05. History Detachment 5, 38 ARRS - part two : 1966
Preface
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For many of the 1966 Rescue Mission reports I have made use of a part of the information published in the Book by Mr. Robert LaPointe, “PJs in Vietnam”. Especially the listing “Vietnam War SAR Data” (pages 420-425) was very helpful and additionally, as well as some Narrative reports for missions, which were not available from my AFHRA research efforts. Very valuable also were the photos of HH-3 crewmembers which Mr. LaPointe copied while doing research in the archive of the Air Force Museum. Also used for some of the 1966 Mission Reports are data given in the “Vietnam Air Losses” database on line (www.vietnamairlosses.com) , a website by Mr. Chris Hobson and Mr. David Lovelady. I would like to thank all three authors for their very valuable, published information. Johan D. Ragay PRHA and USAF Rotorheads H-43 Historian |
1966 - the year “Jolly Green Giants” took over Air Crew Recovery (ACR) from the “Pedro’s”
HH-43B during training with man in the sling, 1966 USAF photo 097114 NARA Archive
HH-3C 64-14227 Det.5, 38 ARS late 1965 - USAF photo from AFHRA file IRIS00491713
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As of 08 January 1966 Detachment 5 made part of the 38th ARRSq (in stead of the 38th ARSq) The 38th ARRSq became assigned to the 3rd ARRGp Det.5, 38ARRS operated the HH-43B and the HH-3C/E two 36th ARRS HC-130H were TDY to Det.5 up to Jun66 |
05.01 Organization
Source: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
The 38th ARRS was relieved from assignment to Hq, Aerospace Rescue & Recovery Service, and assigned to the 3rd ARRG at Tan Son Nhut Airfield, Vietnam, effective on or about 8 January 1966. The 3rd ARRGp was assigned to the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service (MAC) and came under the control of Commander 2nd Air Division. The Group had a Joint Search and Rescue Center, two Rescue Control Centers (RCC), and two Squadrons, the 37th ARRS and the 38th ARRS. The Group exercised operational control over the following units :
Rescue Control Center (RCC) at Da Nang AB, RVN -- Det.1, 3rd ARRGp.
Rescue Control Center (RCC) at Udorn AB, Thailand -- Det.2, 3rd ARRGp.
37th ARRS, Da Nang AB, RVN
Det.1, 37th ARRS, Udorn AB, Thailand
38th ARRS, Tan Son Nhut AB, RVN
Commander 3rd ARRGp: Col. Arthur W. Beall
The 3rd ARRGp was responsible for meeting 2nd Air Division Search and Rescue requirements for Southeast Asia. The primary missions dealed with the recovery of air crew members and a secondary mission of providing Local Base Rescue for air bases where tactical aircraft were stationed.
For the period of this report (Jan-Mar66) the 38th ARRS had 87 combat saves and 7 non-combat saves to their credit. In order to be classified as a combat save, an individual would have died or the definite possibility of capture existed had rescue not recovered him. Combat classification results from an individual being exposed to enemy action or was recovered from a hostile area. Non-combat is any area that is not included in the combat criteria.
The Joint Search and Rescue Center of the 3ARRGp was located at Tan Son Nhut AB in the 2nd AD Tactical Air Control Center. All activities dealing with Search and Rescue in SEA had their roots in the JSARC. Daily the officer controlers received tactical opertional plans from the USAF and USN, for the following days activities and after careful analysis preposition their rescue forces accordingly.
Lockheed HC-130H with Airborne Mission Commander
Two HC-130H aircraft from 36th ARRS (Tachikawa) were on a TDY basis attached to Det.5, 38 ARRS in support of SAR activities in SEA. They arrived at Udorn on 30 Jan66. Previously TDY forces at Det.5 included two HC-54D aircraft. Four HU-16Bs were TDY to the RCC at DaNang AB, RVN. A more efficient operation had resulted by replacing the two HC-54Ds with one HC-130H. The greater speed, altitude capability and advanced communications equipment of the HC-130H has increased the capability to coordinate and control the SAR missions in SEA. (source: K318-222-3-IRIS492413)
Although Det.1, 37th ARRS was activated at Udorn AB on 08Jan1966 as unit for the HC-130H aircraft, the Det.1, 37ARRS aircraft were delivered to Udorn AB not before June 1966. Crews were previously in training at Hamilton AFB, CA. HC-130H 65-0982 and 65-0983 arrived on 18Jun66, and 65-0981 and 65-0984 arrived on 25Jun66. They remained stationed here until 31Dec66.
05.01.01 Aircraft assigned to DET.5, 38th ARRS during 1966
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HH-43B |
60-0253 |
from 08 May 1965 - 30 Jul 1967 to Cam Rhan Bay AB from 17 Oct 1966 - 15 Nov 1966 for overhaul at DonMuang (i.a. camouflage), replaced by 60-0278 from 15Oct - 12Dec66 |
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HH-43B |
60-0254 |
from 08 May 1965 - 29 Sep 1967 to Tuy Hoa AB from xx Aug 1966 - 10 Sep 1966 for overhaul at DonMuang (i.a. camouflage), replaced by 60-0278 from 09Aug - 22Sep66 |
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HH-43B |
60-0278 |
TDY from Ubon AB 09 Aug 1966 - 22 Sep 1966 to Takhli AB and also 15 Oct 1966 - 12 Dec 1966 to Ubon AB in order to relieve 60-0253 and 254 during maintenance at DonMuang AB |
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HH-43B |
59-1590 |
from 06 Jul 1965 - 13 Mar 1966 to Phan Rang AB |
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HH-3C* |
64-14227 |
from Sikorsky 15 Nov 1965 - 01 Sep 1966 lost during combat supp. msn. |
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HH-3C* |
64-14229 |
from Sikorsky 08 Dec 1965 - 10 Feb 1967 to 37 ARRS at Udorn |
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HH-3C* |
64-14230 |
from Sikorsky 09 Nov 1965 - 10 Feb 1967 to 37 ARRS at Udorn |
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HH-3C* |
64-14231 |
from Sikorsky 09 Nov 1965 - 29 Nov 1966 crashed |
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HH-3C* |
64-14232 |
from Sikorsky 15 Nov 1965 - 10 Feb 1967 to 37 ARRS at Udorn |
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HH-3C* |
64-14233 |
from Sikorsky 08 Dec 1965 - 21 Jan 1967 to Da Nang AB |
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HH-3E |
65-12778 |
from Sikorsky 24 May 1966 - 20 Oct 1966 shot down on a Rescue Misn |
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HH-3E |
65-12779 |
from Sikorsky 24 May 1966 - 06 Feb 1967 lost during combat mission |
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HH-3E |
65-12785 |
from Sikorsky 26 Aug 1966 - 10 Feb 1967 to 37 ARRS at Udorn |
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HH-3E |
65-12787 |
from Sikorsky 12 Oct 1966 - 10 Feb 1967 to 37 ARRS at Udorn |
*All six HH-3C‘s were designated model HH-3E after incorporating the T58-GE-5 engines as of 01 March 1966
Call-Signs assigned to the HH-3C/E
Note : there is no proof for the match between serial number (last two digits) and the JG number - however this seems very logically (left part of the table). There is proof (AFHRA document) that JG52 was 64-14229 and JG54 was 64-14231. It is unknown why and when exactly the JG numbers changed from JG27 thru 33 into JG51 thru 56.
used during Dec65-Feb66 used as of Mar66
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HH-3C/E |
64-14227 |
JG27 |
19Dec65,11Jan66 |
JG51 |
14Mar, 01Sep66 lost |
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HH-3C/E |
64-14229 |
JG29 |
06Jan66,19Feb |
JG52 |
17Apr, damaged 15Nov66 |
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HH-3C/E |
64-14230 |
JG30 |
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JG53 |
22Apr,05Oct,22Nov,06Dec |
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HH-3C/E |
64-14231 |
JG31 |
06Dec65,11Jan66,26Feb |
JG54 |
11Jul, 29Nov66 crashed |
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HH-3C/E |
64-14232 |
JG32 |
29Dec65,19Feb66 |
JG55 |
14Mar,22Apr,14Dec |
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HH-3C/E |
64-14233 |
JG33 |
19Dec65,06Jan66,24Feb |
JG56 |
17Apr,25May,05Oct |
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HH-3E |
65-12778 |
-- |
-- |
JG02 |
05Oct, 20Oc66 lost |
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HH-3E |
65-12779 |
-- |
-- |
JG05 |
06Dec |
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HH-3E |
-- |
-- |
-- |
JG36 |
02Oct,22Nov,14Dec |
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HH-3E |
-- |
-- |
-- |
? |
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05.01.02 USAF RESCORT A-1E at Udorn AB 1966
At Udorn the A-1E’s used three call-signs - “Sandy” , “Firefly” , and “Dragonfly”.
“Sandy” was (and still is throughout the USAF) the SAR call-sign, while “Firefly” and “Dragonfly” were used for armed reconnaissance, interdiction and armed FAC roles.
Missions going north out of Udorn to northern Laos and some areas of North Vietnam used “Firefly” , while missions to the east into the southern Laotian panhandle and Route Pack I of southern North Vietnam used “Dragonfly”.
During February 1966 the 602nd ACS moved it’s A-1E operations from Bien Hoa to Udorn with SAR RESCORT as one of its primary missions.
Source: Book “Air America in Laos”, Part.1 - by Dr. Joe F. Leeker, University-Dallas-Texas, 2006-2016 - page 88/89 :
The efforts of the A-1E Rescue Escort (RESCORT) aircraft were very important. They had no significant speed edge over the HH-3E, but with a dual responsibility of protecting the Jolly Greens and locating and flying cover for survivors, they must have a quicker response time, which requires airborne alert. The Sandy’s and Jolly Green’s stationed at Udorn received frags on raids in their areas of responsibility. Departing from Udorn, four Sandy’s would plan to arrive in an orbit over Lima Site 36 or Lima Site 98 before the first TOT (Time on Target). They would maintain this posture until 30 minutes after the last TOT, in readiness for a rescue mission. When notification of a downed airman was received, two of the Sandy’s departed the orbit for the rescue site. Their job was to locate and protect the airman, neutralizing defenses in the area before arrival of the Jolly Green’s. The remaining two Sandys stayed in orbit awaiting the lift off of the two rescue helicopters, giving them protection while they were en route to the rescue area. If the rescue was heavily defended and the Sandy’s had not suppressed the ground fire, they would notify the Jolly Green’s to stay in a safe area. Once the Jolly Greens were cleared in, one HH-3 remained high while the other performed the actual rescue. The normal procedure for positioning the Jolly Green’s was to have them depart Nakhon Phanom AB in pairs early enough to arrive at Lima Site 36 or Lima Site 98 during first light. From these FOL’s (Forward Operating Locations) the Jolly Green’s had a response time of five minutes from alert until airborne, plus the flying time to the rescue area” (Durkee, USAF Search and Rescue, July 1966-November 1967, HQ PACAF, 1968, CHECO Report, pp.11+13).
05.02 Rescue Missions during January-March 1966
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As of January 1966 Rescue Mission numbers for DET.5, 38ARRS were issued by DET.2, 3rd ARRG as “2-3-1-date”, meaning: Det2, 3ARRG, 1=first mission for 1966 , etc. Also as of Jan66, Narratives of Rescue Missions remain classified in most cases. The reason given by the AFHRA is that as of 1966 social security numbers were included in all Mission Reports. Therefor only very short summarizing mission reports are given in the following review. A lot of aircrew data were gained from the Book “PJ’s in Vietnam”, LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.), Northern PJ Press (2000) - Appendix 2 “Vietnam War SAR Data” ; for which use I am very thankful to Mr. LaPointe. Other (aircrew) data were gained from the website “USAF Rotorheads” , webmaster Jim Burns - page “Helicopter Time Line” (the old” Rotorheads website). |
05.02.01 Rescue Mission - 06 January 1966
Source: Rescue Mission Report 2-3-1-06Jan66, IRIS No. 01009286, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-1-06Jan66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C 64-14229 “Jolly Green 29” Flown by RCC unknown |
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HH-3C 64-14233 “Jolly Green 33” Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective : crew of Air America UH-34D call sign “Hotel 28” , emergency landing in Laos |
Narrative of Rescue Mission, written by HC-54D RCC Captain Leslie Schneider, 79th ARS:
“Crown 27” (HC-54D) departed Udorn, Thailand at 05/2246Z, arrived over Lima Site 98/20 at 05/2334Z (05 January) for weather check and arrived on station at Point Alpha at 05/2355Z.
At 06/0148Z (06 January), we were advised by “Compress” (Udorn RCC) that an Air America UH-34D helicopter call-sign “Hotel 28” was down at coordinates 16-30N, 105-30E, that “Jolly Green 29” and “33” were departing Nakhon Phanom AB ASAP along with “Sandy 21/22” (A-1E). Two additional Sandy’s “11/12” were departing Udorn AB ASAP. “Jolly Green 29” and “33” and “Sandy 21” and “22” were airborne from NKP at 06/0151Z. Jolly Green’s arrived on scene at 06/0235Z, Sandy’s at 06/0230Z, and “Crown 27” at 06/0230Z. Immediately after arriving on station, “Sandy 21” reported that the “Hotel 28” aircraft was down for maintenance on an abandoned airstrip at coordinates 16-33N, 105-27E.
“Spruce” flight provided high cover from approximately 06/0225Z to 06/0300Z, rotating 2 aircraft at a time to the tanker orbiting NKP. “Spruce” flight was released when “Dancehead” (Forward Air Controller) near downed chopper reported “Hotel 28” aircraft safe in friendly zone and protected by friendly forces.
RTB was received from Udorn Control for Task Force at approximately 06/0300Z and passed on to all aircraft, “Jolly Green” returned to NKP however. The Sandy’s remained in the area to provide immediate reconnaisance for strikes being conducted in this time period. “Crown 27” orbited the area until the strikes were complete and passed the RTB to Sandy’s - “Sandy 11/12” to Udorn AB , and “21/22” to NKP. “Crown 27” maintained radio contact with “Hotel 22” (UH-34D), which landed at the abandoned airstrip to assist the downed chopper. “Hotel 22” relayed the required parts. “Hotel 22” airlifted the crew of the downed chopper to LS-39 via a refueling stop at SavannaKet. “Crown 27” departed area for NKP at 06/0348Z and received RTB at 06/0428Z. Landed Udorn at 06/0505Z.
05.02.02 Rescue Mission - 11 January 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-2-11Jan66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Awards - file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-V.1-IRIS492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 3: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 176)
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-2-11Jan66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C 64-14231 “Jolly Green 31” Flown by RCC Capt. James C. O’Dell, Capt. Erling R. Drangstveit (co-pilot), TSgt. William J. Warren (HM), MSgt. William G. Daniels (PJ) Awards: Capt. O’Dell, MSgt. Daniels and TSgt. Warren were awarded the Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight on 11Jan66 |
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HH-3C 64-14227 “Jolly Green 27” Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 59-1736 "Healey 03" Capt. John R. Stell - 334 TFS Takhli AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-105 pilot ejected over Laos. A good chute was sighted by HU-16B “Crown 23” and voice contact with the downed pilot was established. HH-3 made a hoist pick-up of the pilot who was in good condition. A-1E and F-105 were used to suppress ground fire. The Jolly Green’s were scrambled from Lima Site 36 ; the survivor was flown to Udorn AB.
05.02.03 Rescue Mission - 16 January 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-3-16Jan66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Awards - file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-V.1-IRIS492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-3-16Jan66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC Capt. Robert A. Weekley, 1stLt. Richard J. Sans (co-pilot), SSgt. Joe Barnes Sr. (HM), A1C Leroy W. Kelsay (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the DFC for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 16 Jan 1966 |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective : crew F-4C 63-7469 Capt. J.A. Gagan, 1Lt. F.M. Malagarie - 559 TFS, 12 TFW |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-4C crew ejected over Laos. Voice contact was established with one of the pilots. Hoist pick-up was made on this man.Trees in the area were 150 to 200 feet high. HH-3 circled the area in an attempt to make visual contact with the second crewman. Contact was made and he was recovered 10 minutes later.
05.02.04 Second Rescue Mission of the day into Laos - 16 January 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-4-16Jan66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-105D (59-1719, 354 TFS) reported missing near Ban Xai, Laos. Aircraft searched area of last known position. The wreckage was located the next day. No signal received from the ground but heavy ground fire was experienced by search aircraft. No evidence that pilot had ejected prior to impact. Mission was suspended under the direction of 2nd Air Division.
05.02.05 Rescue Mission - 20 January 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-5-20Jan66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 420
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-5-20Jan66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC Capt. James C. O’Dell, Capt. Erling R. Drangstveit (co-pilot), SSgt. William R. Gladish (HM), SSgt. James Watson (PJ) |
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HH-43B Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 62-4324 Capt. Anthony S. Cushenberry - 333 TFS Takhli AB 18 miles SSE of Nakhon Phanom AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-105 pilot ejected in Laos after flame-out. Aircraft was returning from a combat mission in Laos. HH-3C made hoist pick-up after visual contact was established, just on the Laotian side of the border. The F-105 crashed on the Thai side. Recovery was completed 18 minutes after initial notification of downed aircraft. The pilot was reported to be in excellent condition. (in part from AFHRA Microfilm Reel 31113, frame 793)
05.02.06 Rescue Mission - 26 January 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-6-26Jan66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF RF-101C (56-0084, 20 TRS) on a photo mission in North Vietnam was hit and the pilot reported he was bailing out. SAR aircraft made visual and electronic search of the area but negative results. Mission was suspended after the next days search.
05.02.07 Rescue Mission - 01 February 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-7-1Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Awards - file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-V.1-IRIS492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-7-1Feb66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC 1stLt. Forest M. Kimsey, Capt. Charles P. Rush (co-pilot), SSgt. Donald L. Chance (HM), A2C Laverne W. Kellerman, Jr. (PJ) Awards: 1st.Lt. Kimsey, SSgt. Chance and A2C Kellerman were awarded the Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight on 1 Feb 1966 |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective : US Navy pilot A-1J 142038 LTJG B. Eakin - VA-115 |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USN A-1J pilot bailed out over Laos. Electrical contact was established with him as the HH-3C arrived on the scene visual contact was established. Hoist pick-up was made while fighter aircraft provided cover against ground fire.
05.02.08 Second Rescue Mission on 01 February 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-8-1Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 420
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-8-1Feb66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC Capt. William E. Cowell (P), 1stLt. William C. Dean (CP), SSgt. William R. Gladish (HM), Michael D. Leonard (PJ) |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective : US Navy pilot A-1J 142031 LTjg Dieter Dengler (POW) - VA-145 |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USN A-1J last seen on dive bomb run. Wingman never saw the aircraft again. No voice contact was established after pilot initiated bomb run. Extensive search uncovered no wreckage and the terrain was covered with large trees and heavy foliage. Mission was suspended.
NOTE 1:
The “Swordsmen” of VA-145 became the fourth A-1 unit to participate in their second war cruise with the Skyraider when CVW-14, this time embarked in “Ranger”, arrived on “Dixie Station” on 14 January 1966. With a temporary bombing halt then in effect north of the DMZ, the unit flew its first missions in support of US and ARVN forces in South Vietnam instead.
The end of the halt on 31 January brought a flurry of activity for the “Swordsmen”. They suffered their first loss of the deployment the very next day, however. A four-aeroplane division was approaching its target near Ban Phathoung, in Laos, when it received a distress call from a VA-115 flight that was covering the scene over one of its downed pilots.
