My father served two tours in Vietnam as a CH-47 “Chinook” helicopter pilot. During his tour, he took a series of pictures that I recently uncovered from his 35mm slide deck dated 1967. These pictures show a unique look into the life within the borders of a CH-47 helicopter unit flight line.
From a unit history posted online:
“(C Company, 159th Aviation Regiment) was re-designated as the 196th Assault Support Helicopter Company (ASHC) on 4 May 1966. The company was activated as a CH-47A unit on 3 July 1966 at Fort Sill, Oklahoma under the command of Major James E. Martin who established the company’s motto of “We Haul It All” and the call sign of “Flipper”. After a short training period, the 196th Aviation Company deployed to Camp Lane in the Republic of South Vietnam in January 1967. Providing combat medium helicopter airlift throughout the country, the 196th ASHC received numerous awards and honors for it’s multi-faceted air support and earned it’s reputation as professionals.”
BILL FEINBERG says
BILL
OOPS I FORGOT THAT WAS 1969-1970
BILL FEINBERG says
BILL
WAS WITH THE 196TH THE END OF DEC. TO MID NOV. I WAS THE ENGINE SHOP LEAD WORKING THOSE T55-L11. I WAS GOOD THANKS TO THE CE OF THEIR SHIPS.
WELCOME HOME ALL.
Dennis Faivre says
Bob
I was there in 67 thru Jan of 68. I starter as crew chief in 84 with Mike Hanes, I’m sure there was a 86. I fhink 86 was shot down killing Sanchez, Chris Christon was FE and Captain Haze roller the a/c to his side saving most of the crew. After that a/c was lost , the flight crews were so short handed and I was FE on so many flippers around that time I lost track. I know I flew 90 days straight,
Doug says
My name is Doug Jacoson arrived Camp Lane Feb 68. Worked avionics two weeks or so sent to Kontum to the 52 Security detachement. Came back about June. Worked avionics then shortly began flying
as a door gunner while still wking avionics flying as often as I could. Left country February 69 just wanted to say hello.
Bud Schoenleben says
I was the motor Sargent at the 196th July 69 – July 70.
Jack Fesler says
Hello to 196th. My name is Jack Fesler, I was in the 196th from 28 Nov 68 till 28 Nov 69. I was over the 68g20 sheet metal department. I remember when the chopper crashed. the only two I remember were Singleton & Price. I remember also Paul Gunan when he went to i believe the 134th and got shot down. I remember major Stone, Sgt Thornberg, James Bartee, Tim Statts ( we called him gunner Statts) We also had two civilians who worked with us, Don Ortago< and Ed Carathers. Some of this is just coming back to me. The people we were replacing was a Hooper, Ansun. I can remember a Gary Housekeeper also. When I left I can remember there was a Warzoka, and last name Curry. Sorry I can't remember some of the first names. I think I still have a round unit patch, if I can remember correctly it has some blue in it. I would enjoy hearing from anyone from that time frame. My son has all my pictures of the helicopters and i need to go through them again. God Bless all of you Military Brothers and Sisters. Thank you Jack
Joe Riley (ex-CW2, Flipper 3A) says
I remember flying ‘086 for the 196th ASHC in 1968 but couldn’t confirm it on the Chinook Tail Numbers website – I looked at the ‘086 at the War Museum in Saigon – I don’t think that’s the same one – the side windows are ‘bubble style’ not like any of the A’s and B’s we flew at Lane – I’m not sure I ever did see any of the window forms in ‘Nam in 1968. do you remember the whole tail number from the 196th? Joe
Bob Schwein says
On the NPR News night before last 5/21 there was a piece on a military museum in Hanoi. There was a quick shot of a hook w/ tail No. 086. I think it was one of ours but I’m not sure – as I recall we had 086 at Lane AAF. Anybody know for sure? Bob (1976-77)
Joe Riley (ex-CW2, Flipper 3A) says
I was there from Jan’68 – Jan ’69, flew with CW4 Cary (got a haircut from too!) – I flew out of country missions to resupply USAF radar sites in
Thailand out of Ubon/Udorn. I also flew with CW# ‘Doc’ Livingston, we rolled on down a hill at LZ English in May, ’68 – come up and see us sometime if you’re ever around Yosemite in CA. Joe Riley (now) Innkeeper @ The Cub Inn B&B Groveland, CA
Joe Oswald says
I was FE SP-6 on 083 from May 1997 to September 1968 was on allot of special missions out of VN would like to hear from others who where in AnSon, like CW4 Cary and Maj. McNamee SP6 Schang and SP6 Weir.
CW4 Joe Oswald
USAR Ret.
ch47pic@Comcast.net
Mike Stone says
I was in 196th from 12/1969 through 11/1970. I am in contact with Bill Feinberg and one other buddy who were there during the same time period. We would like to contact Al O’Keefe SP/5 Sheetmetal comment #57 who we remember well!
