Again he's close, Bob.

The USS Core, carrying the 8th Trans and 57th Trans, sailed up the Mekong River to Saigon on 12DEC61. They stayed aboard the Core for several days, then moved both companies to Tan Son Nhut airport while waiting for Diem and Kennedy to approve their use in combat. The first mission flown was on 22DEC61, by the 8th Trans.

The following day, 23DEC61, the 8th and the 57th did a joint ARVN CA.

The 8th moved from Tan Son Nhut to Qui Nhon on 10JAN62.

Next to arrive was the 93rd Trans, in January 1962 to Da Nang. Then came the 81st and 33rd Trans Cos. All were assigned to the 45th Transportation Bn, which later became the 145th Avn Bn.

In March 1963 the 52d CABn was formed to cover all aviation units in II Corps. The Bn took over the "Flying Dragons" nickname.

Bob K--