How "Killer Chick" Got Her Battle-Damaged A-10 Home

Col. Kim "KC" Campbell, USAF (Ret.) talks about her path to becoming an A-10 Warthog pilot and her fateful mission over Baghdad in April of 2003 when her airplane was hit by enemy ground fire.
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[@dgossman]

My father-in-law was a key design engineer with the AF who was the structures engineer for the A10. One of the things he insisted upon was making sure that the fly by wire system was usable by a pilot with a woman's upper body strength, even though women were not allowed to fly fighters back in the 70's. After he had a stroke late in life we became aware of Col Campbell's story and made contact with her. She was gracious enough to send a signed picture of her with an A10 for my father-in-law. He has since passed but I really appreciate her reaching out to him the way she did.

[@gregledbetter5942]

Wow, amen

[@geoffreymarks8502]

One Brave Lady Xx

[@Snaproll47518]

You mean fly by cable. The A-10 has manual reversion tabs in case of hydraulic systems loss.

[@motorsport32cw]

Wow thats amazing mate. Your father in law sounded like a very smart guy. Old school common sence. What a great aircraft.

[@echohunter4199]

The truly incredible thing about the A-10 was the engineering that went into the design that was done by men who had flown aircraft in CAS (Close Air Support) roles during one conflict or another since the 40’s. In the 70’s, having triple redundancies on critical systems was revolutionary as was designing in things like what your father in law did. The A-10 was a reflection of the strength of our country as a whole which allowed the A-10 pilots to do their job safely which was to save lives of lowly Infantrymen like myself who fought in two wars with A-10’s only a radio call away.

[@rexw2203]

As an F-15/A-10 Crewchief for 22 years I've met some great individuals. Col Campbell is definitely one of them as she's one of the most down-to-earth and level headed pilots I've had the privilege to work with. Col. Campbell displayed great airmanship under pressure. I retired as a Dragon there at DM and look back on those years fondly. Great to see the USAF represented IN PERSON on one of my favorite channels! Thanks Ward!

[@vniesky]

She's impressive

[@Tet68]

Thank you for serving our country.

[@Nico_83]

Incredible lady and badass pilot. 💪

[@kim-kc-campbell]

Thanks Rex! I look back on those years fondly too! Some great memories!

[@SlowrideSteve]

Just out of curiosity, did you know Justin Quigly @ DM? Big cowboy, old truck. He was a maintainer. Wife was a ho....

[@rickproctor9621]

Badass pilot doesn’t begin to describe this young lady. As a troop on the ground in 2004 in Iraq, thank you so much. The A-10 is truly the Infantryman’s Angel.

[@oligultonn]

Never been in any army but this lady is truly a badass.

[@TheSpinkels]

Or their devil, given its atrocious number of friendly fire incidents on account of having virtually no targeting systems.

[@churblefurbles]

@@oligultonn gloating over surviving against heavily degraded opponents, these are resources wasted on low avaliability pilots.

[@mostevil1082]

​@@TheSpinkels It's been doing the job a long time and is used by a lot of part time US ANG units responsible for many of those incidents. Newest of it's ~20 or so updates have systems as good as anything up to the F-35. Don't take too much guidence from a slurring pig on the internet. It's not the A-10A anymore, the airframe and systems are very good at what it does.

[@alaska49girl]

I bet there is nothing like that sound coming in from your perspective. Thank you so much for your service.

[@cbgb0514]

My father was the lead engineer of the control systems on the A10 for Fairchild Republic. The control stick(that "KC" has and everything it did was my dads design. The redundant systems and the integrity of the pilot "bathtub" and how the controls were able to work without losing the integrity of the tub was his designs as well. To know these planes have outlasted the people who designed them is a testament to the product that was built. I have so many story's of things dad built with nothing on hand. Col. Campbell's story is one I have heard, and I know there are so many others. Brrrrrrrrrappppp

[@galelester3451]

Spent many years in and around Tucson, so I saw many A-10's in formation and in training maneuvers .. giddy as a schoolgirl (with all due respect) ..

[@toxickilljoy9037]

Seems like someone else had a father in law here who insisted on the same thing

[@js7711]

KC is a legend! I had the privilege of having Col Campbell as an instructor at the Air Force Academy when her husband was serving as the deputy Commandant. I remember her bringing a piece of that plane to class, and hearing her story never gets old. She is an extremely humble individual and a hero of mine, so much so that I asked her to commission me! She agreed and I had the great honor of having this icon swear me in as a second lieutenant. She and her husband are both badasses!

[@kim-kc-campbell]

The honor was mine! And you owe me an update of what you're up to these days! :)

[@jimmyzmyname7854]

Very cool to have Her commission You

[@michaelpipkin9942]

That is freakin cool.

[@avnsteve1]

CLASSIC example of the idiom "never stop flying the aircraft!" or similarly "fly it ALL the way home or to the scene of the crash, whichever comes first!" It's easy to lose sight of priorities in emergencies with master caution panels lit up like a Xmas tree. KC's presence of mind in that emergency is commendable.

[@scotthill1600]

@@kim-kc-campbell very inspirational story, thank you for your service. Sends a strong message to the women of the world as well. Hope you & your family the best in life.

[@ericbarker9127]

She's amazing. As an older infantry veteran. We used to make fun of anyone who wasn't a grunt. But when your in a bad situation and the call for close air support. We love the men and women in the air. Especially helicopters and A-10s. Thanks to all the pilots combat pilots out there.

[@usmcfrommt9790]

I completely agree! If it weren’t for all branches I wouldn’t be here.

[@CaseyinTexas]

You should listen to "The Fat Electrician." His description of all things military while sarcastic, are accurate.

[@alanmiller9681]

Great interview. She’s a true patriot and hero. How refreshing compared to the non binary entitled morons I see everyday.

[@alanmiller9681]

@@eddiecail-ka4lec561 Wonderful to hear that!

[@eddiecail-ka4lec561]

@@alanmiller9681 With social media around it becomes a small world. LOL. I was always a fan of the F4 even if was a bit ungainly. I remember dad saying it was a classic example of putting enough engines on a brick. And you can get anything to fly.

[@bassinwithbuck4955]

KC is an absolute stud. Huge respect for her and bad ass that you were able to tell her story on here. Ward you are documenting living history with these interviews. Please keep putting em out there!