Joe Riley says
To William Thompson:
from Joe Riley
Bill, can you send me pics of Lane AAF and any others – I was a Hook Driver Jan 68-Jan 69. Flew my butt off during/after TET- NO PILOTS. I’m near Yosemite, @www.thecubinn.com, email thecubinn@mlode.com
We retired up here 9 years ago and have a little B&B. Are you a member of VHPA? The reunion is in Reno NV this year. We’d love to meet you there. Joe Riley CW2 RVN 1968
William C Thompson says
My Name is William Thompson, and I was a very young WO1 who was flying with Bob Kormilink on my initial check out when he was wounded just 7 miles east of the heliport on a night tactical emergency mission. I am going to be at Lane Field tomorrow 18 March 2016 on a tour of Vietnam and I will do my best to take photos of whatever is left. I also have original photos of the aircraft Price and Willis were test flying when it crashed if anyone is interested.
Jerome Thomas says
I was a flight engineer with the 196th in 70
Blanchard Curry says
I was a maintaince supervisor at 610/196 Dec 68 to Dec 69. Some of the names on this site ring a bell but cannot put a face to them. Brings back a lot of memories.
Keith Andrews says
Thank you for checking in. Due to the structure and audience of the blog I can not maintain a series of photos. A good option is for several of you to set up a Facebook group of Lane AAF members and post photos there. If this is the case let me know and I can place a prominent note to encourage others to join. Thank you again for checking in!
Bob Schwein says
I dug out all my old 35mm slides from 1966-67 at Lane AAF. I digitized them. How can I post them on any of the sites like this one?? Bob
Joe Riley says
I was a pilot in the 196th, jan 68-jan 69, we probably flew together. ‘Doc’ Livingston and I ‘dropped’ one at LZ English on May 19, 1968. Remember that one?
Daniel campbell says
I was with the 196th in nam 67 and 68 as a flight engineer on the ch47 totally a great chopper.
James Hood says
I am one of three from the 196th A.S.H.C. that was sent to Ft. Bragg, NC with the company from Da Nang.
Sam Holleman says
I’m proud to have served with the 196th ASHC as a pilot, 1LT/CPT, from Feb 1969 to Feb 1970. There wasn’t a better unit or finer group of men.
Monty Febuary says
I was the maintenance officer from aug 69 to aug 70, under Maj “Z”
James Hilliard says
My Dad Parker (DOC) Hilliard was the 5th soldier to show up at Ft.Sill Oklahoma and there were no aircraft so they sent him to Ft. Eusties Va. For T school. Would like to find some of his old friends to give him a shout. He now residues in Hayes Va which is right at Gloucester Pt. Va..
Bob Schwein says
Some other names I remember – any contact from them? Don Cothran, Linville, George Burry, (crane driver) Jupin, ….
Bob Schwein says
To John Brewer #63: I think you meant Ft. Sill, not Fort Seal. You & I must have landed there at the same time. I think I drove there with my wife from Ft. Eustis, VA. We stayed off base in Lawton, OK. Did you go to Alameda with the aircraft too? Bob Schwein
George Stankiewicz says
Got in country October 1968 with the 243rd then infused into the 196th later that year. I was a crew chief then a FE on 660055. The chinook that fliped over on our ramp hit my ships aft main rotor blade and then broke apart. We were working around the clock and this accident happened late at night. This was during the Tet Offensive. We had to change out all our rotating components for new ones because the hit by the other Chinook was considered a sudden stopage. I ETS back to Fort Hood in Texas in October 1969 and ETS out of the Army in June 1969 as a SP-5. The only person I still know from my unit is my roomate Dan Alberts who found me on Facebook. I hope to see him next year when I travel. My tour over there was one of the best times of my life.
Joey Pace says
I served with the 196th from Dec 1968 to Dec 1969. The Col.Vandervort then Major Stone era. The Chinook crash a few hundred yards from the flight line that killed all on board is still fresh in my memory. The people I still remember are : David Woy, James Cater, and Ronnie Grey.
Dan Alberts says
HI all, I was infused to the 196th, along with many others from the 243rd in December 1967. I ‘took over’ Flipper 660093, which I recall was crewed by John Steen when he left in January 1968. After reading the comments from others, my memory did recall several names. Joe Riley, I know that we flew numerous missions on 093. I DEROS’ in early October of 1968, and was stationed at Ft. Riley Kansas until I ETS’ ON June 2nd 1969. I never set foot back in a Chinook after I left Lane, do to the fact I was assigned to a signal company at Ft. Riley. Email address: danalberts@hotmail.com
Jim Gavin says
Hi Bob;
Here’s my email address: jim_gavin@hotmail.com That room with the door is where I thought you lived. There was another guy down that way who was into weight lifting and made a barbell out of a piece of wood and concrete for the weights. Can’t think of his name. I have to admit that at this late date I’ve forgotten about 90% of the names and faces of the guys I worked and lived with.. I wish I had taken more pictures and kept a diary, but who thinks of doing that when you’re 19 or 20.
