About this Unit
Advisory Team 162, also known as ALO-FAC (Air Liaison Officer – Forward Air Controller), was a specialized unit within the U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) during the Vietnam War. The team’s primary mission was to advise and assist the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) on the effective use of close air support and to coordinate air strikes in support of ground operations. Comprised of experienced U.S. Air Force officers and enlisted personnel, Advisory Team 162 provided vital communication links between ground forces and combat aircraft, ensuring timely and accurate air support. Their efforts played a crucial role in enhancing the ARVN’s combat effectiveness and contributed significantly to joint U.S.-South Vietnamese military operations.
Historical Facts
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Advisory Team 162’s Mission: Advisory Team 162, also known as the Air Liaison Officer/Forward Air Controller (ALO-FAC) unit, was part of the U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) during the Vietnam War, tasked with advising and supporting the Vietnamese Air Force and ground units.
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Call Sign “Black Pony”: The unit was often associated with the call sign “Black Pony,” reflecting its close air support and forward air control missions in support of ground operations.
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Integration with ARVN: Advisory Team 162 worked closely with the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN), providing critical air-ground coordination and helping train ARVN personnel in air strike direction and communication procedures.
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Role in Close Air Support: ALO-FACs from Team 162 directed U.S. and South Vietnamese air strikes, ensuring precision and minimizing friendly fire incidents during complex ground engagements.
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Aircraft Used: Members of the team frequently operated the O-1 Bird Dog and O-2 Skymaster aircraft, which were ideal for low-level observation, target marking, and communication with strike aircraft.
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Dangerous Assignments: Serving as a FAC was highly dangerous; Team 162’s personnel often flew at low altitude over hostile territory, making them vulnerable to small arms and anti-aircraft fire.
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Medal Recipients: Several members of Advisory Team 162 received high military honors for bravery, including the Silver Star and Distinguished Flying Cross, recognizing their valor under fire.
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Key Operations: The unit played pivotal roles in major operations such as the Tet Offensive and Cambodian Incursion, providing vital air support coordination during intense combat periods.
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Legacy of Training: The expertise and experience shared by Advisory Team 162 significantly improved the Vietnamese Air Force’s FAC capabilities, leaving a lasting legacy in air-ground cooperation.
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Personal Stories: Many veterans recall the camaraderie and unique challenges of serving as ALO-FACs, with some going on to write memoirs and participate in veteran reunions, preserving the history and lessons of their service.