[@paulazemeckis7835]

She is a woman not a "stud". Perhaps you can refer to her as a " hero".

[@MikeHart-c3u]

Ma'am we met on the ramp at the Jab on 7 April when you brought a burning A-10 back to the base You are a BEAST with the IRON fist! What a fantastic experience and the site of the totaled A/C doing a front gear high (wheelie) down the entire runway, awesome. You later that day hand delivered my missle fire report to my office in the MSA at PGM. I am always amazed when I think about that day, Thank you for your fantastic service and being a super role model for our up- and- coming super troopers Ret. USAF Msgt. Hart

[@parfittdignum6458]

what Rank are you when you qualify from T38

[@etchersplace]

I think I was standing next to you when they were taking her picture... (get a hold of me, we're planning an Ammo camp out up north!), I haven't seen you since coming back from MA 😘

[@thersbugb7362]

Your probably like a Bug like me in the grand picture

[@paulmontgomery5558]

Oppooo of ooo opo or I it u ǔ

[@Sparkbark45]

What an amazing experience. Thank you for your service Master Sergeant

[@On-Our-Radar-24News]

I've said it many times when asked that the A-10 saved my butt many times both in Iraq and Afghanistan. I've seen first hand what these pilots are capable of and the fear they strike in our enemies. I was on the ground in Iraq in 2003 for the initial push and our task force was engaged by a heavy enemy force of IRG near the outskirts of Baghdad. Our FAC called in air support initially to our Army Apache squadron that was assigned to us but there was a 2 ship A-10 closer and they offered to respond. The amount of damage they were able to inflict on the enemy was devastating. The psychological effect on the enemy was overwhelming. I remember watching from cover some 500 meters away from the contact point, which sounds far enough away but really isnt, the 30MM rounds impacting the enemies entrenched positions with catastrophic effect. It only took 2 passes for the A-10 to eliminate the threat and disperse the remaining enemy force. A total sense of pride and endurance came over me as I realized the true power and respect close air support is. It filled all of us with the necessary resolve to push forward in a very kinetic environment knowing these pilots had our back. I watched in later deployments that sometimes just the mear presence of the A-10 swooping overhead was enough to disperse the enemy and kill their will to fight. I will never forget these pilots for saving all of our lives and for reducing the level of casualties and wounded we no doubt would have sustained without their help.

[@CPTdrawer22]

*Matt -* "If only..." is as much help as a pipedream, but if only A-10s (and pilots like "KC"!) were available in "Indian Country" outside of the Republic of Vietnam (RVN), they would have complemented the VNAF A1E Skyraiders ("Spads") quite well. As it was, those VNAF cowboys could bring 20mm cannon fire on targets 20m (Yes, 20 *meters*) from our beleaguered SF Recon Teams. Like the VNAF H-34 lift ship (1-.30cal machinegun in the starboard door was all the armament the H-34s had.) crews, they apparently didn't know the meaning of fear. On initial insertions, VNAF H-34s were our "close air support" with that machinegun! A couple of A-10s to back them up would have been most welcome. *De Oppresso Liber*

[@K3Flyguy]

mat very well said, and thank you for your service!

[@On-Our-Radar-24News]

@@K3Flyguy Your welcome, Michael! It was my honor and privilege to serve. 🇺🇸

[@andreweppink4498]

And the USAF Brass wants to get rid of Hawg's! Crazy. And not just from an economic viewpoint.

[@cnn787-i9e]

why are you in Iraq in the first place and calling Iraqi defenders "enemy"? The American invaders are the enemy of humanity.

[@sylvesterpalermo937]

I recall another KZbin video with A10 pilots discussing their role as CAS. It would give you goosebumps to hear how personally these guys take their responsibility and caring for the grunts on the ground. Many of their runs were not over flat desert ground, instead they had to break through cloud cover down into mountain passes and valleys with only a small margin of safety for themselves but they were relentless to protect their fellow soldiers who depended on them. Col Campbell is clearly one of those. Great pilot, great lady.

[@MM_in_Havasu]

This lady is a badass. From this USAF vet here('76-'80), thank you for serving, Col. Campbell! You are an example of excellent flying and courage under pressure, and great leadership in your career as a whole.

[@AFMarksman]

KC is an amazing woman, mother, wife, airman, and leader! We need more like her!

[@vivek27789]

True... Very True

[@paulazemeckis7835]

I believe she is an "airwoman"

[@AFMarksman]

@@paulazemeckis7835Our ranks and titles are gender neutral…. Airman First Class, Senior Airman, etc.

[@CraigBaumer]

Great interview!!! I was a A-10 Crew Chief for 30 years. The Hog is a great jet!! Got to meet Col. Campbell on a TDY once, very humble and respectful of us maintainers. Looking forward to more USAF content as its really interesting when you compare and contrast the different ways the USN and the USAF conducts business. Thanks again sir!

[@mitchmozingo3660]

Thanks for running this interview! As a retired A-10 weapons loader, I can say with great certainty that there the was nothing more satisfying than watching our A-10s return "Winchester" after a combat mission!

[@nohaboy100]

Odd to see weapons loader

[@dennisross3477]

As an Infantrymen A10 pilots are legends. As a father of a little girl who is 9 years old I have shown her videos about this women and now she wants to be a pilot because of her story. She is a great role model for our young daughters.

[@jamesburns2232]

There is no reason why someone, regardless of gender, can become a pilot. Aircraft are designed to fly and are designed by human factor engineers to be as easy as possible to fly. 👩‍✈👨‍✈🐒🐵

[@kim-kc-campbell]

I love this! Thanks for sharing!

[@stpfs9281]

@@kim-kc-campbell Thanks for being such a role model, even if you didn't intend so from nine years old! "Warthogs" with Titanium armour, astonishing specs, more capable than modern jets, yet someone wants it cancelled, apart from the troops on the ground.

[@alexanderbemar2637]

Americans as well!

