189TH
ASAULT HELICOPTER COMPANY
HISTORY
PREFACE
The history of the 189th Assault Helicopter Company for the years
1966
Through 1971 has been written so that
the officers and enlisted men of the 189th can be recognized for their outstanding work, esprit de
corps, and dedication to their country during their tour of duty in the
Republic
of Vietnam
PURPOSE
The purpose of this history is to outline the events that
occurred in the 189th Assault Helicopter Company during the calendar
years 1966 through 1971.
It is
intended to give as accurate and factual account as possible of the fine
officers and enlisted men, its equipment, as well as a concise picture of the
combat operations in-which the unit participated.
Many accounts were researched through the National Archives, Texas State
University, the VHPA, and information collected from members of the unit. This
history in not complete, it is a work in progress, but it as accurate as can be
from the information gathered.
The
more feedback we get the more accurate the history.
This history is a collection of actions that took place in the 189th
Assault Helicopter Company both on and off the battlefield.
COMMAND AND CONTROL
The unit history would be incomplete if the officers and men of the 189th
Assault Helicopter Company failed to pay tribute to their commanders who played
the major role in developing and maintaining the unit's high standard of
professionalism, �esprit de corps� and noted combat effectiveness.
t hrough their professional competence, thorough knowledge,
exceptional leadership and loyalty to their men, they succeeded in building a
foundation that formed one of the finest fighting units in the Republic of
Vietnam
Even today the men of the 189th Assault Helicopter Company would
like to express their appreciation for their outstanding leadership, personal
concern and invaluable guidance they provided while serving as Company
Commanders.
The following were Company Commanders of the GHOSTRIDERS
and AVENGERS
Captain Victor Hamilton 1 Nov 66 � 1 Dec 66
Major Robert T Bagley 1 Dec 66 � 21 Dec 66
Major John J Webster 21 Dec 66 � 1 Jul 67
Major Bobby L Sanders 1 Jul 67 � 2 Jan 68
Major Neil I Leva 2 Jan 68 � 15 Apr 68
Major William W Fraker 15 Apr 68 � 3 Oct 68
Major Robert N Morrison 3 Oct 68 � 22 Apr 69
Major Richard L Lincoln 22 Apr 69 - 28 Sep 69
Major John P Ratliff 28 Sep 69 � 6 Mar 70
Major George A Morgan 6 Mar 70 � 11 Nov 70
Respectfully
Brothers Forever
The GHOSTRIDERS and AVENGERS
Organization of the 189th
AHC
Constituted 23 September 1942 in the Army of the United States
Activated 5 October 1942 at Lockbourne Army Air Base, Ohio
Inactivated 20 February 1946 in the Philippine
Islands .
Converted and re-designated 1 August 1946 as the 2027th
Transportation Company (Aviation).
Re-designated 1 November 1966 as the 189th Aviation Company, allotted
to the Regular Army, and activated at Fort Carson ,
Colorado
Entered the Vietnam Conflict May 1967 and assigned to the 52d Combat Aviation
Battalion at Camp Holloway ,
Pleiku ,
Vietnam
The 189th was just one (1) unit of the largest Aviation Battalions
ever formed; the 52nd Combat Aviation Battalion (CAB) �The Flying
Dragons� was subordinate to the 17th Combat Aviation Group (CAG). The
17th CAG was subordinate to the 1st Aviation Brigade, the
largest Army Aviation organization formed since World War II. The 1st
Aviation Brigade was comprised of several Groups, each having several
Battalions.
Inactivated 15 March 1971 in Vietnam
Assigned 19 February 1986 to the 3d Armored Division and activated in
Germany
Inactivated 16 July 1987 in Germany
189th Campaign Participation Credit
World War � AP
New Guinea
Leyte
Vietnam
Counteroffensive, Phase II
Counteroffensive, Phase III
Tet Counteroffensive
Counteroffensive, Phase IV
Counteroffensive, Phase V
Counteroffensive, Phase VI
Tet 69/Counteroffensive
Summer-Fall 1969
Winter-Spring
1970
Sanctuary Counteroffensive
Counteroffensive, Phase VII
Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, Streamer embroidered 17 October 1944 to 4
July 1945.
Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Streamer embroidered
Vietnam
Presidential Unit Citation, October 29, 1967 to 30 November 1967. DA GO 38 Dated
20 July 1971
Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class,
Streamer embroidered
Vietnam
The 189th Aviation Company History
1966 � 1967
1966
The 189th Aviation Company (AML) was activated by Department of the
Army with Fifth Army General Order 236, dated 19 September 1966, to take effect
on 1 November 1966 at Fort Carson ,
Colorado Ft. Carson ,
Colorado Ft. Carson ,
it was hoped, would give the aviators a certain degree of training in mountain
flying before being deployed to its ultimate destination, the Central
Highlands ,
Republic of
Vietnam
1 November 1966:
Captain Victor Hamilton, Infantry, commanded and organized the unit under TO&E
1-77E (Modified). Under his command, the unit was open for the receipt of
incoming personnel and equipment.
1 December 1966:
Major Robert Bagley assumed command. Under his guidance, request for additional
equipment was submitted. A training program was established, the airfield
operations elements were established, and unit training began.
9 December 1966:
The 189th was reorganized under TO&E 1-77G (Modified) as directed by
General Order 427, Fifth Infantry Division and Fort Carson ,
Colorado Ft. Campbell ,
Kentucky
Ft. Worth ,
Texas
and ferried to Fort Carson ,
CO
12 December 1966:
The 189th began its formal training. The first week dealt primarily
with basic required subjects such as Code of Conduct, Geneva Convention, etc.
The next few months or so were spent doing supply actions since the unit was to
deploy with full organic equipment. Each day began with physical training capped
with an increasingly longer run around post. When the morning
Colorado
17 December 1966:
The Christmas Holidays began, and all formal training ceased for two weeks.
The initial pilots of the 189th were an odd lot with seven fixed- &
rotary- wing rated Majors assigned to the unit. Many of the Majors in the unit
were primarily �old� fixed-wing drivers and were not particularly overjoyed with
the idea of going to Vietnam
21 December 1966:
Major John J. Webster, TC assumed command of the Company. During the remainder
of 1966, the unit was primarily involved with aircraft checkouts required for
aviators in the UH-IC and UH-IH
After the Christmas holidays, training became serious under ATP 1-77G and
continued until April 1967.
