Squantos,
“SAR Gunner......you run with the PJ’s ?”
Yes sir, 40+ years ago. I was in the CCT pipeline in ‘67 but knew I wouldn’t make the cut due to negative buoyancy issues. At the time the AF was putting together air crews for the HH-3/HH-53. The crew attrition rate was higher than expected and slots were opening so I made the jump. Assigned initially to an SOS squadron working with the SOG, a re-org found me assigned to the 37th and eventually the 40th ARRS. DaNang, NKP and some non-existent(LOL) forward locations in Laos became home. I had three tours in SEA, but the one with the ARRS was the most rewarding and challenging. I was proud to be part of a 100+ save crew. Never had a complaint from one of them. The PJs of course were center ring and deserve all of the accolades they receive and MUCH more. I saw many selfless acts performed by those guys. My job was simply to give them the room they needed to operate. As they say, “Happiness is a belt-fed weapon” and I still have a soft sport for the GAU-2. The Sandy’s, MIGCAP and King all helped make it happen.
The downside of course was we could not bring them all back home. It was extremely depressing when the mission abort call was made. We all would have risked the 40mm instead of having to do remains recovery. Something I never did adjust to.
Through your posts I know your Bro is a PJ. Special breed. Good man. You’ve also gotten your hands dirty more than once. Thanks for your service and thanks for asking.
Damn proud to know anyone that was part of a 100 plus saves crew or a 1 save crew. IMHO the most dangerous job in the military. Deep respect for folks on those crews. You need to hit a reunion, tour a unit and see the new M-134 Dillon reworks on the GAU2B’s......awesome mods on that rig that dillon did when he bought the rights from General Electric.
You Stay Safe !