[@mjconrad51]

Enormous respect for all A-10mPilots - they truly live to support the grunts on the ground. Thank you Colonel. M. j. Conrad, Colonel, USMC(Ret)

[@williamsanders2808]

As I used to be one of the soldiers on the ground, A BIG thank you to all the A-10 pilots out there. I loved having you guys over us in the air. And yes, I have had to call on you a few times. Love the sound of that 30mm Gatling. Brrrt! No more enemy attackers. Couple passes, and things got really quiet, and our convoy continued with few problems. Loved having that aircraft as a back-up, on both of my tours in Iraq. Many times, just a no-fire pass got the enemy to disperse. They knew the sound of the A-10, as well as we did. And they knew they were screwed if they stuck around.

[@gregledbetter5942]

Amen, thank you for your service

[@derflerp538]

I hope you're doing alright, man. I'm glad you had good back-up.

[@williamsanders2808]

@@derflerp538 Doing well. Many thanks to the Eyes in the Sky. And the A-10 pilots that came in to help us.

[@thomaspowell1832]

I have seen bad guys scatter and run just at the sound of this A/C. What a reputation.

[@dangurley3573]

Excellent episode and interview. Loved the CAS mission, so I have mad respect for KC and her story.

[@larrylarry739]

What an incredible woman and pilot. Thank you, Col. Campbell, for your service.

[@lgd1974]

The A-10: affectionately known as 'The Grunt in the Sky' by soldiers whose lives are saved. A-10 pilots care about one thing, the guys on the ground.

[@94Whiskey]

Wow....just wow! An amazing interview of professionalism, airmanship, leadership....and most notable...the humility!!! As Marine Infantry during OIF2...the familiar sound of BBRRRRRTTTT during Phantom Fury in Fallujah Nov 2004 was very comforting! We Marines always talk shit about the Air Force but when shit hits the fan....BIG STICK comes through and saving our bacon!!!! I will always be grateful for such dedicated WARRIORS from the air! Thank u "KC"!!!! Semper Fi Ma'am!!!!

[@patrickbrinkmeier1858]

HE DP....what unit were you with during Phantom Fury. My Battalion was part of RCT 7

[@94Whiskey]

@@patrickbrinkmeier1858 ....1/23 B Co attached to Wolf Pack 3rd LAR

[@patrickbrinkmeier1858]

@@94Whiskey I was an 0331 with A Co, 1st Bn 8th Marines.

[@94Whiskey]

@@patrickbrinkmeier1858 ...Raaaaaaahhh!!!

[@lurking0death]

I am a former Army ranger recon patrol leader. I called in the A-10 many times. The fire power is awesome, of course. What is just as important is the fact that the pilots don't make mistakes about where they place that firepower. One of the saddest things in combat is to place ordinance on friendly troops. It is easy to do. But the A-10 folks take special pains to prevent this.

[@CorePathway]

Low and slow is the way to go! A-10s forever!

[@AniwayasSong]

My first two M.O.S.'s were vehicular maintenance. Basically, anything with wheels, I/we worked on. One of the things I did was 'Recovery,' where disabled/damaged vehicles in the field were brought back to be repaired. There were three occasions when we had to summon air support/cover, and two of those involved the A-10's. They *DISSOLVED* the threat(s), and we all returned to base unscathed! Nothing but respect for the A10 and their Pilots!

[@shootintheshtpodcast]

A young 19 year old PFC remembers you guys and some F-15s doing some epic sh*t to the Taliban back in the day. Nothing more calming then hearing from the Jtac that we had A-10s coming. Never got a danger close… I could still feel all the power at 900m away. Your friends in 2010 definitely got me and a few of my friends home safe. Thank you.

[@ronnyh3049]

Thank you for your service!🇺🇸👍🏻

[@denniscarroll3164]

Thanks for your service! God bless you 🙏🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@SM-vs4ro]

I served 27 years in the Air Force with over 20 years working the A-10 as a Jet Engine Mechanic. I got to work flight line, phase and in shop overhaul. I loved that plane. Nobody has anything like it.

[@radoraf]

There's definitely something uniquely American about building a plane around a massive gattling gun.

[@andysmith5220]

We guarded her A-10 there during that time. I was AF security forces. I was there the day she landed that aircraft. I was the flightline area supervisor. It was honestly an intense time our unit recorded the entire landing via the wisti camera. Too bad the air force kept it. It would be an amazing video to see again

[@adotintheshark4848]

A-10 is a great aircraft all around. It does its job well and can fly even when it looks like a block of swiss cheese. And I don't blame her for not wanting to eject. She might have been captured and those glorified cave men would have abused her horribly if not killed her.

[@ahpdebeer]

@@adotintheshark4848 Indeed, those guys have ZERO respect for females and I think they would've used the opportunity to make a proper example of her to proof some sort of point to the US, just look at the horrific scenes we saw a week or two ago because that brave woman removed her hijab and got tortured and killed by the "MORALITY" police.

[@rsprockets7846]

@@adotintheshark4848 BEEN DOWN THE JERSEY SHORE ABOUT 30 YRS AGO SAW A A10 ZOOM DOWN TO THE DECK OFF SHORE THEN PULLED UP 200 FT WITH SUCH PRECISION,, OUT OF MCGUIRE AND THINK PILOT WAS SHOWBOATING FOR HIS FAMILY

[@Flow-.-]

@@rsprockets7846 Born and raised in New Jersey, A-10 and Osprey got to be the coolest aircraft I've seen cruising down the shore

[@masondegaulle5731]

@@adotintheshark4848 Given the A-10's rep, I'm right there with her on her call to limp it. Better to maybe make it or chew granite than be tortured in various ways and die anyway.

[@marktisdale7935]

It was amazing to hear KC tell her story.

[@CPTdrawer22]

*Mark Tisdale -* It's amazing that "KC" is alive to tell her story! *De Oppresso Liber*

[@mattfleming86]

What an amazing human being. It is rare to find someone with that much grit who is also so humble.

[@ulf5738]

Great video 😀

[@funksoldier01]

You nailed it. Amazing for sure. Can’t think of a better word to describe KC.

[@seltonk5136]

Woman of the year behind Chewbacca Mom and Bruce Jennar

[@givemelibertyorgivemedeath001]

Amazing indeed, invading a sorveign country and shoot!ng at people who are defending their land. Amazing indeed.

[@mattfleming86]

@@givemelibertyorgivemedeath001 I thought both both of those wars were a bad idea. Especially Iraq. Soldiers don't choose their battles. Soldiers don't do foreign policy. Soldiers aren't elected officials. She was amazingly brave and 10x the human you will ever be, troll.

