agent Orange issues! I know our soul continue, Oh I’m in hat here Vietnam at 19yrs young! Some times I see my mom & sister there gone . When I’m dreaming! Take care ,FYI your dad had VA benefits you should check into for his children :-)

[@victorcastle1840]

Marisa, only 10% of Vietnam Vets did the fighting, the rest were in the rear ( in camps or forts ) A unlucky married and drafted Combat Vet. 1st Cav. 1/8th A company 1967-'68. Old and forgotten like the so called conflict . At the time most people in the states did not even know much about it or cared, unless the had a loved one over there, according to my wife's letters.

[@marisadoran4871]

@@victorcastle1840 My father served 2 tours in Vietnam, his ankle was shattered by shrapnel from stepping on a landmine, plus he had horrific jungle rot on his feet, (since his feet were always in the river water). He recieved a Purple Heart. I can't imagine how he felt when he came back to the US, well let's just say it wasn't a warm welcome. And the Agent Orange dont even want to start with that but let's just say that even though I was born in 1974, ( Obviously after he came home from Vietnam) I have had 3 tumors removed that were the size of grapefruits. The US government sent me a check for less than $2000.00 as their way of saying sorry for the inconvenience now shut up and drop it. My youngest son (he was 4 1/2 when he died in 2002) and i know Agent Orange had a lot to do with the disease that killed him.They sprayed that crap right on top of my father so theres no telling the full extent of its lasting effects that will continue wreaking havoc for future generations in my family. My father was so mentally messed up from that war and all the crap he saw. I could go on for hours because this is such a huge issue for me and my family. ALL of our Veterans deserve so much more than they have EVER received from the US government.

[@williambethel6999]

It's okay to crying

[@joeguadian8674]

So sorry for your loss Marisa

[@zegotashalom3881]

My deepest and sincere appreciation for all who served in Vietnam, regardless of how you may feel about this undeclared war. The fact is the government failed our troops in this conflict and not the soldiers. Thank you again, and God Bless the Veterans and all who are serving today.

[@LeoJennings-hc6uv]

I was a doorgunner and thanks to everyone who was in that crazy war not a conflict for the soldiers who were there

[@LeoJennings-hc6uv]

Wouldn't do it again

[@Aceman52]

These men are heroes. I am ashamed that they were not treated as such

[@MakeSomeNoiseAgencyPlaylists]

you misspelled VICTIMS !

[@woodscw50]

@@MakeSomeNoiseAgencyPlaylists a Marine shiper walk of brothers the world home a brother

[@hazepennington9303]

This is such an awesome story that these pilots told about their time in Vietnam, May God bless them and all that have served there 🇺🇸

[@ivanthemisunderstood6940]

Nothing I can say could ever come close enough to honouring these men for their courage. The best I can do is thank you for sharing their incredible story. Wow!

[@mikearterbury306]

😅

[@thebestofj.fraley]

They should have all gotten the CMH! Absolutely true Hero's. Thank you so much for your sacrifice, and service and thank you for saving so many lives. God Bless ALL of you!

[@georgemoomaw9437]

You bet. Their courage and dedication deserve the highest medal this nation has to offer. It’s not too late to make the correction.

[@josephmyers1147]

True heroes proud to be a Vietnam veteran myself 1966 1968 drafted

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

I will never forget the sound of an incoming UH1H Huey! God bless our pilots!!!

[@michaelrubino2018]

Makes you know that the USA are badasses. You can feel the helicopter in your heart!!!

[@stephenwright8824]

@@michaelrubino2018 Many of those pilots cut their teeth in the Korean War. Both my dad's pilots did.

[@tkso.philly3879]

For such gallantry and bravery.THOSE MEN ALL DESERVED THE HIGHEST MEDAL of all---

[@johnross775]

And to think what a horrible homecoming most got when they got home. Never enough thanks for their service can be given.

[@stephenwright8824]

My dad, a Huey UH1-H helicopter door gunner trained in Hawaii, was put in for a DFC but got a V for Valor device instead due to crummy company politics. He still thinks he deserved the big medal. (His CIB is, I agree, hardly compensation.)

[@rgoertzen1]

As a Canadian , I salute these brave men . You pilots are all hero's .

[@mosesgikeri6750]

Hero's for invading another and killing thousands of people. A country that had done wrong against them, the age of lies and deceits is ending.