Lt(jg) Eakin had bailed out after being hit by AAA near Ben Senphan, also in Laos (see here above chapter 05.02.07). The VA-145 division leader decided to complete his assigned mission and then go to the aid of the downed aviator.
Lt Dieter Dengler was the last to drive on the target, and his A-1J (BuNo 142031) was struck by ground fire as he rolled in. Dengler’s Skyraider lost its wings when he hit trees crash-landing near the target area, and the pilot was soon captured by the Pathet Lao and imprisoned in Laos.
Dengler endured months of torture and starvation before escaping with a handful of other Air America and USAF POWs on 29 June. He was the only one to eventually be rescued on 20 July by a USAF HH-3E from Da Nang AB. Emaciated, but joyous, after his gruelling experiences in captivity and on the run, Dengler was awarded the Navy Cross.
Source: Book : Burgess, Richard R. and Rausa, Rosario M., “US Navy A-1 Skyraider Units of the Vietnam War”, Osprey Combat Aircraft 77 , Osprey Publishing Ltd. (2009)
NOTE 2:
Together with pilot Lt. Dieter Dengler, HH-43B “Duchy 41” pilot Lt. Duane Martin (captured on 20Sep65) escaped from the Pathet Lao prison camp. Lt. Martin was murdered by a Laotian villager on the 18th day of their escape. (source: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 229-230)
From: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
05.02.09 Rescue Mission - 05 February 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-9-5Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
R.LaotianAF T-28B (53-8371) pilot on strike mission in Laos (north of Phong Savan) was forced down. Pilot was recovered by helicopter of unknown registry and returned to friendly forces. Pilot reported in good condition.
The T-28 pilot was rescued by an Air America UH-34D at 1152L before two USAF HH-3C had arrived. They returned to Lima Site 36, and the two scrambled A-1Es returned to Udorn. The HC-130H Command aircraft returned to its orbit.
(Source: mission report from Microfilm Reel 31113, given as reference in Book “Air America in Laos”, part 1 - by Dr. Joe F. Leeker - University Texas, Dallas (2006)
05.02.10 Rescue Mission - 09 February 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-10-9Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
B-57B (52-1575, 13TBS) on a night mission over Laos was reported missing. SAR forces conducted a first light visual and electronic search but obtained no leads. Mission was suspended.
05.02.11 Rescue Mission - 10 February 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-11-10Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Mission Report on Microfilm Reel 31113, frame 989, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-11-10Feb66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-43B Flown by RCC unknown |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective : US Navy pilot A-1H 137627 NK-506 “Electron 506” LT Gary Douglas Hopps - VA-145 USS Midway pilot deceased |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USN A-1H on an armed RECCE mission in North Vietnam was reported down, 15 NM South of Dong Hoi. Wingman “Electron 505” reported he did not think the pilot got out. Search aircraft located the wreckage and reported no possibility that he could have survived and had to leave the area due to heavy ground fire.
05.02.12 Rescue Mission - 15 February 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-12-15Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Awards - file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-V.1-IRIS492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-12-15Feb66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC Capt. Jerry W. Jennings, Capt. William R. Uhl, SSgt. Michael R. Holloway (HM), A2C James E. Poole (PJ) Awards: all received the DFC for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 15 Feb 1966 |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective: pilot of USAF A-1E 52-133885 Maj. Mauterer (MIA) - 3rd TFW from NKP |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF A-1E pilot bailed out in Laos. Wingman reported good chute but lost contact, both visual and electronic, after pilot hit the ground. SAR HH-3C twice attempted to penetrate area of the chute but had to withdraw due to extremely heavy ground fire. Low visual search had to be discontinued but higher electronic search continued. Mission was suspended three days later.
05.02.13 Rescue Mission - 19 February 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-13-19Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 184-186
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-13-19Feb66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C 64-14229 “Jolly Green 29” Low bird Flown by RCC Capt. Norman B. Kamhoot, 1Lt. John F. Guilmartin, Jr. (co-pilot), SSgt. Theodore M. Youngblood (HM), A1C Leroy W. Kelsay (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the Silver Star for gallantry while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force on 19 Feb 1966 |
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HH-3C 64-14232 “Jolly Green 32” High Bird” Flown by RCC Capt. James C. O’Dell, unknown co-pilot , SSgt. William R. Gladish (HM), A1C George E. Hunt (PJ) Awards: Capt. O’Dell, SSgt. Gladish and A1C Hunt received the Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight on 19 Feb 1966 |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 62-4251 “Healey Lead” Capt. Robert C. Green - 354 TFS Takhli AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short ; AFHRA doc):
USAF F-105 pilot on strike mission in Laos was forced to bail out. A good chute was observed by wingman. The pilot landed in the heavily defended Mu Gia Pass. Heavy ground fire was reported in the area and weather prevented fighter aircraft from stiking at ground positions. HH-3C used forest penetrator to lift pilot out of the area while three HH-3C crew members returned enemy fire using personal M-16’s. The helicopter took several hits during the rescue operation and A-1E Sandys RESCORT aircraft reported that anti-aircraft bursts made the helicopter look as if it was in a cotton field.
A more comprehensive story is written on pages 184-186 of the Book by LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000).
05.02.14 Rescue Mission - 20 February 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-14-20Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 420
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-14-20Feb66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC Capt. James C. O’Dell, Capt. Erling R. Drangstveit (co-pilot), SSgt. William R. Gladish (HM), A1C George E. Hunt (PJ) |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective : pilot O-1F Capt. Pawlick |
Narrative of Rescue Mission - not available
05.02.15 Rescue Mission - 21 February 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-15-21Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Awards - file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-V.1-IRIS492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-15-21Feb66 (22Feb) DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC Capt. Jerry W. Jennings, Capt. William R. Uhl (co-pilot), SSgt. Michael R. Holloway (HM), MSgt. William G. Daniels (PJ) Awards: all crewmembers were awarded the DFC for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 22 Feb 1966 |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC with A2C James E. Poole (PJ) |
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SAR objective : crew F-4C 64-0728 Capt. J.R. Moore, Jr. , 1Lt. M.J. Peters - 8 TFW |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-4C was hit by ground fire while on a gunnery pass in Laos. Wingman saw two good chutes but visual contact on the ground was lost due to darkness. A first light hoist pick-up was made by HH-3C. The men were on the side of a steep slope, so steep that the rotor blade clearance was only two to three feet.
05.02.16 Rescue Mission - 24 February 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-16-24Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 187-189
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-16-24Feb66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C 64-14231 “Jolly Green 31” Flown by RCC Capt. Robert A. Weekley, 1Lt. Richard J. Sans (co-pilot), SSgt. L. Barnes (HM), A2C John W. Kellerman (PJ) Awards: Capt. Weekley was awarded the DFC for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 24 Feb 66 ; and 1stLt. Sans, and A2C Kellerman were awarded the Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight on 24 Feb 66 |
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HH-3C 64-14233 “Jolly Green 33” Flown by RCC with A1C George E. Hunt (PJ) |
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SAR objective : crew USMC F-4B 151411 1Lt. John Pierce , 2Lt. Billy Ellis - VMFA-314 |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short, but supplemented from “PJ in Vietnam” pages):
“Jolly Green 31 and 33” were scrambled from NKP. Four Sandys were in the area. Leading the Rescue Mission was “Crown 61”. USMC F-4B crew ejected over Laos. SAR aircraft arrived on the scene but could not establish contact with either crew member. After searching for about an hour one crew member was located and recovered. A short time later the second chute was spotted but no pilot. PJ Kellerman was lowered to the ground and located the critically injured crew member who was lifted with the aid of a stokes litter. With the survivors “Jolly Green 31” (and JG 33) diverted to Khe Sanh, 28 miles away. There was no doctor on site and JG 31 took off and headed to Quang Tri, another 28 miles away. Lt. Ellis was receiving medical treatment from a doctor. Both Jolly Greens had pushed way past bingo fuel. The nearest LZ with jet fuel was Dong Ha, 6 miles away. A HH-43 which was at Dong Ha, was asked to fly two 55-gallon drums to Quang Tri. One drum was hand pumped into each HH-3C. This was enough to fly the Jollys to Dong Ha. After refueling they returned to NKP.
05.02.17 Rescue Mission - 26 February 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-17-26Feb66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-17-26Feb66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C 64-14231 “Jolly Green 31” Flown by RCC 1Lt. Forest M. Kimsey, Capt. Charles P. Rush (co-pilot), SSgt. Donald L. Chance (HM), A1C Dennis J. Kraft (PJ) |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 61-0215 Capt. Charles G. Boyd - 421 TFS Korat AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-105 on a strike mission in Laos was forced down by ground fire. Voice contact was established and HH-3C made a hoist pick-up.
Photo printed mirrored, but names are believed to be in order as viewed in this image :
Capt. Charles “Pat”Rush (RCC); Lt. F.M. “Woody” Kinsey (CP);
Sgt. Donald Chance (FE); Capt. Charles Boyd “Thud” F-105 survivor;
Capt. Kimmineau (FAC pilot); A1C Dennis Kraft (RS)
photo from AF Museum collection, via R.LaPointe (his CD)
“31” = HH-3C 64-14231
05.02.18 Rescue Mission - 27 February 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission Report 2-3-18-27Feb66, IRIS No. 01009285, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 420
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-18-27Feb66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-43B “Pedro 03” Flown by RCC 1Lt. Ralph E. Vick; 1Lt. Kenneth G. Griffis (co-pilot); A1C Ronald Jerome (FM); TSgt. Reginald W. Willis (FE); A1C Vincent P. Rogalio (FE) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 62-4362 “Ford 03” Major Richard A. Bevan - 367 TFS Takhli AB ca. 30 miles SE of Udorn AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission:
F-105D pilot returning from a bombing mission in North Vietnam was forced to eject from his aircraft near the Thailand border.
At 0100Z a HC-130H, call sign “Crown 61” picked up an emergency beeper and positioned the beeper signal approximately 80 miles SW of their orbit position. “ Crown 61” proceeded directly to area and at 0127Z sighted the downed pilot . HH-43B “Pedro 03” was airborne from Udorn AB at 0117Z, and two A-1E aircraft from Udorn AB were airborn at 0121Z and proceeded to location of downed pilot. The HH-43B landed and picked up the F-105D pilot at 0133Z, the pilot was in good condition. The F-105 aircraft crashed with ordanance aboard in heavily wooded area. The A-1E aircraft and “Crown 61” remained on scene to search for crash site. The crash site was located at 0444Z by a helicopter that had an EOD team aboard. Crown aircraft and A-1E aircraft were released at 0512Z.
05.02.19 Rescue Mission - 01/02 March 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-20-1Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Awards - file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-V.1-IRIS492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-20-1Mar66 (02Mar) DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC 1Lt. Robert W. Letton, Maj. Frank A. Schmidt (co-pilot), SSgt Leo M. Chapman (HM), A1C Laverne W. Kellerman, Jr. (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the DFC for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 2 Mar 1966 |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC A2C Michael L. Halvorson (PJ) , and ?? |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 59-1724 Capt. Robert J. Tastet - 333 TFS Takhli AB pilot FAC aircraft |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-105 on strike mission in Laos burst into flames. The pilot was recovered by HH-3C helicopter. Later investigation indicated a mid-air collision between the F-105 and a FAC aircraft. No wreckage was ever located and the pilot of the FAC aircraft is reported as missing.
05.02.20 First Rescue Mission on 07 March 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-21-7Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Awards - file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-V.1-IRIS492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 3: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 192-194
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-21-7Mar66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC 1Lt. Thomas E. Kenny, Capt. Hendrickson (co-pilot), SSgt. Harold R. Schrader (HM), SSgt. Arron D. Farrior (PJ) Awards: SSgt. Schrader and SSgt. Farrior were awarded the DFC for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 7 Mar 1966 |
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HH-3C Flown by RCC with A2C James E. Poole (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 62-4410 “Barracuda” Maj. Joseph L. Hutto - 469 TFS Korat AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-105 on strike pass in Laos was forced down. He landed near Route 1, NVN. The pilot was recovered by HH-3C and reported in good condition. Rescue aircraft received several hits from ground fire during the operation.
05.02.21 Second Rescue Mission on 07 March 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-22-7Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Two USAF RF-101C (56-0043, 45TRS and 56-0220, 18 TRS) were forced down in North Vietnam. Aircraft were reported to have exploded in the air and search aircraft were unable to make any visual or electronic contact with the pilots. No chutes were observed and the mission was suspended.
05.02.22 Rescue Mission - 14/15 March 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-23-14Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Awards - file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-V.1-IRIS492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 3: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 207-209
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-23-14Mar66 (15 Mar) DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14232 “Jolly Green 55” Flown by RCC Capt. Jerry W. Jennings, Capt. William R. Uhl (co-pilot), SSgt Michael R. Holloway (HM), A1C Dennis J. Kraft (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the DFC for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 15 Mar 1966 |
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HH-3E 64-14227 “Jolly Green 51” Flown by RCC unknown and A2C Robert B. Williamson (PJ) |
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SAR objective : crew USMC F-4B 152274 Maj. Eddie C. Paige, and WO D.D. Redmond - VMFA-314 |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USMC F-4B on tactical mission in Laos was reported to have crashed into a mountain with no possibility of survivors. Normal electronic search of the area next morning by HC-130 indicated possible survivors. HH-3E were dispatched and recovered the two crew members. The recovered pilots said they were not worried because they knew Rescue would be around with helicopters at the first light.
From an unknown newspaper (possibly “The Times”, and dated 2 April 1966), the following report is reprinted here:
Pararescue Medic Saves Two Airmen Special to “The Times”
Saigon, April 2 -- Among the more than 120,000 Americans in South Vietnam, ......... Air Force crews in helicopters, hover low over enemy territory. More than 200 aircrew members have been rescued. One of the key men in a rescue team is the pararescue medic. Trained in parachuting, skin-diving and emergency first aid. He is prepared to do whatever is necessary to make a rescue. Often the pararescueman must jump into the water or ride down on a hoist cable to aid an injured man.
On a recent mission Airman First Class Dennis J. Kraft, a pararescue medic from the 38th ARRS, descended into a thick jungle to pick up two airmen.
The pilot, Maj. Eddie C. Paige, and his radar observer, Warrant Officer D.D. Redmond ejected from their F-4B Phantom after it was hit by North Vietnamese fire south of Vinh. They were on a night mission and parachuted into the jungle without being seen by other pilots in their flight. Departed after ejection, Paige and Redmond spent the night in the jungle. Some time during the night, the two airmen got together and waited for help to come. Shortly after dawn, an Air Force search pilot heard a radio signal from the downed airmen and an HH-3 helicopter was soon hovering over the pilots. ........ (a part of this article is missing) ..... Redmond, who had been injured when he ejected.
PJ Kraft then went down on the hoist cable to help Redmond. While strapping Redmond into the chairlift, Kraft felt someone tap him on the shoulder. “I almost jumped out of my skin”, Kraft confessed later. “I didn’t know the pilot was right there with us”. The two airmen were quickly hoisted into the helicopter. With an Air Force A-1E escort, they returned to safety with the rescue men dedicated to a simple motto - “That Others May Live”. Other members of the rescue crew were Capt. Jerry W. Jennings, Capt. William R. Uhl, and SSgt. Michael R. Holloway.
Pictures here show actual rescue in North Vietnam. F-4B crew is found, and HH-3E hovers while paramedic Dennis Kraft (with helmet) attaches hoist to Warrant Officer D.D. Redmond (at left, top photo). Moments later, Maj. Eddie Paige, F-4B commander is lifted.
Kraft reports on condition of men (photos at lower left), while Redmond, wounded, sprawls on HH-3E cabin floor. Photo at right : They relax a little on way home (PJ Kraft, left - Maj. Paige, center - W/O Redmond at right - order of persons in photo as given on page 209, Book “PJ’s in Vietnam”, R. LaPointe).
Photos published in newspaper, possibly “The Times”, Saigon 2 April 1966
"second from top" refers to top photo seen at left ; "second from bottom" refers to lower left photo, seen at left
Photo from AFHRA file K717-0414-1 --- USAF Photo 106195 - NARA archive (Det.9 - Jan69)
05.02.23 Rescue Mission - 15 March 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-24-15Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF O-1E (56-2530, 22TASS) and USA Mohawk on tactical mission in Laos were reported downed by ground fire. Fighter aircraft in the area during recovery attempts were hit and ground fire was reported as intense. HH-3E went into the area and hovered over the wreckage to confirm that there was no pilot in the wreckage. Mission was suspended.
05.02.24 Rescue Mission - 16 March 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-25-16Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-105D (60-0411, 333TFS) on mission in Northern Laos was forced down by ground fire. No chute was observed prior to impact. SAR aircraft making low visual and high electronic search established negative contact with the pilot. Mission was suspended.
05.02.25 Rescue Mission - 18 March 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-26-18Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USMC EF-10B with a crew of two was reported missing. Mission was suspended due to no leads. No distress indications were received from the pilot who was flying in close proximity to numerous other aircraft. All indications lead to the aircraft being downed by enemy fire.
05.02.26 Rescue Mission - 20 March 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-28-20Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: JRCC Combat Saves listing, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 3: Awards - file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol2-part-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-28-20Mar66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 8 saves Flown by RCC Capt. Robert D. Furman, Capt. Dale V. Hardy (co-pilot), A1C Robert E. Crites (HM), A2C John D. Dagneau, III (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight on 20 Mar 66. |
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HH-3E 5 saves Flown by RCC Capt. Norman B. Kamhoot, Maj. Donald A. Vavra (co-pilot), SSgt. Theodore M. Youngblood (HM), MSgt. William G. Daniels (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight on 20 Mar 66. |
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SAR objective : MedEvac Royal Laotian Troops (13) |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.02.27 First Rescue Mission on 23 March 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-29-23Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-100F (58-1212, 614TFS) aircraft went in with no chutes observed while on a strike mission in North Vietnam. Rescue forces were recalled shortly after being launched.
05.02.28 Second Rescue Mission on 23 March 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-30-23Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 421
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-30-23Mar66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. William E. Cowell, Capt. David C. Henry (co-pilot), SSgt. Robert J. Watson (HM), A1C Laverne W. Kellerman (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 61-0178 Maj. Rex A. Hill - 357 TFS Takhli AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-105 declared an emergency while returning to his home base. Pilot was forced to eject over Laos and HH-3E were diverted from another mission to make a successful recovery of the F-105 pilot.
05.02.29 Rescue Mission - 23/24 March 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-31-23Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Awards - file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-V.1-IRIS492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-31-23Mar66 (24 Mar) DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. William E. Cowell, Capt. David C. Henry (co-pilot), SSgt. Robert J. Watson (HM), A1C Laverne W. Kellerman (PJ) Awards: SSgt. Watson and A1C Kellerman were awarded the DFC for heroism while participating in aerial flight from 23 Mar 1966 to 24 Mar 1966 |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 60-0473 1Lt. Kenneth D. Thomas, Jr. - 469 TFS Korat AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
USAF F-105 pilot ejected and landed on a steep rough ridge about 300 feet from the top. Attempts to recover the man before dark were unsuccessful. He was advised to try and reach the top of the ridge and helicopter would arrive at first light and attempt another pick-up. HH-3E in at first light recovered the pilot utilizing a hoist.
