Arnie and I roomed at Ft. Rucker during our last months of training in the Army's Helicopter flight training program. I have told many stories of him in the past years here on Veterans' Day.
In late October 1966, we were declared “Officers & Gentlemen.” High-ranking officers put wings on our chests and orders in our hands. Most all read “Vietnam.” Arnie and I shook hands, went home on leave and then to ‘Nam.
Later that year, I received a letter from my folks telling me they had been contacted by a member of his family that he had died flying on a combat mission.
It has been over 60 years, my friend, since those crazy days in flight school and your passing while flying Army helicopters in Vietnam. I think of you often. The memories are as fresh today, Arnie. God Bless.
--------------
Crew chiefs, door-gunners and pilots. I remember the faces of the "boys" in this photo but cannot remember all of their names.
This photo was taken on "The Golf Course" flight line in An Khe South Vietnam in 1967. The Lt. on the left and I (giving the peace sign) lost the tail rotor that night just as we lifted off to fly perimeter patrol. Those of us who are left are all old men now and members of the old guard.
With honor to all who served on this Veterans' Day.
--------------
VIETNAM MOVIE. 2/20TH ARA. 1ST AIR CAV. - 1967
Photos taken and compiled in 1967 serving with The 2nd of The 20th, ARA, 1st Air Cav. We flew out of An Khe, Bong Son, The An Lao Valley and Phan Thiet. Lyrics and music by Joe Galloway "God's Own Lunatics" from "The Shadow of The Blade"
Thank you for the visit this week.
No comments:
Post a Comment