Jim
Bob Schwein says
Jim Gavin: Please send me your email address so I can contact you with some history of 196/610
Bob Schwein
Bob Schwein says
To Jim Gavin #85. I did my share of cutting off bad safety wire jobs as a TI; however, my bunk was near the center of the barracks, east side. As I recall the northeast corner was occupied by Joe Pogue. He actually had a door on his room! He was a lifer who came from duty in Germany along with Carl Duff. Both were TI’s on Choctaws & Chickasaws. They were my mentors as I trained for TI from Flt. Engr. in 1967. Major McCall put me up for E5 & cut me orders for TI at about the same time. I do remember you. Hope you remember some of the engine shop beer parties w/ McCall, Holtzclaw & Martin. Those really cemented our great team of flight crews & mechanics. I’ll try & send you a little history of the 196/610 if I can hook it to an email. Happy landings! Bob
Clarence Derasin says
Station at an son valley 196 aviation company,,,prop n rotor n door gunner
Ken Bording, CW5 (Ret) says
I was a CW2 Aviator with 196th Flipper at Lane Army Airfield on my second tour from April 68 – April 69. Great unit and great people!
nmohat says
Hi… I was with the 196th in 1970…Door gunner, then crew chief…Arrived in AnSon, then the company moved to Chu Lai, which was a pretty nasty place. Fortunately I was shipped to the 243rd
in Dong Ba Thin. Which as a vacation compared to the 196th. Does anyone remember when
Maj. Barton had the entire company in the front leaning rest at 2 a.m., because someone had fired
a gas grenade into the officers area!… With all of the lights on! Fortunately Chas wasn’t awake
that night!….Dong Ba Thin was 5 klicks from Camh Ranh Bay..Which was an in-country R & R center…I caught up on my surf time in the south china sea….. Getting shipped out of the 196th to the 243rd was the best thing that ever happened to me up till then!
Jim Gavin says
Bob Schwein, were you the Tech Inspector that lived in the last room of the maintenance hooch? I remember what that inspector looked like, but the name has been lost to me over the years. I was at Lane from Nov. 67 to June or July 69, I extended. If that was you, you cut the safety wire the first time I wired the aft filter. I’m sure I did a lousy job the first time, but I got pretty god at it with practice. I remember one night a bunch of us were drinking a bit, playing music, and hootin’ and hollorin’ and you came out and told us to knock it off, and we did. We all liked and respected you because you knew your job, and didn’t cut our safety wire jobs unless they needed to be cut.
Jim
Bob Schwein says
Dennis: John Steen was my best friend in VN. We both went from Rucker, Eustice , Sill and the Croaton to Lane. Sorry to hear he passed. Bob Schwein
Dennis Faivre says
does anyone know where Mike Hanes is? I started out as crew chief with mike. I kept in touch with John Steen and Frank Gulledge. Both have passed away. Bob I have lots of pic also if I can find them. Send me your email
Bob Schwein says
Dennis: Thanks for being in touch with the rest of the “hookers”. I’ve got a ton of slides from Camp Lane & beyond also. How can we get together & do something with them? Bob Schwein
Dennis Faivre says
I emailed keith kurr. Would like to hear back from him. Also I remember Charle Marshen, would like to hear from him
Keith says
Thank you very much for checking in and commenting. Unfortunately, the Word Press software will not allow uploading documents to the comments section. I enjoy providing you a place to connect with other veterans and will make every effort to maintain a secure place for you to connect. Please understand that this is a blog with blogging software, so sometimes the comments will be filtered and may take some time to post. This protects from spamming and I occasionally still have some slip through and will be monitoring it as well. Again, thank you for commenting and connecting. As I have time to post other photos or information on the main blog that you maybe interested in, I will post a link in the comment for you to see. Thank you again for your service!
Bob Schwein says
C:\Users\Bob\Documents\Chinook 4.docx
Can’t seem to attach this story: Chinook 4
I can email or mail it if anyone is interested:
707-884-1010
rlschwein@gmail.com
P.O. Box 383
Pt. Arena, CA 95468
Bob Schwein says
Hugh: Thanks for writing! C:\Users\Bob\Documents\Chinook 3.docx
C:\Users\Bob\Documents\Chinook 3.docx
Here is some history of the 196th/610th from day one. Hope this sends ok
Bob Schwein
rlschwein@gmail.com
Hugh D. Hill says
I was there November 1967 til December 1968. Started in maintenance, worked up to crew chief,then flight engineer,before I came back to the states.Was filling in as right gun, when we crashed at Bong Son (sprag clutch went out ). Made Spec 5 and was flight engineer on ” Flipper 086 ” before I left in December 1968. Anyone know what happened to 086 ? Please let me know.
Bob Schwein says
Keith & Jim:
Good to hear from you! I was a 196/610th – Flt. engr. & tech inspector on the CH47s. I don’t remember you or Jim Gavin by name but I’m sure we met!
I’ve just finished a short history of what I remember about forming up our company from Ft. Rucker onward. I’ll email it to you. I tried to write it in the comments reply to # 72 but it didn’t go through.
Keith Kerr says
I was sent to the 196 from the 179 in pleiku when the 196 got into country. I was trained by Dennis Faivre as crew chief.Would like to hear from him. My email add is kthkerr3@gmail.com
Charile Marshen says
Original member of the 196th FE on 660079
Joe Riley says
Bob, they don’t fwd email addresses, so get in touch thru our website:-: http://www.thecubinn.com. Talk with you soon. Joe Riley
Bob Schwein says
To Joe Riley – Thanks for responding to my post! I just finished another which might interest you but you didn’t leave me your contact info….I’ll try & find you through your Cub Inn. Regards, Bob
Bob Schwein says
Great to hear back from you Dennis
Joe Riley says
Bob, I was pilot in 196ASHC – Jan 68 to Jan 69. Knew Holtzclaw and Martin briefly, haven’t seen either at VHPA conventions. Did we ever fly together? I was a WO1 then, peter pilot, later Q/C, flipper 3A. Welcome home bro, glad you made it. I still fly my Aeronca Champ around the Sierras. Come see us sometime. Joe Riley, now Innkeeper at The Cub Inn
robert schwein says
1967-68 An Son. CH47A Tech Inspector, Flight Engineer
Like to locate CW2 Bobby Holtzclaw, Major Martin, CO, George Burry, Crane Driver, etc.
