101st Aviation Battalion, 5th

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Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About 101st Aviation Battalion, 5th

The 101st Aviation Battalion was originally constituted as part of the 5th Infantry Division during the buildup of U.S. Army aviation assets in the post-World War II era. Activated in the 1960s, the battalion provided critical aviation support, including troop transport and reconnaissance, during the Vietnam War, where it contributed to several major operations. Following Vietnam, the 101st Aviation Battalion continued to advance Army aviation tactics and technology, participating in training exercises and providing support during peacetime missions. Over time, the battalion underwent several reorganizations as part of the Army's evolving force structure, maintaining its legacy of adaptability and excellence in aviation support.

Unit Members

James Bullard

U.S. Army

101st Aviation Battalion, 5thView Profile

Jeff Stromwall

U.S. Army

101st Aviation Battalion, 5thView Profile

Photos

U.S. Army • 1974

U.S. Army • 1976

About 101st Aviation Battalion, 5th

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Vietnam War Origins: The 101st Aviation Battalion was originally constituted during the Vietnam War, serving as part of the 101st Airborne Division, providing critical air mobility and support. • Nickname "Eagles in Flight": The battalion earned the nickname “Eagles in Flight,” referencing its parent division’s “Screaming Eagles” moniker and its role in aerial operations. • Distinguished Unit: The battalion was awarded numerous unit citations for its actions in Vietnam, including Presidential Unit Citations and Valorous Unit Awards. • Helicopter Pioneers: The battalion was among the first to use the UH-1 “Huey” helicopter in large-scale air assault operations, revolutionizing battlefield mobility. • Lam Son 719 Operation: Elements of the battalion participated in Operation Lam Son 719 in 1971, a major helicopter-supported push into Laos to disrupt the Ho Chi Minh Trail. • Support to Ground Forces: The battalion flew thousands of sorties, providing medevac, resupply, and close air support to infantry units, often under heavy enemy fire. • Post-Vietnam Reorganizations: After Vietnam, the battalion underwent multiple reorganizations and redesignations, adapting to new technologies and missions. • Cold War Deployments: During the Cold War, the battalion was stationed in Europe as part of NATO commitments, supporting deterrence operations against potential Warsaw Pact aggression. • Desert Storm Role: The battalion participated in Operation Desert Storm, providing air assault and support capabilities during the liberation of Kuwait in 1991. • Legacy and Lineage: The unit’s lineage continues today within the modern U.S. Army aviation structure, with its traditions and honors carried on by successor battalions in the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade.