Chain of Command NOTE: When the F4 Phantom II came on line with the US Air Force, the AFSC was changed, in 1964, only for this Aircraft: AFSC: J 43-XX-1 C (Began with the Letter "J" & ended in the letter "C" . Anyone with the 'J' 43-XX-1 'C', were assigned to the F-4 McDonnell-Douglas Phantom II Jet Fighter's!
Other Memories
�??Having spent my 2nd Combat Tour in SEA, I returned to Mc Dill AFB, Tampa, Fl, for the 3rd time since being assigned originally in 1964. The 1st time I was deployed to SEA/Vietnam was in the Spring of 1965, as a full Combat Deployment. Being assigned to the 47th TFS, at Ubon RTAFB (a Forward Combat Assignment). Were we began launching our aircraft (F4C's) in Operation Rolling Thunder, later Operation Max Effort, and on Alert Pad's (2 Aircraft per Pad, with 2 Pads); For units needing Air Support, to Close Air Support (like on 11/08/1965, at a Battle known as Landing Zone X-Ray, where Lt Col Hal Moore called in "Broken Arrow.' Thus the movie "We were Soldiers," by Mel Gibson). And we responded in launching aircraft for their ordinance coordinates locales.
�??In 1965-67 I served in this Combat unit (43rd TFS) in Vietnam, at Cam Rahn USAFB, RSVN, only to return to be assigned to them in my final tour of duty, as a PCS. Afterwards, and before being Medically Discharged with Disabilities, resulting from my Combat Duty as a Crew Chief on F4 C/D Phantom II ( the best Jet Fighter in the World) in SEA/Vietnam, in 01/1967. A great assignment before the disabilities set in, and couldn't finish my assigned duties. Much regret.
Criteria The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distingu... The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not of a sufficient nature to justify a higher award. MoreHide
Comments Awarded while serving with the 555th TFS, 8th TFW, the Triple-Nickel. Later to be noted for being "The Most Distributor Of MIG Parts in the In The World!" Have the most Confirmed Kill's of any other F... Awarded while serving with the 555th TFS, 8th TFW, the Triple-Nickel. Later to be noted for being "The Most Distributor Of MIG Parts in the In The World!" Have the most Confirmed Kill's of any other Fighter Squadron, n Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Description
Award 2nd AF Presidential Unit Citation-1967
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Comments 1st Combat Assignment: FOB Total Deployment: 47th TFS, Ubon, RTAFB-Sping of 1965/ Nov 1965 Transf'd to Cam Rahn AFB, RVN W/ 42nd TFS. Spring 1966 returned for 2nd Tour w/555th TFS (Triple Nickel- 8th... 1st Combat Assignment: FOB Total Deployment: 47th TFS, Ubon, RTAFB-Sping of 1965/ Nov 1965 Transf'd to Cam Rahn AFB, RVN W/ 42nd TFS. Spring 1966 returned for 2nd Tour w/555th TFS (Triple Nickel- 8th AF) until 6/1967. Reassigned to the 43rd TFS, Mac Dill AFB, FL Residuals of Wounds/Injuries was assigned to 836 AF Hosp, Mac Dill Until final Discharge on 05 Jan 1968. MoreHide
Criteria
The Air Force Overseas Long Tour Service Ribbon is issued for completion of a standard overseas service assignment of two years or more in length
Criteria It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Long... It is awarded to all service members of the U.S. Air Force who complete four years of honorable active or reserve military service with any branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force Longevity Service Award is a ribbon that replaces the Federal Service Stripes previously worn on the uniform. MoreHide
Description January 2, 1967; Operation Bolo was a deception-based mission during the Vietnam War devised to lure fighter aircraft of the Vietnam People's Air Force (VPAF) -- Không Quân Nhân Dân Vietnam—into battlJanuary 2, 1967; Operation Bolo was a deception-based mission during the Vietnam War devised to lure fighter aircraft of the Vietnam People's Air Force (VPAF) -- Không Quân Nhân Dân Vietnam—into battle where the odds were stacked against the defenders. The mission was planned in response to North Vietnamese tactics during the Operation Rolling Thunder aerial-bombardment campaign wherein MiGs were used to attack heavily loaded fighter-bombers while circumventing their fighter escorts.