Bob Schwein
P.O. Box 383
Point Arena, CA 95468
707-884-1010
Dennis Faivre says
I was one of the crew that flew from Ft Sill to Calif, then on board a rusty tub to Camron Bay, to camp Lane. Hope everyone is well and having fun.
Dominick DeAnda says
I worked both night and day shift over the year I was there from Feb 69 to Feb 70
Dominick DeAnda says
Maintenance Feb 69 to Feb 70
John H. Brewer says
yep i was there with the 196th from the very first start at Fort Seal
Bill Taulli says
After being trained at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma in January, 1966 I left for Viet. Nam. When we arrived we were transported by truck to our new home for the next year.
Our 22 CH-47 “Chinooks” were on their way via aircraft carrier. In August, 1967 I was promoted to Sgt, and given my strips by Major James Martin. I was and I still am very proud of those strips.
I always say, “I wouldn’t take a million dollars for the experience I had in Viet Man, but I wouldn’t take nickel to do it again.
John H. Brewer says
I was the first man to report to Fort Seal in 1966 for the 196th Avn. Company
John Bucklew says
I was assigned to the 196th in July 1966 and later went to Vietnam in early 1967. Many memories, glad to home.
Donald Batten (Duck) says
I was with the 196 ashc from september 1970 to december 1970 at Chulia . That is when it derozed down and went to Fort Bragg.I was in the sheet metal shop 68g20 air frame repair shop.I remember some of the names that i worked with .moses ,wille , jim bragdon.I went to AIT at Fort Eustis Virgina with Jim Bragdon and both of us wound up in the 196ashc at Chulia.After that we went to Dong Ba Thin across the bay from Camron Bay. I went to the 183 seahorses bird dog company and he went to the 92 assault helicopter comany.
Harold Riggans says
Wasn’t with it in nam got assigned to it in Feb of 73-75. Majority of unit member were Viet vets,great bunch of guys flight crews and pilots. C.O’s majors Paxton and Townsend.
Joe Riley ex CW-2 says
To K. Howard: my loving wife made me a wonderful military awards case, as her family had done for her Father and Step-father. your Dad’s DD-214 has all his awards listed, same for your Grandad. You’ll really enjoy them. Joe
Al O'Keefe says
Served nov 69 to nov 70 sp5 sheet metal shop
Al O'Keefe says
Served Nov 69 to nov 70
Jerry Willis Coble says
Was there with 196th. Aug 69 thru Aug 70. Came home a few days before 196th ASHC was sent north to chu lia. Have look at the ROK viet nam vets website also. Would like to know what Lane field looks like now.
John H Brewwer says
I was the first man to report in at Fort Seal in 1966 and was the only man for two weeks
K. Howard says
I recently viewed a copy of my father’s DD214. He was in the 196th and served in Vietnam as well. According to the document he was there from 7/71-4/72. His name was Specialist William Curry. He passed away in 1996 and I have had his flag since that time. I keep it protected in a display case (along with my grandfather’s flag who was a WWII Veteran). I am currently trying to find all of their medals and ribbons so that I can add them to a larger display case. I too am an Army Veteran as well. I am glad I found this page. .
james hood says
glad to know that there is still some around from the 196th ASHC. I was with the 196th in 1970.
Joe Riley ex-CW2 says
Happy New Year everybody – we’re still “kickin”” up here in the Sierras – Joe Riley, Flipper 3A
Barry Messner says
My dad, Barry Messner, was in the 196th in ’67 &’68. He was a Spec 4 who worked on OH 13’s & OH 23’s. He is disabled with MS now but swears its from Agent Orange. I’d love to hear from anyone who remembers him.
John H. Brewer says
i was the first man to report to Fort Seal in 1966 for the 196th. Avn. and we all went to Vietnam together on C130’s and landed at the air strip in Quin hon Vietnam. I left in January of 1968 for Fort Bragg
Chaplain Andrews says
Thank you all for continuing to comment. I’ve just posted a story and photos by Mike (Dusty) Rose at this link: chaplainandrews.com/the-wreck
Jim Gavin says
Thank you, Joe, for the info about that little mishap on the ramp. I can’t remember the exact layout of Lane anymore, but the bunker I was at for guard duty that night was more or less on the southern perimeter. The bunker faced south on a little hill, and if I stood on the roof and turned around, I could see over the tops of any buildings in the way, and had a good view of the flight line. I always thought the forward blades hit the revetment, but you would know better than anybody what really happened. Like you said, it was dark, and and the rotor hubs hitting the PSP sent up a very impresive fireworks display, but I doubt if you saw that, because you had other more important things on your mind at that time !!! There was one aircraft that was a real dog, hangar queen, or lemon, whatever you want to call it. I think it spent more hours in maintenance than it did in the air. The number that sticks in my mind is 066. Does that sound correct? Jim
Joe Riley ex-CW2 says
Hello – I came to the 196th ASHC in Jan 1968. The A/C for the ch-47 that crunched on June 8 (a/c # lost to time) I believe on the ramp was a CPT Walker, I was a new A/C flying as pilot in left seat of that Hook. It wasn’t turning into a revetment – someone had left another Hook out of it’s revetment about 10-15′ and we taxied (all blackout – no lights) right into the aft blade with our fwd rotor – there was a fire but for some reason, it went out – I had already kicked out the windscreen when my emergency door wouldn’t open enough (Hook was laying on it’s left side) – this accident happened 19 days after CW3 Doc Livingston (he’s gone from us now but lived a full life after ‘Nam) and I rolled 66-00067 down the hill at LZ English with a #2 engine failure with 12.6mm holes in it. It was some month for a newbie A/C WO1 Hook Driver. The good news was that everybody got out OK (even the extra crew we had in back on the ramp crunch) on both – with some injuries but no fatalities. God does look after drunks, derelicts and old Hook drivers I guess.