1967
1 January 1967:
The following personnel filled the key positions within the Company:
Commanding Officer: Major John Webster
Executive Officer: Major Robert T. Bagley
First Sergeant: 1SGT Kelly Alfred
Operations Officer: Major Richard V. Coulter
Intelligence Officer: Major Jesse E. Stewart
First Airlift Platoon Leader: Captain Jack W. Blien
Second Airlift Platoon Leader: Major Albert H. Kraph
Gun Platoon Leader: Captain Pinckney C. Cochran
Service Platoon Leader: Captain Wilbur R. Mixer
The associated detachments and their initial commanders were:
604th Maintenance Detachment: Major Richard D. Caldwell
519th Medical Detachment: WOI Daniel J. Bainey
6th Signal Detachment: 2d Lt. James R. Conley
3 January 1967:
Scheduled training resumed and, in preparation for deployment, the unit began a
series of field exercises the first week of 1967. Although the snow and ice
posed many problems, the improved engines in the UH-IH performed magnificently.
As part of the exercise, the gun platoon was conducting its weapons training and
learning about the ways of war and survival. The first week of the New Year was
devoted to basic required subjects.
11 January 1967:
Formal flight training began at section and platoon levels encompassing such
subjects as Navigation, Instrument Proficiency, Night and Formation Flying,
Flying with Loads, Gunship Tactics and Air mobile Operations.
20 January 1967:
The first company-sized Air Mobile Operation was conducted and three (3) more
followed prior to the Field Training Exercise (FTX) portion of unit training.
31 January 1967 � 6 February 1967:
During this time, the gun platoon conducted its weapons training, gunnery
trained in 7.62 systems and all gunnery personnel were qualified in the XM-21
and XM-23 systems.
7-9 February 1967:
The unit was in the field for the first time where emphasis on operation of a
tactical landing area, security of the area, operational reaction time,
resupply, medical evacuation, and section and platoon-sized Air Mobile
Operations with armed escort took place.
14-16 February 1967:
During these field operations, further emphasis was placed on last week�s
operation; however, reducing mission reaction time was stressed.
20 February 1967:
The 189th was in the field for a five-(5) day exercise and provided
aviation support to the 2/llth Infantry in its Advanced Infantry Training (AIT)
cycle with emphasis on platoon and company-sized operations, resupply, medical
evacuation and a night move all in preparation for the forthcoming Army Training
Test (ATT) cycle. The unit was observed throughout the operation by ranking
personnel who seemed pleased with the unit�s progress, and, even though the unit
was testing the new aircraft during Colorado�s winter, they felt sure that the
added power of the H model would perform just as effectively in the real test
which lay ahead in the hot jungle of Vietnam.
During the same period, the Gun Platoon participated in the firing of the 2.75
Rocket Systems and the M-5 (40mm) Grenade Launcher. With the completion of this
training, the company looked forward to the ATT.
1-3 March 1967:
The ATT was conducted under conditions simulating combat. During the three-day
period, the unit and supporting detachments were judged combat ready in all
phases of the testing.
After completion of the ATT, the 189th Aviation Company (AML) began
preparations for its overseas assignment. The unit was notified of over-seas
redeployment by the Fifth Infantry Division and Fort Carson Movement Order #5.
With the issuance of movement Order #5, the unit began processing all equipment
for repair and final inspection.
The arduous task of loading several hundred CONEX containers was assigned to the
troops with Major Albert Kraph and 1LT Stephen Schmidt supervising as Movements
Officers. Every CONEX had to have specific markings and a manifest detailing its
contents. This was complicated somewhat by the unit�s determination to
circumvent regular supply channels and commandeer as much station property from
Ft.
Carson
16 March 1967:
The Gun Platoon departed Fort Carson with eight (8) UH-IC�s and headed for Sharp
Army Depot in Stockton CA. The aircraft were to be processed for overseas
shipment not later than 21 March 1967. On 17 March, the Gun Platoon reported
departing El Paso International, ETA Yuma, Arizona. On the morning of the 18th,
they were flying low level skimming above the desert at about 50 feet when
one of the AVENGERS looked up and saw a small camper trailer parked in the
middle of nowhere. It was determined that they all would fly by to check it out.
As the flight approached the trailer, a person could be seen sleeping on the
roof in a lounge chair. Suddenly, eight (8) helicopters flew over him at about
50 feet with the last copter reporting him on the ground heading toward a huge
cactus with brown spots in his shorts. Many fun things took place on the trip,
but this was the highlight. The transfer of �C� Models was completed upon
arrival, 18 March 1967 at Sharp Army Depot, Stockton ,
California
28 March 1967:
Additional movement instructions were received, and all vehicles and CONEXED
equipment were port called for NLT 12 April. To meet the 12 April port call,
rail cars were loaded 6 April for movement on 7 April.
29 March 1967:
Requirements for the advance party were partially finalized, and the number in
the party was limited to five Officers and included:
Major Richard V. Coulter, Operations and OIC
Major Jesse E. Stewart, Training and Intelligence
Captain Ernest R. Bowling, Communications
Captain Phillip Ashley, Maintenance
Captain Darrell Waite, Supply
21 April 1967:
The advance party was alerted and departed Fort
Carson
Cam Ranh Bay ,
Vietnam Pleiku ,
Vietnam
As the end of April approached and with the final shipment of the units
equipment, the men were given their last leave and told to report back by 1 May
for deployment to the
Republic
of Vietnam
3 May 1967:
The unit was broken into contingents and began departing via U.S. Air Force
C-141 Starlifters. while enroute to Pleiku AFB, Vietnam. Intermediate stops at
Elmendorf AFB, Alaska
and Yokoda ,
Japan
Colorado
With May being late in the dry season, the unit had a few days to move into
Camp Holloway
Vietnam
The unit�s location was a bare piece of ground alongside the runway as a
permanent bivouac area. Because the assigned area lay outside of the Battalion�s
perimeter, the first order of business was to extend barbed wire to encompass
the unit�s new home. Tents were erected and sandbagged by officers and enlisted
personnel who shared equally in the backbreaking task of filling sand bags with
the red clay of Pleiku. Revetments for the slicks were built of perforated steel
planking (PSP), soil and sandbags. The aviators alternated days working on
construction and days flying as copilots with sister companies in order to learn
the area around Pleiku and to gain some experience flying in a combat
environment.