[@reneefariasphoto40]

As a former U.S. Army combat medic... thank you for your service. It was always nice having A10s on station. Your units were a compliment to us on the ground. Thank you always.

[@sunhawk61]

Great interview Ward. This was an excellent example of courage under fire and the the spirit of the American combat focus of never surrender and fight on -- she could have punched out, but chose to stay and battle on. Just because she disengaged from the sortie, her battle was not over, they had just begun. A fight for survival, where she had to call on her 2 most powerful weapons in her arsenal....her training and courage. She did it with perfection and no commendation or award can over shadow that. The lessons she learned with that flight, beginning to end and the knowledge she extends to others on battle management, will at some point save another American combat veteran and that is the greatest achievement of any combat veteran. The American combat veteran, the greatest the world has ever known.

[@philgiglio7922]

there's never been anything like the American volunteer soldier

[@LuvBorderCollies]

I know she's 111% on not wanting to bail out over Baghdad or Iraqi controlled territory. Islam treats women like goats on a nice day. So an enemy attacking them, shot down, and a woman plus an officer (they don't take orders from women and despise them) would in for the worst day of her life. So glad she made it and landed safely. This makes me wonder if she had bailed over Baghdad, if a rescue attempt would've been attempted. I have a feeling Blackhawk Down would've been a small event compared to Baghdad.

[@RedRocket4000]

@@LuvBorderCollies You're not wrong the toxic a lot tribal more than Islam version of the religion is just as you stated. That closer to the words of Mohammad women are still secondary but bad treatment forbidden. Back when Christians controlled Jerusalem a Muslim army under the great Saladin was reported near a tower that had a Noble Lady in it. The Crusader Army rushed out to rescue her without water or food and thus was defeated. The Noble Lady was then escorted by Muslims to Christian lands she was never in danger. Not so great for commoner men or women who were made slaves but treatment of women in Christian lands horrible with beatings actual praised and recommend for all husbands. And commoner men some form of serf they were not free men. Treatment under Muslim rules then considerably for slaves better than normal (not so much later in Africa in 1500-1800 take my Muslim slavers. The point good treatment of women is done by faithful Muslims in non radical areas where the extremists often attack them the greatest number of victims of Islamic Extremists are Muslims for practicing the faith correctly not the extremist version. Non extremist Muslims greatly outnumber the extremists but the extremists make the news.

[@noezrider6361]

I handled flight records and also a NCOIC of an A-10 Fighter Squadron. I spent time around bomber, airlift and various airframe pilots as well as Naval "aviators" in my Air Force career, and I can honestly say (imo) the A-10 pilots were the most down to earth, bad ass and kind of like "flying cowboys," getting down in the shit, making good things happen, taking fire and saving lives. "KC" just validated what I remember from back in my day.

[@MikePasqqsaPekiM]

What a pilot! A true warrior and professional. Her character is evident even in this brief interview. Absolutely enjoyed every second of this episode. I’ll be looking for her book.

[@Ostenjager]

I was in 74th LRSD in 2005 in Afghanistan, part of the 173rd Airborne Brigade. My team was attached to a SF team which went into the Washir Mountains to find, surveil, and eliminate a training camp. It was a female A-10 pilot who dropped the ordinance that leveled the place after we pinpointed it and gathered our intelligence. We did other patrols in RC South throughout that year into Sangin and Qal'eh Gaz which were supported by A-10s. Myself and my buddies will forever appreciate everything the A-10 community has done for us.

[@dunexapa1016]

George W. Bush ordered American soldiers to *PREEMPTIVELY* invade Iraq and kill innocent people based on a lie. No official investigation has ever *PROVED* if the total collapse and destruction of the World Trade Center One and Two buildings was, or was not, caused by a controlled demolition. Do you care that no official investigation even attempted to prove what caused the *MURDER* of thousands of innocent people on the day of 9-11-91? Do you even care that thousands of innocent Iraqi children were murdered and maimed by American soldiers? What do you care about?:You think this woman pilot is a hero? Or the common Iraqi soldiers defending his loved ones and his home and his country? American military leaders will not even protect American women and children now. The American military now assists sexual perverts to gain access to children and the current Commander in Chief is senile.

[@Karina_Engr]

Thank you ma'am for you service. Female AF (avionics aircraft maintnenace) enlisted veteran, now AF contractor here. ❤🤝

[@dunexapa1016]

@@Karina_Engr , Does not matter to you that Iraq was invaded based on a lie and thousands of innocent children killed? What does matter to you? Do you own a vehicle? Does that matter to you?

[@TFT-bp8zk]

@@dunexapa1016 WTF is wrong with you, seriously? Seek counselling.

[@DonnieDarko727]

​@@dunexapa1016 all wars are based on lies

[@daleronsin4756]

My daughter is a Air Force pilot - best training possible and they walk the talk. Her motto “whatever it takes” is indicative of these professional officers💥❤️

[@ck2106]

Good job and congrats sir!

[@C4GIF]

Yes, and all over the world they kill people for the American induced regime changes. You should be proud of her even she is acting as a mass murderer!

[@ijustwanttogosailing8248]

“whatever it takes” or "end justifies the means" - you should be ashamed of your daughter picking Stalin's motto!

[@crunchTwist]

@@ijustwanttogosailing8248 those two statements have absolutely nothing to do with one another.

[@klubberzvonhatzenbuhl563]

@@ijustwanttogosailing8248 - Shoo!

[@Pepperboy555]

As a former grunt on the ground there was nothing finer than the sound of an A10 overhead!

[@CAPSLOCKPUNDIT]

Outside of an F-4 Phantom, there is nothing more thrilling than the sound of an A-10. Inside of an F-4, you can't even hear them flying.

[@CPTdrawer22]

@@CAPSLOCKPUNDIT - On SF Recon in "Indian Country" outside of RVN, we shuddered at the thought of an F-4 coming for close air support - and thanked our lucky stars when a VNAF A-1E Skyraider ("Spad") came, as we could bring their fires to within 20m. F-4s might have been a little better than nothing, but no fast mover can in any way compare to Spads, which were the A-10s of that era. And the VNAF "air cowboys" had giant gonads, from H-34s to A-1Es! Only knew of one AH-1G Cobra pilot and gunner who had the guts to go where we were to help us get out of the kimchee, and they dumped their load to act as a lift ship for 2 Americans and 4 indig, 3 to a skid! *De Oppresso Liber*

[@azure6392]

Brrrrrrrrrrrt

[@Pepperboy555]

@@CPTdrawer22 Fantastic comment. Thanks for sharing!

