362nd Aviation Company

• Vietnam War Service: The 362nd Aviation Company, also known as the "Flying Dragons," served with distinction during the Vietnam War, providing vital aviation support primarily in the form of aerial reconnaissance and surveillance. • Aircraft Utilized: The unit was famously equipped with the Grumman OV-1 Mohawk, a twin-engine observation and attack aircraft designed for battlefield surveillance and electronic intelligence. • Activation and Deployment: The company was reactivated and deployed to Vietnam in 1965, becoming one of the first U.S. Army units to operate the Mohawk in combat. • Call Sign: The 362nd was known by the radio call sign "Dragon," which became synonymous with their swift and effective intelligence operations. • Reconnaissance Missions: The unit conducted hundreds of reconnaissance missions over hostile territory, providing real-time intelligence on enemy positions, troop movements, and supply lines. • Technological Edge: The 362nd's OV-1 Mohawks were outfitted with advanced sensors, including side-looking airborne radar (SLAR) and infrared cameras, giving U.S. forces a significant technology advantage. • Support in Major Operations: The company played a crucial role in supporting major military campaigns such as Operation Junction City and the Tet Offensive by relaying critical intelligence to ground commanders. • Combat Losses: Despite their reconnaissance role, the unit suffered casualties due to anti-aircraft fire and the hazardous nature of low-level flights over enemy territory. • Legacy and Honors: After the Vietnam War, the 362nd Aviation Company was inactivated in 1972, but its veterans have remained closely connected, holding regular reunions and preserving their history through the Flying Dragons Association. • Unit Motto: The 362nd Aviation Company’s unofficial motto was "Eyes of the Army," reflecting their vital role in providing vision and intelligence to U.S. forces in the field.