05.02.30 Rescue Mission - 28 March 1966
Source 1: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-32-28Mar66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Jan-Mar66-IRIS No. 492413, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 421
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-32-28Mar66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Robert A. Weekley, 1stLt. Richard J. Sans (co-pilot), SSgt. Joe Barnes, Sr. (HM), A2C Michael L. Halvorson (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A2C John D. Dagneau (PJ) |
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SAR objective: crew F-4C 63-7681 Capt. Delbert G. Rokes, 1Lt. Jesse Q. Ozbolt - 433 TFS, 8 TFW |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.03 Extract from the official history for 3rd ARRG over April - June 1966
Source: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
The JSARC’s operational efficiency was enhanced by the two Rescue Control Centers (RCC), Det 1, 3ARRGp at DaNang and Det 2, 3ARRGp at Udorn. The RCC was fully capable of handling any and all Rescue Operations that arise. All units monitor the same SAR frequency and in the event that communications between the JSARC and the Rescue forces failed, the RCC took over and controls the mission in its area. All facilities were manned 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
During this quarter, HH-3E helicopters had been deployed to sites in Northeast Laos, HC-130 control aircraft (with Airborne Mission Commander) had flown daily orbits in similar forward positions. HU-16 aircraft had been prepositioned at orbit points in the Gulf of Tonkin to provide Rescue over water.
The TDY HC-130H and aircrews at Udorn were controled by the 3ARRGp. Attached to Det.5, 38 ARRS. The four PCS HC-130H and crews arrived at Udorn between 18 and 25 June 1966. They were assigned to Det.1, 37 ARRS, Udorn AB. Serial numbers for the HC-130H: 65-0981 thru 65-0984.They remained stationed here until 31Dec66.
Det.5, 38 ARRS History during April-June 1966:
During this quarter, 32 downed aircrew members had been recovered without loss of ARRS aircraft or personnel. Since 4 October 1965, 65 downed aircrew members had been recovered by Detachment 5. The unit was extremely proud of the record it had established in Southeast Asia. In a combat situation, the employment of unarmed aircraft into hostile territory was hazardous, but the mission of aircrew recovery was of prime importance and its accomplishment is most gratifying. Detachment 5 was at one of the largest bases in Thailand, located approximately 250 miles Northeast of Bangkok. The air base was located approximately 3 ½ miles SSE of the town Udorn. Due to the large geographical area of responsibility assigned to Det.5, it was necessary to utilize several forward operating bases. During this quarter, Det.5 maintained three forward operating bases with two rescue crews at each site on strip alert from first light to dark every day of the week. Nakhon Phanom RTAFB, located within 10 miles of the Laotian border in Northeast Thailand was one forward base. Two other forward operating bases were located in Laos. From Udorn and these three forward operating bases, rescue helicopters cover all of Northern Thailand, Laos, and North Vietnam.
Major Baylor Ray Haynes had commanded Det.5 since the unit was formed at Stead AFB, NV on 25 August 1965. Major Haynes had the responsibility for providing rescue coverage for Northern Thailand, Laos, and North Vietnam, in addition to providing LBR coverage at Udorn RTAFB. To accomplish the ACR coverage in this extensive area he controled and directed operations at Udorn and three forward operating bases.
The Air Crew Recovery Mission (ACR) was one of the most difficult and dangerous missions required in a combat situation. It was a very important mission, boosting the morale of fighter and bomber pilots who know rescue is near if anything goes wrong. It calls for the quickest possible reaction to reach downed pilots before the enemy had time to loacte and capture them. To accomplish this mission, Det.5 had eight HH-3E long range helicopters. The secondary mission of Det.5 was to provide LBR coverage at Udorn RTAFB.
Udorn is much closer to most North Vietnam and Laos targets than bases in South Vietnam, therefor it was the primary recovery base for battle damaged aircraft returning from Laos and North Vietnam. During this quarter, the LBR function was accomplished with two HH-43B helicopters. LBR coverage was provided from first light until around seven o’clock at night.
To cover the large geographical area assigned to Det.5, six HH-3E helicopters and crews were on ground alert from first light to dark, unless sooner released, and were subject to call on a 24 hour basis.
Prior to 5 June 1966, Det.5 had only been FRAGGED to provide four HH-3E helicopters and crews each day but due to increased fighter strikes, Det.5 became FRAGGED to provide six HH-3E helicopters and crews each day. Two HH-3E’s were on alert at Nakhon Phanom RTAFB, and four on alert at two forward operating bases in Laos. If a mission developed, the two HH-3E’s closest to the area of the downed pilot would be scrambled for the pickup, and two other HH-3E’s would move up from one of the other operating sites to provide coverage in case another mission should break.
Fourteen HH-3E crews were rotated between Udorn and the forward operating bases. An HH-3E crew consists of an RCC, RCCP, flight mechanic, and a pararescueman.
The LBR mission was performed with six HH-43 pilots, four flight mechanics, and five rescue specialists. Two pilots, two flight mechanics, and two rescue specialists were on alert each day. LBR had 79 scrambles in April 1966, 69 in May and 58 in June, for a total of 206 scrambles during this reporting period, and two pilots were recovered in Thailand.
The major problem was lack of parts. During this reporting period, maintenance had never failed to provide the required number of aircraft to meet the alert committment. The future for maintenance however is not too bright. Six HH-3E helicopters were coming up on their 500 hour TOC’s. Due to the increase from four to six aircraft on alert each day, maintenance became harder to provide the necessary aircraft for alert each day.
The HH-3E is a modified CH-3C helicopter with improved engines, external tanks for increased range, armor plating for crew protection, and a high speed hoist with 240 feet of useable cable. Due to the large size and color of the HH-3E, it is called “The Jolly Green Giant” a name well known among all pilots in Southeast Asia.
The HH-43B is standard LBR equipment Air Force wide.
On twelve different occasions, rescue helicopters received damage from enemy ground fire. During twelve pickups, the rescue forces were subjected to enemy fire but due to the determination of the crews, successful pickups were accomplished in spite of the ground fire.
Rescue Missions during April - June 1966
05.03.01 Rescue Mission - 02 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No. 2-3-33-2Apr66, file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS No. 492414, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
RF-101C (56-0172, 45TRS) pilot bailed out at 1750N 10549E (North Vietnam); his wingman saw the ejection and reported a good chute. A beeper was picked up by orbiting HC-54; however, A-1E’s making passes over the area were unable to establish visual or voice contact. Ground fire was reported emanating within ½ mile of the aircraft wreckage. Later SAR efforts in the area were unsuccessful in locating the pilot.
05.03.02 First Rescue Mission on 06 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission Report 2-3-34-6Apr66, IRIS No. 01009282, in USAF Collection, AFHRA (on Microfilm REEL 31113, p971)
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-34-06Apr66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-43B unknown identity (Low Bird) Flown by RCC 1Lt. Ralph E. Vick; 1Lt. Kenneth G. Griffis (co-pilot); A2C Andrew C. Paparella (HM); TSgt. Reginald W. Willis (RS); A1C Vincent P. Rogalio (RS) |
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HH-43B unknown identity Flown by unknown crew |
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SAR objective: USAF T-28 *) “Tiger 32” and foreign pilot (project “Water Pump”) crashed 25 miles SE of Udorn, Thailand |
*) according to a list published on the website of the University-Dallas-Texas, “the aircraft of Air America”, this was T-28C O-40482 (former BuA 140482) and assigned to USAF / RLAF Det.6, 1st ACW at Udorn.
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
A USAF T-28, call-sign “Tiger 32” was reported as overdue on a local training flight. A HC-130H was diverted from another mission at 06/0857Z (Mission 2-3-35-6Apr 66 - see next Report , OV-1 over Laos). Four T-28 aircraft and two A-1E Skyraiders were scrambled for search. The wreckage was located by one of the T-28 and two HH-43B were scrambled by crash phone at 0905Z. They were airborne at 0910Z. One HH-43B landed and had the T-28 pilot picked up at 0935Z. He was returned to Udorn in good condition.
05.03.03 Second Rescue Mission on 06 April 1966
Source: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-35-06Apr66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC 1Lt. Robert W. Letton, 1stLt. John F. Guilmartin Jr. (co-pilot), A1C Leo M. Chapman (HM), A2C James E. Poole (PJ) Awards: 1stLt. Letton was awarded the DFC, 1stLt. Guilmartin, Airman Chapman and Poole recceide the Air Medal, all for participating in aerial flight on 6 Apr 66 |
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SAR objective: two US. Army OV-1 aircraft with 4 crewmembers - Capt H.E. Duensing, SP4 L.R. Johnson were rescued by hoist. |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Two Army OV-1’s with two men each aboard, were reported down in Laos. An HC-130H sighted the wreckage. An HH-3E picked up two crewmembers by hoist (forest penetrator) and in the process received considerable battle damage from ground fire. Due to darkness and no contact with the other two survivors, the Rescue force departed the area. Later search produced negative results.
05.03.04 Rescue Mission - 07 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-36-07Apr66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
A B-57B (52-1530, 8TBS) "Yellow Bird 12" on a dive bomb run failed to pull up soon enough and impacted on a hill (Laos). SAR efforts were conducted but later suspended since all evidence indicated that the two crewmembers perished in the crash.
05.03.05 Rescue Mission - 10 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-37-10Apr66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An Air America helicopter crashed at 2017N 103443E with 3 crewmen and 3 passengers on board. SAR efforts were begun; shortly thereafter, an Air America H-34 recovered 5 survivors and 1 deceased.
05.03.06 Rescue Mission - 12 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-38-12Apr66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
A foreign pilot of T-28 crashed at 1752 N 10244 E. The crash was reported by Nong Khai tower oprator who assited an HH-3 locate and recover the deceased airman.
05.03.07 Rescue Mission - 16 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-39-16Apr66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An extensive search for two pilots of an F-4B was conducted in the location of parachute sightings at 1735N 10618E. SAR efforts were suspended when no leads or contacts materialized.
05.03.08 Rescue Mission - 17 April 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 209-211
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-40-17Apr66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14227 “Jolly Green 51” Low Bird on this mission 2-3-40-17Apr66 Flown by RCC Capt. Jerry W. Jennings (P), Capt. William R. Uhl (CP), SSgt. Michael R. Holloway (HM), A1C Dennis J. Kraft (PJ) |
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HH-3E 64-14229 “Jolly Green 52” High Bird on this mission 2-3-40-17Apr66 became Low Bird on the next mission 2-3-41-17Apr66 Flown by RCC Capt. William E. Cowell (P), Capt. David C. Henry (CP), SSgt. James W. Watson (HM), A2C Laverne W. Kellerman, Jr. (PJ) |
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SAR objective: crew of a B-57C 53-3833 “Yellow Bird” Capt. Lawrence R. Horacek, Capt. Donald N. Harnage - 35 TFW |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short; AFHRA doc):
During search for two pilots shot down on 16 Apr66, a Mayday was heard from a B-57 located at 1705N 10618E. A C-123 at the scene reported two good chutes and provided DF steers to Rescue helicopters. A-1E’s marked the possitions with smoke; both pilots were hoisted aboard an HH-3E chopper and returned to Nakhon Phanom.
A more comprehensive story is written on pages 209-211 of the Book by LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000).
Photo date unknown - ca. Apr66 - Uhl and Jennings were pilots on above mission, 17 Apr 1966
From left to right: Capt. William Uhl ; Capt. James Butera ; Capt. Jerry Jennings
photo from AF Museum collection, via R.LaPointe (his CD)
05.03.09 Rescue Mission - 17 April 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 209-211
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-41-17Apr66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14229 “Jolly Green 52” Low Bird Flown by RCC Capt. William E. Cowell (P), Capt. David C. Henry (CP), SSgt. James W. Watson (HM), A2C Laverne W. Kellerman, Jr. (PJ) |
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HH-3E 64-14233 “Jolly Green 56” High Bird Flown by RCC A2C Michael L. Halvorson (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot USN A-4E 151058 “Champion 463” LCDR V.G. Hough - VA-56 USS Ticonderoga |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short; AFHRA doc):
A Navy A-4E crashed at 1759N 10548E. Initial contact was made by an A-1E who obtained a positive electronic position. Weather forced withdrawal of the Rescue force. Returning about two hours later intermittent beeper signals were heard and a pen gun flare was seen. Two HH-3E’s entered the area, on high, the other low. The low HH-3E hovered over the source of the flare but had no visual contact with the downed airman. The forest penetrator hoist was lowered thru the trees. The downd pilot found it, strapped himself on and the recovery was made. During the rescue, battle damage from ground fire was sustained by the pickup helicopter. The survivor was taken to NKP.
A more comprehensive story is written on pages 209-211 of the Book by LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000).
05.03.10 Rescue Mission - 18 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-42-18Apr66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
A Continental C-47A (N8744R) reported 2 hours overdue by Air America resulted in the initiation of SAR action. His last reported position was 1950N 10344E (crashed on 17 April near Sam Neua, Laos). Weather prevented immediate search of the area; however, a later search was conducted by non-military aircraft with negative results. Mission suspended since controlling agency did not feel a further need for Rescue forces would be necessary.
05.03.11 Rescue Mission - 19 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-43-19Apr66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An O-1F (56-2800, 630CSG) aircraft was reported down at 1731N 10550E (Laos) . SAR action was begun by scrambling A-1E’s from Nakhon Phanom. On passing over the target rea, one of the A-1E’s received intensive automatic weapons fire. After completion of fire suppression runs, the A-1E made a low pass over the wreckage and reported negative survivors. About this time, the A-1E (52-132425, 602ACS) was hit in the right wing and started to burn. Attempting a climbing left turn out, the aircraft suddenly rolled inverted and went straight in. Observers reported that the A-1E pilot had no chance for survival and further SAR efforts for the O-1 pilot would be too hazardous.
05.03.12 Rescue Mission - 20 April 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 212-213
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-44-20Apr66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14227 “Jolly Green 51” Low Bird Flown by RCC Capt. Robert D. Furman (P), Capt. Dale V. Hardy (CP), A1C Robert E. Crites, and A2C John J. Dagneau 3rd. Awards: Capt. Robert D. Furman was awarded the DFC for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 20 Apr 66 |
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HH-3E High Bird Flown by RCC Maj. Baylor R. Haynes, and ??? + A1C Dennis J. Kraft (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot of F-105D 60-0442 “Elm” Capt. John B. Abernathy - 421st TFS Korat AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available from AFHRA files
A more comprehensive story is written on pages 212-213 of the Book by LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000)
From an unknown Newspaper, dated 20 Apr 1966:
SAIGON, South Viet Nam (AP) - The “Jolly Green Giants” went to the rescue again today and daringly plucked a US Air Force pilot out of North Viet Nam’s jungles under the muzzles of Communist guns.
Rescued was Capt. John B. Abernathy, leader of a flight of F-105 Thunderchiefs on an armed reconnaissance mission in the southern panhandle area of North Viet Nam. His plane was hit by ground fire and he ejected from the burning fighter-bomber about 65 miles south of Vinh.
After dropping into the mountainous jungle Abernathy managed to establish radio contact with the rest of his flight.
Then the “Jolly Green Giants”, an H3C helicopter crew from the 38th ARRS, were called in. The rescue crews have earned their nickname because of the size of their craft and their green camouflage colors. While the chopper worked its way in, four Air Force Skyraiders joined the other jets in Abernathy’s flight in laying down a blanket of fire on the North Vietnamese gun positions.
“We were drawing moderate 57mm fire when we went in to drop the rescue hoist”, said Capt. Robert D. Furman, the pilot of the Air Force helicopter. “Although the fire was pretty accurate and we had to hover for a few minutes, we didn’t take any hits”. Abernathy was reported in good condition, suffering only minor burns and bruises.
John Abernathy (survivor) rescued by JG crew commanded by Capt. Robert Furman. The survivor is seen between two unknown persons - photo from AF Museum collection, via R. LaPointe (his CD)
Capt. John B. Abernathy, F-105 pilot, after rescue shaking hands with Capt. Robert (Bob) Furman (at right side) - photo from AF Museum collection, via R. LaPointe (his CD)
05.03.13 Rescue Mission - 21 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-45-21Apr66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An F-4C (63-7531, 559TFS) was downed at 1600N 10643W (Laos) with two crewmen aboard. Forward Air Control aircraft had visual and radio contact with the two pilots at all times; however, there was considerable complication on what should have been a simple ACR problem.
Unnecessary and extremely heavy chatter on guard frequencies resulted in confusion and unanswered calls by the controlling agency. A USMC H-34 eventually landed and boarded the two downed pilots in good condition, returning them to Khe Sanh. Orderly operations are not possible unless non SAR forces arriving in a pickup area contact the on-scene SAR Commander for disposition prior to proceeding into the rescue area.
05.03.14 Rescue Mission - 22/23 April 1966
Source1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source2: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source3: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 213-217
Source4: CHECO Report, AFHRA file K717-0414-Vol.1-IRIS0517392 USAF Search and Rescue in Southeast Asia 1961-1966, pages 54-57
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-46-22Apr66 (and 23 Apr) DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14232 “Jolly Green 55” Low Bird (saved F-4B pilot) Flown by RCC Capt. Raymond H. Matthews (P), 1Lt. Lawrence C. Rice (CP), SSgt Bernard D. Loughry (HM), A1C George E. Hunt (PJ) Awards: SSgt. Loughry was awarded the Purple Heart as a result of action by a hostile foreign force 22 Apr 66 ; SSgt. Loughly and A1C Hunt were awarded the Silver Star for gallantry while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force on 22 Apr 66 |
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HH-3E 64-14229 “Jolly Green 52” High Bird , later Low Bird (saved RIO) Flown by RCC 1Lt. Forest M. Kimsey (P), Capt. Francis E. Hendrickson (CP), SSgt. Donald L. Chance (HM), SSgt. Robert L. Berry Jr. (PJ) Awards: SSgt. Chance and SSgt. Berry were awarded the Silver Star for gallantry while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force on 22 Apr 66 |
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HH-3E 64-14230 “Jolly Green 53” High Bird (after JG55 had left the scene) Flown by RCC Capt. Robert D. Furman and ?? |
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SAR objective: crew F-4B 151010 USMC Capt. F.A. Huey (P) ; 2Lt J. L. Arendale (RIO) - VMFA-542 |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short; AFHRA doc) , added by
A more comprehensive story written on pages 213-217 of the Book by LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000):
A Marine F-4B was down at 1618N 10638E. A HC-130H in the area advised SAR Control that he had established voice contact with both fliers. The HC-130H reported that the pilot was being pursued by unfriendlies and the RIO had a broken leg, and they were not together. The pilot was asked to release smoke when the HH-3E’s arrived. This he did, enabling an HH-3E to pick him up from a 180 foot hover. The RIO who was unable to move, released smoke and the same HH-3E maneuvered to pick him up. The Rescue Technician was lowered on the forest penetrator hoist to assist the RIO in getting on it; however, as he touched the ground a burst of small arms fire hit the helicopter. The hoist operator (SSgt. Loughry) was badly wounded (hit in the shoulder), the hoist became inoperative and the HH-3E withdrew from the area. “Jolly Green 55” headed to Khe Sanh with the wounded HM.
The other HH-3E, JG 52, attempted pickup, but also withdrew after being hit four times by groundfire. After a while JG52 was at bingo fuel and had to recover at Dong Ha. After refueling JG52 returned to the scene. It was accompanied by a Marine Huey gunship and a Navy SH-3A. They were also joined in by “Jolly Green 53” from NKP, acting as High Bird for JG52.
After fire suppression runs by the A-1E’s, mirror flashes from the downed RIO pinpointed his position. A-1E’s dropped white phosphorous bombs between the RIO and the origin of groundfire as the HH-3E made his approach. Shielded by the smoke screen, the helicopter lowered the forest penetrator from a 125 hover and the RIO got on it unassisted. On recovery, the RIO stated he did not see the Rescue Technician at any time. “Jolly Green 52” flew to Dong Ha where the wounded RIO was transloaded to a CH-3 for a flight to Da Nang AB. The search for Airman Hunt continued for 4 hours without visual or electronic signals received. Darkness was falling, they had to return to base.
