220th Aviation Company

• Nickname: The 220th Aviation Company was famously nicknamed the "Catkillers," derived from their radio call sign and the mission to "kill" enemy activity with reconnaissance and artillery coordination. • Vietnam War Service: The unit was active in the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1971, providing aerial reconnaissance and support missions for U.S. and allied ground troops. • Aircraft Used: The 220th primarily flew the single-engine Cessna O-1 Bird Dog, a light observation aircraft known for its maneuverability and ability to operate from short, rough airstrips. • Hazardous Missions: Catkiller pilots often flew low and slow over enemy territory, marking targets with smoke rockets and directing artillery and airstrikes, making them frequent targets for enemy ground fire. • Distinguished Service: Several members of the 220th Aviation Company were awarded distinguished medals for bravery, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Silver Star, for their actions under fire. • Support for Marines: The company provided critical support to the U.S. Marines around the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), especially during key battles such as the Siege of Khe Sanh and the Battle of Hue. • Visual Reconnaissance: The unit was tasked with visual reconnaissance, artillery adjustment, and sometimes psychological operations, such as dropping leaflets over enemy positions. • International Cooperation: The 220th worked closely with South Vietnamese, South Korean, and Australian forces, as well as American units, sharing reconnaissance intelligence and coordinating strikes. • Legacy and Reunions: After the war, veterans of the 220th Catkillers have maintained a strong camaraderie, holding regular reunions and maintaining a dedicated website to preserve their history. • Unit Motto: The Catkillers’ motto, "Eyes of the Artillery," reflects their crucial role in providing aerial intelligence and coordinating devastating firepower on enemy positions.