Jim Gavin says
Thanks for those comments, George, you have a great memory. You jogged my less than perfect memory concerning 2 things I had forgotten about. Shortly after the case of SP5 Marin being left behind, FE Rich Williams told me that they had to land someplace in the middle of nowhere and he had to get out and walk a distance from the aircraft for some reason. He said the AC’s last words were “I won’t leave you”. Rich said he thought that was the nicest thing anybody had ever said to him. I saw the crash on the apron first hand, because I was on guard duty that night, and had a ringside seat. They landed near the north end, came south under power, and tried to make a left turn into a revetment without shutting down and waiting for a tug. The forward blades blades hit the side of the revetment, and the ship bounced around on its side for a few seconds before coming to rest with a small fire burning, near one of the engines, I think. The fire either went out, or was put out, so no harm there. I don’t remember the AC’s name, other than he was a Captain. Thanks again, George, and I hope you come up with more great memories. Jim
SP/5 Larry Lane says
I was with the 196th from the start. I went to FT Sill in 1966 and went to Nam in Mar 1967 until Mar 1968. My experience of the trip over is about the same as John Booth’s except we stopped at Travis. We also stopped in Hawaii for either engine repair or replacement on the C130. I was well aquainted with SP/5 Marin and remember his memorial at the little chapel on the hill above came Lane. I also remember pouring many yards of concrete to finish the buildings. I was part of the crew that went to the crash site of the CS drum incident. I was the company armorer and because I really didn’t have much to do in that job I flew quite a lot as a gunner. I also tended bar at the officers club for a while and got to know quite a few of the officers including, CPT Martin. I remember the 1st SGT Addis and our squad leader Sgt Bunce. Great to hear from so many of you.
John Booth says
I guess SP5 Marin is a MIA … there are only two Marins on the wall ..
Francisco Sandoval Marin
Specialist Four
B CO, 1ST BN, 22ND INFANTRY, 4TH INF DIV, USARV
Julian Marin
Private First Class
C CO, 2ND BN, 14TH INFANTRY, 25TH INF DIV, USARV
God bless them … all three of them.
George Moore says
I was in the 196th from the beginning at Ft. Sill. I was the assistant Service Platoon Leader under Cpt. Donald R. Martin. I went to Ft. Eustis, VA., as OIC of all the FE’s, CC’s and some Mechanics from the 610th. I was in the crew that flew all our Hooks to Sharpe Army Depot in Lathrop, CA. I went with all the aircraft, D.R. Martin, CW2 Clifton and the FE’s, CE’s and a few TI’s and boarded a Jeep carrier at Alameda NAS, CA. We arrived in Vung Tau, RVN about a month later (don’t remember for sure the dates). The commander, Maj. James E. Martin came aboard the carrier in Vung Tau. He told us several call signs he was given to chose from, and he had chosen “Flipper” The aircraft we ferried to Lane AHP (An Son), and after about a month of preparation, began flying simple missions. At arrival, we were housed with th 129th AHC at Lane, as our SEA huts were still under construction. I was flying with CW2 Jimmy Bournheim when the CS drum fell over in the racks and exploded on the rear ramp. I was good we had our FPM on. The Koreans that were aboard did not have masks and were desparately trying to take the maske off the flight crew. I remember Jimmy beating several Korean soldiers out of the companionway with a clipbloard. I left the company in early January of 1968. I heard about the crash on the apron, but now do not remember who all was involved. I remember some real hairy missions in the An Lo valley, some really hairy ones around Kontom, Dak Pek, Dak To 1 and 2, Plateau Gi and Dak Sut. I also remember the first casualties we suffered. It happened near Chu Lai. Major J. E. Martin was flying with CW3 “Shoosh” Biggs. They had a transmission chip light come on. Major Martin elected to land on the beach so the FE could take a look. Once on the ground, with the FE and CE outside, the aircraft came under heavy small arms fire. SP/5 Marin was seriously wounded. The CE got back in the aircraft just as Major Martin took off. Leaving SP/5 Marin on the beach. Alledgedly, several attempt were made to land an pick up Marin. I don’t think his body was ever recovered. I don’t remember the AC SN. The aircraft had a lot of small arms holes, don’t remember exactly, something like 107 or so. Major Martin was replaced by the XO Major Arthur Dimsdale. I don’t know what became of Major Martin after that incident. I remember the original aircraft we picked up a Cumberland Army Depot. We had 14 that were in SN sequence and then a jump. The last two were received shortly before we left Ft. Sill. If I remember correct they were 121 and 122, but that was a long time ago…. Would like to hear from you guys sometime.