The remainder of the body arrived at the new location on the 6th and
7th . Shortly thereafter, the TO&E equipment, less aircraft, arrived.
Finally, the 189th neared an operational readiness goal.
22 May 1967:
The unit�s helicopters arrived at the Port of
Vung Tau Camp
Holloway
Today, the first ten (10) aircraft arrived followed by eleven (11) more H models
and six (6) UH-IC�s the next day. Two (2) more H models arrived on the 24th.
The remaining two (2) UH-IC�s were scheduled to arrive 25 May 1967.
With the arrival of equipment and personnel, the company was given an
operational readiness date of 15 June 1967. Operational requirements demanded
that the transition be made as quickly as possible into a full-scale combat
flying unit. It is significant to note that both the aircraft commanders and
pilots of most crews had very little, if any, combat experience, yet they went
directly into flying operational missions.
27 May 1967:
UH-IH, 66-1065 (need photo) crashed in the ocean and aircraft caught fire while on a courier
and resupply mission. WO Herbert A. Ripka, was the unit�s first in-country
fatality. Although he was initially reported missing in the over water accident,
three (3) days later his body washed ashore, and he was pronounced dead from
drowning.
1 June 1967: The first DEROS took place in the 189th and, as a result, new personnel assumed key positions as follows:
Intelligence Officer:
Captain Michael Howe
1st Airlift Platoon Commander:
Captain Eugene Malcoff
2nd Airlift Platoon Commander:
Captain Darrell Waite
Gun Platoon Commander:
Captain Rupert Bowling
During the first part of June, the 189th Assault Helicopter Company
was assigned radio call signs. The gun ship pilots with their usual hefty amount
of bravado decided to seek their combat fortunes using the call sign �AVENGERS�
Their platoon patch would feature the grim reaper holding a scythe on top of a
coffin. The slick pilots followed the theme by selecting �GHOST RIDER� as their
call sign which was characterized by a patch featuring a ghost armed with a .30
caliber machine gun alongside a slick. It then followed logically, to name the
revetment area, where the slicks parked their aircraft, the �GRAVEYARD�. The gun
platoons C (Charlie) model gun ships were unable to park there. When fully
loaded with ammunition, the Charlie models were not able to hover high enough to
clear the barbed wire apron that surrounded the �GRAVEYARD�. Instead the Charlie
models were kept in an area easily accessible to the runway and this area became
known as the �ARSENAL�.
The First and Second Airlift Platoons had their own distinctive patches. The
First Airlift was known as �Silver Flight� and their patch was a blue lightning
bolt with silver lettering �SILVER FLIGHT 1st A/L�. The Second
Airlift was known as �Scarlet Flight� with the same lightning bolt shape but red
in color with white lettering �SCARLET FLIGHT 2nd AL�. Their patches
represented the swift and sudden striking force of lightning which aptly defined
the job of the lift platoons to �get in and out quickly�.
The Maintenance Platoon also adopted their unique patch and call sign
�CARETAKER�. Its patch depicted the powerful Condor on top of a mountain keeping
vigil over its young one which, in this case, was a UH-1H helicopter. The patch
implies the care of the Condor even though it can be one of the fiercest
fighters in the sky.
15 June 1967:
The 189th AHC became operational, combat training was completed and
the company assumed its place as a combat- ready unit in the 52nd
CAB. The 189th AHC was placed in direct support of the 4th
Infantry Division. Mission
assignments consisted of C&C, resupply, and combat assaults.
To prevent a major reorganization of the unit when the original members returned
to the states after their one-year tour ended, pilots with varying DEROS dates
were infused from other units. To make up for these newer members, some of the
original men were transferred out to other units.
Mission:
The mission of the 189th AHC was to provide tactical air movement of
combat troops in air mobile operations, tactical air movement of combat supplies
and equipment within the combat zone, combat assault support to combat troops,
medical evacuations, reconnaissance, command and control, liaison, and logistics
and administration missions.
Terrain:
The II Corps Tactical Zone, where Pleiku is located and where 189th AHC rendered
the majority of its support, covered an area of 32,725 square miles or 49% of
the land area of South Vietnam
Laos
and Cambodia South China Sea . The area is 40 miles wide in the north
and 142 miles wide in the south. The area is politically divided into the
provinces of Kontum, Binh Dinh, Pleiku, Phu Bon, and Phy Yen in the 22nd ARVN
Divisional Tactical Zone, and Darlac, Kanh Hoa, Quang Duc, Tuyen Duc, Nunh
Thuan, Lam Dong, and Binh Thuan in the 23rd ARVN Divisional Tactical Zone.
Geographically, this area may be divided into three (3) major areas:
Coastal Plain
The coastal plain is the narrow strip of long, flat and often marshy terrain not
more than twenty (20) miles wide from the sea island. This area is formed by a
series of numerous river deltas interrupted by rocky ridge lines running steeply
to the sea. It is almost entirely under cultivation with four (4) rice crops a
year.
Mountain Region
The mountain region extends from north to south almost the entire length of the
II Corps Tactical Zone. Elevations range from 3,000 to 8,000 feet with the
eastern slopes quite steep and the western slopes more gradual. Rain forests
cover three quarters of this area with most of the remainder covered with open,
deciduous growth. Cultivation is limited to small cleared areas on relatively
flat lands. Flying in this area is very hazardous with forced landing areas
practically non-existent, ceilings frequently very low and unpredictable winds,
Plateau Region
The plateau region is located west of the mountains and is comprised of the
Kontum Plateau in the north and the Darlac Plateau in the south. This region has
altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 feet with gently rolling hills and much
open area. Where the soil is not under cultivation, a thick growth of eight to
ten foot grass covers the ground. Where adequate drainage is provided, this area
will support four vegetable crops yearly.
