HHC 101st Aviation Group

• Origins: The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 101st Aviation Group was constituted on 15 November 1962 as part of the legendary 101st Airborne Division ("Screaming Eagles"). • Vietnam War Service: The 101st Aviation Group played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War, providing command and control for aviation assets supporting airmobile operations from 1965 onward. • Operation Lam Son 719: In 1971, the Group supported Operation Lam Son 719, a major helicopter-borne assault into Laos, which was one of the largest helicopter operations of the war. • Nickname: The 101st Aviation Group was often referred to as the “Wings of the Screaming Eagles,” reflecting its essential role in airborne and air assault missions. • Decorations: The Group and its subordinate units earned several commendations, including Presidential Unit Citations, Meritorious Unit Commendations, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. • Innovations in Air Mobility: The Group was at the forefront of developing and employing helicopter tactics that would become standard for U.S. Army air assault operations. • Aircraft Diversity: HHC 101st Aviation Group managed a wide variety of helicopters during its Vietnam service, including the UH-1 Huey, CH-47 Chinook, OH-6 Cayuse, and AH-1 Cobra. • Famous Leaders: Notable commanders included future high-ranking generals, such as Major General John J. Tolson, who helped shape Army aviation doctrine. • Post-Vietnam Evolution: After Vietnam, the Group was reorganized several times, eventually evolving into the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, maintaining its place as a core aviation element of the 101st Airborne Division. • Legacy: The innovative air assault tactics and esprit de corps developed by HHC 101st Aviation Group continue to influence Army Aviation units worldwide, and its veterans are celebrated for their courage and achievements.