About this Unit
The 71st Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), originally constituted during the Vietnam War, was activated in 1966 to provide aerial support for ground operations. Equipped primarily with UH-1 "Huey" helicopters, the unit played a vital role in troop transport, combat assault, and resupply missions throughout the II Corps Tactical Zone. The 71st Aviation Company participated in numerous major operations, including the Tet Offensive and the Cambodian Incursion, often facing hostile fire and challenging flying conditions. Their exemplary performance earned them several commendations before the unit was eventually inactivated post-Vietnam.
Historical Facts
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Vietnam War Origins: The 71st Assault Helicopter Company (AHC) was activated in 1966 and deployed to Vietnam, playing a pivotal role in the conflict as part of the 14th Combat Aviation Battalion.
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Nickname "Rattlers" and "Firebirds": The company adopted the call signs "Rattlers" for its lift helicopters and "Firebirds" for its gunship platoon, names that became legendary among Vietnam helicopter units.
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Key Roles: The 71st AHC provided essential air mobility, troop transport, resupply, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), and close air support for ground operations in some of the most contested regions of Vietnam.
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High Operational Tempo: The unit flew thousands of combat missions, often conducting multiple sorties per day under heavy enemy fire, especially during major operations like the Tet Offensive.
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Decorations and Honors: Members of the 71st earned numerous awards, including Distinguished Flying Crosses, Silver Stars, and Bronze Stars, reflecting the unit's courage and dedication.
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Operation Lam Son 719: The company played a significant role in this 1971 operation, conducting dangerous cross-border missions into Laos to support South Vietnamese forces. The operation was one of the largest helicopter operations of the war.
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Aircraft Used: The 71st AHC primarily flew the UH-1 "Huey" helicopter, a symbol of the Vietnam War, and supported its gunship missions with armed versions of the Huey.
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Base Locations: The unit was based at Chu Lai Air Base and later at other locations in South Vietnam, adapting to the shifting demands of the conflict.
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Casualties and Sacrifice: The risks were high, and the 71st AHC suffered casualties, including pilots, crewmen, and support staff, many of whom are remembered by their comrades and veterans' groups today.
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Veterans' Legacy: The 71st AHC Veterans Association remains active, preserving the stories and camaraderie of the unit through reunions, historical projects, and memorials, ensuring their legacy endures.