The principal cities of these regions are Pan Thieu, Pan Rang, Ha Rang, and Sui
Hen are on the coastal plain; Dalt in the mountains, and Ban Me Thu et, Pleiku
and Kontum in the plateaus. The major routes of this area are:
Route #1 Saigon Dan Nan (coastal route)
Route #11 Dalt Pan Rang
Route #14 Saigon Ban Me
Thule
Route #19 Pleiku Sui Nhon
Route #20 Saigon Dalt
Route #21 Ban Me
Thule
The Republic�s major rail line parallels Route #1 along its entire length with
one spur line from Phan Rang to Dalat. The logistical and communication complex
at Cam Ranh Bay is located between Pan Rang and Ha Rang
Weather:
Weather throughout the area can be divided into the summer monsoons(June
through September) and the winter monsoons (November through April) with the
months of May and October as periods of transition. During the summer monsoons,
the wind is southwesterly causing cloud buildups on the western slopes of the
mountains. This results in a rainy season for the plateaus and mountain regions
during the summer months while the coastal provinces have clear skies and good
flying weather. The winter monsoons bring a northeasterly flow with the
conditions reversed. The coastal provinces of Binh Thuan and Nhin Thuan are not
affected by either monsoon seasons and have generally clear weather year round.
Average rainfall in the mountain and plateau region is 92 inches; on the coastal
plain 87 inches. The temperature on the coastal plain ranges from the mid 70�s
to the high 80�s during the rainy season and low 80�s to high 90�s during the
dry season. The mountains and plateaus experience temperatures from the mid 50�s
to mid 80�s during the wet season and low 60�s to 90 plus during the dry season.
Winds are normally gusty at 10 � 15 knots with velocity increasing with
altitude. In the Kontum, Pleiku area, surface winds of 25 � 45 knots were common
in the fall
For the most part, flying conditions due to weather and terrain were unfavorable
for the majority of the year in this area. Due to the combination of monsoon,
heat, dust, dense jungle, altitudes and density altitude, it is easy to see why
the II Corps Tactical Zone gained the reputation for being an aviator�s
nightmare.
The first series of operations that the 189th participated in
supported the 1st Bge 4th Inf Div based in the school
house of the abandoned hamlet of LeThan or better known to the Americans as
Jackson Hole .
Jackson Hole lies west of the Cateeka Tea
Plantation and was very near to the Cambodian border.
Single ship hover hole landing zones (LZ�S) as well as the use of McGuire rigs
were encountered for the first time. Long Range Recon Patrol (LRRP) insertions
and extractions, medical evacuations and occasional hostile fire all provided
necessary learning situations for the still unseasoned 189th pilots.
27 May 1967:
UH-IH, 66-1065 crashed in the ocean and aircraft caught fire while on a courier
and resupply mission. WO Herbert A. Ripka, was the unit�s first in-country
fatality. Although he was initially reported missing in the over water accident,
three (3) days later his body washed ashore, and he was pronounced dead from
drowning.
1 July 1967:
Major Bobby Sanders assumed command of the 189th.
7 July 1967:
The first aircraft hit by hostile fire was GHOSTRIDER 174 while on a combat
assault in support of the 1st Cavalry Division northeast of Kontum
where one (1) small arms round hit the aircraft in its tail section.
Aircraft was flown by WO Tom Mealy.
10 July 1967:
Hill 830 is approximately 14 kilometers from the Cambodian Border and sits
astride a major exit from the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The 4th Bn 503rd
Inf of the 173rd Abn engaged a large, well dug-in NVA force. AVENGER
guns supported the operation in a fierce two- (2) day battle. The BN suffered 24
KIA and 62 WIA, and they found a total of nine (9) NVA dead after the battle.
13 July 1967:
While in support of the 4th Inf Div in the vicinity of Due Co, the
ground troops made contact with a superior force and were in desperate need of
support. CPT. Hooper flying AVENGER 691 served as team leader of a fire team
which arrived in the area and immediately directed and applied suppressive fire
on the enemy positions and forced the enemy to break contact with the friendly
forces. While his wingman AVENGER 693 provided suppressive fire, CPT. Hooper
went into a small landing zone to evacuate a seriously wounded soldier. The
AVENGERS claimed the first enemy kills of the company. One (1) NVA, KIA was
confirmed and an estimated thirty (30) NVA KIA were unconfirmed. CPT. Lynn C.
Hooper was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for his part in the
action.
17 July 1967:
MAJ. Robert Bagley, the Executive Officer, was reassigned to IFFV. CPT. Michael
Howe assumed the Executive Officer position and LT Lonnie Welch replaced CPT.
Howe as the Intelligence Officer.
30 July 1967:
CPT. Lynn Hooper assumed command of the Gun Platoon, replacing CPT. Ernest R.
Bowling.
Cpt Lynn Hooper 2005 CPT Bowling
31 July 1967:
While in support of the 4th Inf Div
GHOSTRIDER 529 crashed and burned
approximately ten (10) miles southwest of
3 August 1967:
In the morning, a CIDG company made contact with two (2) NVA companies one (1)
km west of Dak Seang. A relief force also found itself under an attack which
lasted until early afternoon. Almost every night during the last half of July,
both Dak Seang and Dak Pek had been pounded by mortar, rocket and RR fire.
4 August 1967:
As a result of the fighting on 3 August, the ARVN 42d Regt and two (2) ARVN
airborne battalions moved in to reinforce Dak Seang. The 189th
airlifted the 1/503rd Abn Bn of the 173rd Abn out of the
jungle near Hill 830 and inserted them at Dak Pek. The 189th also
conducted a CA for 5th SFG in the vicinity of Buon Ho. They inserted
177 pax in 168 sorties. The assault was conducted with no incidents and negative
contact.
6 August 1967:
189th conducted a CA for 3/8th Inf 4th Inf Div
in Francis Marion they moved 450 pax in 327 sorties. The assault was conducted
with no incidents and negative contact.
7 August 1967:
189th conducted a CA for 3/8th Inf 4th Inf Div
in support of Francis Marion moving 410 pax in 218 sorties. The assault was
conducted with no incidents and negative contact.
10 August 1967:
GHOSTRIDER 169 (need photo) was completely destroyed by fire at Hensel AAF. There were no
injuries as all crew members were out of the aircraft at the time. Aircraft 169
was shut down while being loaded with CS grenades which were dropped causing
several to ignite catching the aircraft on fire.
11 August 1967:
AVENGER 552 (need photo) flying at 1000 feet and seventy (70) knots, received small arms fire
in the cockpit and main rotor blade. One (1) person on board was not seriously
wounded and the aircraft continued to fly.
