I got to jump out of one while in the 82d Abn Div in the seventies. Also, flew from Japan to Korea with a historic payload, landing before daylight. Two C130s landed carrying 9 Blackhawks, and they were pulled into the hanger and readied for immediate take off. That morning under the cover of darkness they flew up to the DMZ and made the maiden flight of Blackhawks for USFK flying along the DMZ. This was to show off the helo’s. That morning history was made twice; it was the first time more than Blackhawks had been configured for transport in a single plane as well.
I flew once to the PI on them, and initially the plane was configured for 18 passenger seats, but another 18 passenger seats were configured so a few more of us could get there as passengers.
They are big, they are loud and impressive. They are the daddy of the C141s.
It was the first time more than 4 blackhawks had been configured... five in the one I came in on.
That had to be fun, and thank you for your service.