[@riddlemark7009]

@@mosesgikeri6750 your entitled to your opinion as the rest of us are . The Men and Women that served their country and that currently serve their country are still my heros and how they chose to attempt to do so makes zero difference to me.

[@mosesgikeri6750]

@@riddlemark7009 Killing innocent people have never made anyone a hero.

[@fazole]

@@mosesgikeri6750 It's easy to say that now. These guys were barely in their 20's. The Communists had invaded South Korea and almost took over about a decade prior. Guys like these were told they were rescuing the South from Northern tyranny. They didn't make the big decisions. We know now that the Gulf of Tonkin Incident was a lie; they didn't. They were in a war and fought for their comrades. Right now we live in the biggest age of deceit. Govt., Business, News, even medicine all have a reason to lie.

[@richardpluim4426]

@@riddlemark7009 War, I cant say anything about this because I was not there. Over 20,000 Canadians crossed the border and joined up.

[@TCS86]

We're slowly becoming not the home of the free. But the home of the brave? You're Goddamn Right we always will be.🇺🇸

[@frankierzucekjr]

We all will stand and fight against our tyrannical government. I know I will.

[@freedomforever6718]

@@frankierzucekjr , We need to start a movement to abolish the CCP voting machines and go back to hand counting paper ballots.

[@jimrusswilloughby9903]

My brother Lerry did 3 tours there 83rd. He loved and honored the south V for their bravery. And I honor all ya'll that were there, GB. In his first tour he honored us all with gallantry and bravery Under Fire to save comrades and earned a silver star

[@gregparrott]

If you subscribe to KZbin 'Premium' (as I do), for $10/month, you will no longer be afflicted ads imposed by KZbin. To me, it's well worth it, as I CAN'T STAND being interrupted by people trying to sell crap.

[@kawikadavid8958]

I like when they veterans meet up, they always talk about when they were in the war.

[@volkerhauff6565]

Crazy, badass guys, really the best of their generation

[@minH-pj9jp]

U mean the generation which fought poor farmers, bombed babies and burned villages just because their political ideas didn't matched.

[@justnoobtoo6352]

@@minH-pj9jp you save so many people in such dangerous conditions then you can talk about such things

[@nickmaihofer1084]

When he talks about the most important employee for Bell helicopter was the man that tapped on the rotor blades for inconstancies is absolutely unreal. The fact that he took that knowledge and went on to become nothing more than a giant flying lawn mower is heroic to say the least. Legendary stuff right here!

[@jamestuccillo]

A lot of veterans here. Thank you all! 🙏💚🇺🇸

[@garyjustin2898]

From a combat solider I few in and out by coppers , thank you for your heroic. Job and the lives you saved. God bless you.

[@henryw8324]

Can’t leave out crew chief door gunner and copilot it was a joint effort to survive I was there

[@senatorjosephmccarthy2720]

Welcome Home Brother.

[@henryw8324]

Thank you and I reply to you welcome home

[@ivanthemisunderstood6940]

I've had the distinct honor to know two Dustoff Door-Gunners, two LRRPs, one Marine, one SEAL, one Green Beret, one Coast Guard Sailor and one Navy Flight-Deck Sailor that all served in Vietnam with distinction. It was indeed a joint effort. My gratitude to all.

[@KOBAColo]

It was a combined effort by all! My thanks and gratitude to everyone of you, whenever you served. Welcome Home! As a 67N20 with 229th AHB, 1st Cav at An Loc in May - June '72, it was an honor to have served with all of you 'Brothers in Arms'.

[@seanntomas3815]

GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

[@mustanggun]

As a fixed wing bush pilot, and former 82d paratrooper I stand up and salute the honor, courage, and flying skill of these men, not to mention the bro's in the back. The DFC was an awesome medal to receive, but these guys should have got the CMH fo sho.

[@christimarie402]

My father was in Vietnam for the navy. He don’t say much about it, I can see why. God bless all of you and thank you for your service 🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸❤️

[@AnshulKumar-gi8ok]

Vietnam war was nothing but a living nightmare.Thousands of lives went in vain.

[@christimarie402]

@@AnshulKumar-gi8ok I agree our government used our soldiers as a pawn in that war for sure. Sad

[@AnshulKumar-gi8ok]

@@christimarie402 They sure as hell did use our soldiers as a pawn in that war and it is beyond sad.Anways peaceeeeee

[@allenelswick6961]

There is a reason he didn't say much about it and that being maybe there were some parts of being there he wanted to forget. Vets can talk to other vets and be understood about their experience in Vietnam. I don't know it seems like you can always speak about some of the goods times and not much more. What hurts so much about that war was how every one was used to believe in the cause and then the politicians just ended it all at once. True victory was lost it sure wasn't by the troops.