13 August 1967:
Two (2) 189th gun ships received three (3) hits from automatic
weapons fire in support of Francis Marion. No injuries were encountered and
aircraft continued to fly.
17 August 1967:
The 189th conducted a CA for 3/8th Inf 4th Inf
Div in Francis Marion moving 267 pax in 81 sorties. The assault was conducted
with no incidents and negative contact.
The 189th responded to a tactical emergency call from the 24th
STZ (5th SFG), requesting six (6) GHOSTRIDER and two (2) AVENGER
helicopters in the vicinity of Dak To. The mission was not accomplished due to
weather and darkness and, luckily, the ground unit was no longer in enemy
contact.
18 August 1967:
The 189th conducted two (2) extractions for Co B, SFG in the vicinity
of Dak To moving 247 pax in 138 sorties. One of the extractions was for the 24th
STZ that was requested the night before. They also conducted a final extraction
for 1/8th Inf 4th Inf Div in support of Francis Marion,
267 pax in 81 sorties were moved. Both missions were accomplished without any
incidents.
25 August 1967:
GHOSTRIDER 172 (need photo) made a forced landing approximately ten (10) miles west of
26 August 1967:
AVENGER 693(need photo) was flying at 50 feet and 100 knots when it received one (1) round
in the engine compartment from small arms fire in the vicinity of Dak To. No
injuries and the aircraft continued on its mission.
The 189th conducted a CA for the 5th SFG in the vicinity
of Phu Tuc, 153 pax in 223 sorties. The mission was conducted with no incidents.
31 August 1967:
A reconnaissance patrol had been pinned down and surrounded by a superior enemy
force just north of the Pleiku Valley, and it was decided to get them out. CPT.
Hooper was designated flight leader for the night extraction mission. Operating
in the most marginal weather conditions, CPT. Hooper planned, coordinated and
led the successful extraction. CPT. Lynn C. Hooper was awarded the DFC for his
actions.
3 Sept 1967:
MAJ. Eugene Malcoff was reassigned to the 155th Assault Helicopter
Company at Ban Me Thout. CPT. Ernest Bowling assumed command of the 1st
Airlift Platoon.
3 Sept 1967:
Avenger 690 (need photo) made a forced landing due to engine failure. There were no injuries
even though the aircraft sustained major damage.
5 September 1967:
CPT. Lynn Hooper was awarded the DFC for action he was involved in on the nights
of 31 August-1 September. MG George P. Seneff presented the award. The
GHOSTRIDERS and AVENGERS were conducting a final extraction of the 3/12th
Inf 4th Inf Div in support of our favorite operation, Francis Marion,
while CPT. Hooper was getting his award. The slicks hauled out 522 troops in 191
sorties taking up enough time so many of the 189th missed CPT.
Hooper�s ceremony.
7 September 1967:
Again the 189th was called on to perform another extraction for the
1/12th Inf. 4th Inf Div in support of Francis Marion.
Many of the operations were put on hold due to the weather, and much of
September consisted of heavy morning ground fog, zero-zero until after 0900 hrs.
Frequent afternoon rain showers and thunderstorms with ceilings 3500-5000ft
broken, visibility to 3-7 miles. Temperatures were in the High 70s to the Low
60�s.
14 September 1967:
The 189th conducted multiple troop movements and final extractions
for the 1/12th, 3/8th, 4th Inf. Div. In support
of Francis Marion. The slicks pulled out 529 troops in 206 sorties with enemy
contact minimal
15 September 1967:
The Company sustained its first casualties from hostile ground fire. While
investigating suspected enemy tunnels and foxholes on the daily visual
reconnaissance, GHOSTRIDER 166 (need photo) received automatic weapons fire from four (4)
individuals who were attempting to hide in the trees. GHOSTRIDER 166 received
approximately ten (10) hits wounding WO Egekial Williams (AC) in the thigh and
WO Albert Whaley (P) in the lower leg. The observer Sgt. Lawrence Crippen
received facial injuries from shrapnel. Sp4 Samuel Kravehak, the gunner,
returned fire on the enemy location and claimed one (1) enemy KIA. All wounds
with the exception of WO Whaley�s were superficial and, after treatment at the
18th
15 September 1967:
The 189th was reassigned from direct support of the 4th
Inf Div to general support of the Central Highlands. These missions included the
support of II Corps, 5th SFG and 52nd Artillery Battalion.
Operations Omega and Prairiefire were also included.
15 September 1967:
Major Richard Coulter was reassigned to be S-1 of the 52nd CAB. MAJ.
Darrell Waite replaced him as Operations Officer; MAJ. Robert Davenport became
the Platoon Leader of the 2nd Airlift Platoon.
17 September 1967:
MAJ. Wilbur Mixter was transferred to the 405th Maintenance
Detachment as the Detachment Commander.
21 September, 1967:
The unit was notified at 2230 hours that GHOSTRIDER 166 (need
photo) was missing on a flight
from Mang Buk Special Forces Camp to Kontum. An air search was initiated on 22
September and the missing aircraft was located approximately twenty (20)
kilometers south of Mang Buk. All crew members survived with minor injuries
although the aircraft was completely destroyed.
1 October 1967:
MAJ. George Hodges was assigned to the 189th as Company Executive
Officer replacing CPT. Howe. CPT. Howe was made the assistant gun platoon
leader.
1 October 1967:
The 189th supported Operation Prairiefire, the high stakes, top
secret, cross border reconnaissance game. Across the border in
It is impossible to determine whether the GHOSTRIDERS or the AVENGERS
encountered more hostile fire on these missions. While GHOSTRIDERS were hovering
above triple canopy jungle, using Maguire rigs (ropes and slings) to extract the
teams on the ground, the AVENGERS were on station providing withering fire
support. These missions established once and for all that the NVA had developed
the Ho Chi Minh trail into a high-speed highway capable of rapid movement of men
and equipment into all parts of
3 October 1967:
AVENGER 552 was on a low level mission at 100 feet at 100 knots. The aircraft
took four (4) hits in the left side while in support of a SF mission in
5 October 1967:
At approximately 0820, the 189th was notified the gunner on
GHOSTRIDER 759 (need photo)put two (2) rounds through the top of the ship. Nobody was hurt,
but the ship had to be brought back and checked out for further damage. Also,
GHOSTRIDER 153 (need photo) piloted by WO Jones, was hovering over the dense jungle making a
pick up by ladder when a tree bent down by the rotor wash flapped back into the
tail rotor causing the aircraft to make a hard landing. The crew was not injured
and the area was secured until a CH-47 aircraft picked up the aircraft.
