Camp Holloway Discussion Forum Archive 02 - 05/07/01 to 02/28/03

One Pilot's Perspective

I've been reading some of the latest postings with mixed feelings; ranging from deep, humble gratitude for the kind words (even tho' they were not specifically directed to me!); all the way up to a certain bemusement.

I had a certain pride in my abilities and skills. But I took my R&R late, in the 10th month of my tour. When I got back in the 317, my PT (Pilot Technique) was a thing of memory only. I couldn't do nothin' right! For about two days, I think. Very humiliating experience, to be flying with a guy so new he wasn't even in the unit when I left for Australia; and to have him smooth and me bouncing every-which-way! Moral: Some days were good, some weren't.

All of the officers, warrants as well as commissioned, had extra-assigned responsibilities. And these were more numerous and extensive for the hard bars than for us w's. The XO, the platoon leaders, and all the others had numerous hats to wear to help keep the paper properly flowing in what was a large and complex operation. I myself was the "Crime Prevention Officer". I was supposed to write a protocol, an SOP, and then defend it during an inspection. I sure hope there wasn't any (crime, that is) 'cause I was never around to be able to deal with any! Too busy hauling pop and ice and c-rats.

I think the men of the 119th, simply because of the Unit's long service in RVN before many of the others arrived, learned early on how vital teamwork and trust across the flight-line was in order not just to pull the missions, but to accomplish the mission goals: one of which was to minimize our casualty rate in a war zone.

I mentioned some time ago, after Ron Corbin checked in, how much I liked the maneuver named after him, the Corbin Spin. This was something all of us pilots knew, and used when we thought it appropriate. It scared the hell out of the Tech Reps. And yet, as late as April 1970, it was unknown in both the 189th and the 57th. I worked at Dak Seang with some of the Ghostriders, and used it up there; and they didn't know what I was doing. Later, in June I think, we worked with the Gladiators over in the An Lao, and used it there; and they were unfamiliar with it then. But all the Gator A/C's used it on occasion; because it had been handed down to us; and we had been taught all the other lessons previously learned.

One of the principle lessons we had impressed on us, was just how important the flying crew was to the pilot. And how reliable. While we had the aircraft between pre-flight and post-flight, the Crew Chief had it 24 hours a day: it was your aircraft. I knew it then, I know it now. I do not think I ever over-ruled Chris regarding the 317; and I know I always asked his opinion before we did anything risky (which was a lot!).

I think, after 30 odd years, maybe it's safe to let you guys in on a closely-guarded secret: the reason pilots loved the Huey? It loved to fly; wanted to fly. All you have to do is hold her gently, caress her, and think gentle thoughts --- and she will purrr like a kitten and make her pilots lood good!!

Pickett

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