About this Unit
The 174th Assault Helicopter Company, known as the "Sharks," was activated in 1966 and served with distinction during the Vietnam War. Operating primarily UH-1 "Huey" helicopters, the unit provided critical air assault, troop transport, and close air support missions throughout the I Corps Tactical Zone. The 174th earned a reputation for bravery and effectiveness, often supporting ground units under intense enemy fire and participating in major operations such as Tet and Lam Son 719. After years of dedicated service, the company was deactivated in 1971, but its legacy endures among Vietnam War aviation units.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Nickname: The 174th Assault Helicopter Company was formed in 1965 and became known as the "Sharks" for its gunship platoon, while the slicks (troop carriers) were called the "Dolphins."
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Vietnam War Service: The 174th AHC served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1971, playing a crucial role in air mobility and assault operations in I Corps Tactical Zone, the northernmost area of South Vietnam.
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Shark Mouth Nose Art: The unit's gunships were famous for their distinctive shark mouth nose art, which became an iconic image representing the company and boosting crew morale.
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Aircraft Types: The company operated UH-1 Iroquois “Huey” helicopters as troop carriers (“slicks”) and UH-1C/M gunships as armed escorts (“Sharks”).
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Major Operations: The 174th participated in major combat operations, including Operations Wheeler/Wallowa, Tet Offensive, Lam Son 719, and numerous other engagements supporting both U.S. and ARVN forces.
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Unit Decorations: The 174th AHC earned several unit citations, including the Valorous Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Commendation, and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.
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Support for Special Forces: The company often supported U.S. Special Forces (Green Berets) and MACV-SOG teams on secret missions, including cross-border operations into Laos and Cambodia.
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Notable Rescue Missions: Pilots and crew conducted daring rescues under heavy enemy fire, such as extracting wounded soldiers from hot landing zones during the Battle of Khe Sanh and other critical engagements.
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Home Base: The 174th was primarily based at Duc Pho (LZ Bronco) and later at Chu Lai, both in Quang Ngai Province, South Vietnam.
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Veteran Legacy: The 174th AHC has an active veterans’ association, and its members hold reunions and maintain a comprehensive website preserving stories, photos, and the legacy of the unit’s service in Vietnam.