[@christimarie402]

@@allenelswick6961 ❤️❤️ and I completely understand that. I don’t think he even talks to other vets. We have gone to see the traveling wall and he will only go so far. It’s hard for him to see the names. The government has put our men and women in many wars that probably could of been handled much better, regardless every man and women in uniform deserves the respect 100%

[@phearlesspharaoh3697]

My Dad was a helicopter pilot in Vietnam… my hero! RIP Cap!

[@spencerm293]

Thanks for creating this. Amazing story told very well.

[@bigdeal39]

Wow ! What an amazing story ! These men are what you call a man's Man ! What Courageous Men !!! Thank You for serving our Country ! 💪

[@salvadorpneri]

Thank you for saving that one last solder. That really hit me hard. Last, but not forgotten.

[@geraldmiller8973]

i spent 6 years in the army reserve in a mash unit. i flew in a huey once on a training mission at tree top level. it was a neat experience but it pales in comparison to what these guys did. they all deserve a medal of honor.

[@tkso.philly3879]

My uncle told me how much respect they for those guys and their bravery.God bless-

[@rollyherrera623]

Very, very good healing! 40 yrs to hear, that his nightmares of guilt, for that one ARVN left behind was over. You do what is right, and needs to be done! Period!

[@LarryLiss100]

I wanted to add an acknowledgement to the comments: Richard Max; the producer and Director and his team did an amazing job on the film. From the deep research to packaging the film, to taking us to VN to the first showing in London; I don’t think he could have done any better.

[@gotchagoing4905]

I flew my first tour in lovely RVN in a slick, up in the central highlands. Flew my second tour up on the DMZ....in an OH-6A, Loh,(scouts). I went from dumb to stupid.... wouldn't trade it for anything ;}> Welcome home Larry. BTW, I learned to hover on my third try....sorry.

[@jamesspella8548]

I am in absolute awe of the skill and the bravery of these fine gentlemen. Incredible!

[@Pork-Chopper]

Excellent story! I'm a US Air Force Medic, retired. I Salute all of you! All of you are true Flying Warriors! Makes me Proud!

[@johnkjv9846]

Tho world has change, this Brave soldiers are Heroes, the bones of America… thank you, greatings from Denmark.

[@barstad-9591]

ALL of these men are heroes. Thank 🇺🇸 you.

[@ginger7344]

Bringing those 2 tremendously brave men back together brought tears to my eyes

[@okrambo]

Untold stories of the great men in that war...this really hit home on this old man..

[@mikemhoon]

Imagine being that young and doing that! Amazing 😉! Much praise!

[@tomsmith5216]

.

[@tomsmith5216]

I was barely 20 yrs old and they gave me a quarter million dollar aircraft to maintain and keep flying. I couod barely change spark plugs on my car, and now I have this turbine engine helicopter with all this complicated rotor head, control tubes and linkage, and electrical sh**, and I was responsible for it. I was young and stupid enough to think, yeah, no worries...but I used to take the -20 maintenance manual with me whenever I went to the head and read it, as often as possible. I was more scared of crashing because I screwed up maintenance than getting shot by the bad guys.

[@michaelhussein870]

Respect, thank you for your fidelity to service and selflessness.

[@mikebarrows8344]

I worked with 4 Vietnam vets,1 was a tunnel runner,Nick name was mouse he was small and skinny,worked with two chopper pilots one was mellowed out the other one was so shell shocked from being a pilot he had no care, worries,wasn't scared at all he lived his life to the fullest,the other vet was so cool and mellow,one thing I learned from those vets don't ask them questions about the war,they told me stories I couldn't believe happens. I've always wanted to fly on a huey.

[@whammo11224]

Only problem I have with this video is this quote. "A helicopter pilot in Vietnam was twice as likely to be killed in combat as an ordinary soldier". I wasn't aware that infantry soldiers were ordinary! Anyone who has served is extraordinary to me! I hope I haven't offended anyone. Thank you.

[@daveparks2676]

No offense for sure . As a door gunner for 15th med e vac 1st Cav . So others may live !