Bolo pitted the F-4 Phantom II multirole fighter against its rival, the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 interceptor, and was considered to be one of the most successful combat ruses of all time,[1] eventually prompting VPAF pilots and strategists, as well as Soviet tacticians, to re-evaluate the tactics and deployment of the MiG-21.... More
Best Friends
Advanced party arrived in early Oct. 1965, remaining 47th TFS Airmen arrived after Nov 1st, 1965, who changed to 43rd TFS, at Cam Rahn (US) Air Force Base. Who were the 1st permanent Unit to be assigned, to the 43 TFS, with F4 Phantom II's (C/D Model's), to Cam Rahn. Also, it was a major Port for troops arriving via Ship's and with suppies. Other Aircraft assigned were MAC, and Transit Aircraft; Runways/Ramps were temporary (PSP); 5-man Tents for housing, along with having the 2nd major Morgue. Other military units assigned: 101st ABN; US Army Units awaiting permanent assignments throughout RVN, US Army 'Hawk' Missile Unit, ROK Marines (Provided Security to Outside Perimerter). Air Force personel (inluded Crew-Chief's), provided security, with M-16's on the Flight-Line, inside the wire. Some Saturday's personel were allowed to go to the South China Sea to bath (With alot of Sharks), for 2 hours. Transported with Duce-n' a Haff, with a M-60 mounted on top, for Shark Watch. Lots of sand, and rain there, that didn't happen that often. An you really had to watch-out for the terrible current which would carry you out to sea, if treaded to far out! Some actual drowned because of the curent at Cam Rahn.
Best Friends
Supported the 12th TFW (Deployed from Mac Dill AFB, FL In Oct 1965) new assignment at the Cam Rahn with the ROC Marines, 101st ARBN, US Army Hawk Missile Detactment while supporting all US Ground Forces, in S. Vietnam. And, later some Operations into N. Vietnam. The base was fully under construction upon our arrival, with PSP for Ramp Areas & Runways/Taxi-Ways. While not maitaining your asigned aircraft (Launch, Recovery, Pre-Flight, Post-Flight, maintaining specialist repairs, etc.) we filled sand-bags, and dug Fox-Holes. and Security Points, for Base Attacks.. While small portions of new Runways were being constructed with concrete...........But never used while we were deployed. At the time it was estimated that 'Charlie' (Viet-Cong), civilian workers on the base was about 66%. Paid by us during the day, kill us at night!
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Description
1st W/V (Valor) 555th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 8th Tactical Fighter Wing - Triple Nickel- 'MIG Killer's" NOTE: Total of 3 Were Awards from 1965 throgh 1972, before leaving Vietnam!
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Description
While serving with the 555th TFS, it was awarded the Presidential Award 5 different times, with 'V' for Valor! I received the first 2. From 1966-67.
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Description
This the 2nd Award while serving in combat with the 555th TFS (Triple-Nickel), in Vietnam. Included is the device 'V' for Valor, with 1 Oak-Leaf Cluster.
Criteria The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospital... The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and medical centers (whether or not they are numbered) for exceptionally meritorious service or exceptionally outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. Heroism may be involved, but is not essential. MoreHide
Criteria The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of Sout... The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of South Vietnam. The actions cited are for the same services that would have resulted in the award of a Valorous Unit Citation by the Army or a Navy Unit Citation. MoreHide
Description
Left the 47th TFS, and Re-Assigned to the 12th TFW, at Cam Rahn, USAFB (11/01/65-03/1966)
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Comments
While serving with the 12th Tactical Fighter Wing at Cam Rahn, USAF Base, S. Vietnam, from Nov 1965-Mar 1966, in all Combat Operations in support of ground Units/and later N. Vietnam Operations.