6 October 1967:
On a FOB-2 mission, aircraft GHOSTRIDER 171 was in support of a SF team deep in
enemy held jungle west of Dak To. GHOSTRIDER 171 (need
photo), the leading insert ship, drew
heavy automatic weapons fire wounding the pilot and almost totally disabling the
ship. WO Butler brought his AVENGER gun team in to suppress the fire on the
injured ship. After getting the troop ship safely out of the area, they returned
to mark the heaviest ground fire area with smoke to facilitate air strikes by
the Air Force. CPT. Shiver Eustice (P) received wounds to his leg and arm and
was evacuated to the 18th
10-31 October 1967:
Project Omega (Dak To) The first platoon of the 281st AHC Provided
three (3) UH-ID�s for operations at Kontum in support of Project Omega
with the 189th AHC, staging out of Kontum, the aircraft were utilized
in the daily shuttle of a seventy two-man reaction force to New Dak To and to
stand by daily to insert the reaction force in areas where the LRRP detected
enemy activity. Three (3) assaults were made northwest of New Dak
to into Mountainside landing zones.
13 October 1967:
Company was notified that WO Nelson had been shot in the back while
participating in a operation for FOB-2 while flying AVENGER 693. (need
photo) He was
evacuated to the 18th
14 October 1967:
SP4 Duffin sustained a slight bullet wound to the foot. He was taken to the 18th
The 52nd CAB was the principle supporting aviation element during
Operation Mac Arthur. The Battalion�s normal daily operational commitment to the
4th Inf Div was 22 UH-1Hs, 10 UH-1Cs and 7 CH-47s of which the
majority was allocated to the 1st Brigade at Dak To.
15 October 1967:
Reports pertaining to Operation MacArthur were published showing the buildup of
enemy forces in preparation for the Battle of Dak To. During the period 15-21
October, there were several reports of small arms fire directed at aircraft in
an area twenty (20) kilometers northeast of Dak To.
15-21 October 1967:
During this period there were several reports of small arms fire directed at
aircraft in an area twenty (20) kilometers NE of Dak To. With excellent gun
coverage given by the AVENGERS and the GHOSTRIDERS, they continued to operate
successfully and effectively on the FOB 2 mission.
19 October � 9 November 1967:
5th SFG (Prairie Fire) the aircraft used in this operation was assigned a primary mission of resupply and liaison. In addition, the unit
conducted several combat assaults. The area of operations was southwest of
Kontum where the assaults were flown into mountain landing zones. On one such
assault, a 281st AHC aircraft killed one (1) enemy. On 9 November,
the aircraft were withdrawn to Pleiku where they once again flew in support of
the 52nd CAB.
22-29 October 1967:
Contact was made with an unidentified company sized unit eight (8) km SE of Dak
To. Heavy trail building activity was reported thirty (30) km NW of Dak To. An
agent reported that a 4000-man force would use the trails to move into
24 October 1967:
Captain Howe called operations and alerted them that GHOSTRIDER 167
(need photo) had a small
electrical fire and a main rotor blade strike while evacuating troops. The
aircraft was flown back to FOB-2 and left there for maintenance to check the
following morning.
25 October 1967:
Our turn to be supported by another company. Due to maintenance problems, only
one (1) gun ship could be supplied to FOB-2. The 165th AHC supplied
slicks and remaining guns.
27 October 1967:
The 52nd conducted a battalion sized Airmobile Operation in support
of the 1/22nd Inf 4th Inf Div for Operation Mac Arthur.
The 189th participated with slicks and guns. The mission was
conducted with no incidents and negative contact.
28 October 1967:
An AVENGER gunship received three (3) hits by ground fire in vicinity of Dak To.
One (1) crew member WIA and aircraft continued to fly.
29 October 1967:
Helicopter crews from the 179th Medium Helicopter Company, 52nd
CAB, 189th AHC and 604th Maint Det provided support to
recover a downed UH-1H helicopter. The helicopter recovery operation was carried
out under difficult and extremely hazardous flying conditions. The ground party
prepared a landing zone at the crash site located in dense jungle. The
maintenance crew landed at 1800 hours and prepared the aircraft for extraction
by CH-47D. The first attempt was unsuccessful because the lifting cable was too
short. A longer cable was obtained, the downed UH-1H again prepared for
extraction, and the LZ enlarged by cutting additional trees. The CH-47D returned
and the recovery was accomplished during the hours of darkness. The GHOSTRIDERS
and AVENGERS performed insertion of maintenance personnel and gun cover. WO
Niester received superficial face wounds and minor shrapnel wounds to his arms
and legs.
30 October 1967:
Omega Operations terminated with all GHOSTRIDERS returning to
2 November 1967:
Two (2) GHOSTRIDER slicks were assigned to participate in a CA with the 170th
and 119th AHC�s.
The Battle of Dak To was a major battle of the Vietnam Conflict that took place
between 3 and 22 November 1967 in
3 November 1967:
AVENGER 552 (need photo) while on a CA the aircraft was hit in the cockpit by automatic
weapons fire. One (1) crew member was WIA and the aircraft received structural
damage and continued on the assault. GHOSTRIDERS were notified that a new
commitment was given to them. Nightly flare stand-by, two (2) UH-1H's were
required.
4 November 1967:
Another mission was assigned. An area to include the western half of a
semi-circle within a 15 km radius of
6 November 1967:
The 4th/503rd established FSB 15 atop hill 823 for Battery
C 3/319th Artillery. Hill 823 is approximately nine (9) kilometers
from the Cambodian border and sits sat astride a major exit of the Ho Chi Minh
Trail. CH-47D aircraft to the top of the hill airlifted the battery. Company B
of the 4th /503rd were involved in a fierce fight to
secure the hill for the artillery. AVENGER guns covered the insertion and took
action to secure the hill. After the hill was secured the four (4) rifle
companies rotated the job of providing security of the FSB. Later that day
GHOSTRIDER 153 (need photo) piloted by 1LT Hedrick landed next to a CONEX container to off
load flares. As the aircraft lifted to a hover the CONEX door swung open and hit
the stinger and caused the tail rotor to hit CONEX container.