[@tomsmith5216]

As a Huey crew chief, my respect for the grunts knows no end. We felt like they were the reason we existed. Our company's motto was "Nothing Impossible" especially for them. They were anything but ordinary.

[@stephenwright8824]

As my Vietnam vet dad told me once, the BBC estimated the life expectancy of a door gunner at 60 seconds. My father who was a door gunner, had 2500 hours in the air, to match his 25 Air Medals and a V device that was supposed to be a DFC. But he also said he was one of the very lucky ones at that job in that time (1965-67).

[@drofmah3836]

As a "Combat" vet of the Vietnam War I take exception to the thinking of how wonderful and brave these helicopter crews were in your thinking. Being there for thirteen months in the Central Highlands in the 25th Infantry (1966-67) and being flown a lot I always wanted and would sign any piece of paper to "let me" be a door gunner and that comes with a reason. First that rumor that a door gunners life expectancy is around 15 seconds and the reason for that is they only stick around for that long and they are airborne out of harms way leaving the grunts on the ground 24/7. Second they were always just so CLEAN dressed entirely all of the time. They got to sleep in their hooch every night, take a shower, eat in a mess tent away from mosquitoes, the rain and whatever else was out in the jungle wanting to kill you. I was truly jealous of them and wanted to be them. I was just nineteen then and I'm 74 today 100% service connected disabled and still wish I was riding Shotgun and thats a fact.

[@tomsmith5216]

I don't know who your helicopter support was, but "always clean dressed all the time"? That's not how I remembered being a crew chief. Leaking blade grips, reoairs and scheduled maintenance kept my fatigues looking like shit most of the time. And I didn't buy any. of that 15 second crap, and I doubt many others did.. I slsk fkee a lot of hot meals out to troops in the field, and gitbto eat sandwiches orC rations. Do I think we had it worse than leg doldiers? Hell no, we were muvh bettrr off than them, but it wasn't a cake walk for us either. We often had a shityy job, yours was just shittier, and I don't know any crew member that didn't have the highest respect for grunts. It's a shame you csn't have just a little respect for them. Regardless, welcome home, brother.

[@chuckhamer2532]

Men like these are a rare breed, They have my deepest respect. My Uncle survived and made it home because of a Helicopter pilot.

[@rubenayala2203]

That's a really good moment for these 3 honorable men!

[@growin4202]

Let it be known that we do love and support you nam vets… sad that it’s 50 years late. Signed: Desert Storm Vet

[@andybrito7920]

Tom Baca passed away within the last year. Rest In Peace from a fellow Northern New Mexico Huey aircrewman Vietnam 1968.

[@sarge420]

We had a couple Vietnam Pilots in the 304th RQS (HH-60). Great times riding with these men. My 15yrs with the PJs and Support Team was the greatest times. Mt Hood accident and much more...

[@vegan-cannibal714]

This is one of my favorite stories from Vietnam. Granted the list is long, but their is a good reason for the length of list. Time after time these warriors lived the "you fall we fall" faith common among warriors. My units moto was "Courage and Faith." Top explained it this way. "Have the courage to never leave a brother behind and the faith that your brothers will do the same."

[@teds1994]

All the video dislikes are coming from the angry CO and maintenance crew! Great video, true courage and bravery.

[@papat7663]

Just finish watching the video. This was very difficult to watch my brother God Rest his soul was a door gunner lost his life in a mission over the 38th parallel. He used to write to me and I wrote back to him often. These men are brothers, fathers and uncle's all family members and fellow countrymen that fought in Vietnam. They all we're all heroes Weather Service when the country called them some even volunteered and yet victims of a government that was not committed to win this conflict. Our leaders are not perfect and not only do they all the time do the right thing thank God most of the many do the right thing for our U.S.A. I pray that soon our soldiers will leave Iraq and Afghanistan these wars have lasted way too long and serve little purpose to better our lives in America.

[@SavageAudits]

God-speed to your Brother!

[@tkso.philly3879]

I went into the Army back in the 80's.And I've told my friend back home when Hueys came in low, and especially fast,you didn't know they were there until they were right over you.Now that I'm older looking back,I wonder Why the Hell they didn't put more rotor blades on them.The term,"Choppers",ALSO derived from the two bladed rotors that makes so much noise.This is the reason why they flew low close to the ground.You could even feel the,'thump when they were up high.They finally got smarter by adding more rotors for speed and sound.The Marines kept the Cobras and made good modifications.We went to the Blackhawks with five rotors.A little less thump,and a little more of a whistle sound.Now....As for the Chinook,,,THAT'S unmistakable-

[@michaelsamuel9917]

I was just thinking about while watching this show, I think Bell only won the contract because two blades are cheaper than 4 remember the lowest bidder gets the prize, also more blades on top means the tail rotor must be 3-4 blades as well to counteract the 3-4 on top.