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Comments
Awarded while serving with the 47th TFS/555th TFS/8th TFW/12th Tactical Fighter Wing at Ubon RTAFB/, Thailand/Cam Rahn USAF Base, S. Vietnam (1965-1967). Total of 2 Combat Tours.
Best Friends
Transferred from the 47th TFS to support the 12th TFW (Originally out of Mac Dill AFB, FL), newly assigned to Cam Rahn USAF base that was under construction at the time. Began Deployment/Transfer in November 1965, until early May 1966. Only personnel were transferred, our aircraft (F4-C) remained at Ubon, RTAFB. 100 Enlisted Personnel were amoung this party (None Ranked higher than Staff Sgt).
Best Friends
Mobilized entire Cobat Unit (43rd TFS) from MacDill AFB to relieve the 47th TFS, until being sent to Cam Rahn AFB (USAF), Vietnam. Where we were assigned to the 42nd TFS.
Best Friends
Primary: Operation Roaring Thunder; Provide Air Support forball US Ground Forces in RVN; Provide Alert Status for Defensive/Offensive Op's from Alert -Pad's! TDY's to Rebublic of S. Vietnam for Recovery/R & R Operation's of Unit's Aircraft/Parts.
Squadron Commander's Col. Robin Olds/ Col. 'Chappie' James (USAF) The 555th TFS was accredited with the most MIG Kill's than another Squadron in the Vietnam War! Recievied 3 Pesidential Unit Citations, with ' V', for Valor, by the Units Combat Action; Amoung many more notable Citations and Medals! The 'Hero's that Fallen, will be never Forgotten!
Criteria The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distingu... The Air Force Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States below the grade of Brigadier General who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not of a sufficient nature to justify a higher award. MoreHide
Criteria The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospital... The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and medical centers (whether or not they are numbered) for exceptionally meritorious service or exceptionally outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. Heroism may be involved, but is not essential. MoreHide
Criteria The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospital... The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and medical centers (whether or not they are numbered) for exceptionally meritorious service or exceptionally outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. Heroism may be involved, but is not essential. MoreHide
Criteria The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospital... The Outstanding Unit Award may be awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force to numbered units such as Air Forces, Air Divisions, Wings, Groups, and Squadrons and to Medical Facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and medical centers (whether or not they are numbered) for exceptionally meritorious service or exceptionally outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units. Heroism may be involved, but is not essential. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria
The Air Force Overseas Long Tour Service Ribbon is issued for completion of a standard overseas service assignment of two years or more in length
Criteria The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of Sout... The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of South Vietnam. The actions cited are for the same services that would have resulted in the award of a Valorous Unit Citation by the Army or a Navy Unit Citation. MoreHide
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Comments
Awarded from Spring 1965-May 1967 (1 of 2nd Combat Deployment) with the 47th,TFS, 12 TFW, 555th Tactical Fighter Squadron (8th TFW), (Wolf Pack/MIG-Killers/Triple Nickel)).
Description 2 March 1965-2 November 1968. Operation Rolling Thunder was the title of a gradual and sustained US 2nd Air Division (later Seventh Air Force), US Navy, and Republic of Vietnam Air Force (VNAF) aerial2 March 1965-2 November 1968. Operation Rolling Thunder was the title of a gradual and sustained US 2nd Air Division (later Seventh Air Force), US Navy, and Republic of Vietnam Air Force (VNAF) aerial bombardment campaign conducted against the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North Vietnam) from 2 March 1965 until 2 November 1968, during the Vietnam War.
In an effort to convince the North Vietnamese government to abandon its support of the insurgency in South Vietnam, President Johnson began a new bombing campaign in March 1965, known as Operation Rolling Thunder.
Lasting from 2 March 1965 until 1 November 1968, Rolling Thunder was the longest bombing campaign in United States history. It involved tactical aviation assets from the 7th Air Force in Thailand and South Vietnam, as well as aircraft from 7th Fleet and Marine Corps assets.