[@CPTdrawer22]

@@Pepperboy555 *-* VNAF "cowboys" get all too little credit for the xlnt job they did. Those H-34's had only a starboard door opening, in which a single .30 caliber air-cooled machinegun was mounted; and the "slow-movers" (A1E's) didn't have wingmen or overhead watchdogs like Americans! BTW, the AH-1G AC and gunner were out of the 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile). You're quite welcome for the info. Happy to contribute. *De Oppresso Liber*

[@edmundblanchard4744]

Col. KC Campbell, you are an amazing person and testament through your service for our country. Thank you for your service!

[@hollynorris957]

Wow I’m honored to have seen this film! KC you are a true hero in every conceivable metric. You have accomplished so much and who knows how many young girls you have lit a fire in that yes you can do it to. You are the best part of the USA !!!

[@eddrohan4461]

I was in Public Affairs at Pope AFB (23rd Wing Flying Tigers at the time) when KC’s incredible mission took place. We worked closely with her when she redeployed as media from around the world wanted her story. She was a total professional. I lost track of her after leaving Pope but am happy she went on to a successful career. BTW, we were told her call sign, KC, stood for “Killer Chick.” Not very politically correct today, but still pretty accurate.

[@benpurcell4935]

From what I’ve heard especially about pilots and their call signs is that they rarely are flattering and sometimes slightly offensive.

[@IraqVet0608]

@@benpurcell4935 most nicknames in the military work that way

[@npickart]

That's badass.

[@bobbailey4954]

I was a navy aviator P-3B last name Bailey call sign Beatle

[@mikealbert3516]

As far as call signs go, she won the lottery.

[@TheTacktishion]

As an 80 year old AF veteran, from the F-100 flight line, I found this interview very interesting. Good interview, All the right questions were asked, and answered.... I would be proud for her to fly my plane. The Air Force, then and now, gives young people a lot of responsibility, very quickly... Thanks for sharing this story....!

[@johnhutchison9782]

The F-100 was the first aircraft model I built as a young boy. Was supposed to be camo but I totally dug the aircraft as a Thunderbird so that's what I did! Thank you for your service, sir. 🙌

[@gilheuss7830]

As an almost 80 year old former Army infantry type I wish you guys had had the A-10 when we were in Vietnam. Your Air craft couldn't really slow down enough to give us close ground support. Most of my time it was Hueys and the guy hanging out the door with his MG. That round she was showing off would have been great.

[@cab1881]

There were 1100 women Air Force pilots in wwll. Hap Arnold was their leader. They flew every type of aircraft at that time and also did test piloting. They were also trainers of pilots and live targets for male pilot training. Male pilots were not live targets for training pilots. Jealous men working on their planes would actually sabotage their planes and cause them to crash. Women pilots were killed or injured. This is hush hush.

[@rudiekeyser2495]

KC is a amazing woman.

[@gerryj8839]

@@gilheuss7830 Welcome Home, Sir!

[@01Lenda]

Wow, what a tale, nothing but mad respect, for this officer, pilot and lady. Thank you both, for sharing her tale. This story was amazing and makes one appreciative of our pilots. Well done, ma'am.

[@Breitman123]

What a cool lady. I’m deeply impressed by her. What an incredible story.

[@m.dwightsweezy7361]

Thanks Colonel Campbell for your service from a Vietnam Vet Retired Army officer who recalls when the first A10s came out. I was in an Armored Div. And did Live fire exercises with A10s prepping the battlefield before our tanks engaged the opposition. I have great respect for these pilots and am very impressed with her skills and professionalism.

[@UkDave3856]

What a pilot. It’s a testament to her skill and training, and no small contribution by the magnificent A-10, that she was able to keep such a badly damaged plane flying for an hour and still land it on its gear 👏👏

[@mprto68]

As an Army vet - seeing A10s overhead in Iraq was very comforting! The single best friend we had the Air Force

[@protennis365]

You mean, cheer force.

[@patrickmurphy3759]

Imagine what it would be like to be a local hearing military planes overhead and wondering if you are unlucky enough to live to close to a target.

[@drn13355]

Agree. I was in Iraq X2 (OIF and OIR) and sometimes just seeing and hearing the air support was comforting knowing we are not out here alone.

[@ScottCyclops]

The A10 did a ton of blue on blue though.

[@drn13355]

@@ScottCyclops Define "a ton". Because your comment doesn't mean a damn thing. Quantify and define or go away.

[@kevino.7348]

What a credit to the Air Force, the AF Academy, and the USA. Smart, skilled, well spoken, focused, humble.

[@Dichi-Sota]

Lol, that's cause they're probably retired C.I.A officials with deep cover Background. They could learn a thing or 2 from Mossad. Shalom

[@leonmiller4774]

And good looking to boot thankfully never falling into enemy hands

[@LSH988]

A great representative of our country.

[@e.conboy4286]

@@LSH988: She is a PATRIOT!

[@jimjustice581]

OMG! Looking at her plane all shot up, it IS a miracle she made it home. Thank you for your service, and thank God you made it home to tell your story.

[@bon3y4rd]

Great video! I am an old Army vet. 11M, Bradley IFV (Gunner). There was nothing that made me happier than seeing and a hearing an A10 coming in on Republican Guard tanks in Desert Storm. By far the best aircraft ever built! The sound of that 30MM still gets me fired up to this day! I showed a friend a video of one firing and he said, "it sounds like a chainsaw running at full throttle". Yep!

[@petemoore9499]

As a thirty year ground pounder, I loved the A10 and their pilots. They have saved many, many lives and are the easiest aviators to work with. Thank you for your service!!

[@wspad2136]

Such an amazing individual. Thank you Col Cambell. Thank you Commander Carroll for arranging the interview. From an old ABE - Cat crew USS Oriskany CVA-34

[@esinohio]

My father was a FAC in Vietnam and when his OV-10 was hit by ground fire he said virtually the same thing, "I'm not ejecting over that jungle.". He managed to get it back to his base. Somewhere there is a Stars and Stripes article with my proud dad standing next to his OV-10 with several big holes in it.