[@billglass5160]

You guys were our savoirs! Thanks to y'all!

[@haydenlogston2164]

constent commercials, good show, how theses guys did this is beyond heroic. Just an incredible account.

[@adventure002006]

What an incredible story. Great to hear the pilots and other recount the event.

[@mt6271]

Didn’t think you could do what these pilots done by basically using blades to cut tree branches. Fascinating stuff and a good job done by all involved.

[@georgemoomaw9437]

Until these guys used their bird as a weed wacker, you would have been correct, YOU COULDN’T DO THAT.

[@henrymumba7651]

huey door gunner..I respect the huey helicopter ..

[@ottogaher2805]

Thank you for your service,and good to see you back.God Bless you guys!

[@petedube9367]

It is great to see these men getting together after so many years ,

[@jhare18]

Single engine UH-1H in Combat or Medivac is really Heroic in all the senses.

[@namedropper9237]

I’ve been looking for this documentary forever, thank you!

[@user-lq8qs9ii9y]

Thanks Alan- A great tribute to great heroes !

[@Wadethewallaby2001]

In my family. Someone who was drafted to Vietnam. His name was Danny. He died as soon as he left the helicopter. We don't know what killed him? My mom tells stories about him & he was so nice. Press F to pay respects.

[@paulhodge6347]

Thankyousomuch

[@Wolfwolveswolf]

~ DANNY ~

[@Wadethewallaby2001]

Wolfwolveswolf i remember his name on a wall.

[@mustanggun]

FFFFFFFFFFF

[@chuckcuttress2991]

F

[@leifbech566]

That is what I call some heroic guys. A breathtaking and emotional story. Not thinking at their own life they flew in and saved more than 100 soldiers life. They deserve the greatest respect! I got a lump in my throat when i heard them telling their story.

[@Errr717]

What an incredible story. Truly heroes. My college roommate's father did two tours in Vietnam as a helicopter pilot in the late 60's. My roommate later did two tours of duty in Vietnam as an intelligence officer. At the same time I spent my time chasing after Russian submarines in the North Atlantic and Arctic Circle.

[@tipushah7591]

This is a treat to watch for those who were part of Heli borne ops. Being one, I enjoyed every bit. Nothing beats the feeling of taking off on HeuyII and into the combat zone. It's like riding an angry Harley Davidson

[@tomrostkowski1348]

WOW thank you for your service, God Bless You!

[@davek.5939]

An amazing story. Thank you for your service good men.

[@sgt.duke.mc_50]

I was a Marine "grunt" in Viet Nam (Jan '69-Aug '70). These men were heroes among heroes that existed throughout the Viet Nam "conflict". It is a complete shame that in the years immediately after and for years on, many were denied the credit and recognition they deserved for their efforts.

[@johnknorr1140]

You guys are awesome on behalf of my company my battalion 101st airborne division 2/501st infantry (Geronimo‘s) 1969-1970 you guys saved our lives thank you God bless you we never forgot 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@jamesbatton4058]

My cousin, Captain Rhett Wayne Lewis, was a Huey pilot in Vietnam around 1968-1969. He was shot down three times and survived. He was shot down after being in country three weeks. After Vietnam, he went to Fort Rucker as an instructor for Hueys. These men are real heroes. Thank you for your service and sacrifices.

[@LarryLiss100]

That’s the way it went.

[@c.c.fielder5432]

Good to read about the UH-34’s. I served 1961-1965. 1962 Operation Dominic at Johnson Atoll; 63-64 Da Nang. These choppers were amazingly tough work horses. Now this Marine battles with Hospice assistance; never give up….

[@frankierzucekjr]

This was one of the most amazing stories I've ever heard. God bless these men, they are absolute HEROS. God bless America 🇺🇸.

[@SavageAudits]

I’ve read a few books about helicopter pilots in ‘Nam and I never heard of a pilot chopping down through the jungle to rescue troops. These guys are amazing! I wish that we could set them loose to clean-up the streets when rioters are rampaging.