The campaign was marred by disputes between senior military leaders and the civilian administration from the outset. Military leaders argued for decisive strikes in order to isolate North Vietnam and to destroy their production capabilities and transportation systems.
President Johnson and Secretary McNamara sought the graduated use of force, choosing a cycle of bombing halts followed by escalation in an effort to persuade the North Vietnamese to negotiate for peace with the United States and South Vietnam.
During the three years of Rolling Thunder, Johnson and McNamara instituted seven bombing halts.
The three basic objectives of Operation Rolling Thunder under the Johnson administration were:
Strategically deter North Vietnam from supporting the insurgency in South Vietnam;
Raise the morale of military and political elites in South Vietnam;
Interdict North Vietnam’s support of the communist insurgency in the South.
Johnson and his staff continually sought a middle ground that would demonstrate American resolve without raising the ire of the international community. Ironically, by seeking this middle ground, the administration guaranteed that Rolling Thunder would fail to meet any of its objectives.
Rolling Thunder went through five phases.
During Phase I, from March to June 1965, a variety of targets were struck in an attempt to persuade North Vietnam to negotiate for peace. The air strikes served little purpose, other than to harden the resolve of North Vietnam and to solidify the sanctity of their cause. Most importantly, it led to the creation of the world’s most complex and lethal air defense networks.
Phase II from July 1965 to January 1966 was primarily an interdiction campaign aimed at roads, bridges, boats, and railroads. These attacks destroyed an estimated 4,600 trucks, 4,700 boats, and 800 railroad cars. At the urging of Admiral U. S. Grant Sharp, CINCPAC, the focus of Rolling Thunder shifted from interdiction to petroleum products.
Admiral Sharp realized that the interdiction campaign was not achieving the desired results and believed that by focusing the campaign on energy resources, North Vietnam might be forced to negotiate for peace.
Phase III from January to October 1966, focused on North Vietnam’s petroleum, oil, and lubricant (POL) resources. Before this phase began, North Vietnam required only 32,000 tons of oil a year to supply their needs. By the time Rolling Thunder began to target POL resources, North Vietnam had 60,000 tons of POL stocks in reserve.
While the attacks destroyed an estimated 70 percent of the North Vietnamese supply, the North dispersed the remaining stock in fifty-five gallon barrels throughout the country. This proved more than adequate to supply the infantry and guerrilla forces fighting in South Vietnam and did little to affect the war in South Vietnam.
Phase IV from October 1966 to May 1967, concentrated the campaign’s efforts on the industry and power-generating capabilities of North Vietnam. For the first time, targets in Hanoi were struck, but as with Phase III the new tactics failed to have much impact on a non-industrialized country. Because North Vietnam’s ports still remained off limits, the strikes did not impede North Vietnamese ability to receive and distribute supplies destined for South Vietnam.
Phase V, the final phase, from May 1967 to October 1968, concentrated on isolating Hanoi from Haiphong, and both cities from the remainder of the country, as well as the destruction of remaining industrial infrastructure. United States aircraft averaged over 13,000 sorties a month and destroyed over 5,600 trucks, 2,500 rail cars, and 11,500 boats during this final phase of Rolling Thunder.
