A couple of years ago, I wrote a post titled “196th ASHC in Vietnam”. Since that time, several members of the 196th have written in the comments—I’m always humbled to be able to read them and watch them connect to one another. (I would encourage readers, if you were a member of the 196th, please check out that post as a way to connect with your unit members.)
Recently, Mike (Dusty) Rose sent a description of a wreck that occurred on the flight line along with some photos. With his permission, I am honored to be able to share them with you.
Here’s my story of the wreck. Myself, Wargo, and Harvey Raupp were working late that night in the engine shop. Harvey went down make the final hookups to the engine that maintenance had just installed. Harvey was laying between the engine and pylon. The rotors struck right above Harvey’s head. We heard this loud explosion and pinging noises and sparks on the p.s.p in front of the engine tent. We thought we were getting hit, so we took off running to the hooch to get our 16’s. Then, we ran into everyone running towards the flight line and they told us there had been a wreck. So we turned around.
When we got there, Harvey was standing there in shock and said; “Wow man! What happened?” He wasn’t hurt. I remember the flight engineer broke his arm or shoulder. Joe, that must have been one hell of a ride while it beat it’s self to death! I’m sending a couple of pictures, Dusty.
Ken Bording, CW5 (Ret) says
Wow! I was a Hook Driver in the unit when I believe this took place, but I was on R&R or TDY that night if this is the accident in 68 or early 69. But I’m confused because the fuselage laying on its side looks like a B or C model (blunt rear pylon) and we had only A models when the accident I’m remembering occurred. Late night return of one Hook (CPT H.?) after very long day- started taxiing in, but another bird hadn’t been pulled all the way into revetment. Yes, it taxied right into side of second bird. 4 aircraft damaged and was reportedly most expensive Army Aviation accident up to that time – surely Flipper didn’t do this twice!
Jim Gavin says
Thank you Chaplain for posting those photos from Mike. I saw the accident happen the night before, but I don’t remember seeing the results afterwards in daylight, although I’m sure I did. Old age, I guess. I have a question, Chaplain. Is there any way to get the email addresses of some of the guys who posted here? I knew Johnny Johnson and Dusty very well, and would like to drop them an email, but I don’t see anyplace on this site where I can find them. Is there any way you could make their email addresses known so I can contact them?
Thank you;
Jim Gavin