[@frankierzucekjr]

@@SavageAudits amen bro. Amen

[@michaelseltz4460]

Fantastic skill and Courage! Great Documentary. These men are national treasures.

[@Triplebuc50]

My brother was a Medic on those Helicopters, he saw terrible stuff, saved Lives, had soldiers assigned to Protect him while he cared for the Wounded Soldiers. Never wounded as far as I recall, 68-69, came home in one Piece.

[@dsmith8859]

My dad was also based at bien hoa in 66' and 67' he was a combat medic, he probably flew with these guys at some point

[@SavageAudits]

Blessings to your Father!

[@dsmith8859]

@@SavageAudits thank you

[@raymondmorrison3915]

My deepest respect.

[@anthonyesparsen7776]

hooray jack and his friend from albuquerque my home town awesome and proud to know this thank you for this pride i can have now for our town i'm a big government retired person from here with my spouse she also retired from alb nm big government thank you guys for your service so awesome!

[@cassiestewart2603]

These men were so Brave. They are now the same age as my Pop Pop (Grandfather). He also served in the Vietnam War with the Marines at a place called Kay San, He lost a foot there. God Bless all of our soldiers especially our Vietnam soldiers. Thank you all for your service!!! 😘😘😘

[@nightwolf1966]

The Huey was the superman of that war but GOD saw fit to bring them home in the palm of his hand . Thank you to all those men both to the ones who made it back and to the ones who didn't . You will never be forgotten

[@donmoore7785]

Excellent retelling of a hellish story. Genuine heroes.

[@AmericaVoice]

Can you imagine how many lives they saved that day and add on any kids, grandchildren and even great grandchildren of each of those lives after the war? Wow! Think about the depth of lives alive by this crews before the hospital in the 1,000 years into the future! 🇺🇸🇺🇸😄

[@alfonsoportugal6754]

what an incredible story! This should never be forgotten.

[@joshlemke735]

Very well done video, love these stories of brave men in combat.

[@xipingpooh5783]

Fear is a reaction…. Courage is a decision

[@williamcole464]

God had a busy day, Thank God for his love and blessings.

[@trumpsmessage7777]

One of the most amazing Vietnam War stories.

[@alexanderkarl4025]

Great story, well done guys! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@i.r.wayright1457]

I was in a unit farther south at Vinh Long. Went up with some crazy pilots for sure. Always wondered how much they had to drink the night before but we always made it back. I was a mechanic and one night at 2AM, I got into the front seat of a Cobra for a short test flight. Got up to about 1800' after takeoff and the pilot says, "Take over while I write some things down." So, I got ahold of the cyclic and collective, put my feet on the rudder pedals and flew straight and level, I guess about 5 minutes or maybe a bit more. Until..........ahead was nothing but complete darkness and eventually, the South China Sea. So I started a left turn to head back to the lights of the town and the base. When I did that I purposely dropped a little altitude and then the pilot comes on the intercom asking what's going on? I explained and he said, "Oh, I must have been asleep." So I asked him if he could stay awake long enough to land, he thought so. He did, and set it down in the revetment where we started, then it took three guys to peel him out of the cockpit. He had been awake for 27 hours straight and made three trips to Saigon earlier in that time period. On the way back I ran through what I would have done had he not woken up or if he fell asleep again. I planned a bit of a running landing since I had done a little bit of fixed wing flying before going in the Army, but probably less than 2 hours. The pilots in the story are legends and we heard about their exploits in 1969. Was it ever written up in Stars and Stripes?

[@namedropper9237]

Quite the interesting story, thanks for sharing! It reminds me of a book I read about a slick pilot. His helicopter was temporarily put in command of a West Point officer that had a few squads in his command. As well as a entire Air Force that included his one Huey. For 14 or so hours they were flying over the jungle acting as a radio relay. Both pilots, door gunner, and crew chief were so tired that none of them actually remembered anything that happened. Apparently they were recommended a DFC for being level headed under intense fire. In reality they were all so tired their brains couldn’t register getting shot at.

[@marksanchez8055]

Thank you men and women, you have gone above and beyond and in many many instances paid it all Psalms 3:3

[@edmoore3910]

God bless these brave men. They had balls of steel, guts like no other. Im proud of you men!!

[@rangerider51]

They definitely deserved the medals they earned. Too bad the very helicopters they flew aren’t on display somewhere in America or even Vietnam. That’s a pretty good story about Larry almost not becoming a helicopter pilot. This is a good video. Thanks for showing it.