As during earlier phases, the North Vietnamese air defense network grew. By 1967, pilots confronted the most comprehensive air defense network in the world. North Vietnam fired over 25,000 tons of AAA ammunition from 10,000 anti-aircraft guns and hundreds of missiles from over twenty-five SAM battalions during any given month of 1967. ... More
People You Remember Full Combat/Unit Deployment in Spring of 1965 to SEA/Vietnam Theather, from MacDill AFB, FL with theFull Combat/Unit Deployment in Spring of 1965 to SEA/Vietnam Theather, from MacDill AFB, FL with the 43rd TFS. Assigned to relieve the 47th TFS at Ubon RTAFB, a 'Foward Operation Base' (So they Called it). Operations included Mostly Operation Rolling Thunder I, bombing NVN Targets, and engaging in MIG's in Kills, an much AAA Fire. Other units assigned there, were one from George AFB, CA, the Australian RAF (F-86 Jet Fighters whom provided Air Defense for Ubon, along with a small unit of the RTAF aircraft (Mostly vintage WW II Prop Aircraft.. Other Units included USAF Seach & Rescue, AC-130, and C-130 Flare-Ships, and other C-130 Transports. Transit aircraft occupied ramp space from time to time, from B-24's, P-51's, Carrabbu's, and Fighter-Recon Aircraft. US Army Huey Helicopter/Gunships; Support Groups where USAF Crash/Fire/Rescue, along with the Australian Crash/ Fire/Rescue vehicles, USAF Security, Royal Thai Security (Army/Air Force). Entire 47th TFS had full support units that deployed from original PCS (MacDill). Along wit the 'sisier' unit from George AFB. The 47th provided Air Support for all Military Ground Units in Vietnam, as we had 2 Alert Pads at the end of the Runway (2 F4-C-Aircraft to each Pad, with ground ordandance configerations). Unfortunately, our Air-Crew/Aircraft took many losses/damages in the later part of 1965. A Great loss of many great men that Crew Chief's got to know since receiving and getting them Combat-Ready, when first getting the new F4-C's in early 1964. Ubon was on the far Western part of Thialand (About 16 Meters from the Ho Chi Mien Trail). And, of course we had plenty CIA people running around looking important, or trying too! ... More
Criteria The Air Force Training Ribbon is awarded to Air Force members on completing an Air Force accession training program (i.e., Basic Military Training; Officer Training School; ROTC; Air Force Academy; or... The Air Force Training Ribbon is awarded to Air Force members on completing an Air Force accession training program (i.e., Basic Military Training; Officer Training School; ROTC; Air Force Academy; or Medical Services, Judge Advocate, or Chaplain orientation courses). MoreHide
Comments
Completion of AF 1 & 2 Jet Aircraft Maintenance School, Amarillo, TX
Criteria The Air Force Training Ribbon is awarded to Air Force members on completing an Air Force accession training program (i.e., Basic Military Training; Officer Training School; ROTC; Air Force Academy; or... The Air Force Training Ribbon is awarded to Air Force members on completing an Air Force accession training program (i.e., Basic Military Training; Officer Training School; ROTC; Air Force Academy; or Medical Services, Judge Advocate, or Chaplain orientation courses). MoreHide
Best Friends
Carmine (Pete) J. Canonico, friends all through High School, and went in on the Air Force "Buddy System." After both finished 'Basic,' an going to Jet Fighter, one & two engine school, in Amarillo, Texas. He got an assignment to Air Defense Command, in the Tire Shop. And, I to Tactical Air Command, assigned to the Flight-Line as an Assistant Crew Chief, under a Charles (Chuck) Thompson, SSgt. Really a great teacher, and good friend. We got separated, after our full deployment to SEA/Vietnam. He was able to return to Mc Dill AFB, Tampa, Fl, and I went on to another assignment at Cam Rahn USAF Base, Vietnam. Afterwards, I to returned to Mc Dill, but as a lot of SSgt's got out, because of the so many repeat tours back to SEA (me included). Many had as much as 16 years, with no promotions, with commercial airlines wanting them as A&E personnel, so off they went. I truly missed the ones that were real great guys, but most had families, and it was very taxing on them, considering the pay, at that time. $65 Combat pay a month, and the risk, just wasn't worth it to a man with a family. But this caused a shortage of Crew Chiefs', and on my second tour I was crewing as many as 3-4 aircraft at one time. Working 16 + hours a day, 7 days a week. Even our R&R's got longer, and longer a part.
Best Moment
Luckily, I got an assignment that changed how I felt, about the incident on the day that President John F Kennedy was shot and killed. It was being a part of a rewarding group of men assigned to a Jet Fighter Squadron (Tactical Air Command), that was like family. From the people on the Flight-Line, to the Pilots that flew our aircraft, an having the world's best Combat Fighter Jets (F4C/D, Phantom II), and of course the men, in the hangers, who did the maintenance on them. All a bunch of great guys. And the respect from everyone in the Combat Support Group, that were always asking, "What's It Like." Even the Security Air Police, would drive by, stopping to ask about them, and 'Wishing' they had been assigned on one.
Worst Moment
On Nov 22, 1963, our Flight was lined-up to have a dental exam at the base Dental Building. As we filed in line to be called in the doctors Exam/Treatment room, they had a radio turn up playing music (First time we got to here one, much less know the news). When it was interrupted with the news bulletin, that the president had been shot, and killed. A USAF Captain, whom was a Dentist, yelled out, "Yeah, They Killed The Son-Of-A- Bitch!" I then thought, what country I was I in? Here a USAF Captain would made such statement, about our Commander-In-Chief, and I was apart of this US Air Force. I was so discussed by this, and I had wished I never signed-up. Even today, it still think about it, on every anniversary, of Nov 22 when President John F. Kennedy was Killed in Dallas, Texas.
The base was 'Shut-Down' afterwards, and all military personnel went on full alert. Being in Basic Training we were confined to our barracks. The following day, a Memorial Was made at an open Amp Theater, on base, to Honor him. It sort of smoothed-over the feeling that happen at the dental office, the following day, but still, I was left with that, as almost a nightmare. And, was just going to do what I signed up for, and get out. Since weren't allowed the privy to any radio's, or even news papers, we were in the dark about what happened, or even where it took place. Until we were given our first PCS assignments!
â??In Combat, its always the 'Worsed Part of Any Day,' when someone becomes KIA, or MIA. These pilots and Air Crews became personal as you came from getting them Combat Ready to following them, to these crazy war. That was really taking its toll on them from my first Combat Tour, to the 2nd. With no end in sight, to us winning the Air War over North Vietnam. Even with our Squardon having a high kill rate, in shooting down the most MIG-17, and MIG-21's (555th TFS). And, the kills the 47th TFS confirmed, but we lost some really fine men in doing so. With as many as 7 aircraft in 1 day, w/2 Air Crew!
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Comments
1st Medal/Ribbon given by the USAF-Enlisted 11/15/1963.
NOTE: When the F4 Phantom II came on line with the US Air Force, the AFSC was changed, in 1964, only for this Aircraft: AFSC: J 43-XX-1 C (Began with the Letter "J" & ended in the letter "C" . Anyone with the 'J' 43-XX-1 'C', were assigned to the F-4 McDonnell-Douglas Phantom II Jet Fighter's!
�??Having spent my 2nd Combat Tour in SEA, I returned to Mc Dill AFB, Tampa, Fl, for the 3rd time since being assigned originally in 1964. The 1st time I was deployed to SEA/Vietnam was in the Spring of 1965, as a full Combat Deployment. Being assigned to the 47th TFS, at Ubon RTAFB (a Forward Combat Assignment). Were we began launching our aircraft (F4C's) in Operation Rolling Thunder, later Operation Max Effort, and on Alert Pad's (2 Aircraft per Pad, with 2 Pads); For units needing Air Support, to Close Air Support (like on 11/08/1965, at a Battle known as Landing Zone X-Ray, where Lt Col Hal Moore called in "Broken Arrow.' Thus the movie "We were Soldiers," by Mel Gibson). And we responded in launching aircraft for their ordinance coordinates locales.
�??In 1965-67 I served in this Combat unit (43rd TFS) in Vietnam, at Cam Rahn USAFB, RSVN, only to return to be assigned to them in my final tour of duty, as a PCS. Afterwards, and before being Medically Discharged with Disabilities, resulting from my Combat Duty as a Crew Chief on F4 C/D Phantom II ( the best Jet Fighter in the World) in SEA/Vietnam, in 01/1967. A great assignment before the disabilities set in, and couldn't finish my assigned duties. Much regret.