John Booth says
Reported to Ft. Sill OK after graduating from ‘Chinook school’ in Ft. Eustis VA .. without really understanding what I was there to do.
Soon found out it was to form up a ‘new company’ for deployment to VN .. the 196th ASHC. After several months and a wedding (mine), we were ‘ready to go’ and while 16 ‘new’ hooks went over on a ship, ‘we’ took a bus ride from Sill to Tinker .. boarded C130s and headed for Qui Nhon VN .. via Wake Island and Okinawa (I THINK .. NOT SURE). If it didn’t happen that way .. I am sorry .. that is how I remember it. Landed at some base in Qui Nhon and again .. on buses, drove out of town to a hill top where the Camp Lane was finishing construction by the Corps of Engineers .. I think. The 16 ships were sitting in a valley not far away on a brand new ‘air strip’.
I don’t know how long I was there .. not long, because to my surprise, the Army decided we were all too green (I guess) and exported a bunch of us to other locations and imported guys who had been in country longer .. at least .. that is what I think was the motive. I ended up at the 180th down near Tuy Hoa. That would include me, Ray Saggio, Jerry Cabelka, and probably others. My memory of it ALL is vague. I really don’t think I ever got in the air over VN until I got to the 180th, … in fact.
I remember hearing about the ‘crash’ .. but it is VERY vague to me. Cannot think of his name, but I recall either the FE or CC survived(?). I DON’T remember more than I DO remember my entire VN experience. Sorry to say.
God bless all those of the 196th (and 180th) .. I just found this website …. and on impulse, decided to intro myself. Thank you, Chaplain Andrews for this website.
Donald Rogers says
Hi guys, It’s been a year now since I stumbled onto Jack Price’s website, Many thanks to his brother. I am, the flight engineer that was assigned to that flight and was called off within seconds by SP4 Singleton. And died in my place. I have been attending PTSD for this whole year and still attending, trying to remember the truth, I still don’t remember much after the crash, I don’t even remember my ETS. I am sorry if my story is not exactly the way it was. But it is close.This was my second tour and I was with the 180th before that. I now understand that I wasn’t with the 169 that long, I only had 6 months to go. The boat story is TRUE except I remember now that I knew nothing about the mission, until it was over. The crew chief chief was in charge, as well as the Jeep story. I guess I was just assigned to the missions. But I was at both missions. and according to my flight records, many more. I still don’t remember alot of names except Jack Price and Singleton. I will never forget them. I have carried their name tags all these years, why I don’t know for sure yet. But now that I have built the Veterans Honor Wall of Hubbard Texas. It is giving me some piece of mind. I still have a long way to go. But thanks to the VA and the rest of you I am understanding more, and remembering more. When I die I want to die with piece of mind. If you are interested, go to my website for MY memorial of the guys that died in my place. I should have been with them. Why Me? I just posted this to let all know things are not always the way you remember them, after 40 years. I will compleate this mission. Health and Happiness To You All. donaldrogers@ymail.com SP5 Donald Rogers
hugh white says
I was at fort sill in 1966 in the training company that trained the 196th before they deployed to vietnam after being sent to wolters and hood I was sent to nam in 1968.
Believe it or not I was given a choice between the 186th and the 196th when I got there. I picked the 196th because I hoped there would be someone that I knew there but they had all gone home by then
I flew as FE on different aircraft until we got a huey which I became crew cheif on. we had two different ones while I was there we kept losing them to the gunship co next store.
I met a lot of good people over there and will never forget them as long as I live. went home in 1969 and out of the service .
Hugh White
lynn elsasser says
to larry and anyone that is interested i got 40 small patchs.they are about an inch smaller than the original patch.
my address is: Lynn Elsasser
13205 TR 206
Ridgeway OH 43345
John Brennan says
Gentlemen of the 196 ASHC,
I am searching for in-country nose art, painted names and artwork, that personalized FLIPPER Chinooks during the Vietnam years. Presently working on my third helicopter book and would very much like to feature as many 196th hooks as possible. All input welcomed. Happy Holidays!
Bill Lomax says
Crewed Flipper 122 67 & 68.
Do any of you know where Paul Ede is?
Chaplain Andrews says
Once again–thank you all for checking in. It is always good to hear from you. I have tried to minimize my activity, so at you gus can feel free to chat. It humbles me to know that some of you have been able to connect through this post.
My dad is LTC(ret) Ray Andrews, was the Commander of the 196 ASC–sometime around 1967. He is still with us. I’m still looking for an opportunity to scan the (35mm slide) photos that he gave. The photos above are the only ones I’ve gotten scanned.
Thank you again for reading and dropping a note to say hello!
Joe Riley says
Hi – I too served in the 196th ASHC as a ‘Hook pilot – Jan 1968 to Jan 1969. What was your dad’s name? Is he still with us? Is/was he in the VHPA?