The next day, 23 April, at first light the SAR force returned to the same area. A-1E “Sandy 32” with pilot Maj. Barlow, spotted a small red panel and a man waving. An HH-3E moved in, lowered the hoist and retrieved the Rescue Technician (A1C George E. Hunt), who had been surrounded by hostile troops all night.
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-46-22Apr66 , day 23 April DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14227 “Jolly Green 51” Low Bird (Saved PJ Hunt) Flown by RCC 1Lt. Forest M. Kimsey (P), Capt. Francis E. Hendrikson (CP), SSgt. Donald L. Chance (HM), SSgt. Robert L. Berry, Jr. (PJ) |
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HH-3E 64-14232 “Jolly Green 55” High Bird Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective: PJ A1C George E. Hunt |
The crew of “Jolly Green 52” (on 22 April), as well as “Jolly Green 51” (on 23 April): SSgt. Robert L. Berry, Capt. Francis E. Hendrickson, 1stLt. Forest M. Kimsey, and SSgt. Donald L. Chance - photo from AF Museum collection, via R.LaPointe (his CD)
(Side note: SSgt. Robert L. Berry died on 24 July 1966 as a result of a rare disease, Black Water Fever, while at a Lima Site in Laos - Book “PJ in Vietnam”, page 233)
05.03.15 Rescue Mission - 29 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-48-29Apr66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
A USMC pilot of an F-4C (??, possibly an A-4C) was reported down at 1708N 10602E. Beepers were heard in the area; however, SAR efforts produced no visual or voice contacts. Mission suspended due to strong possibility that unfriendlies were involved in laying a trap.
05.03.16 Rescue Mission - 29/30 April 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-49-29Apr66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An RF-101C (56-0218, 20 TRS) "Arrow 02" down at 2130N 10415E (North Vietnam) resulted in a search force of HC-130H, two HH-3E’s, two A-1E’s and a Mig Cap of F-4C’s. On the first day of search , loud beeper signals were received but SAR forces were withdrawn when haze and darkness rendered HH-3 pickup and additional low level visual search ineffective. Also one of the A-1E’s (52-132680, 602ACS) was lost in the vicinity of the downed RF-101. The next day’s SAR objective was for both pilots; however, during the morning the force was attacked by four MIG’s. The MIG’s were intercepted by two F-4C’s and one MIG was downed.
Due to cloud cover the SAR force withdrew but returned in the afternoon. Weak beepers were heard but may have come from the automatically activated radio attached to the parachute. Future search produced no visual or electronic contacts therefor mission suspended.
05.03.17 Rescue Mission - 01/02 May 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2:file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-50-1May66 (02 May) DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E mission flown on 01 May 1966 Flown by RCC Capt. Erling R. Drangstveit (P), 1Lt. Thomas E. Kenny (CP), SSgt. Harold R. Schrader (HM), SSgt. Arron D. Farrior (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the DFC for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 1 May 1966 |
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HH-3E mission flown on 02 May 1966 Flown by RCC Maj. Ealum L. Stearman (P), Capt. David C. Henry (CP), SSgt. Theodore M. Youngblood (HM), A2C William D. Brotton (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight on 2 May 1966 |
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SAR objective: pilot A-1E 52-133871 Capt. J.M. Ingalls - 602nd ACS, 14th ACW Nha Trang AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An A-1E pilot was recovered from a mountain side at 1948N 10356E (25 miles NE of Xieng Khouang, Laos). Deep in hostile territory. Recovery was by HH-3 helicopter using the forest penetrator hoist. SAR force consisted of HC-130H, HH-3E’s, A-1E’s and F-4C’s. Heavy ground fire prevented pickup of the pilot on the first day’s attempt.
On the second day the A-1E’s dropped phosphorous bombs for smoke cover prior to the HH-3E going in for a successful recovery.
05.03.18 Rescue Mission - 6 May 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 421
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-51-6May66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Robert D. Furman (P), Capt. David C. Henry (CP), A1C Robert E. Crites (HM), A2C John J. Dagneau III (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective: pilot O-1E L/C Robert L. Johnson , and pilot Pratan (F/MIL) |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Two O-1E pilots were located and recovered by an HH-3 using the hoist at 1720N 10540E (26 miles ESE of Nakhon Phanom, in Laos). Both survivors were returned to Nakhon Phanom.
05.03.19 Rescue Mission - 06/07 May 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-52-6May66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An F-105D (61-0179, 388TFW) was hit over the target; his wingman reportted a good chute at 2139N 10451E (NVN), approximately five miles from the target area. Electronic search the next day by F-4C’s produced strong beeper contact but was unsuccessful due to limited time on scene before fuel bingo. Search suspended the following day when no visual or electronic contact was made.
05.03.20 Rescue Mission - 10 May 1966
Source1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source2: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source3: CHECO Report, AFHRA file K717-0414-Vol.1-IRIS0517392 USAF Search and Rescue in Southeast Asia 1961-1966, pages 57-59
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-53-10May66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14233 “Jolly Green 56” Low Bird Flown by RCC Capt. Robert D. Furman (P), Capt. Dale V. Hardy (CP), A1C Robert E. Crites (HM), A2C John J. Dagneau III (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the Silver Star for gallantry while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in armed conflict against an opposing armed force on 10 May 66 |
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HH-3E 64-14227 “Jolly Green 51” High Bird Flown by RCC A2C William D. Brotton (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 61-0135 Capt. Martin H. Mahrt - 333rd TFS, 355th TFW Takhli AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short; AFHRA file):
The pilot of an F-105 shot down in the vicinity of the Red River (NVN) was located at 2156N 10435E (95 NM NW of Hanoi). A-1E’s in the area contacted the downed pilot; an HH-3 recovered the injured airman by hoist. On leaving the scene, MIG’s attacked the two helicopters but were driven off by F-4C’s.
From: CHECO Report, AFHRA file K717-0414-Vol.1-IRIS0517392 USAF Search and Rescue in Southeast Asia 1961-1966, pages 57-59
“Jolly Green 56” and “51” were maintining strip alert at Lima Site 59 and keeping listening watch on HF. Approximately 1500H local, we heard that an aircraft had been shot down in the vicinity of the Red River in North Vietnam. We then quickly plotted a course of the crash area located 2156N 10435E a few miles from the Red River and over 120 miles northeast of our take-off point. “Compress” (Call sign for Udorn RCC) alerted us and directed us to proceed to the area at approximately 1503L. We were airborne at 1510L and proceeded north on our planned course. Our first heading was 015° for approximately 65 miles and then to a heading of 043° until reaching the area located approximately 35-40 miles from Communist China. Our course naturally was dog-legged to avoid hazardous areas and SAM sites. Our altitude most of the way up was between 8M and 10M. The 8M was not enough to clear the high mountains and ridges of North Vietnam. The cloud base was 8M over the entire course and required IFR flight for many miles through unfamiliar and mountainous terrain. We attempted to stay clear of most villages and crossed roads at right angles.
We arrived in the target area approximately 1615L and contacted the Sandy aircraft already in the area. They had located the pilot and had radio contact with him. We could also hear him on our ground frequency. Sandy aircraft said that there was no reported ground fire in the area. We flew over the area at a high altitude and switched to guard channel to talk to the downed pilot. He stated that he was injured and was unsure if he could get into the sling. We advised him that we would use the forest penetrator and told him how to use it. If he had not been able to get into the seat by himself, we were prepared to lower the paramedic into the area to assist the injured pilot. Sandy aircraft dropped a white phosphorous bomb to pinpoint the area, determine winds, and to effectively seal off an entrance to the area. Once we had visual contact with the survivor, we proceeded to the pickup point which was in a densely tangled jungle type foliage and terrain in a very steep canyon. There was a very small clearing within the canyon to which we asked the survivor to proceed. The survivor had started a large fire in the area by accident when his flare landed in the brush. The fire caused thermals and updrafts which in turn caused available engine power to drop off. Auxiliary fuel tanks were jettisoned prior to our entrance into the confines of the canyon.
In order to position the helicopter for a hoist recovery, we had to hover sideways into the steep canyon. This maneuver, of course, caused the helicopter to be below the rims of the canyon and helpless from snipers shooting down at us. We had asked the pilot to climb to a better pickup area higher up the canyon walls, but he was injured and unable to walk up the steep canyon sides. Our helicopter mechanic along with the rest of the crew could hear sporadic automatic small arms fire but we could not determine the location. As far as we know, we did not receive any hits from these weapons. As we approached the survivor, we lowered the tree penetrator to its full length of cable (240 feet). The survivor attempted to reach the penetrator but could not. Since we had all the hoist cable out, we then had to lower the helicopter into the canyon in order for the hoist to reach the ground. We then had to plan our way out over the canyon walls with an additional man aboard the aircraft already at topping power. Upon recovery of the pilot, we proceeded out of the area on a heading of 220°. Our paramedic administered first aid to the survivor as soon as we were clear of the area. He was badly bruised and had a severe sprain or broken arm.
Approximately 35 miles out we were jumped by a flight of MIG type aircraft. “Sandy 11” and “21” saw the aircraft also and advised the two Jolly Green’s to hit the deck. Since we were quite high, I flew into the clouds instead of taking to the ground. It was apparent that the hostile aircraft were interested in the Jolly Green’s since they turned away from “Sandy 31” and “41” and flew in the opposite direction back to our position. The F-4’s maintaining MIG cap came to our rescue and gave chase to the MIG’s and we were not further harassed.
05.03.21 Rescue Mission - 10 May 1966
Source: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-54-10May66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Raymond H. Matthews (P), 1Lt. Lawrence C. Rice (CP), A1C Nicholas F. Beaumonte (HM), A1C George E. Hunt (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC SSgt. Robert L. Berry Jr. (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 59-1819 1Lt. Gordon L. Clouster - 355th TFW Takhli AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Two HH-3E’s were scrambled from Nakhon Phanom to recover a downed F-105 pilot a 2030N 10412E (85 miles NE of Xieng Khouang, Laos). A-1E’s vectored the helicopters to the scene and marked the pilot’s position with smoke. One of the HH-3E’s lowered its hoist penetrator to within three feet of the pilot who had a bad leg injury; however, he was able to get aboard the penetrator and was hauled into the aircraft for return to Udorn.
05.03.22 Rescue Mission - 11 May 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-55-11May66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
HC-130H and A-1E’s made visual and electronical search for USMC pilot of an A-4 down in Laos at 1621N 10648E with negative results. Search suspended since wingman was doubtful that pilot ejected.
05.03.23 Rescue Mission - 13 May 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-56-13May66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Robert A. Weekley (P), 1Lt. John F. Guilmartin (CP), SSgt. William R. Gladish (HM), A2C Michael L. Halvorson (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC SSgt. Arron D. Farrior (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 60-0427 Capt. James E. Mitchell - 421st TFS Korat AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An F-105 pilot bailed out 5 ½ miles NW of Nakhon Phanom and was recovered by hoist using an HH-3 helicopter.
05.03.24 Rescue Mission - 15 May 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-57-15May66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
HC-130H, HU-16B, KC-135A and F-105’s made electronic search for F-105D (61-0174, 421TFS) pilot down at 1722N 10630E (NVN). Search suspended due to negative contacts.
05.03.25 Rescue Mission - 15 May 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-58-15May66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
The last known position of an AC-47 (44-9546, 4 ACS) was 1658N 10604E (Laos).HC-130H and A-1E’s made visual and electronic search but no leads or contacts were made.
05.03.26 Rescue Mission - 16 May 1966
Source1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source2: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-59-16May66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC 1Lt. Forrest M. Kimsey (P), Capt. Charles P. Rush (CP), SSgt. Theodore M. Youngblood (HM), A2C William D. Brotton (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight on 16 May 66 |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective: pilot A-1E 52-132417 “Dragonfly 23” Capt. Henry L. Smith - 602nd ACS |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
The pilot of an A-1E bailed out successfully at 1712N 10610E, 15 miles W of Dong Hoi, NVN. His wingman had the chute in sight and radio contact with the downed pilot. On arrival of HH-3E’s, the downed airman fired a smoke bomb, was located and picked up by hoist for return to nakhon Phanom. Ground fire was heard during the recovery but no battle damage was sustained.
Rescue Mission 2-3-59-16May66 LtoR: PJ William Brotton ; survivor, A-1E pilot Capt. Smith ; HM Theodore Youngblood ; pilot 1stLt. Forrest Kimsey ; pilot Capt. Rush
photo from AF Museum collection, via R.LaPointe (his CD)
05.03.27 Rescue Mission - 18 May 1966
Source1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source2: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source3: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 218-221
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-60-18May66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14227 “Jolly Green 51” Low Bird Flown by RCC 1Lt. John F. Guilmartin, Jr. (P), Maj. Donald A. Vavra (CP), SSgt. Michael R. Holloway (HM), A1C Dennis J. Kraft (PJ) Awards: all were awarded the Silver Star for gallantry while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in armed conflict against an opposing armed force on 18 May 66 |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A1C George E. Hunt (PJ) |
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SAR objective: crew of USN F-4B 152257 “Black Lion” LCDR C.W. Sommers, and LCDR W.K. Sullivan - VF-213 and crew of O-1F 57-2877 Capt. L.D. Harley (KIA), and A2C A.R. Guillet (KIA) - 23rd TASS, 505th TCG at Nakhon Phanom AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short; AFHRA doc) , added by
A more comprehensive story written on pages 218-221 of the Book by LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000):
An O-1F with two people aboard was brought down by enemy fire in Laos at 1715N 10611E. A Navy F-4B making a low pass over the crash site was hit heavily and set afire. The pilot and RO ejected at 1714N 10611E approximately two miles SW of the DRV border (65 miles NE of Seno, Laos). Two HH-3E’s scrambled from Nakhon Phanom and were led to the area by A-1E “Sandy 41 “ and “42”. Captain Nelson in “Sandy 31” and “Sandy 32” were already overhead the SAR area. The two survivors of the F-4B were recovered individually by hoist. During the second pick up the pararescueman (A1C Kraft) was hit in the right knee and elbow by one 30 cal round.
Because of the seriously wounded survivor Cmdr. Sullivan and PJ Dennis Kraft , “Crown 68” (HC-130H) was requested for the nearest facility with a doctor. They were directed to Khe Sanh where the wounded were medically stabilized and transloaded into a C-123 and flown to Da Nang AB. Both Jolly Green’s returned to NKP, escorted by two A-1E’s.
Search suspended for the crew of O-1F after search of immediate area. Wingman reported in his opinion there was no chance for survivors.
05.03.28 Rescue Mission - 19 May 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-61-19May66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An Air America helicopter was shot down in Laos at 1959N 10329E. Request for SAR assistance was responded to by diverting an HC-130H, two HH-3E’s and A-1E’s toward the scene; however, the Rescue helicopters were recalled when Air America advised they were not needed. Air America H-34 picked up survivors and the deceased were left at the wreckage for a ground party to recover.
05.03.29 Rescue Mission - 22 May 1966
Source1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source2: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source3: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), pages 221-223
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-62-22May66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14233 “Jolly Green 56” Low Bird Flown by RCC Capt. James L. Butera (P), Capt. David C. Henry (CP), TSgt. Spence C. Haywood (HM), A2C Robert B. Williamson (PJ) Awards: TSgt. Haywood and A2C Williamson were awarded the Silver Star for gallantry while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force on 22 May 66 |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC SSgt. Arron D. Farrior (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 58-1164 1Lt. Richard H. Hackford - 469th TFS Korat AB 62 NM East of Nakhon Phanom (in Laos) |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short; AFHRA doc) , added by
A more comprehensive story written on pages 221-223 of the Book by LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000):
An F-105D pilot was reccovered from an area with many enemy troops and AAA. Because of enemy fire Captain Butera began a high speed approach and as soon as the survivor was seen on the penetrator and clear from the trees, he departed from the hot area - the survivor still 50 feet below the chopper. The helicopter took several hits while the crew were returning fire and also hit enemy soldiers. The recovery was made in conjunction with a smoke screen laid down by A-1E’s to reduce the effectiveness of heavy ground fire.
Rescue crew at NKP 22 May 1966
LtoR: A2C Robert Williamson (PJ), (in HH-3 door) TSgt. Spence Haywood (HM), Capt. David Henry (P), survivor 1Lt. Richard Hackford (P), Capt. James Butera (P)
Their aircraft “Jolly Green 56” at the NKP ramp.
both photos from AF Museum collection, via R.LaPointe (his CD)
05.03.30 Rescue Mission - 25/26 May 1966
Source: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-63-25May66 (26 May) DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14233 “Jolly Green 56” Low Bird damaged Flown by RCC Capt. William E. Cowell (P), Capt. David C. Henry (CP), SSgt. Robert J. Watson (HM), A2C Laverne W. Kellerman Jr. (PJ) Awards: Capt. Cowell, Capt. Henry, SSgt. Watson, and A2C Kellerman, Jr. were awarded the DFC for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 25 May 66 |
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HH-3E 64-14229 “Jolly Green 52” High Bird Flown by RCC |
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HH-3E Rescue Mision on 26 May Flown by RCC Capt. William R. Uhl (P), John M. High (CP), Donald J. Jones (HM), A1C Robert J. Ward (PJ) |
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HH-3E Rescue Mision on 26 May Flown by RCC Sgt. Malcom C. Hassler (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 59-1746 “Nash 02” 1Lt. R.G. Hunter (KIA) - 354th TFS, 355th TFW Takhli AB and on 26 May: pilot A-1E 52-132447 Capt. Robert I. Bush - 602nd ACS, 14th ACW Nha Trang AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short, K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414-page 13):
Two HH-3E’s, call sign “Jolly Green 52” and “56”, were scrambled to look for the downed pilot of an F-105 at 1933N 10343E (20 mile E of Xieng Khouang, Laos). Led to the scene by fighters, the A-1E’s dropped white phosphorous rockets to screen the pick up point. The low bird, “Jolly Green 56”, moved into the area where the parachute was located. About 50 feet above the site, heavy ground fire started from automatic weapons. The helicopter mechanic saw several men and returned their fire and observed five or six of them fall.
Taking hits on the aircraft, #2 engine failed. At low altitude and airspeed a crash landing was iminent; however, the application of full emergency power on #1 engine enabled “Jolly Green 56” to balloon over a ridge toward some rice fields. Airspeed and RPM built back so that level flight was maintained and fuel was dumped to gain altitude. With fighter escort and navigation assistance from an Air America aircraft the helicopter recovered at an airfield with 170 lbs of fuel left.
During the following day’s search, an A-1E aircraft went down just south of the F-105 beeper position (20 miles E of Xieng Khouang, Laos). He was recovered by an HH-3E and the search for the F-105 pilot continued. When two F-105’s made low passes over the beeper, flak was picked up. Suspecting a trap, the search was then suspended.
05.03.31 Rescue Mission - 30 May 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-64-30May66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An F-105D (61-0142, 333TFS) pilot bailed out at 2213N 10423E. A-1E’s in contact with the pilot reported that he was under his chute which was caught in the trees. An HH-3E lowered its forest penetrator hoist and hovered over the chute for about two minutes hoping the downed pilot would come to the hoist. Just then the helicopter was hit twice by small arms fire and had to withdraw. Later attempts to locate the pilot were unsuccessful and the search was suspended.