7 November 1967:
GHOSTRIDER 160 (need photo) caught fire in maintenance and received major damages. Aircraft
commitment increased at FOB-2 to eleven (11) slicks and five (5) guns.
8 November 1967: In an area centered four (4) nautical miles west of Dak To, a
SF team on a search and destroy mission engaged an unknown-sized enemy force in
fortified positions. SP5 John Adams was (CE) aboard an AVENGER gun ship flying
cover on a Special Forces insertion mission west of Dak To. Other members of the
crew were: WO McKenna (AC); SP4 Begay (G); WO Weaks (P). CPT. Hooper was team
leader, he and his wingman were circling the inserted troops, when they started
received heavy small weapons fire. WO McKenna�s aircraft was hit with small arms
fire and began to lose power and attempted to land. Failing to find a suitable
landing zone, WO McKenna allowed the aircraft to settle tail first into the
trees. As the helicopter struck the trees, the tail boom snapped off, spun and
came to rest on an upslope caving in the front of the aircraft. After his
wingman crashed, CPT. Hooper called for the flight of helicopters that just
departed to return and rescue the downed crew. He continued to attack the enemy
positions despite the heavy hostile fire and forced the enemy to withdraw from
the rescue site. WO McKenna and SP4 Begay exited the right side of the
helicopter, while Weaks and Adams exited the left. SP4 Begay suffered a broken
leg, WO Weaks injured his right foot, and SP5 Adams had a broken arm and
appeared to be in shock. The four had barely exited the helicopter when they
began to receive small arms fire. WO McKenna radioed for help, and he, SP4 Begay
and WO Weaks made their way to an extraction point with SP4 Begay dragging SP5
Adams. SP4 Begay, because of his own injuries, was unable to carry SP5 Adams far
and left him in a slumped-over position against some bushes. SP4 Begay later
stated that SP5 Adams condition had worsened. While awaiting extraction, WO
McKenna returned to the crash site to see if he could help SP5 Adams. He saw two
Viet Cong, one who appeared to be shooting at SP5 Adams. WO McKenna shot at the
Viet Cong then fell down the slope to the creek bed where he was extracted. WO
Miller, upon learning the position of the downed aircraft, immediately flew to
the area. Captain Hooper advised him that the downed crew was receiving heavy
fire and that the ridge overlooking the crash site was held by well armed and
determined NVA. Disregarding the danger, WO Miller brought his aircraft to a
hover over the site of the downed aircraft and, while under intense fire from
the enemy, he directed his (CE) and SP4 Williams (G) to cover his approach and
lower the McGuire rig into the crash site below. SP4 Williams placed accurate
fire upon the enemy positions so that the rescue of the downed crew could be
completed. WO members secured themselves to the rescue sling. He then made a
slow vertical ascent under fire and safely lifted the injured personnel from the
crash site and flew them to a safe landing area for transfer, inside his
aircraft, for medical evacuation to a
9 November 1967:
The aircraft were withdrawn to Pleiku where they once again flew
in support of the 189th AHC.
11 November 1967:
A
12 November 1967:
Two (2) companies from the 503rd moved 300 meters north of FSB 16 to
secure the ridge line. They started to move west along the ridgeline when they
were once again ambushed. AVENGER and CROCODILE guns were called to provide
suppressive fire, making firing pass after firing pass putting down intensive
fire so the enemy would not break and run. The vicious fighting lasted until the
next day. The 503rd lost 21 KIA and 17 WIA. A sweep of the area
afterwards revealed 34 NVA dead and 21 enemy weapons.
15 November 1967:
It appeared that the second phase of the Battle of Dak To was on its way. At
0840 hours in Dak To, AVENGER guns were on standby waiting for anything to
happen, and they did not have to wait long. Charles decided he was going to make
sure everyone was awake, so he sent his greetings via incoming mortars, 12 to 15
rounds landed on the parking ramp where three (3) C-130's were parked. Two (2)
of the C-130's were completely destroyed and the third damaged. Everyone except
the AVENGERS retired to the bunkers while the fire team took off and, directed
by the tower, engaged the mortar firing position. The C-130's that burned were
loaded with ammo so it was a long stay in the bunker for the troops. The C-130's
stopped burning about 1230 hours. At 1545 hours, Charlie again sent his greeting
via mortar to Dak Tothis time hitting the ASP setting it on fire resulting in a
complete loss of the ASP. Again, everyone retired to the bunkers and again the
AVENGERS took to the air. The ASP burned fiercely until 0130 hours and an
occasional round exploded throughout the night in very close proximity of the
bunkers. Charlie continued to send his greetings several times during the night.
In addition to isolated thunderstorms over the airfield during the night,
unreported weather was 1141 tons of various types of ammunition falling
everywhere.. Damage to the airfield was heavy but only in certain localized
areas. No injuries to 189th personnel.
15-21 November 1967:
Heavy mortar and rocket fire continued day and night. Charlie seemed to be well
entrenched in the surrounding hillside and their objective appeared to be an
attempt to inflict as many US casualties as possible rather than attempting to
over-run Dak To itself.
19 November 1967:
The 2nd Bn 503rd Inf of the 173rd Abn Bgde
numbering less than 500 men were given the mission of securing Hill 875,
estimated to have been defended by a company of NVA main-force troops fresh off
the Ho Chi Minh Trail. What followed was one of the fiercest battles of the
entire VN War which would later be categorized as one of the �Border Battles� of
1967. The 189th AHC supported the operation with slicks and guns
during the entire battle ending on 23 November.
22-28 November 1967:
During this period, enemy activity decreased significantly. In what appeared to
divert US forces from Dak To, the enemy began to increase ambush and harassing
activities in
26 November 1967:
A covert and clandestine operation was to take place in
27 November 1967:
A 5th SF unit from FOB-2was in constant contact deep in enemy
territory west of Dak Toand they called for an emergency extraction of an 80-man
force that had been inserted the previous day. Their situation was getting
critical as GHOSTRIDER 6 (MAJ Sanders) and AVENGER 6 (CPT Hooper) arrived over
the position with eight (8) slicks and four (4) gun ships. CPT Hooper
immediately led his fire-teams on devastating runs over the enemy positions
where the enemy was so close that the use of Air Force ordinance was impossible.