[@johnthomas2485]

I read they were talking about bringing those back for the Army as close support.

[@pjingham11]

Wow what a neat person. I'm so glad that she is teaching the leadership skills she so obviously has to others. Great interview Ward.

[@cathyb4796]

Colonel Campbell (Ret.) thank you for your sacrifice and service. You are indeed a very courageous pilot and an inspiration on many levels. ~~ Listening from the KC Missouri ((area))

[@check6gainingonyou901]

As a former Thud Driver, I've had spirted conversations about retiring the A-10. It has a special role that can't be done by a fast mover. Your SH story validates that. Your debrief was very inspiring and Ward was OK too! I'm looking forward to the release of your book. Thanks!

[@user-dq1je7zy3p]

CAS can easily be done safer, cheaper, and just as effectively from any multirole platform when compared with the A10

[@michaelbenjmitchell1]

Yeah but they want to move onto the Prop engine Super Turcano. That plane will not last long in a combat environment due to it being under armed and lack of aircrew protection. Basically that plane is nothing more than a modern A1 Skyraider which will get aircrews killed.

[@tabcreedence6553]

@@user-dq1je7zy3p Yeah because every multirole platform has a 30mm Gatling gun, redundant hydraulic flight controls backed up by manual controls, and a titanium bathtub that the pilot sits in right? Why do you think they have not retired it yet. It repeatedly comes home with huge pieces of the airplane missing along with a pilot that is alive.

[@danf4447]

yeah but thuds are super cool. i heard that at low altitudes in burner you had to be careful or the air friction would start to deform the canopy. that's bad ass.

[@11C1P]

@@user-dq1je7zy3p Wrong.

[@imxploring]

Great interview! The A-10 is an incredible aircraft. I worked security at the Fairchild Republic plant in Farmingdale in the early 80s. I worked evenings and had run of the entire plant and got to see how these beasts came into existence as well as driving executives and engineers. Absolutely incredible machine! The design and engineering is made to last under the worse of conditions as well as unleashing hell on those on the business end of its gun.

[@timbroderick4454]

I live less than a mile from Republic. I didn’t move here until the early 2000s. Did they just do parts at Republic or aircraft assembly? It’s rare to hear anyone speak of seeing A-10s flying around.back in the day.

[@imxploring]

@@timbroderick4454 They did the bulk of the fabrication and assembly at Fairchild in Farmingdale. The fuselage and wings were then shipped out to (I believe) a plant in Maryland for final assembly. Very rarely we would have a fully assembled A-10 come in for events such as Family day at Fairchild. Seeing that beast built was awesome. I remember the cockpit tub assembly area and the way the whole thing was designed to keep the pilot safe. The entire airframe is over built to deal with not only the mission of close air support but mainly to carry that monster gun and ammo drum.

[@timbroderick4454]

@@imxploring Thank you! My 13 year old aviation enthusiast son and I were always wondering. We always joked that people were too mesmerized by Tomcats flying around to notice the A-10.

[@imxploring]

@@timbroderick4454 I live out east near the old Grumman plant. Several times while playing golf at Swan Lake I had the experience of an F-14 flying over very low.... what an incredible sight to see!

[@AA-xo9uw]

@@timbroderick4454 A-10 production occurred in Hagerstown, Maryland.

[@joetaylor486]

Outstanding. What a lady, an aviator and a warrior.

[@tedinstalease]

What a beautiful story and God bless this woman. She is a jewel as an American, a parent, as a human. My God, the story is incrediable.

[@williambotha5864]

As a small team operator in Angola for the SADF a long time ago, I can tell you there is nothing more beautiful than hearing an Impala (Machi MB-326) pilot asking for your FLOT ... calm as can be, another day in the office ... while chaos reigns on the ground. Massive kudos to all close ground support jocks the world over, and to this specific one; more than most!

[@PeterDavid7KQ201]

Friggin' awesome to hear KC's story, thank you Ward and KC!

[@smythharris2635]

Safer than ejecting over Chicago?

[@3pbhenry]

One of your best interviews yet. KC was articulate and engaging -- what a tribute to the Air Force.

[@jonryan5339]

Hats off to you all for all you do and thank you for your service.

[@JoeyCarb]

As a Marine infantryman, the A-10 forever holds a special place in my heart. We certainly appreciated the pilots who were bored with the Army missions and came over to play with varsity.

[@pacificcoastpiper3949]

Cute.

[@michaelbeard2577]

I was an Army infantryman and before her time, the best way to describe the difference between A-10s and all other air assets is, I would ask my FAC " What do you have coming?", he would respond with F-16/F-15 or anything besides the A-10, I would tell my guys to dig in deeper and pray. If the FAC told me A-10s I would tell my guys prepare for the show. Much like the scene in the movie " Flight Of The Intruder " when the A-1s ( Sandy ) were performing CAS during the SAR mission near the end of the film. The parameters for Danger Close were different for the A-10 then all other air support besides rotary wing. No aircraft in the U.S. inventory can do the same job as well as the A-10. The A-10 and those that fly the plane are total BEASTS with the pilots having testicles/boobs of Titanium ( no impropriety meant ).

[@ryateo1]

and for my speaking from a branch that actually has SOF, i genuinely love crayon eating Pilots coming in for close air support. (No hate.... All love!!)

[@peterrose5373]

@@pacificcoastpiper3949 That's the best contribution to the conversation you could come up with?

[@omally]

Do the channel a favor and :-1: and report the comment spammers

[@mrmcmeowmeow]

Wow. Just wow. What a great interview - both sides of the camera. Thanks Ward for continuing the great videos, and a huge thanks to KC Campbell for such a great accounting of not only your hair-raising experience, but your tour through the air force in general. Bravo! 🎉

[@kellydiver]

Excellent interview. I retired from the AF in 2000 and am often jealous of the opportunities women have had since my time. I like to think I played a tiny role in helping to pave the way for them, but geez - these are some pretty kick-ass warriors! I’ve ordered KC’s book and am looking forward to her insights.