05.03.32 Rescue Mission - 31 May 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-65-31May66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Maj. Baylor R. Haynes (P), Capt. James C. O’Dell (CP), TSgt. William J. Warren (HM), MSgt. William G. Daniels (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Sgt. Malcom C. Hassler (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 62-4386 1Lt Leonard C. Eckman - 354th TFS, 355th TFW Takhli AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An F-105 pilot was recovered from 2139N 10440E (65 miles NW of Hanoi, NVN) by HH-3E helicopter using the hoist method. Attemps to locate another F-105 pilot call sign “Cactus 2”, who had ejected in the same area were unsuccessful (see chapter 05.03.33).
From: unknown Newspaper and unknown publication date, "Old Dominion Officer":
Saigon - An Air Force F-105 Thunderchief pilot who was shot down by ground fire during a Memorial Day strike against the Yen Bay target complex, was picked up one hour and 22 minutes after he ejected. Air Force officials said the pilot, 1st Lt. Leonard C. Ekman from “The Old Dominion” state , suffered only a cut arm. Ekman went down about 15 miles southwest of Yen Bay.
Making the rescue was an HH-3E “Jolly Green Giant” helicopter crew from the 38th ARRS. Air Force Maj. Baylor R. Haynes commanded the rescue crew. Haynes is commander of the Air Force unit responsible for rescues in North Vietnam. Duty controllers at the rescue and recovery operations center at Tan Son Nhut air base said the rescue “was routine, no ground fire was encountered by the pick-up crew”. With Haynes on the pick-up of the Thunderchief pilot were Capt. James C. O’Dell, co-pilot; MSgt. William G. Daniels, pararescue medic, and TSgt. William J. Warren, flight engineer.
The page at top-left has three photos and a newspaper clipping. This page was copied by Robert LaPointe (Book “PJ in Vietnam”) in the archive of the AF Museum. The content of the clipping is presented above these photos. It is not clear if the three photos are related to the Rescue Mission described in the newspaper clipping. The newspaper report however is about the above mentioned mission 2-3-65-31May66 with Major Haynes as RCC. The photo, here at lower right position, confirms Major Baylor, but Capt. Uhl did not make part of the above Rescue Mission. Unknown is who is the person (pilot ?) in the cockpit and also unknown are the three crewmembers seen in the other photo. This photo shows that the location most probably was at a Lima Site (Laos). All photos from AF Museum collection, via R.LaPointe (his CD)
05.03.33 Rescue Mission - 31 May 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-66-31May66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Maj. Baylor R. Haynes (P), Capt. James C. O’Dell (CP), TSgt. William J. Warren (HM), MSgt. William G. Daniels (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 61-0120 “Cactus 2” 1Lt. Martin W. Steen (KIA) - 469th TFS, 388th TFW Korat AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
(see here above chapter 05.03.32) Continued search for F-105 pilot, “Cactus 2”, who had ejected in the same area were unsuccessful. Rescue Mission was terminated on 01 June with negative results.
05.03.34 Rescue Mission - 01 June 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-67-1June66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Erling R. Drangstveit (P), 1Lt. Thomas E. Kenny (CP), SSgt. Harold R. Schrader (HM), SSgt. Arron D. Farrior (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A2C Franklin D. Stevson (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 62-4393 Capt. George H. Peacock - 357th TFS, 355th TFW Takhli AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
HH-3E helicopter recovered an F-105 pilot from NVN (1723N 10608E; 35 mile NW of Don Hoi) using the forest penetrator for pickup from a heavy forested area.
05.03.35 Rescue Mission - 02 June 1966
Source1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source2: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-68-2Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Robert D. Furman (P), Capt. Dale V. Hardy (CP), known (HM), A2C Franklin D. Stevson (PJ) Awards: Capt. Hardy, the HM, and A2C Stevson were awarded the DFC for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 2 Jun 66 |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A2C William D. Brotton (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 59-1721 Capt. John D. Whipple - 333rd TFS, 355th TFW Takhli AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
The pilot of an F-105 was recovered from NVN (1723N 10609E ; 27 mile WSW of Dong Hoi, NVN) by an HH-3 using the hoist method. Extremely heavy flak and ground fire had to be supressed by A-1E’s to enable the helicopter to get in position for the recovery.
LtoR: A2C Franklin Stevson (PJ), Capt. Dale Hardy (P), name not specified, downed F-105D pilot Capt. John Whipple, Capt. Robert Furman (P) - photo from AF Museum collection, via R.LaPointe (his CD)
05.03.36 Rescue Mission - 02 June 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-69-2Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Maj. Ealum L. Stearman (P), William W. Gunning (CP), SSgt. Theodore M. Youngblood (HM), A2C William D. Brotton (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A1C Robert J. Ward (PJ) |
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SAR objective: crew of O-1F 57-2832 Capt. B.H. Witterman, and LtCol. M.O. Marshall - 23rd TASS, 505th TCG Nakhon Phanom AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Two crewmembers of an O-1 were recovered from Laos (1705N 10538E ; 45 mile NW of Techepone, Laos) by landing an HH-3E in an open area and boarding the survivors.
05.03.37 Rescue Mission - 03 June 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-70-3Jun66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
SAR objective was to locate the crewmembers of a crashed AC-47 (43-8925, 14 ACW) in Laos (1703N 10559E). Search suspended on 6 June due to negative leads or contact with survivors.
05.03.38 Rescue Mission - 08 June 1966
Source: file K318-2411-5-3ARRG-Down-Aircraft-Mission-Numbers-IRIS01009282, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-71-8Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS SAR objective: crew C-123
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.03.39 Rescue Mission - 09 June 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-72-9Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Robert A. Weekley (P), Jason K. Bridge (CP), Lyle J. Tadewald (HM), A2C Laverne W. Kellerman, Jr. (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 62-4273 “Buck 01” Maj. John C. Holley - 334th TFS, 355 TFW Takhli AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
(Source AFHRA file): An HH-3 made a hoist recovery of an injured F-105 pilot from NVN (1715N 10626E ; 18 miles SW of Dong Hoi). The paramedic was lowered through dense foilage to help the pilot get on the penetrator seat.
(Source website USAF Rotorheads): off the coast of Dong Hoi, NVN, after he had ejected from his ground fire damaged aircraft on June 08, 1966.
05.03.40 Rescue Mission - 09 June 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-73-9Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Robert A. Weekley (P), Jason K. Bridge (CP), Lyle J. Tadewald (HM), A2C Laverne W. Kellerman, Jr. (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective: --------- (see narrative) |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
A SAR force of 4 A-1E’s and 2 HH-3’s, had just completed the recovery of an F-105 pilot (note Ragay: Rescue Mission 2-3-72, see chapter 05.03.39). During the withdrawl from the area two of the A-1E’s ran together at low altitude and crashed into heavily foliaged and wooded terrain. In the opinion of observers there was little possibility of any survivors and after two hours of search the mission was terminated.
05.03.41 Rescue Mission - 09 June 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-74-9Jun66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An A-1E pilot was recovered from Laos (1935N 10307E) by an Air America H-34 who was in the vicinity and had monitored the distress call.
05.03.42 Rescue Mission - 13 June 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-75-13Jun66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
A B-57 with two crewmen aboard disappeared in vicinity of 1715N 10545E (Laos). After intensive visual and electronic search produced no contacts, the mission was suspended.
05.03.43 Rescue Mission - 13 June 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-76-13Jun66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Two aircrew members bailed out of an F-4C (63-7697, 35TFW) in NVN (1742N 10626E). Two good chutes were sighted; however, no visual or voice contact could be established with them. Sporadic gunfire and AA fire from nearby prevented further search. Mission suspended until further evidence of survival and escape is forthcoming.
05.03.44 Rescue Mission - 14 June 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-77-14Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC 1Lt. John F. Guilmartin, Jr. (P), Stiles (CP), SSgt. Harold R. Schrader (HM), Transito Trujillo (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 60-0429 “Beach 02” Maj. John C. Shay - 421st TFS Korat AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Recovered an F-105 pilot by HH-3E hoist pickup from a location near Korat AB, Thailand (1556N 10313E; 40 NM NE of Korat) and returned him to home station. F-105 flamed out and could not be restarted. (this was a non-combat save)
05.03.45 Rescue Mission - 14 June 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-78-14Jun66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
A-1E’s dispatched to look for an overdue U-17, meanwhile, the U-17 returned to Udorn after having made an unscheduled/unreported landing enroute.
05.03.46 Rescue Mission - 15 June 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-79-15Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Maj. Ealum L. Stearman (P), William W. Gunnin (CP), SSgt. Michael R. Holloway (HM), A1C Robert J. Ward (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Sgt. Malcom C. Hassler (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 62-4377 “Packard 02” 1Lt. Phillip J. Kelly - 333rd TFS, 355th TFW Takhli AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An HH-3 recovered an F-105 pilot from NVN (1722N 10621E) (about 5 miles north of Bo Trach, NVN), using the hoist pick-up method and returned him to Nakhon Phanom.
05.03.47 Rescue Mission - 22 June 1966
Source: Rescue Mission No.2-3-80-22Jun66-file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: website vietnamairlosses.com , by Chris Hobson and David Lovelady - search form
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-80-22Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC unknown |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective: O-1F 55-4653 “Gombie 12” Capt. Warren P. Smith (KIA) - 23 TASS, 505 TACG NKP |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (website vietnamairlosses.com):
A Nail FAC and its pilot, known as ‘Willie Pete’ Smith, were lost when it was shot down by automatic weapons fire near Ban Muong Sen in Savannakhet Province in southern Laos. Capt Smith (call sign Gombie 12) radioed that his aircraft was on fire and another pilot in the vicinity saw the O-1 make what appeared to be a controlled landing near Route 911 but saw that the pilot was slumped over in the cockpit. He did not answer any of the radio calls made to him and when a HH-3E SAR helicopter arrived about an hour later, the cockpit was found to be empty. A more intensive search had to be abandoned due to intense ground fire in the vicinity of the wreck.
05.03.48 Rescue Mission - 22 June 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Mission Report on Microfilm Reel 31113, frame 953, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number DET5-38-40-22Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-43B “Pedro” Flown by RCC unknown |
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SAR objective: pilot A-1E “Sandy 11” assigned to Det.2, 602 TFS at Udorn AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission:
At 0955L “Pedro” was alerted by primary crash circuit, that an A-1E aircraft was down, 2 miles east of the Udorn runway. “Pedro” proceeded to the crash site and found the pilot uninjured, standing beside his aircraft. The FSK was placed next to the crashed aircraft and the fireman deployed to disarm all ordnance switches and disconnect the battery. Fireman were left at the scene as fire guards, while the A-1E pilot was returned to the base. Pilot was returned to base 10 minutes after notification of crash. EOD, command and safety personnel were flown back to the crash site and “Pedro” crew and FSK returned to base. In total 10 sorties were flown at 2 hrs and 10 minutes.
05.03.49 Rescue Mission - 29 June 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: website vietnamairlosses.com , by Chris Hobson and David Lovelady - search form
Source 3: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-81-29Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC 1Lt. Lawrence Rice (P), Capt. William E. Cowell (CP), Wallace Spivey (HM), A2C Laverne W. Kellerman, Jr. (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A2C Michael L. Halvorson (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot A1E 52-133918 “Dragonfly 25” Capt. Noel J. Baker - 14 ACW |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (website vietnamairlosses.com):
Capt Baker’s aircraft (call sign Dragonfly 25) was hit by AAA near Ban Katoi, 25 miles west of Dong Hoi just across the North Vietnamese border with Laos. He ejected over hilly terrain and was rescued by a USAF HH-3E.
05.03.50 Rescue Mission - 30 June 1966
Source 1: file K318-222-3-Hist-3ARRG-Apr-Jun66-IRIS492414, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 422
Source 3: website vietnamairlosses.com , by Chris Hobson and David Lovelady - search form
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-82-30Jun66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Charles P. Rush (P), Capt. Francis E. Hendrickson (CP), SSgt. Theodore M. Youngblood (HM), SSgt. Robert L. Berry Jr. (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A2C Franklin D. Steveson (PJ) |
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SAR objective: pilot F-105D 62-4224 Capt. Robin K. Nierste - 388 TFW Korat AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short): not available
From Chris Hobson' s website : Another strike on a POL site resulted in the loss of another Thunderchief on the last day of the month. The raid was on the Nguyen Khe POL site seven miles north of Hanoi, and Capt Nierste’s aircraft (call sign Savannah 2) was hit and damaged by AAA as he dived on the target. The aircraft held together and Capt Nierste was able to fly almost 200 miles before he was forced to abandon the Thunderchief near Moung Cha in Laos where he was picked up by a USAF HH-3C SAR helicopter.
05.03.51 Photos
Airfield grounds flooded during monsoon (June-November), Det.5 Commander Major Baylor Haynes takes a break to test a dingy - photos from AF Museum archive, collection LaPointe (CD)
Flooded Det.5 Ops with in the background one camouflaged HH-43 and one still in grey paint. The first camouflaged Det.5 Huskie returned to Udorn on 10 September 1966 (60-0254). Photo Oct-Nov 1966 , published on website 20th HS - no further known credit
05.04 Extract from the official history for 3rd ARRG over July - Sep 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Mission 3rd ARRG : To provide for Commander, 7th AF, PACAF, a Recovery Operations Center to plan for, coordinate and control personnel and/or material recovery operations in support of SEA in PACAF area of responsibility; provide technical supervision for the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadrons and Detachments within its geographical area of responsibility.
To provide a 24 hour Rescue Coordination Center (JSARC) and provide supervision of two ARR Squadrons which in turn (were programmed to) have 13 Detachments. The primary mission dealed with the recovery of aircrew members; the secondary mission was to provide Local Base Rescue for the air bases where tactical aircraft were stationed.
Operations: The Commander, 7th AF had search and rescue (SAR) responsibility in the Southeast Asia sub region. This sub region included the Saigon, Bangkok and Rangoon Flight Information Regions (FIRs) which encompasses the countries of Republic of Vietnam (SVN), North Vietnam (NVN), Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Burma and waters within the FIRs. The JSARC was designated the central coordination agency for all SAR activity within the 7th AF's area of responsibility. Although the JSARC had responsibility for coordination of SAR activity within a very broad area, its primary mission was to direct the recovery of downed aircrews in the combat zone of NVN, Laos, SVN and the Gulf of Tonkin. 3rd ARRGp aircrews, in carrying out this mission, had retrieved approximately 85% of those downed airmen declared rescue opportunities in this quarter.
To accomplish the combat rescue mission, 3rd ARRGp staged HH-3 helicopters from Udorn at forward operating locations/bases to be immediately available should an aircraft go down. An HC-130H control aircraft from Udorn flew daylight orbit over Laos carrying an Airborne Mission Commander (AMC) who was prepared to assume control over the Search & Rescue Task Force when launched by the JSARC. DaNang HU-16Bs flew daylight orbit off the coast of NVN. The HU-16B would land (sea state permitting) and recover downed airmen or remain over their position while the AMC coordinates the recovery by other means. HH-3 helicopters from DaNang or their forward operating locations stood by for rapid reaction to search and rescue missions as directed by the JSARC.
Detachment 1, 37th ARRS located at Udorn AB was declared operationally ready on 4 July 1966. During this quarter Det.1, 37ARRS had four HC-130Hs assigned.
Major Owen R. Fletcher became Det.5, 38th ARRS Commander.
Rescue Missions during July - Sep 1966
05.04.01 Rescue Mission - 01 July 1966
Source: file K318-2411-5-3ARRG-Down-Aircraft-Mission-Numbers-IRIS01009283, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-83-1Jul66 DET.5, 38 ARRS SAR objective - pilot F-105 and pilot A-1E
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.04.02 Rescue Mission - 06 July 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 423
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-84-6Jul66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Combat Save Flown by RCC 1Lt. Forest M. Kimsey (P), 1stLt. Donald R. Harris (CP), SSgt. Donald L. Chance (HM), A2C William D. Brotton (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC SSgt. Aaron D. Farrior (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot RThaiAF T-28 15 NM NNW of Ban Ban. |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An allied T-28 pilot crash landed in an area north of Udorn. An HH-3E helicopter was diverted to the scene and recovered the airman using the hoist with the tree penetrator attached.
05.04.03 Rescue Mission - 06 July 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 423
Source 3: Mission Report on Microfilm Reel 31113, frame 944, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 5-38-41-6Jul66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-43B “Pedro 03” Flown by RCC Capt. Donald R. Berdeaux (P), and ?? |
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SAR objective : pilot A-1E 52-132423 Capt. J.R. Crane - 602 ACS |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
At 1713L “Pedro 03” was alerted by primary crash circuit, that an A-1E pilot had bailed out at 18 NM on A 010 degrees radial from Udorn. The aircraft was damaged by AA fire over Laos and abandoned at 20 miles north of Udorn. “Pedro 03” proceeded to the bail out site, located the pilot and utilizing the hoist for pick up. The survivor was not injured and was returned to Udorn.
05.04.04 Rescue Mission - 07 July 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 423
Source 3: JRCC Combat Saves listing, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-85-7Jul66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Saved Ransey Flown by RCC 1stLt. R.W. Letton (P), Packer (CP), SSgt. Robert J. Watson (HM), SSgt. Aaron D. Farrior (PJ) |
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HH-3E Saved Evans and Grover Flown by RCC Capt. James L. Butera (P), Dare (CP), TSgt. William J. Warren (HM), Sgt. Malcolm C. Hassler (PJ) |
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SAR objective : crew of U-10 LtCol. C.E. Ransey, Capt. C.L. Evans, A1C A.J. Grover |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
The Rescue HC-130H on orbit north of Udorn, scrambled two A-1Es and two HH-3Es to search for the members of a downed U-10 aircraft. When located the HH-3E helicopters landed and boarded three survivors, returning them to Nakhon Phanom AB.
05.04.05 Rescue Mission - 07 July 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-86-7Jul66 DET.5, 38 ARRS SAR objective - pilot F-105
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.04.06 Rescue Mission - 11 July 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 423
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-87-11Jul66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Robert H. Weekley (P), Jason K. Bridge (CP), Lyle J. Tadewald (HM), A2C Franklin D. Stevson (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC SSgt. George E. Hunt (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 61-0112 Capt. Robert H. Laney - 354 TFS Takhli |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Two HH-3E helicopters (call sign “Jolly Green”) flying orbit, responded to the mayday of an F-105D pilot. A-1E fighters escorted the helicopters to the incident site, 80 NM SW of Hanoi.
05.04.07 Rescue Mission - 11 July 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 423
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-88-11Jul66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14231 “Jolly Green 54” Flown by RCC Capt. Raymond H. Mathews (P), 1stLt.William C. Dean (CP), A1C Nicholas F. Beaumonte (HM), A1C LaVerne Kellerman (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 61-0121 Maj. William J. McClelland - 354 TFS Takhli |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An HH-3E helicopter and two A-1E fighter escorts were launched to recover the downed pilot of an F-105D , 6 NM NNE of Paksane, Laos. The wingman of the downed pilot provided vectors to the scene. When the SAR force arrived, the survivor released red smoke for visual location and was retrieved in good condition from an area covered by trees approximately 150 feet high.
