118th Assault Hel Co

• Origins: The 118th Assault Helicopter Company, also known as the "Thunderbirds," was formed in July 1963 and deployed to Vietnam as part of the U.S. Army's rapid expansion of helicopter units during the Vietnam War. • Call Sign: The unit's radio call sign was "Thunderbird," a name that became synonymous with their daring operations and esprit de corps. • Aircraft Operated: The 118th primarily flew the UH-1 "Huey" helicopter, which became an iconic symbol of the Vietnam War due to its versatility and critical role in airmobile operations. • Base of Operations: The unit was based at Bien Hoa Air Base, a major hub for helicopter operations just northeast of Saigon. • Combat Missions: The 118th participated in numerous major operations, including search and destroy missions, troop insertions and extractions, resupply, and medical evacuations. • Distinguished Actions: Members of the unit received several high military honors, including Distinguished Flying Crosses and Bronze Stars, for their bravery under fire. • Adaptation and Innovation: The unit was known for innovative tactics in air assault and combat support, often modifying their helicopters with additional armament or protection to suit specific missions. • Casualties and Sacrifice: The 118th suffered heavy casualties during its service, with many pilots and crew members killed or wounded in action, reflecting the high risks of helicopter warfare in Vietnam. • Legacy: The 118th Assault Helicopter Company was inactivated in 1971, but its legacy lives on through veteran reunions, a dedicated website, and memorials to those who served. • Historical Documentation: The stories and experiences of the 118th have been preserved in books, documentaries, and personal memoirs, helping to educate future generations about the critical role of helicopter units in modern warfare.