This Military Service Page was created/owned by
AB Raymond Guinn
to remember
Parks, Earl D. (Cherry 1), SSgt USAF(Ret).
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Contact Info
Home Town Nowata
Date of Passing Sep 14, 1990
Location of Interment Nowata Memorial Cemetery - Nowata, Oklahoma
Official Badges
Unofficial Badges
Additional Information
Last Known Activity:
His Silver Star Citation reads:
Staff Sergeant Earl D. Parks distinguished himself by gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force during the Prisoner of War Search and Rescue Operation at Son Tay, North Vietnam, on 21 November 1970. On that date, Sergeant Parks performed aircrew duties on the lead aircraft of the force penetrating deep into enemy territory in the attempted rescue effort. With complete disregard for his personal safety in the face of enemy fire, he skillfully performed his normal aircrew duties and other functions which involved many highly important and precisely timed activities. Sergeant Parks' outstanding performance under harrowing circumstances contributed greatly to the success of the operation. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Parks has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
Other Comments:
1966-1968, MC-130 Combat Talon/Shadow
From Year 1966
To Year 1968
Personal Memories
Not Specified
Image
MC-130 Combat Talon/Shadow Details
Aircraft/Missile Information
Specifications StatsCentral Model Lockheed MC-130P Combat Shadow Length 98.72 ft | 30.09 m Width 132.55 ft | 40.40 m Height 38.39 ft | 11.70 m Engine(s) 4 x Allison T56-A-15 turboprop engines delivering 4,910 shp each. Empty Weight 0 lbs | 0 kg MTOW 153,772 lbs | 69,750 kg Max Speed 289 mph | 465 km/h | 251 kts Max Range 4,000 miles | 6,437 km Ceiling 32,808 ft | 10,000 m | 6.2 miles Climb Rate Not Available Hardpoints 0 Armament None. Accommodations 8
Major Variants
* C-130 "Hercules" - Basic Transport Airframe * MC-130 - Special Forces Series Multi-Purpose Platform. * MC-130E - 1966-era Special Forces Insertion / Extraction / Supply Drop aircraft. * MC-130H - 1980-era "improved" MC-130E system; updated avionics; broadened role aircraft. * HC-130N/P - Initial MC-130P system designation; "H" designation is now relegated to rescue and recovery systems and not special operations role. * MC-130P - Special Operations Command tanker fleet designation.