Mission 2-3-88-11July1966, survivor and crew of JG54 - photos collection AFMuseum, via R. LaPointe. LtoR: Maj. McClelland (F-105D pilot) - A1C Kellerman (PJ) - 1stLt. Dean (CP) - A1C Beaumonte (HM) - Capt. Mathews (P)
LtoR: Maj. McClelland (F-105D pilot) - A1C Kellerman (PJ) - 1stLt. Dean (CP) - A1C Beaumonte (HM) - Capt. Mathews (P)
Major McClelland at right - the two Officers at left are unknown - Photo AFMuseum collection, via R. LaPointe
05.04.08 Rescue Mission - 14 July 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-89-14Jul66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective: crew US Army OV-1
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.04.09 Rescue Mission - 19 July 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 423
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-90-19Jul66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E non-combat save Flown by RCC Maj. Donald A. Vavra (P), Capt. Dale V. Hardy (CP), TSgt. William J. Warren (HM), A1C Robert J. Ward (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 60-5382 Capt. Richard E. Steere - 354 TFS Takhli 80NM NE of Udorn in Thailand |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short): not available
05.04.10 Rescue Mission - 31 July 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 423
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-91-31Jul66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC 1stLt. Thomas E. Kenny (P), 1stLt. David J. Feigert (CP), A1C Larry J. Chambers (HM), A2C Michael L. Halvorson (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A2C Robert B. Williamson (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot A-1E 52-132421 Capt. David W. Lester, Jr. - 14ACW |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Two HH-3 and four A-1Es (RESCORT) scrambled from Nakhon Phanom to pickup the downed pilot of an A-1E, 35 miles west of Dong Hoi. Arriving in the area, the RESCORT dropped phosphorous bombs between the pilot and the enemy to screen the rescue helicopter during the pickup. The low HH-3 hovered over the pilot for ten minutes, hampered by the fact that a 200 foot hover was necessary above the pilot, who had lashed himself to a branch of the tree he had landed in. The branch was threatening to break due to rotorwash and the helicopter could not come down without dislodging the pilot. He eventually untied himself and reached the lowered tree penetrator and was brought up to the helicopter. During the recovery the A-1E fighter placed ordnance on enemy concentrations and prevented them from interfering with the pickup.
Mission 2-3-91-31July1966, from LtoR: A2C Halvorson (PJ) - survivor Capt. Lester (A-1E pilot) - A1C Chambers (HM) - 1stLt. Feigert (CP) - 1stLt. Kenny (P) - Photo credit Al Stanek (PJ) - photo copied out of the book “PJs in Vietnam” , written by Robert LaPointe (page 233)
05.04.11 Rescue Mission - 01 Aug 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-92-1Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective: HH-3E
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.04.12 Rescue Mission - 04 Aug 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: website vietnamairlosses.com , by Chris Hobson and David Lovelady - database
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-93-4Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : pilot A-1E 52-133872 “Firefly 1” Capt. John R. Burns (KIA) - 602 ACS Udorn |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (from AFHRA): not available
From website Chris Hobson:
Two Skyraiders were assigned to attack a military complex in the hills near Kang Mong, about 20 miles east of Sam Neua and close to the Laotian border with North Vietnam. The attack took place under low cloud and his wingman saw Capt Burns’s aircraft (call sign Firefly 1) dive into the ground, possibly as a result of a hit by AAA. No parachute was seen or SAR beeper heard and it was assumed that Capt Burns had died in the crash. Further information may have been received as the USAF changed Capt Burns’s status from missing to killed in action on 10 October 1966. In 1992 human remains were recovered at a crash site in Houaphan Province, Laos and the remains were positively identified as being those of Capt Burns in February the following year.
05.04.13 Rescue Mission - 04 Aug 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 423
Source 3: website vietnamairlosses.com , by Chris Hobson and David Lovelady - database
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-94-4Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E non-combat save Flown by RCC Maj. Ealum L. Stearman (P), Maj. Owen R. Fletcher (CP), Child (HM), A2C Robert B. Williamson (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 61-0119 “Honda 4” 1stLt. Allen V. Rogers - 357 TFS Takhli |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (from AFHRA): not avaiable
From website Chris Hobson:
Even though the wingman of A-1E Capt. Burns (see here above, chapter 05.04.11) saw no parachute, it was just possible that Capt Burns had escaped from his aircraft so a rescue mission was mounted. A flight of Thunderchiefs flew RESCAP for the SAR task force but the mission proved unsuccessful and the task force prepared to return home. As the Thunderchiefs made a final strafing pass on a target a few miles from the wreck of the Skyraider, one of the aircraft (call sign Honda 4) was hit by AAA and caught fire. The aircraft remained controllable and 1Lt Rogers nursed it back across Laos and into Thailand only to have to eject 40 miles northwest of Udorn where he was picked up by a HH-3E from Udorn.
05.04.14 Rescue Mission - 07/08 Aug 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 423
Source 3: JRCC Combat Saves listing, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-95-8Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC known name (P), William W. Gunnin (CP), Langley (HM), A2C Franklin D. Stevson (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC SSgt. Aaron D. Farrior (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot RF-101C 56-0064 Maj. Paul P. Curtis - 20 TRS |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An RF-101C pilot downed in an area 34 miles southwest of Yen Bay (100 NM NW of Hanoi), made radio contact with a rescue force who was searching for another airman. A-1E RESCORT aircraft accompanying the helicopters searched out the pilot and pinpointed his position. The pararescueman had to be lowered to help the injured survivor get aboard. Both men were hoisted into the helicopter and returned to home base.
05.04.15 Rescue Mission - 08 Aug 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-96-8Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective: pilot
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.04.16 Rescue Mission - 08 Aug 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 423
Source 3: JRCC Combat Saves listing, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-97-8Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Francis E. Hendrickson (P), Robert Parker (CP), SSgt. Robert S. Riley (HM), A2C William D. Brotton (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A1C Robert J. Ward (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 61-0155 1stLt. John R. Casper - 421 TFS Korat |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An F-105D was reported down 23 miles NW of Dong Hoi. RESCAP of F-105s and A-1Es had formed over area. RESCORT A-1Es accompanied two HH-3Es to the bailout area. A Navy A-1H led the low helicopter to where the parachute was. At that time, a pin flare was spotted. The tree penetrator was lowered from the hoist and the survivor climbed aboard it for a successful recovery.
05.04.18 Rescue Mission - 12 Aug 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-99-12Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective: pilot
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.04.19 Rescue Mission - 14 Aug 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-100-14Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective: pilot F-105
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.04.20 Rescue Mission - 17 Aug 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-101-17Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective: crew F-105F
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.04.21 Rescue Mission - 20 Aug 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-102-20Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective: crew RF-4C
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short): not available
05.04.22 Rescue Mission - 27 Aug 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-103-27Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective: crew A-6A
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short): not available
05.04.23 Rescue Mission - 29 Aug 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-104-29Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective: pilot
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short): not available
05.04.24 Rescue Mission - 31 Aug 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-105-31Aug66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective: crew F-4C
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short): not available
05.04.25 HH-3E Accident - 01 Sep 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: file K318-2-Hist-ARRS67-Vol.1-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491722, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 3: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 424
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Mission on 01Sep66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. James A. Hartwig (P), 1stLt. David E. Lyall (CP), Johnson (HM), A1C Laverne W. Kellerman (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Transito Trujillo (PJ) |
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SAR objective : 4x crew HH-3E 64-14227 , pilot Capt. Keck and crew |
Narrative of Mission (in short):
On 1 September 1966, HH-3E 64-14227, on a flight to a classified destination, undershot the landing area on final approach and crashed on a mountain top. One of the two passengers aboard was killed; the other passenger and the three crew members suffered only minor bruises. The accident investigation board listed the primary cause of this major accident as pilot error in that he underestimated flight planning factors on final approach allowing the main rotor RPM to decrease to a point that a recovery or safe landing could not be accomplished. Aircraft was declared not reparable.
05.04.26 Rescue Mission - 01 Sep 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 424
Source 3: JRCC Combat Saves listing, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-106-1Sep66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Oliver E. Omara (P), 1stLt. Donald R. Harris (CP), SSgt. Donald J. Hall (HM), A2C Franklin D. Stevson (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : pilot A-1E 52-132624 “Sandy 32” Capt. Levie L. Mennick - 602 ACS Udorn pilot F-104C 56-0913 (POW) and pilot A-1E 52-132648 “Sandy 31” (MIA) |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Two HH-3s (call sign Jolly Green) and four A-1Es (call sign Sandy) were scrambled to search for an F-104C pilot downed west of Dong Hoi (30 NM N of Nakhon Phanom). “Sandy 31 & 32” proceeded into the area of the reported beeper. While conducting electronic search, “Sandy 31” was shot down and “Sandy 32” was badly damaged by ground fire. “Sandy 32” headed his aircraft toward a rice paddy and bailed out. Five minutes later he was recovered by one of the Jolly Greens and en route to Nakhon Phanom. A Navy aircraft sighted the wreckage of “Sandy 31” and reported no chance of the pilot surviving. Search suspended for both missing pilots due to heavy ground fire in the area.
05.04.27 Rescue Mission - 05 Sep 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 424
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-107-5Sep66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Kenneth D. Murphy (P), John E. Halligan (CP), William T. Lowe (HM), Hanon Combs (PJ) Awards: Capt. Murphy was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force on 5 Sep 66 |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 60-0495 Capt. Thomas D. Dobbs - 354 TFS Takhli |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
F-105D pilot down 6 NM W of Dong Hoi, was recovered by HH-3E helicopter using the hoist/tree penetrator. Survivor returned to Dong Ha, suffering only minor injuries.
05.04.28 Rescue Mission - 13 Sep 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 424
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-108-13Sep66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. William H. Lloyd (P), 1stLt. David J. Feigert (CP), Jack Picklesimer (HM), Transito Trujillo (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Luther E. Davis |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 62-4281 1Lt. Kenneth V. Hallmark II - 421 TFS Korat |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
An F-105D pilot down 40 NM south of Vinh was in voice contact with the RESCAP overhead. A-1Es of the SAR force made visual contact with him and an HH-3 helicopter accomplished a hoist recovery using the forest penetrator.
Mission 2-3-108-13Sep1966 - photo from AFMuseum collection, via R. LaPointe.
The names of the persons in this photo are unknown
05.04.29 Rescue Mission - 28 Sep 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2*: file K318-2411-5-3ARRG-Down-Aircraft-Mission-Numbers-IRIS01009282, in USAF collection AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-109-28Sep66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : 5 persons source 2* : “Hotel 1332” |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.04.30 Rescue Mission - 28 Sep 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-110-28Sep66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR Objective: crew RF-4C
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short): not available
05.04.31 Rescue Mission - 29 Sep 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 424
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-111-29Sep66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Capt. Kenneth D. Murphy (P), 1stLt. David E. Lyall (CP), SSgt. Raymond Godsey (HM), A1C Laverne W. Kellerman (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A2C Michael L. Halvorson |
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SAR objective : F-4C only the WSO 1Lt. Egon Knots bailed out |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Co-pilot of an F-4C bailed out for unknown reason, over Laos, 80 NM north of Nakhon Phanom. HH-3 recovered him using the forest penetrator and returned survivor to Nakhon Phanom.
05.04.32 Rescue Mission - 29 Sep 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Jul-Sep66-IRIS0491723, in USAF collection AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 424
Source 3: JRCC Combat Saves listing, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 4: website vietnamairlosses.com , by Chris Hobson and David Lovelady - database
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-112-29/30Sep/1Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E saved 1stLt. Glover on 30 Sept. Flown by RCC Capt. Oliver O’Mara (P), 1stLt. Donald R. Harris (CP), SSgt. Robert S. Riley (HM), A2C Michael L. Halvorson (PJ) |
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HH-3E recovered body of Maj. Waxman on 01Oct Flown by RCC Capt. Kenneth D. Murphy (P), 1stLt. David E. Lyall (CP), SSgt. Raymond Godsey (HM), A1C Laverne W. Kellerman (PJ) |
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SAR objective : crew F-4C 64-0736 “Cleveland 2” Maj. S. Waxman (KIA) , 1Lt. Joe Glover - 497 TFS, 8 TFW |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
Pilots of an F-4C were reported down 40 NM west of Dong Hoi, NVN. HC-130H, A-1Es and HH-3Es were dispatched to to the scene. Communications between the downed copilot and rescue aircraft were excellent. He was quickly located and recovered by an HH-3 using a hoist pickup. Copilot was taken to Nakhon Phanom. Remains of the pilot were flown to Khe Sanh.
From website Chris Hobson:
During a Night Owl armed reconnaissance mission a Phantom crew discovered a ferry in use near Phu Son, 35 miles northwest of Dong Hoi. During the attack the aircraft (call sign Cleveland 2) was hit by AAA and Maj. Waxman turned the aircraft to the south towards hilly terrain. Both crew ejected but only the WSO was rescued alive by a Bright Light team inserted by USAF helicopters. It was assumed that Maj. Waxman, whose body was recovered by the Bright Light team and picked up by a USAF HH-3E, died during the ejection. This was the second rescue mission organised by the Joint Personnel Recovery Center.
05.05 Extract from the official history for 3rd ARRG over Oct - Dec 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: file K318-2-Hist-ARRS-67/1-Hist-Jul-Dec66-page93
DET.5, 38 ARRS Commander: Lt.Col. Warner A. Britton
Det.2, 3rd ARRGp was discontinued on 15Dec66 at Udorn AB and OL 2, 3rd ARRGp was organized there on that day and gained the resources and mission of the rescue coordination center which was subordinate to the RCC at Hq 3rd ARRGp, the change was one of name only.
Source: From: K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Jul-Dec66-part Oct-Dec66-page4/5/6
Operations
Eight A-1Es of the 602nd ACS based at Udorn were under the operational control of 3d ARRGp for rescue operations. In the role of rescue escort (RESCORT), two A-1Es accompany our two helicopters enroute while two other A-1Es proceed to the SAR scene. RESCORT protected the rescue aircraft enroute to and from the inccident scene. They locate survivors and determine the best routes for the helicopter to approach the survivors. They take measures to discourage hostile forces from interfering with the rescue effort. Excellent coordination between our rescue helicopters and their A-1E RESCORT had resulted in a highly efficient team, enabling combat rescues to be made under extremely adverse conditions.
A rescue briefing team from Udorn consisting of three officers spent the month of December 1966 briefing personnel in this theater and higher headquarters on rescue procedures in S.E. Asia. The three members of the team were: Det.1, 37th ARRS (HC-130 representative), 602nd Tactical Fighter Sqn. (A-1E representative) and Det.5, 38th ARRS (HH-3E representative). The team emphasized the things a downed airman in SEA could do to facilitate his own rescue.
Rescue Missions during Oct - Dec 1966
05.05.01 Rescue Mission - 01 Oct 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 424
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-113-1Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC SSgt. Donald J. Hall (HM), A2C Robert B. Williamson (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC SSgt. Aaron D. Farrior (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105 |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not avaialble
05.05.02 Rescue Mission - 02 Oct 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 424
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-114-2Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 36” Low bird Flown by RCC 1Lt. Arlyn E. Webster (P), 1stLt. William C. Dean (CP), SSgt. Robert S. Riley (HM), A2C Duane D. Hackney (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC SSgt. George E. Hunt (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-104C 56-0904 Capt. Norman R. Lockhard - 435 TFS, 8 TFW |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
F-104C pilot ejected WSW of Hanoi (7 NM N of Sam Neva). Two Jolly Green helicopters and four A-1Es (RESCORT), call sign “Sandy”, were launched. Twenty miles from pickup area “Jolly Green 36” monitored conversation between downed pilot and RESCAP (F-104s). Five miles from the area “Jolly Green 36” (low bird) made radio contact with the survivor who released an orange smoke flare. The low HH-3E dropped its tip tanks, made an approach, lowered the hoist, brought up the pilot and departed the area. On reaching altitude (10,000 ft), extremely heavy flack was encountered, however, no battle dmage was sustained. Survivor was returned to home station in good condition.
05.05.03 Rescue Mission - 05 Oct 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 424 and 236
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-115-5Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 36” Low bird > damaged, left the scene Flown by RCC Capt. Oliver O’Mara (P), unknown (CP), TSgt. Howard E. Massengale (HM), SSgt. Aaron D. Farrior (PJ) Awards: SSgt. Farrior was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds as a result of action by a hostile foreign force on 5 Oct 66 TSgt. Massengale and SSgt. Farrior were awarded the Sliver Star for gallantry while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force on 5 Oct 66; Capt. O’Mara was awarded the Air Force Cross |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 02” High bird > later, after JG36 left the scene, saved 1stLt. Garland Flown by RCC Capt. Leland T. Kennedy (P), 1stLt. Donald R. Harris (CP), SSgt. Donald J. Hall (HM), A2C Robert B. Williamson (PJ) Awards: 1stLt. Harris, SSgt. Hall, and A2C Williamson were awarded the Sliver Star for gallantry while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force on 5 Oct 66 ; Capt. Kennedy was awarded the Air Force Cross |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 56” and 53 were sent to the area as backup |
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SAR objective : crew F-4C 64-0702 “Tempest 3” Capt. W.R. Andrews (P) (KIA) and 1Lt. Edward W. Garland (saved) - 433 TFS, 8 TFW |
RCC Narrative of Rescue Mission (source 1):
Two pilots ejected from F-4C near Na San, NVN (85 NM NW of Hanoi). Two HH-3Es and four A-1Es were scrambled to the scene. “Sandy 31” (A-1E) contacted the two downed pilots who reported that one had a sprained ankle and the other a broken leg. The low element, “Jolly Green 36” was turned over to “Sandy 41” and 42 after “Sandy 31” and 32 had expended their ordnance and declared bingo fuel. “Sandy 41” escorted “Jolly Green 36” across a ridge line in the vicinity of the sighted parachute. “Jolly Green 02” remained high, directly over the survivors. After “Jolly Green 36” was established in a hover over the pilot, ground fire opened up. The helicopter received several hits and pulled off to a safer area. The downed pilot reported that he was hit and losing consciousness. The Sandys made more strafing passes, trying to suppress the ground fire. “Jolly Green 36” was called down for a second try. This time, the co-pilot, who was less than 100 yards directly below the pilot, vectored “Jolly Green 36” into close proximity. Ground fire caused them to pull off after receiving several more hits. After still more fire suppression from the Sandys, “Jolly Green 36” made a third pass. More hits were taken after establishing a hover close to the co-pilot. Battle damage was unknown but the Paramedic reported a slight shrapnel wound and that the hoist was jammed. It was suspected that hits had been taken in the hoist. The Paramedic of “Jolly Green 36” returned fire throughout their 3 attempts, expending 6 clips of M-16 ammunition. “Jolly Green 36” pulled out of the area at 0255Z and received permission to return to base (Lima Site 36). On the second and third passes, the Flight Mechanic observed the pilot lying prone with his head slightly downslope. “Jolly Green 02” requested that they be allowed to accompany “Jolly Green 36” back as the extent of the battle damage could not be ascertained and “Jolly Green 56” and 53 were enroute to the area as backup. After proceeding about 12 miles South, “Compress” advised “Jolly Green 02” to return to the scene, attempt the pickup, and report bingo fuel.
Fuel state at this time, 0305Z, was 1900 pounds. Sandys 1,2,3 and 4 were in the area at this time to relieve “Sandy 41” and 42 who had also expended all ordnance and reached bingo fuel. Upon returning to the location, “Sandy 3”, took “Jolly Green 02” down into the area, “Jolly Green 02” had positive sighting of the parachute. Entry was made up in a small valley on an approximate heading of 070°. “Jolly Green 02” then turned to parallel the slope to 030° and was established in a hover over the co-pilot when ground fire opened up again. “Jolly Green 02” pulled off to a safer area after taking two hits in the right side of the aircraft in the vicinity of the cargo door. The Sandys again attempted to sterilize the ridge line where the firing was suspected to be from. “Jolly Green 02” was called down again using the same entry. Again no ground fire was received until the aircraft was establishing in a hover, close to the co-pilot. “Jolly Green 02” took one hit which completely penetrated the aromr plating, glanced off internally, penetrated the floor, and ruptured the forward fuel cell. The Paramedic and Flight Mechanic both received slight cuts from shrapnel. The odor of smoke filled the aircraft and they retreated to a safe area. It was thought later to be the odor of cordite. The Sandys were requested to go in and hit them again. “Jolly Green 02” was within 20 minutes of bingo fuel. The crew elected to try once more as the weather in the area was deteriorating. This attempt was successful with no known hits, although the Paramedic heard ground fire. At the time of the rescue, the upper ridges were in the clouds and visibility had dropped to 2 miles in haze and smoke. At no time during their attempts was the pilot sighted. “Jolly Green 02” had reached bingo fuel and was advised to recover to base where arrangements had been made to air evacuate the recovered co-pilot in a C-123.
A more comprehensive story is written on pages 235-239 of the Book by LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000).
05.05.04 Rescue Mission - 14 Oct 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 424
Source 3: Newspaper clipping , “The Sunday Oregon” , 16 October 1966 - AFMuseum collection
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-116-14Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 53” Low bird Flown by RCC Maj. Adrian D. Youngblood (P), 1stLt. Edward G. Burford (CP), SSgt. Roger A. Ely (HM), SSgt. George E. Hunt (PJ) |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 54” High bird Flown by RCC A2C William D. Brotton (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 62-4391 “Chicago 3” Maj. Robert P. Taylor - 354 TFS Takhli |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
“Jolly Green 53” (Low Bird) and 54 were placed on cockpit alert at 0205Z. The order to scramble was given at 0210Z and both choppers were airborne at 0214Z. Almost a direct route was flown to the coordinates 19°05 N 104°43E (60 NM NW of Vinh), with deviations being made to avoid the heaviest gun concentrations. No Sandy cover was provided enroute to the scene, but numerous Sandy aircraft were on the scene when we arrived at 0302Z. “Sandy 3” did a fine job of marking the area of the downed pilot, (F-105) “Chicago 3”. He was located halfway up a moderatly sloping mountain a few miles south of a heavily populated valley containing numerous gun sites. To further pinpoint his position, “Jolly Green 53” made voice contact with “Chicago 3”. He said he could hear and see us and was very helpful in vectoring us precisely to his spot. Although his parachute was nearby, it came to rest below the tops of the trees and could not be seen until during the hover. Trees in the pickup area were irregular in height, with the tallest ones about 200 feet. It was necessary to hover very near the tallest trees to permit the hoist cable to reach the ground, which was extended almost to it’s limit. The survivor reached the tree penetrator almost immediately but when attempts to raise him were made, the cable became entangled in a huge clump of bamboo. Several attempts at moving the helicopter and retracting and extending the cable were made before the survivor could be reeled up. We departed the area at 0320Z for home base. Enemy groundfire was encountered during the pickup as evidenced by several bullet holes in each sponson when the helicopter was examined on ground inspection. Coordination between all SAR forces, the Sandy’s, Crown 1, and the Jolly Green’s was extremely good. As a result the mission was quickly and successfully accomplished.
Source 3: Newspaper clipping , “The Sunday Oregon” , 16 October 1966
Pilot Recounts Rescue By “Jolly Green Giant” - By Edwin Q. White, Associated Press Writer
SAIGON (AP) - The Jolly Green Giant (JGG) Club has a new member in Maj. Robert Taylor. He was plucked to safety Friday by a JGG helicopter after his F105 Thunderchief was shot down Friday over North Viet Nam. “We’ve got a lot of confidence in the rescue operations over here”, the 37-year-old Air Force pilot said Saturday. “I knew they’d get me out”. Taylor said his trouble started when, on bombing mission deep in North Vietnamese territory, he felt a jolt.
“The aircraft pitched upward and one of the other pilots in the flight warned me my plane was on fire”, he said. He started to climb. But then the cockpit filled with smoke and the jet engine quit. “The smoke got so thick I couldn’t see the instrument panel”, Taylor said. “I radioed “I’ve got to go” and ejected”. He parachuted into a jungle that others pinpointed as 70 miles northwest of Vinh. He suffered leg bruises in the fall.
“An Air Force Skyraider flew overhead and I was able to talk to him on my survival radio”, Taylor said. “My legs hurt so bad I couldn’t walk. I could hear gunfire and people yelling. “When the Jolly Green Giant helicopter arrived and lowered the jungle penetrator, the rotor downwash tangled the penetrator in the bamboo. I spent some anxious moments untangling it and climbing into the metal seat”. The first of the helicopter crew to spot Taylor was a para-medic, SSgt. George E. Hunt. The commander was Maj. Adrian D. Youngblood. Taylor was one of perhaps 450 pilots who took part in 173 missions on Fryday (14 Oct) against enemy targets in the North. That was a record high, quickly surpassed by the 175 missions flown Saturday.
05.05.05 Rescue Mission - 20 Oct 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425 and 240-243
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-117-20Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 65-12778 “Jolly Green 02” Low bird saved 1stLt. Merrick Flown by RCC Maj. Adrian D. Youngblood (P), 1stLt. Edward G. Burford (CP), A2C Gary R. Meyer (HM), A2C Thomas C. Davis (PJ) |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 36” High bird saved Maj. Breckenridge Flown by RCC Capt. Leland T. Kennedy (P), 1stLt. Elmer C. Lavender (CP), SSgt. Raymond Godsey (HM), A1C Robert J. Ward (PJ) |
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SAR objective : crew F-4C 63-7518 “Avenger 3” Maj. Lacey W. Breckenridge, 1Lt. Joseph E. Merrick - 433 TFW, 8 TFW |
AND:
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-117-20Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 36” Flown by RCC Capt. Leland T. Kennedy (P), 1stLt. Elmer C. Lavender (CP), SSgt. Raymond Godsey (HM), A1C Robert J. Ward (PJ) Awards: Capt. Kennedy was awarded the Air Force Cross |
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SAR objective : crew HH-3E 65-12778 “Jolly Green 02” Maj. Adrian D. Youngblood (P), 1stLt. Edward G. Burford (CP), A2C Gary R. Meyer (HM), A2C Thomas C. Davis and the F-4C WSO 1stLt. Merrick (rescued by JG02); as well as F-4C pilot Maj. Breckenridge |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (AFHRA doc):
“Jolly Green 02” (Low Bird) and “Jolly Green 36” (High Bird) were scrambled at 0030Z. Take-off was accomplished at 0034Z and both helicopters proceeded to a point SW of Dong Hoi, where two F-4C pilots (“Avenger 3”) had ejected (65 NM SE of Nakhon Phanom). Enroute to the scene, a revised position was received, which later proved to be more accurate than the original coordinates. The Jolly Greens were escorted to the area by “Sandy 07” and “08”. “Sandy 02” and “03” were on the scene when we arrived at 0120Z, and through use of UHF/DF and visual sightings on the Sandy aircraft, we determined the general location on the downed pilots. Voice contact on guard channel was made and “Jolly Green 02” establishd a hover over the rear seat pilot. His parachute was entangled in the top of a 200 foot tree, which the rotor wash came dangerously close to untangling from the limbs. The survivor had difficulty transferring from his parachute harness to the jungle penetrator, and this increased the time required for the pick up. Intense ground fire from nearby automatic weapons was heard and could be felt hitting the helicopter from the left side, before the pilot could position himself on the penetrator. Ordnance was requested from “Sandy 05”, but since the exact location of the second downed pilot was unknown, he deemed it inadvisable to expend ordnance. The tail of the helicopter was turned into the on-coming ground fire and the pick-up continued. The survivor was wounded in two places while being raised on the hoist. The pick-up was completed after 8 minutes of hovering. Immediately after take-off with the survivor on board, the transmission oil presure dropped to zero and the warning light illuminated. Flight was continued for approximately six miles.
“Jolly Green 36” had established an orbit while “Jolly Green 02” dropped below the cloud deck to effect the recovery. Visual monitoring of “Jolly Green 02” was impossible because of the clouds and he was last observed on a heading of 140°. As “Jolly Green 02” disappeared from view, “Sandy 05” reported ground fire in the vicinity of the survivors. Shortly afterwards, “Jolly Green 02” also reported ground fire during his pick-up effort on the rear seat pilot (F-4C). Approximately three minutes later, “02” reported that he had zero transmission oil pressure that he was going to land, and requested that “Jolly Green 36” come down and try to pick them up. “36” immediately began a circling descent, visually located “02” approximately one-half mile ahead and below. “02” was observed at approximately 500 feet altitude, descending, and heading for a clearing. “Jolly Green 36” observed a village located on the edge of “02’s intended landing area and so advised him. “02” acknowledged and continued to fly at approximately 100 feet above the trees to another clearing about one half mile further away where he executed his landing and shut down. “Jolly Green 36” dropped his tips, began dumping fuel during the approach and landing which was about 25 yards from “02”. Dense elephant grass separated the two aircraft. Ground fire was again encountered by “02” as the crew-members evacuated their aircraft. Two crew-members received superficial wounds from bullet fragments, (the Flight Mechanic and Paramedic). When the four helicopter crewmen and the survivor had boarded, a maximum performance take-off was made, climbing to 2000 feet above the terrain.
During the climb out, “Jolly Green 36” directed “Sandy 07” and “08” to destroy “Jolly Green 02”. “Sandys “07” and “08” rolled in on the downed helicopter and when it was last seen, dense white smoke was rising from it. Upon request, “Sandy 05” and “07” vectored “36” into the area of the back seat pilot (F-4C) and around several populated areas. A “Nail” aircraft orbiting the downed pilot, spotted his location for “36” by pointing with his left wing. This marking saved valuable time in locating the survivor because of the large number of white parachutes throughout the entire area. Voice communication with the survivor was established but only 50% of his transmissions were readable. As “36” came to a hover over the trees, A1C Ward saw several armed men start from the jungle into the clearing about 75 yards away. He leveled his M-16 and fired from the hip at the men. All men disappeared immediately, but ground fire continued throughout the pickup. The firing of the M-16 in automatic made without prior warning from A1C Ward, led “36” to believe he was under fire from beneath the aircraft and “36” departed the scene. This mistake was discovered and “36” returned to the area where the pickup was made at approximately 0300Z. “Sandy 05” advised a departure heading and all aircraft began a return to base. During the return flight and join-ups, “Sandy 08” was unaccounted for. “Sandy 05” was encountering engine difficulties at the same time. Wreckage of “Sandy 08” was discovered in the recovery area by unknown aircraft. Additional SAR effort was impossible by “Jolly Green 36” because of fuel state (750 lbs); recovery at base was made at 0405Z.
Weather generally was good throughout the mission. Cloud conditions in the pick-up area were 3500 AGL broken and visibility 10 miles. Radio discipline was good except by the fighter aircraft flying high cover. Unnecessary radio chatter on UHF on the scene was excessive. Numerous white parachutes in trees in the area of the downed pilots caused difficulty in pin-pointing the downed pilot’s location. It is impossible to differentiate between a personnel chute and a flare chute from the air. Since the size cannot be determined when the chutes are hanging from the limbs of a tree.
Unfortunately the names of the persons in the two photos is unknown. The location is near the DET.5 Operations building at Udorn AB. Both photos and the report were copied from a page which originated from the AF Museum archive collection, researched by Robert LaPointe (files on CD)
05.05.06 Rescue Mission - 20 Oct 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-118-20Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR Objective: pilot F-104C
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.07 Rescue Mission - 23 Oct 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Database website “Thai Air Accidents”by Steve Darke (steve.darke@pswltd.com)
Rescue Mission number 2-3-119-23Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS
SAR objective : crew USAF T-28D 49-1582 606 ACS - both deceased - crashed near Nakhon Phanom AB
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not avaialble
05.05.08 Rescue Mission - 25 Oct 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-120-25Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Maj. Patrick H. Wood (P), 1stLt. David J. Feigert (CP), A2C Robert G. Cotter (HM), A1C Laverne W. Kellerman (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC A2C Michael L. Halvorson |
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SAR objective : 20 persons Evac C-47 |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.09 Rescue Mission - 26 Oct 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-121-26Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 36” saved 8 personnel Flown by RCC Crew names are known, but JRCC doc indicated NO PUBLICITY |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 52” Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : eight man ground party (classified/ CIV) , location Laos |
Narrative of Rescue Mission:
05.05.10 Rescue Mission - 27 Oct 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-122-27Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC unknown |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 60-0431 “Cobalt 2” Maj. Robert E. Kline - 421 TFS Korat |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (AFHRA): not available
From website Chris Hobson:
Later in the day a number of Korat Wing F-105s flew armed reconnaissance missions over the Steel Tiger area of southern Laos. A flight of aircraft found a North Vietnamese troop concentration near Muang Fangdeng, NVN and commenced an attack. Maj. Kline was just pulling out of his dive at about 2,500 feet when his aircraft (call sign Cobalt 2) was hit by automatic weapons fire. He turned north over the Bolovens Plateau and ejected when he was about 10 miles from his target. He was seen to eject by an O-1 pilot who reported his position. As it was getting dark and the USAF SAR helicopters had no night capability at that time it was decided to send in a Bright Light team from Dak To. An Army UH-1D from the 155th Aviation Helicopter Company flew the team in to rescue Maj. Kline and refuelled on the return journey from pre-placed fuel drums at a site deep inside enemy territory.
Unfortunately, Maj. Kline was lost on a mission over North Vietnam on 2 November 1966 (see chapter 05.05.12).
05.05.11 Rescue Mission - 29 Oct 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number DET 5-38-42-29Oct66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-43B Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : MedEvac two persons |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.12 Rescue Mission - 02 Nov 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-123-2Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 54” Low bird Flown by RCC 1Lt Arlyn E. Webster (P), William C. Dean (CP), Gary R. Meyer (HM), SSgt. Aaron D. Farrior (PJ) |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 53” High bird Flown by RCC A2C Michael L. Halvorson (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 62-4379 “Cobalt 4” Capt. Robert F. Loken - 421 TFS Korat |
Narrative of Rescue Mission:
At approximately 0145Z, “Jolly Green 54” and “53” were put on cockpit alert. An F-105 had been hit on a strafing pass along the Red River in NVN and was losing engine power. He punched out and “Jolly Green 54 (Low Bird) and “Jolly Green 53 (High Bird) were scrambled at 0150Z. The Jolly Greens were airborne within two minutes and entered the 1000 ft overcast heading North. After breaking out on top at 6500 ft, they were joined by “Sandy 3” and “4”. “Sandy 1” and “2” had proceeded to the site of the downed pilot (35 NM NE of Lima Site 36) and were in voice contact with him. “Sandy 1” went down through the overcast and within ten minutes had located the downed pilot on the ride of a hill about 100 yds upslope from a small village. The villagers helped the slightly bruised and shaken pilot down the hill to a feasible pickup site. On arriving at the scene at 0215Z the Jolly Greens orbited for approximately five minutes until “Sandy 1” directed an approach. “Jolly Green 54” dived through a break in the overcast and left “53” to orbit above. An immediate sighting was made of “Sandy 1” below the overcast at 4500 ft, 1000 ft above the ground. There was scattered ground fog in the valleys. “Sandy 1” directed “54” over the village and five minutes later “Jolly Green 54” had punched his tanks and was in a hover over the downed pilot. Radio contact was not established with the survivor because the over-helpful villagers had packed up all his survival gear to carry down the hill for him, however, an easy visual sighting was made. The pickup was made at approximately 3500 ft, MSL and 100 ft of hoist cable was let out. The pilot had no trouble mounting the tree penetrator and was reeled in with 95% torque and 2400 lbs of fuel on board. Because of no communication with the downed pilot it could only be assumed that due to lack of ground fire from the villagers, they were friendly. Since the pilot was extracted without any overt actions on the part of these villagers, this assumption proved correct. “Jolly Green 54” exited the area and joined above the overcast with “Jolly Green 53”, Sandy’s 2,3,and 4 and proceeded home. The Sandy’s did their usual outstanding job in all areas of the mission and greatly enhanced the speed of the rescue. No ground fire or flak was encountered.
05.05.13 Rescue Mission - 02 Nov 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: website vietnamairlosses.com , by Chris Hobson and David Lovelady - database
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-124-2Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 60-0469 “Cobalt 2” Maj. Robert E. Kline - 421 TFS Korat |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (AFHRA): not available
From website Chris Hobson:
A flight of four F-105s on an armed reconnaissance mission ran into trouble about 30 miles northwest of Yen Bai. The aircraft were attacking trains and bridges on the northwest railway line along which supplies were brought into North Vietnam from China. Maj. Kline (call sign Cobalt 2) was strafing a train when his aircraft crashed either as a result of ground fire or by flying into the ground. Robert Kline had survived being shot down only a week earlier when his aircraft was hit during a mission over Laos on 27 November. Unfortunately on this occasion his luck deserted him. (see chapter 05.05.10)
Moments later Capt Loken’s aircraft (call sign Cobalt 4) was hit by ground fire as he was strafing a railway bridge at Khe Se, 25 miles northwest of Yen Bai. The pilot flew his badly damaged aircraft across North Vietnam and into Laos but was forced to eject 25 miles west of Sam Neua where he was rescued by a USAF HH-3E (Jolly Green 53) from Udorn operating from a forward site at LS 98. (See chapter 05.05.12, here above)
05.05.14 Rescue Mission - 04 Nov 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-125-4Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 52” Flown by RCC Capt. James R. Lisco (P), Douglas L. May (CP), Roger L. Graham (HM), SSgt. George E. Hunt (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 62-4366 Capt. Dean A. Elmer - 469 TFS Korat |
Narrative of Rescue Mission:
At 1455L “Jolly Green 52” was scrambled. Airborne at 1500L it was advised that an F-105 pilot was leaving his aircraft in an area west of Dong Hoi (32NM E of Nakhon Phanom). Accompanied by four Sandy aircraft (A-1E), “Jolly Green 52” was in orbit at 5000 ft at 1530L. “Sandy 5” located the downed pilot, experienced no ground fire and escorted “Jolly Green 52” into the area. Tip tanks were dropped and transfer of fuel overboard began at 4000 ft and continued throughout the pickup and climbout. “Jolly Green 52” passed over the downed pilot at approximately fifty feet and the decision was made to land the helicopter next to the survivor. The landing was accomplished in a confined area, thirty to forty ft trees within twenty five feet of the helicopter. The PJ left the aircraft to retrieve the survivor who was about twenty feet from the helicopter and making no effort to come aboard. The survivor was placed aboard the helicopter at 1537L and “Jolly Green 52” departed the area. The recovered pilot appeared to have a broken arm (later confirmed) and was suffering from shock. “Jolly Green 52” landed at home station at 1605L and the pilot was transferred to a base ambulance. Weather enroute and at the pickup site was 5000 feet scattered, visibility 15 miles. No radio communications were established with the downed pilot. Much of the success of the mission must be attributed to “Sandy 5” for locating the downed pilot and leading “Jolly Green 52” in for the pickup.