[@EtherealOde]

What a thrilling story. This woman may have helped support my husband during that time, I have no idea. But pilots like her are absolute heroes and are responsible for bringing many of our troops home. Thank you for her story. She is an inspiration for every woman who wants to make a difference in the world.

[@michaelsudsysutherland5353]

It's humbling to listen to aviators (whom I likely worked with on from the ground at Udari and Al-Abraq bombing ranges back in APR - JUN '02...). Voices on the radio, and the face behind the helmet finally telling that side of those stories! I am so glad your first Air Force pilot interviewee is a Hog Driver. "Cleared Hot!" BBRRRRRRRRRRRRTTTTTTTTTT!

[@crazypetec-130fe7]

That was a great interview. Col KC makes me proud of my 20 years in the USAF, and my missions over Iraq and Afghanistan.

[@MaineOffGrid.]

Amazing story. Even more amazing woman. Glad she made it safely home.

[@livingadreamlife1428]

Total respect for KC, as well as the design engineers and workers who built the A10.

[@elizabethbottroff1218]

I instantly related to KC's decision to *refuse* to eject over that location. I had suffered a bad fall when at sea, with no witnesses. The situation was potentially fatal. I vividly remember, even decades later, saying outloud, "No. Mom is *NOT* going to get that phone call." I have found anecdotally that most who choose life deliberately in those moments, will suddenly find themselves mentally downloading and acting upon everything that they need to survive and get to safety and assistance. Everything around them starts to work with them as well. In her case, her wingman, an overflight of protective jets, and an airframe that held together, along with all of her training. In my case, I managed to avoid going into shock, etc, then a shipmate came out on deck and heard my call, when there was no reason for him to be out there. That started my rescue & recovery. Refuse to give up. Choose life, no matter how much it might hurt. The thoughts telling you to give in and to give up are not your friend. Reject them, and keep focused on making it through that minute, to the next one. You got this!

[@joeybobbie1]

That is Great advice. I have struggled trying to keep trying to keep going and not let my Disabilities get the best of. It’s hard sometimes when you hurt Constantly.

[@marine4lyfe85]

Did you fall overboard?

[@elizabethbottroff1218]

@@marine4lyfe85 No. Multiple stories down a ladder well, onto a deck, inside a bow thruster space, at sunset, in freezing temps. Injury, shock, and exposure.

[@rob9781]

Great advice for life in general, thank you for sharing !

[@ironmantooltime]

Wow, motivated 🙌😎

[@RicktheCrofter]

I have seen videos with her before. One fun thing to mention, her call sign: KC is not only her initials, but also stands for: Killer Chick. I guess the Air Force allows for cooler call signs than the Navy.

[@jmbreece]

So glad to see an Air Force pilot on your channel. Was beginning to think you didn't like us! My experience was comm/nav/ecm specialist on F-15 A,B,C,D from 1979-83. We are all so indebted to the courageous pilots of all military aircraft. My career was short mainly because I am on the autism spectrum, though I didn't know it at the time. Leadership is tough for people who have impaired executive function, and so would it be to fly. My Dad was an engineer at North American aviation/ Rockwell from the late fifties. He worked on development of an un-manned delivery platform called the X-10 navaho / BOMARC. I was his RIO a few times flying itty-bitty Cessnas over So Cal. He left us a little over a year ago, and we miss him a lot. Thank you KC for your service, and Mooch as well.

[@paulsuprono7225]

My condolences . . . . 🇺🇸

[@WhiteFox011]

Kim, thank you for your service, and I am just one old school "91b"retired SFC that never got deployed. While it sounds exciting, I do not miss not being deployed. In the Infantry, we all signed the same piece of paper, just like everyone else. I would have of course gone if called, as I had the training. I am, glad that you were able to teach others from your experiences.

[@gerryjamesedwards1227]

When I first saw the photos of KC's A10 I couldn't believe it could fly at all. Hearing how she did it I'm even more amazed. Utmost respect to her.

[@philgiglio7922]

Surely an award was bestowed for that action DFC @ least... uniform ribbon looked like a silver star?

[@gerryjamesedwards1227]

@@philgiglio7922 I'd hope she got an award for that! If that wasn't distinguished flying I'd like to see what is.

[@mike03a3]

@@philgiglio7922 Col. Campbell was awarded the DFC

[@mikebaggott7802]

@@philgiglio7922, she was awarded a DFC.

[@TraditionalAnglican]

You should look at photos of B-17’s that made it back after bombing runs over Germany!

[@cozysouth]

Profile Bud Anderson. He’s a true American hero. P51 Pilot, test pilot with an amazing AF career and one of the most gentle humble men I’ve ever met.

[@zublacus]

I live near Bud...his 100th birthday was at our local airport. He better hurry up.

[@mikestange9516]

I had the pleasure to support the A-10 as an AF maintainer and after retirement as a contractor. I worked, as a contractor, on the flight line supporting the A-10C upgrade at Nellis AFB. At the time Col Campbell was one of the test pilots and really enjoyed working with her and the team to make this upgrade happen. As she says in the interview the upgrade really made a big difference for the pilots.

[@joebryan602]

Not a lot is known of civilian contractors is known of civilian contractors & the work we have done including battle field conditions. I did 8 yrs as a civilian contractor on military air craft. I was in Viet Nam towards the end of the war. Returned state side 6 months before the fall. I had a lot of experience on the F 4 Phantom, also worked F 102 & F 106 Delta Dart & Delta Dagger. Plus field recovery on Uh1 helicopters on base & in field downed choppers. The unique chopper to work on was the Cobra. Plus worked on other air craft. But was a interesting time of my life. Truly enjoyed it.

[@glennroberts3069]

My squadron picked up the pilot that ejected in an A-10 close to Baghdad. The boys even brought his ejection seat back stateside. I said it wasn’t a rescue it was more of a taxi ride. He landed by an Army Bradley. The Bradley driver said “ yo Air Force dude get in the back.” The Bradley transferred him to a Hummer. When our helos landed he came out carrying his chute and the guys grabbed his ejection seat!! That’s service!

[@denigong9708]

Yo air force dude.. That's good stuff right there

[@glennroberts3069]

@@denigong9708 yeah it was then and is now. Thank you!

[@jstephenallington8431]

You are definitely building a legacy to be proud of. I am just awestruck at your considerable skills as a pilot and as a leader amongst combat pilots. You're an inspiration for everyone, in the military and out.