I’d love to see his pic’s if you don’t mind – most of mine have gone away over the years – my email is jlr3142@sbcglobal.net. thanks, Joe Riley (old CW2) call sign Flipper 3A
David Haaf says
I would like to buy a patch or two.
lynn elsasser says
larry have patches coming soon i hope @ $12.00 ea. i was your replacement.tim stats was my replacement.would like to hear from him.david lewis,john dorr,robert utliy ,barry kimbil and mr.everheart were a few names i rember.
Wayne Price says
I am a brother of 2ndLT Jack Price who died along with 6 other men in the crash of Flipper 001 near Lane on July 16, 1969. I would like to get in email contact with (SP4) Rick Avery. I understand he has photos of my brothers crash site. I would like very much for him to email them to me. (SP4) Tim Staats has sent me some that he had taken and also a copy of the official “Accident Report”. (WO) Darrell Jaggers has visited with the Price family three times since 1994 and has given me a copy of a photo album taken at Lane. It contains a photo of all but one of the 8 former “Flippers” that I am in email contact with. CW3 Timothy Miller (now serving in Afghanistan) with the Pentagon’s permission, flew a Michigan National Guard Chinook from Shelfridge NGB (with a crew of 3) near Detroit Michigan to Cedar Springs, Michigan last Veterans Day. November 11, 2011, to honor my brother and his fellow Veterans. Rick Patton’s email is rpatton@comcast.net. My email is wayne_june@sbcglobal.net.
Jack Webb says
To David Haaf: Was just talking about you with T. Staats last month. In fact he sent me a photo of you and I walking back from the flight line. If you will send me your E-Mail I will forward it to you. I have some contact information from some of the 69- 70 flight platoon members. Be glad to share it. My E-Mail address is Webb3059@hotmail .com
David Haaf says
Hi guyes;
I was at Lane 196th Nov 68 Nov 69 I was Elwin Singleton’s “cubie” after all these years it still hurts to think about that crash. Its good see some actvity about the old company.. I can’t find much history about the 196th. Has anyone had any luck?
Joe Oswald says
Hey Guy’s, I was FE SP6 A-C 083 from June 67 to Sept. 68 don’t remeber allot of the names, long time ago but was on 2 missions to Laos anyone out there remember me?
CW4 Joe Oswald USAR Ret.
Dan Foye says
Hello, all of you of the 196 TH and 610 TC Detachment. My name is Dan Foye, I am trying to find guy’s who served in Nam from October 1967 to October 1968. If any of you guy’s are out there, fire me an email, would love to chat. I was a mechanic in charge of the platoons. I was at a place called An Khe/ Ahon Saon. harddrive65@hotmail.com
Jim Gavin says
Hi again;
When I left my email address in my last post, there is something that did not show up, because of the line that appeared under it. There is an “underscore” between jim and gavin, that my wife put there when she created this Hotmail address for me. In case you don’t know, as I didn’t, an underscore is created by holding the shift key down and hitting the key with the 2 little lines on it, just to the right of the number zero key on the top line. Maybe all you guys know all this already, but I don’t know jack about computers.
Jim
Jim Gavin says
Hey there Dusty and Johnny J. Here’s my email address if you want to drop me a line. I checked my pictures, and I have 2 of you, Johnny, but none of you, Dusty. jim_gavin@hotmail.com
Maybe we can get something going here, like a reunion maybe, if enough guys are interested.
Jim
Jim Gavin says
Yeah, Mike, I remember you well. Always good natured and laughing about something. Remember Gale Fruchy, Harrington, and the 2 Wiillys….Rich Williams from the flight platoon and Dave Williams from the flight line. We all had some good times together, even though we complained all the time like any good GI.
Jim
mike(dusty)ROSE says
JIM GAVIN;JOHNNY JOHNSON REMEMBER ME?ENGINE MAN DOORGUNNER 1 68-1 69 I HAVE PICTUERS OF BOTH OF YOU
Jim Gavin says
I remember you Johnny. I have a picture I took in1968 or 1969 when a few of us hitched a ride into town in the back of a 3/4, and there you are looking none the worse for wear. You were from the South as I recall, Texas Maybe ?
Jim
Ted Gustafson says
Johnny,
I was at Lane from 67-69 CE Cobra949. I don’t suppose the old IHOP restaurant is still there outside the gate in town. I took a look on Google Earth and I see Rucker has changed a bit since I left there in early 67. I stopped by and went through the museum 35 years ago have not made it back down that way but it is on my bucket list.
Gus
Johnny Johnson says
Hi guys,
I was the the flight engineer the flew for a year and a half on Acft oo1. That is the Bird that crashed on test flight. It was still in 100 hour inspection when I departed for the states. Maybe some of you guys or your fathers might remember me. I am presently a maintenance manager on (you guess it Hooks) at FT Rucker. Some of you old war dogs send me a e-mail
Rick Avery says
does any one know Rick Patton SP/5 avionics from the 196th 69-70at lane.trying to get email
Thanks
Larry Lane says
Lynn,
I was with the 196th at Lane from 3/67 to 3/68. I flew a lot of missions as a door/window gunner during that year. The only patch I had got wet and moldy and was not restorable. I would really like to have one no matter the cost. I might have someone here in Seattle that can make the patch. I would be happy to add the hat to sew it onto it you could make the patch happen. No charge of course for the hat.
Travis Stanton says
That would be a great father’s day present for my dad. He just finished restoring his M151 jeep. If you would like you can email me at stanton_travis@asdk12.org
Richard (dick) Christianson says
I have a patch “we haul it all” still in plastic from the 196th. I was flite eng on an A model (091) and have many photos of camp Lane. If I knew how to send them I would. I spent a month with capt D.R martin aboard the jeep carier coral sea.
Eric says
Travis- my name is Eric Landrum. I work with your father Bart here on Elmendorf AFB. Hell of a good guy. I have been researching this patch for him as well. His M151 is coming along great, can’t wait to see it running around town.
Gus says
I was on the other side of the hill from 67-69. 129th AHC “Bulldogs / Cobras” and was CE on Cobra 949 (B model gunship) worked with the 196th quite a bit and provided gun cover for your operations in our AO. Even the Christmas Tree gathering expeditions. If there are and crew members who recall a incident in 68 where a ROK was killed when a drum of CS went off on the rear ramp during a drop I would like to talk with them. Anyone wanting to see pictures of Lane AAF go to 129th.net that is the 129th AHC website. All Flippers are welcome.
Gus “Cobra949-6Alpha”
Travis says
Lynn-
I am definitely interested. My father has been looking for one for quite a while. Please email me at tarsyn1@gmail.com. Thanks
lynn elsasser says
I have the 196 Flippers patch on a floppy disk which an embroiderer used to make a patch for my old field jacket. I would have to find an embroiderer to make more patches. If anyone is interested, let me know and I will try to find someone who has a machine to make the patch and approximate cost.
In Viet Nam January 68~69.
Travis says
Rick- I am trying to get a unit patch for the 196th (We haul it all) for my father. He is trying to get one for a memorial he is making. Do you have one that you would be willing to part with? Travis
Rick Avery says
i was with the 196th. from 1969-1970 i saw the crash first hand.i was on stand by to refuel it when it came in. saw every that happend was sent out to watch the crash site with other guys helped with the remanesto put in the body bags.donald rogers is looking for family of allison he lived in chatham mass.we use to say hi to each other on the flight line we both come from mass. i took a few pic.of crash site never forget.
Travis says
Donald- You might know my father. He knew some of the crew on the helicopter and has since been in contact with Lt. Prices brother. He is currently doing a restoration on an M151 Jeep and wants to put together a memorial for those that died in the crash when he goes and displays it. I would like to submit a story about it to the Military vehicle magazine. You might know him his name is Bart Stanton. He hopes to send some pictures from his time over there to Lt. Prices brother soon and he will then probably put them up on his brothers memorial website.
Jim Gavin says
I was in the 610th Transportation Co. which did the maintenance on the 196th ships. I arrived at Lane in November 1967 and left in June, 1969, going back to Fort Eustis as an instructor. Shortly afterwards, a guy from the 196th or 610th arrived at Eustis and told me that my replacement had been killed in the crash of a test flight. I have no idea if that story is true or not. It was common for members of a maintenance crew to go on test flights to make sure everything was working properly, and to enjoy the cool breeze at 2 or 3,000 feet. The only name I recognize from the crash is Singleton, who was an FE from Louisiana, I believe, but I don’t know if he was still there in July ’69, so that could be a different guy. When I was at Lane, the hooches had sand filled 55 gallon drums for protection, not the sandbags shown in the picture. Jim
Chaplain Andrews says
Donald–thank you for your service and your comment. Maybe somebody will find your comment here and reach out. Thank you again!
Donald Rogers (SP5) says
I have been searching for over 40 years to find family members of the my seven crew members that died in the July 1969 crash. I was the flight engineer that was replaced within seconds of liftoff. I have the patches that I took off of their uniforms at the time of the accident. I would like to get thes items to their rightful owners. I have located Lt Price’s brother, CW Willis’s brother, and SP5 Singleton’s brother. Hurt, Kidd, Hoff, and Allison I am still in search of. I would approciate any and all help. Donald Rogers
Joe Riley says
first – tell your dad (if he’s still with us) – “Welcome Home” – I flew for the 196th ASHC out of Lane AAF (An Son RVN) – Jan 1968-Jan 1969 – as a Warrant Officer – I flew nearly 1900 hours total that year (we were really short of pilots and long on missions) – Your first 2 pic’s ARE Marine CH-46’s – the rest look like Lane AAF but the officer hooches (last pic) were nicer while I was there – we had a volleyball court between the hooches instead of sandbags – I’m looking for patches too – come see us near Yosemite – Flipper 3A
Travis says
My father was also in the 196th (Bart Stanton). He is currently restoring a m151 “Mutt” jeep to like new condition in memory of his unit and the guys he served with. He should be posting pictures soon. If anybody knows where I could get an original unit patch for him(Flippers), it would make an excellent birthday or Christmas present.
Charles Marshen says
I was FE on acft 079 in 1967. Started out with the unit at Ft Sill in 1966. Would sure like more photos. Lost all mine in moving. Great to find some one from the old unit.
Chaplain Andrews says
Thank you for the comment. You’re right they do look more like 46s that the CH 47, I didn’t look that close. Thank you again for your comment.
Pat Williams says
Your father was in Vietnam at the same time that I was. You probably have already gotten this comment, but the first two photos are CH-46 helicopters, not CH-47 Chinooks.