About this Unit
The 132nd Assault Support Helicopter Company (ASHC), known as the "Hercules," served with distinction under the Americal Division (23rd Infantry Division) during the Vietnam War. Activated in 1967, the unit operated CH-47 Chinook helicopters, providing vital heavy-lift and logistical support across I Corps in South Vietnam. The 132nd ASHC was instrumental in resupplying remote outposts, conducting troop insertions and extractions, and supporting large-scale operations such as Lam Son 719. Their efforts contributed significantly to the mobility and effectiveness of U.S. and allied forces throughout their deployment until the unit’s deactivation in the early 1970s.
Historical Facts
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Unit Designation: The 132nd Assault Support Helicopter Company (ASHC), also known as the "Hercules," was an aviation unit in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, assigned to the Americal Division (23rd Infantry Division).
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Primary Aircraft: The 132nd ASHC operated the CH-47 Chinook, a heavy-lift helicopter, which was crucial for transporting troops, artillery, supplies, and vehicles across the challenging terrain of Vietnam.
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Activation and Deployment: The unit was activated in 1967 and deployed to Vietnam, where it served primarily in the I Corps Tactical Zone, supporting both Americal and other allied forces.
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Nickname: The company earned the nickname "Hercules" for its heavy-lift capability and reliability under fire.
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Critical Missions: The 132nd was frequently tasked with "sling load" operations, moving artillery and supplies to remote firebases, and evacuating damaged vehicles and aircraft from hostile zones.
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Combat Support: The unit supported major operations such as Operation Wheeler/Wallowa, Operation Muscatine, and the Tet Offensive by ensuring rapid mobility and resupply of frontline troops.
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Heroism Under Fire: Pilots and crew of the 132nd often flew into hot landing zones under enemy fire, earning numerous awards for valor, including Distinguished Flying Crosses and Air Medals.
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Maintenance Ingenuity: The harsh climate and constant use led to frequent breakdowns, but the unit’s maintenance crews became renowned for their ability to keep the big Chinooks flying against all odds.
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Casualties and Sacrifice: The 132nd ASHC suffered losses, both aircraft and personnel, highlighting the dangers of helicopter operations in Vietnam, particularly during resupply and medevac missions.
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Legacy: The 132nd ASHC's contributions are remembered by veterans and historians as a vital element of the Americal Division’s operations, helping to redefine the use of helicopters in modern warfare.