[@matthew8250]

I was at Moody AFB in 2003, supporting the 49th & 435th Squadrons doing T-38 Flight Simulator MX for the Fighter Pilot training program and remember this story as it unfolded. Interesting enough, I am now at Sheppard AFB currently, and overheard a few student pilots talking about this last week. So ironic seeing this video and seeing KC talking about the Real life experience first hand. Good stuff and what a great pilot! The A10 is still hard at work and our pilots are glad to be accepted into the A10 program. Thanks for sharing!

[@Jimmy66869]

Thank you service men and women. You all doing an amazing job! Grandfather was in ordnance in WWII on a carrier. Mad respect for support crews. Thank you Colonel. You inspire women around the world to chase their dreams. I have four teenage daughters. I love your story and that you flew that badass warthog. Veterans day is in two days.

[@gaetalton5119]

Thank you, Colonel Campbell for your courage, strength, resolve and superior professionalism in serving our great nation! God bless and continue to keep you thru out your life!

[@greggmundkowsky7957]

This is the 2nd time I have seen a interview with KC, I am amazed at what she had to do to bring her plane back. I also miss the USS America CV66 as I was ship's company 1/1/82-11/24/86. Thanks for another great video

[@shaunhall960]

After watching this video it hit me just how important training is. She exemplifies what good training can do, but that is half the battle, the rest is up to the pilot.

[@leonmiller4774]

The USAF or Naval Airforc or Army Airforce in the USA get 100s of hours training a year compared to say the Russian pilots only get 30 to 50 his a year that is why the airline in America is so damn good compared to any other country that's why they win in the air 95% of the time if not more. Blue on blue is regrettable, but green on blue should never be forgiven because these are ones we are helping in their homeland What our SAS did in Afghanistan was nesacary, and as much as I hate war, after reading the Quran and studying the sect of islam of Alquida i condone what Ben Roberts-Smith did in fighting in Afghanistan you must realise that these people wanted him dead so to me he had the right to protect him and his fellow sappers I would buy him a beer if I ever met him He is like this woman country first self second

[@MikeJamesMedia]

Thank you KC for all you've done, and for sharing your story. And thank you, Ward, for setting this up, so we could hear about her career. :)

[@notthesamecc1927]

that is so sweet that the folks offered to give her a piece of her Warthog. Nice gesture that could have easily been overlooked with the hustle and bustle.

[@adrianspeeder]

She came and spoke to the Cadets last year at the Air Force Academy. Amazing story to hear about an amazing feat of airmanship.

[@rsanoian]

Thank you Ward for doing these interviews ! I have seen pics of her and that A10 but never knew all the details, I had friends and family that served over there the last 20 plus years. Thank you to all of you for your service, lets hope we can get this nation back on track.

[@KnawedOne]

Thank you Col Campbell for sharing your story. Have always loved the A10 Warthogs.

[@MrMajorly]

What an amazing officer and pilot! So very thoughtful and easy to listen to! I can't wait to see this book in March!

[@MrMajorly]

Scammer!

[@scottreyes17]

KC's story is a modern day hero's tale and I can't wait to read her book. Thank you for taking care of those Marines on the ground!!!

[@t3chnicianb3000]

Great interview Commander Carroll. Col. KC is a magnificent warrior!! Thank You both. 🙏

[@cedarjack]

Thank you for your service and for protecting our children out there, in the field. Greatly appreciate what you have done for us all. Its a honor to hear your stories.

[@bigike5484]

Great Interview! GO Air Force! I was an A-10A crew chief(plane capt) from 1984-1988 RAF Bentwaters. We defiantly felt like the "Red headed step-children of the USAF" during that time. That all changed after Operation Deseret Storm. I look forward to her book. Hopefully it will also be released as an audiobook. Thank you for having such an awesome You Tube channel !! You Rock !!

[@audiophile1024]

Col. Campbell's talk brought tears to my eyes at the level of bravery and patriotism. I hope the USAF gave her many decorations. Thank you for your service.

[@beckyumphrey2626]

By the looks of all the ribbons on her uniform.she was.HIGHLY decorated.

[@bbeseda]

Been following this "chick's" (Killer Chick) career since we met a few times in the 90's. Well done Kim, simply amazing!

[@danmcelroy6584]

She is a total bad ass! 👍👍 Much respect!! Getting to fly the baddest plane on earth! Incredible and awesome story. And thank you for serving! Your a real Hero!! May God bless you and everyone that has ever served!

[@jeffhanson9244]

Another great interview Ward. As a former A10 pilot I was happy to hear Col Campbell’s story about flying the Warthog. I recall that ride at RTU when we flew the A10 in manual reversion, it was a handful.

[@slbrick56]

Excellent interview, Ward. Thank you for sharing. You are an excellent host/interviewer and Col. Campbell is a wonderful speaker and shared her story generously. I am not a veteran. I have no direct connection to the milatary. But I am always impressed by the military and their personnel. This video was of particular interest to me because my father was an aeronautical/mechanical engineer who worked for Fairchild-Republic Aviation on Long Island, NY for most of his professional career. He worked on designing the control systems of the A-10 and was so proud of that airplane. He often brought home pictures and models of this airplane and even brought home a couple of rounds (dummies/not live) from the A-10 Gatling Gun. This is not the first story I have read where pilots praised the A-10 and it's Control Systems and it's survivability after taking a hit. It always makes me smile and makes me proud that my Dad was an integral part of designing the A-10 Control Systems. Again, thanks for sharing.

[@sanantoniotonight5569]

Long term subscriber, retired AF. I’m thrilled the channel has been taken to an entire new level!! Ha, You had to know that was coming… helluva interview, bravo!

[@Tbone1492]

She probably went over my head. God Bless this warriors. I absolutely adore her🙏🇺🇸

[@obsbarlos]

It’s an honor to be part of the maintenance crew that keeps these birds in operation

[@williambennett7033]

It's a honor to have men and women like u doing what u do...thank u for your service ...it takes a team

[@obsbarlos]

@@williambennett7033 thank you sir and yes could not do it alone 🙏🏽

[@garrywilliams4449]

She is an amazing woman. I enjoyed listening to her. Thank you for your service, the both of you.