The AVENGERS made continuing firing passes at this determined enemy and, in
spite of heavy weapons fire, they were successful in forcing the enemy to break
contact. Backing up the gunship pilots with tremendous fire support were the
crew chiefs and gunners on the guns and slicks who placed heavy and accurate
fire on the enemy which protected the flank of the attacking gun ships allowing
the GHOSTRIDERS to begin the extraction. Lt Gray was evacuated to
29 November 1967:
189th conducted a final extraction in support of 1st Bde 4th
Inf Div in the vicinity of Dak To. They extracted 252 pax in 87 sorties.
30 November 1967:
The 189th conducted a CA in support of 3/12th Inf 4th
Inf Div in the vicinity of Dak To. They lifted 585 pax in 182 sorties. The
Battalion Commander of the 3/12th Inf. received a minor facial wound
when his C&C aircraft came under enemy automatic weapons fire. GHOSTRIDER 154
was on a recon mission at 50 feet and 90 knots and received one (1) hit through
the cockpit and continued on the mission.
1 December 1967:
With the completion of the FOB mission, the 189th turned its
attention to other commitments including the 4th Inf Div and support
of the 170th AHC, 119th AHC and II Corps
missions.
4 December 1967:
The 189th AVENGER gun ships supporting a CIDG team received credit
for nine (9) NVA killed by air.
6 December 1967:
The 189th conducted a CA in support of the 1/8th Inf 4th
Inf Div, in Spaatz AO. They lifted over 255 pax in 45 sorties. The mission was
conducted with no incidents and negative contact.
13 December 1967:
Dak To came under mortar attack causing extensive damage to GHOSTRIDER 156. No
injuries were suffered, however, the aircraft could not be flown.
14 December 1967:
GHOSTRIDER 159 (need photo) took one (1) round of hostile fire while in support of 4th
Inf Div negative injuries.
16 December 1967:
While on a mission for the 4th Inf Div GHOSTRIDER 174 received one
round through the tail boom, and the aircraft was flown to Dak To for repair.
17-19 December 1967:
20 December 1967:
At 1530 hours, 189th GHOSTRIDER 154
(need photo) was hovering at 120 feet lowering
cutting equipment by rope. The tail rotor struck a tree causing the aircraft to
crash and burn. Two (2) crew members, (AC)
WO Mc Garry and (CE)
David Antol were
missing along with two (2) passengers: LTC Glen Belnap and SGM Herbert Roberts
Jr. WO Baker (AC) suffered a severe cut lip. Sp4 Kornes (G) was evacuated with a
broken leg. A search for the missing crew members and passengers had to be
terminated due to darkness. The missing personnel were declared KIA. Reports
indicate that LTC Belnap on board from the 3rd Bde 4th Inf
took Antol�s helmet to talk with the AC while they were landing so there was no
way to clear the tail rotor on the left. Rules were changed after that flight so
that no one could use a crew member�s helmet during flight.
21 December 1967:
The 189th received a call from WO Meister that AVENGER 697
(need photo) had been
involved in an accident at Polei Klang trying to hover between two (2) 281st
AHC aircraft where INTRUDER 748 and 039, AVENGER 697 meshed blades with 748 and
was totally destroyed. (AC) of 697 was WO Ginac (P) was WO Engle, (CE) was SP4
Tipton, and the (G) was PFC Nelson. SP5 Schenk was sitting in a trailing
helicopter and observed 697 mesh blades with 748. He raced to the gunship and
pulled the crew out from the wreckage and moved them to safety. He returned to
the stricken aircraft and successfully shut off the engine preventing a fire.
During the entire action, he was drenched with fuel and, had a fire occurred,
death or grievous injury was certain. The only injuries sustained by the crew
were head lacerations received by SP4 Tipton. Both aircraft were a total loss.
SP5 Schenk was awarded the Soldier's Medal for his quick action in complete
disregard for his own life. One (1)
23 December 1967:
189th Operations was informed that GHOSTRIDER 153 (need
photo) was down at Dak To
with a split main rotor blade. Aircraft was sling loaded back to
25 December 1967:
Being Christmas day, the entire company was thinking about family and friends at
home. The mess hall had a better meal than usual, and many toasts and many beers
were consumed. No incidents occurred. However, one (1) GHOSTRIDER slick carried
Chris Noel to
27 December 1967:
At approximately 1300 hours, the 189th received a call that
GHOSTRIDER 153 (need photo), piloted by (AC) 1LT Lindsey, was down two (2) miles west of Dak
To airfield. Neither crew nor aircraft suffered any damage, and the aircraft was
sling loaded by CH-47 back to Pleiku. The other missions ran smoothly the rest
of the day. A CA in support of the 2/503rd Abn, 173d Abn Bde was
conducted in the vicinity of Kontum. They lifted 252 pax in 42 sorties.
28 December 1967:
Still in support of the 4th Inf Div GHOSTRIDERS and AVENGERS
conducted a CA, for the 1/503rd Abn, 173d Abn Bge in the vicinity of
Kontum. They lifted 120 troops in 20 sorties into a new area. The mission was
conducted with no incidents and negative contact.
29 December 1967:
Normal missions in connection with the 4th Inf Div the 189th
conducted a CA with 120 troops in 24 sorties from the 3/12th 4th
Inf Div Enemy small arms fire was received from the SW quadrant of the LZ. An
AVENGER gunship sustained one (1) hit with no injury to crew. Later that day,
the 189th moved 352 troops of the 7th ARVN Bn. into a
secure LZ. The mission continued with another insertion of 150 troops and tons
of cargo moved.
31 December 1967:
The 189th conducted a CA in support of 3/12th Inf 4th
Inf Div in the Spaatz AO. They airlifted 150 pax in 50 sorties. The mission was
conducted with no incidents or contact.
31 December 1967:
Many spent New Years� Eve in celebration, both in the Officers and Enlisted
clubs at
Looking back on the different missions during the year showed a few problems encountered in the first months in support of the 4th Inf Div and the 5th SFG. The 189th recognized them even though the 4th and 5th appreciated how the unit performed for them. The coming year would be spent in support of the same missions and operations which were expected to be performed much smoother.