05.05.15 Rescue Mission - 06 Nov 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-126-6Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Non-Combat Mission Flown by RCC Capt. James A. Hartwig (P), Lavender (CP), Cotter (HM), Bowers (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : crew of USAF U-6A Capt. James G. Fletcher, and Maj. Richard C. Wright 55 NM NE of Udorn AB |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.16 Rescue Mission - 06 Nov 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-127-6Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR Objective: pilot F-105
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.17 Rescue Mission - 07 Nov 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Database website “Thai Air Accidents”by Steve Darke (steve.darke@pswltd.com)
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Rescue Mission number DET.5-38-43-7Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-43B Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : USAF T-28 146244 606 ACS crashed at Udorn AB, pilot killed |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.18 Rescue Mission - 11 Nov 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-129-11Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR Objective: pilot F-8E
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.19 Rescue Mission - 15 Nov 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-130-15Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14229 “Jolly Green 52” Low bird made forced landing, needed repair Flown by RCC unknown evacuated by UH-1F |
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HH-3E 64-14233 “Jolly Green 56” High bird Flown by RCC 1Lt Arlyn E. Webster (P), 1st Lt. William C. Dean (CP), Gary R. Myers (HM), SSgt. Aaron D. Farrior (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot A-1E 52-132454 Capt. Guy E. Fowler - 602 ACS |
Narrative of Rescue Mission:
At 0140Z the Jolly Greens were scrambled by “Compress”. The location given for the downed A-1E pilot was an area near the DMZ (43NM SW of Dong Hoi, Laos). “Jolly Green 52” (Low Bird) and “56” (High Bird) were airborne shortly and proceeding toward the area. “Sandy 5” and “6” went direct to the downed pilot and “7” and “8” escorted the Jolly Greens. The weather enroute was approximately 8000 feet broken to overcast, clear below, with visibility 30 miles plus. After traveling 25 miles “Jolly Green 52” experienced a complete loss of transmission oil pressure and made an immediate forced landing from 5000 feet. “Jolly Green 56” followed “52” to the ground, determined that a safe landing was made, and began orbit to search for friendly ground troops. Since the cover ships orbiting the downed A-1E pilot’s position were experiencing heavy ground fire and a swift pickup was imperative, it was necessary that loiter time around “Jolly Green 52” be held to a bare minimum. Since to proceed on the original mission would mean going single ship through known AAA areas, into a area of intense ground fire, the RCC of Jolly Green advised his crew of the situation. Though being fully aware of the hazards of the mission each crewmember volunteered to attempt the pickup.
A head wind of twenty plus knots delayed the arrival considerably. While proceeding on course at 6500 MSL, two areas of moderate 37MM flak was encountered, evasive action was taken, and no damage to the aircraft was sustained. “Sandy 7” and “Jolly Green 56” arrived on scene at 0235Z. By this time the A-1Es had located the downed pilot and were ringing the area with their ordnance to prevent the enemy from closing in.
They were experiencing extremely heavy ground fire from automatic weapons. “Sandy 7”, with “Jolly Green 56” in tail, made an immediate descent below the 3300 ft broken cloud deck and made straight for the downed pilot’s position. On this initial approach heavy ground fire was encountered and Jolly Green had to break off while the A-1Es laid a smoke screen to the SW of the position, the area of heaviest fire. Another approach was made, tip tanks punched and voice contact made with the downed pilot. The pilot talked the Jolly Green into a hover over his position and while he mounted the tree penetrator, the PJ fired at automatic weapons flashes through the smoke screen. The survivor had been on a small hill over looking the river for a few kilometers.
He greatly aided his recovery by climbing up the top of the hill. This expedited the time required to hover and in my estimation, the survivor’s knowledge of rescue equipment, was instrumental in the success of the recovery without further loss or battle damage. Light flak was encountered on exit but was inaccurate and posed no threat to the returning SAR force. “Jolly Green 56” with the exhausted survivor on board landed at home at 0330Z.
NOTE: Concerning “Jolly Green 52” which lost transmission oil pressure and made forced landing - Parts were dispatched and maintenance was performed in the field. On return, severe transmission problems developed after short flight and “Jolly Green 52” again was forced to land. Crew was evacuated by UH-1F helicopter and friendly forces were supplied to protect the downed Jolly Green helicopter until repairs could be made.
05.05.20 Rescue Mission - 17 Nov 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-131-17Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 56” Low bird Flown by RCC 1Lt Arlyn E. Webster (P), 1st Lt. William C. Dean (CP), Gary R. Myers (HM), SSgt. Aaron D. Farrior (PJ) |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 36” High bird Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : 3 personnel (classified F/MIL) from Laos |
Narrative of Rescue Mission:
“Jolly Green 56” (Low Bird) and “Jolly Green 36” (High Bird) were scrambled at 0755Z. Some indigenous personnel involved in a mission were seen by an O-1E waving a distress panel. “Jolly Green 56” and “36” were off shortly and proceeded to the area, at 7000 feet. The weather enroute was approximately 9000 feet overcast, clear below, with visibility 30 miles plus. “Sandy 5” and “6” proceeded direct to a rendevous with the O-1E and “Sandy 7” and “8” escorted the Jolly Greens. While enroute it was determined that an observer on board the spotting O-1E had made a positive visual identification of the five people on the ground. Because of the positive indentification from the “Nail” flight, a direct entry was made into the area. “Sandy 5” led “Jolly Green 56” over the waving personnel, tip tanks were punched and a hover was entered. The people on the ground were lacking in tree penetrator operation knowledge so the PJ was lowered to the ground to assist them. The surrounding jungle was extremely thick and ground fire was expected at any time but never came. Three of the people were lifted aboard and the other two indicated reluctance to ride by disappearing into the jungle. The pickup was accomplished at 0858Z and “Jolly Green 56” departed the area, met “Jolly Green 36” above the 5000 foot deck and proceeded to home base. The Sandies provided their usual excellent cover and the whole mission ran smoothly.
05.05.21 Rescue Mission - 19 Nov 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-132-19Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR objective : crew US Army OV-1
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.22 Rescue Mission - 22 Nov 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-133-22Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 36” Low bird Flown by RCC Capt. James A. Hartwig (P), William W. Gunnin CP), John W. Whisenhunt (HM), Robert D. Bowers (PJ) |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 53” High bird Flown by RCC A2C William D. Brotton (PJ) |
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SAR objective : MedEvac 15 classified F/MIL Laos |
Narrative of Rescue Mission:
While standing strip alert on 22 November, word was received from “Compress” at 0330Z that a mission was to be performed that afternoon by the Jolly Greens and Sandies and that a briefing would be given about 0800Z. The briefing included the following information.
A 15 man team located in a certain area were reported to have been surrounded by unfriendly forces. The Briefer had detailed maps and pictures of the area. “Jolly Green 36” and “53” , “Sandy 5” , “6”, “7” and “8” departed home base at 0835Z. “Sandy 5” and “6” proceeded directly to the area to try and locate the ground party while “Sandy 7” and “8” escorted the Jolly Green’s. “Sandy 5” and “6” arrived in the search area at 0915Z and located the signal panel almost immediately. “Jolly Green 36” and “53”, Sandy 7” and “8” arrived at 0925Z. “Sandy 5” reported that he had made several low passes over the area and had not received any ground fire nor had he spotted the friendly ground party. “Jolly Green 36” descended into the area and made a thorough low recon. The party was finally sighted at this time. The ground party had cleared an area on top of a small hill that was slightly larger than the helicopter, so it was decided that “Jolly Green 36” would attempt a landing. As soon as “36” landed the people started to get aboard, however, it took 5 minutes to get all of them aboard because some of them were down the steep hill and had to climb to the landing site.
At 0935Z all forces departed the area. “Jolly Green 36” and “53”, “Sandy 7” and “8” returned to home base landing at 1030Z. The weather during the entire mission was clear with 10 miles visibility. The coordination between all forces was excellent. As a result the mission was quickly and successfully accomplished.
05.05.23 Accident - 29 Nov 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: file K318-2-Hist-ARRS67-1-Vol1-Jul-Dec66, IRIS491722, page44-45 - in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Flight 29Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E 64-14231 “Jolly Green 54” Flown by RCC |
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Narrative of Flight (in short):
At 1805L, 29Nov66, HH-3E 64-14231 crashed during the approach phase to a night landing at a classified site (Lima Site). While moving forward at approximately five knots ground speed, at four feet above the ground, the helicopter touched down on the left mail wheel, in a dust cloud raised by rotorwash, and veered to the left. After corrective action was applied the aircraft rolled to the right, came to rest on the right side, and began to burn. The fire destroyed the aircraft. Four aircrew members aboard the HH-3E escaped with only minor injuries.
05.05.24 Rescue Mission - 29 Nov 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-134-29Nov66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR Objective: pilot A-1
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.25 Rescue Mission - 04 Dec 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-135-4Dec66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR Objective: crew RF-4C
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.26 Rescue Mission - 05 Dec 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-136-5Dec66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR Objective: pilot RF-101C
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.27 Rescue Mission - 06 Dec 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 254 thru 257, and 425
Source 3: website vietnamairlosses.com , by Chris Hobson and David Lovelady - database
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-137-6Dec66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 53” Low bird saved the RF-4C crew Flown by RCC Capt. William H. Lloyd (P), Capt. Gilbert W. Hester (CP), SSgt. Robert S. Riley (HM), A2C Robert D. Bowers (PJ) |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 05” High bird Flown by RCC Capt. Kenneth Murphy (P), 1stLt. Douglas May (CP), SSgt. Jack Pickelsimer (HM) , A2C Franklin D. Stevson (PJ) |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green ??” saved PJ’s Stevson and Bowers Flown by RCC Capt. John D. Firse (P), Shows (CP), Johnson (HM), SSgt. George E. Hunt (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : crew RF-4C 65-0819 “Nelson 1” Maj. Theodore W. Dyke, and Capt. William R. Fannemel - 11 TRS, 432 TFW Udorn |
Narrative of Rescue Mission:
An RF-4C was hit by automatic weapons fire, five miles east of Dien Bien Phu (NVN). Pilot Major Dyke turned the aircraft around and just made it back across the border into Laos before he and his backseater were forced to eject. Four Sandy aircraft and two Jolly Green helicopters (from Lima Site 36) were diverted to the scene. Sandy A-1E’s picked up beeper signals and then established voice contact with both pilots. Condition of the first survivor was reported good, but the second one had bad leg and back injuries. “Jolly Green 53” moved into position and hoisted the first pilot aboard using the forest penetrator. The pararescueman (PJ) had to be lowered with litter to aid the injured pilot. As the litter containing the survivor was being raised the HH-3E received battle damage from ground fire and had to withdraw due to the loss of oil pressure, leaving the PJ on the ground. “Jolly Green 05” moved in to recover the PJ but could not locate him visually or by radio so elected to lower his PJ to search for the one from “Jolly Green 53”. After about five minutes hovering "Jolly Green 05” observed a fire light on number one engine and was forced to pull off the hover to gain airspeed. Crew prepared for forced landing, however, aircraft remained flyable on one engine and a landing was made at a site for emergency repairs. Enroute “Jolly Green 05” received several hits from groundfire. Both pararescuemen left on the ground evaded for almost two hours. Although they heard many shots and much activity in the immediate area, they never saw or heard each other (they were less than 20 yards from each other and totally unaware of each other) until another Jolly Green arrived and recovered them.
From an unknown Newspaper:
SAIGON - Two Air Force paramedics braved heavy enemy gun fire near the North Vietnam village of Dien Bien Phu Dec. 6. They descended from “Jolly Green Giant” helicopters in connection with the dramatic rescue of two RF-4C Phantom pilots. One reconnaissance pilot, the aircraft commander, had been quickly recovered but the back seat pilot was injured and required assistance.
Paramedic A2C Robert D. Bowers descended from the first Jolly Green with a litter. The medic secured the pilot for hoist, but was left aground when enemy gunfire raked and disabled his hovering chopper. The chopper hoisted the injured pilot aboard and withdrew from the area. “I tried to get into the litter with the pilot but decided I couldn’t hold on”. Airman Bowers said he heard automatic fire from a nearby hill after the chopper left. He moved away from the area and hid in the brush. “Everything was quiet for about 15 minutes. Then I heard whistling back and forth. There was movement in the bushes. I covered myself up with leaves and just waited”.
Airman Bowers was unaware that a pararescue man had later dropped from another Jolly Green to search for him. He was A2C Franklin D. Stevson. “I dropped about 20 yards away from where Airman Bowers had been lowered. As soon as I sent the penetrator back up to the helicopter, the ridge I was facing, seemed to open up with small arms fire. My Jolly Green was forced to take off ”, Airman Stevson said.
Airman Stevson lay face down until the ground fire subsided. Each time he arose to seek Airman Bowers, the gunfire opened up from the opposite ridge. “I made contact with the “Sandy” aircraft (A-1E Skyraiders) circling above and directed him to drop ordnance near the heavy gunfire”.
The Sandys, Maj. Everett L. Thomas Jr., Capt. John P. Tillander, and Capt. William D. Fuchlow made passes on the weapons site and stilled the gunfire.
Another Jolly Green, the third helicopter to enter the rescue operation, came in and spotted Airmen Stevson and Bowers. Airman Bowers was rescued first and a minute later Airman Stevson was hoisted to the chopper. Airman Bowers had been down for two hours, Airman Stevson an hour-and-a-half. The paramedics agreed that the whistles they heard were from enemy troops combing the jungle.
05.05.28 Rescue Mission - 11 Dec 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
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Rescue Mission number 5-38-44-11Dec66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-43B Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : MedEvac 3 persons |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.29 Rescue Mission - 13 Dec 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-138-13Dec66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR Objective: pilot F-105
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.30 Rescue Mission - 14 Dec 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-139-14Dec66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 36” Low bird saved F-105D pilot in NVN Flown by RCC Capt. James A. Hartwig (P), Johnnie H. Hall (CP), John W. Whisenhunt (HM), A2C Franklin D. Stevson (PJ) |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 55” High bird Flown by RCC Capt. Oliver E. O’Mara (P), 1stLt. Donald R. Harris (CP), SSgt. Jack Pickelsimer (HM), Sgt. Malcolm C. Hassler (PJ) |
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SAR objective : pilot F-105D 60-0502 Capt. Robert S. Cooley - 357 TFS Takhli |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: Rescue Mission 2-3-140 (here below) evolved from 2-3-139
05.05.31 Rescue Mission - 14 Dec 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
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Rescue Mission number 2-3-140-14Dec66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E “Jolly Green 55” saved 2 crewmembers A-26K in Laos Flown by RCC Capt. Oliver E. O’Mara (P), 1stLt. Donald R. Harris (CP), SSgt. Jack Pickelsimer (HM), Sgt. Malcolm C. Hassler (PJ) |
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SAR objective : 3 crewmembers A-26K 64-17672 L/C Albert R. Howarth, 1Lt. Jackie D. Bell - 603 ACS, 1 ACW |
Narrative of Rescue Mission:
Mission Det.2-3-139 (140) - 14Dec66
Orbiting HC-130H “Crown 2” reported that an F-105 had been shot down 43NM WSW of Hanoi and the wingman reported a good chute and beeper. Two Jolly Greens and four Sandys were launched and MIG CAP was provided the SAR Task Force. On arriving in the area the Sandys established voice contact with the pilot. At 1743 local “Jolly Green 36” recovered the downed airman using the hoist forest penetrator. Surprisingly, no ground fire was experienced; however, both helicopters were fired upon at three different points enroute to recovery base.
As the SARTF was in the process of returning to base from the above mission, “Compress” Control advised that an A-26 with three crewmembers aboard crashed SW of Dong Hoi. At 1927 local, “Jolly Green 55” was instructed to overfly his recovery base and proceed to the crash scene. “Crown 2” reported voice contact with one crewmember, beeper contact with the second and nothing with the third ; however, three people were observed firing flares in the vicinity. At 2009 local time with the aid of a flare ship, “Jolly Green 55” rescued the pilot of the A-26 after considerable difficulty. The delays encountered and difficulties experienced were apparently caused by the fact that the A-26 crew expended all of their flares prior to the arrival of the helicopter. No flares to fire coupled with the darkness made visual acquisition of the survivors difficult. The second crew member was finally located and recovered by “Jolly Green 55” at 2059L ; “Jolly Green 55” was then forced to retire from the area due to low fuel state. A UH-1F helicopter made the third pickup at 2116L. No hostile fire was encountered although unfriendlies were in close proximity. This is believed to be one of the first night combat rescues in Southeast Asia.
05.05.32 Rescue Mission - 18 Dec 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: *) Database website “Thai Air Accidents”by Steve Darke (steve.darke@pswltd.com)
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Rescue Mission number 5-38-45-18Dec66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-43B Flown by RCC |
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SAR objective : *) crew of F-105F 63-8354 which crashed 12.5 miles Southeast of Udorn AB following engine failure - 2 ejected |
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.05.33 Rescue Mission - 20 Dec 1966
Source 1: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Source 2: Book LaPointe, Robert L. (SMSgt USAF, Ret.) “PJ’s in Vietnam”, Northern PJ Press (2000), page 425
NOTE: Mission Det.1-3ARRG-94-20Dec66 issued by RCC DaNang (but the crew was from DET.5)
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Rescue Mission number 1-3-94-20Dec66 DET.5, 38 ARRS |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC Maj. Adrian D. Youngblood (P), John E. Halligan (CP), William T. Lowe (HM), William Flower (PJ) |
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HH-3E Flown by RCC John C. Jeffers (PJ) |
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SAR objective : crew US Army OV-1 pilot Joseph L. Kulmayer |
Narrative of Rescue Mission (in short):
SAR Objective: Two crewmembers of a US Army OV-1 aircraft which crashed near the DMZ. Two HH-3E helicopters were launched along with Rescort A-1Es. Communication with the downed pilot was made through his survival radio (RT-10); the pilot fired a smoke flare as a signalling device and a hoist recovery was made by Jolly Greens using the forest penetrator thirty minutes after launch. The rescued pilot reported that after he ejected, he observed the aircraft going down into the ground. He reported that he saw no chute and did not think the other crewmember had a chance to get out of the aircraft. After a search of the immediate area around the crash site, the SAR mission was suspended because no additional sightings or leads were discovered. Survivor was flown to Dong Ha medical facility.
05.05.34 Rescue Mission - 25 Dec 1966
Source: file K318-2-Hist-3ARRG-Vol.2-Oct-Dec66-IRIS0491723, in USAF Collection, AFHRA
Rescue Mission number 2-3-141-25Dec66 DET.5, 38 ARRS - SAR Objective: 2 persons
Narrative of Rescue Mission: not available
05.06 End-of-Tour Report by Captain Owen A. Heeter
Source: File AFHRA K318-2131-End-of-Tour-K3265(R)-IRIS00492009
Report by : Captain Owen A. Heeter - Det.5 HH-43 Aircrew Standardizations Officer Sep66-Aug67
Facilities were the biggest headache for the LBR. Until the end of Jan 67, the LBR was one flight of four (the other three being HH-3E’s) in Det.5, 38 ARRSq. Facilities were shared with the Jolly Greens until the LBR moved into its own facilities in Apr 67. The new facilities were completely revamped, inside and out, by a self-help project. A new concrete pad for both helicopters was constructed. No hangar facilities were available and three hootches were used for maintenance and supply storage. Our problems encountered with inadequate facilities were, I presume, no more than any other detachment in SEA.
The only operational problem encountered was the lack of defining the area of responsibility for in-country (Thailand) SAR mission for the HH-43B’s and HH-3E’s co-located at Udorn. On one occasion, an HH-3 scrambled on a F-105 bail-out 15 miles from base while the HH-43 was already airborne for the same emergency (see chapter 05.05.32 - 18Dec66). The Udorn RCC had scrambled the HH-3. Another time, an HH-3 was scrambled on a bail-out while it was performing a FCF in the local area and the HH-43 was enroute to the bail-out area. Coordination with the Jolly Green operations and the Udorn RCC resulted in a temporary understanding, however nothing in writing ever came out of this. This lack of definitive guide lines caused a lot of misunderstanding and hard feelings. Established areas of SAR responsibility would have alleviated this situation.