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History of 9th Aviation Battalion

The 9th Aviation Battalion was activated during the Vietnam War as part of the 9th Infantry Division, providing critical aviation support in the Mekong Delta region. The unit operated a variety of helicopters, including UH-1 Hueys and OH-6 Loaches, conducting troop transport, aerial reconnaissance, and close air support missions. The battalion played a pivotal role in numerous operations, such as Operation Speedy Express, enhancing the division’s mobility and combat effectiveness in difficult terrain. Following its service in Vietnam, the 9th Aviation Battalion was inactivated as the U.S. military downsized post-war, but its legacy endures through its contributions to Army aviation tactics and capabilities.

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ABOUT 9th Aviation Battalion

  • Origin: The 9th Aviation Battalion was originally activated on 15 November 1965 at Fort Riley, Kansas, as part of the 9th Infantry Division’s support units during the Vietnam War.
  • Vietnam Service: The battalion deployed to Vietnam in 1966, playing a crucial role in providing helicopter support for infantry operations in the challenging Mekong Delta region.
  • Nickname: The 9th Aviation Battalion was sometimes referred to as the “Eagle Battalion” due to its aerial prowess and support capabilities.
  • Helicopter Fleet: The unit operated a variety of helicopters, most notably the UH-1 “Huey” and the OH-6 “Cayuse,” which were integral for troop transport, medevac, and reconnaissance missions.
  • Major Campaigns: The battalion supported major operations such as Operation Palm Beach, Operation Coronado, and Operation Speedy Express, helping to disrupt Viet Cong activities.
  • Distinguished Service: The battalion received several commendations, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation, for its exemplary performance under fire and challenging operational conditions.
  • Casualties and Heroism: Members of the 9th Aviation Battalion displayed extraordinary heroism, with several soldiers receiving individual awards for bravery while extracting wounded troops under enemy fire.
  • Innovative Tactics: The unit pioneered “air mobile” tactics, which involved rapid deployment and extraction of troops using helicopters, revolutionizing modern warfare.
  • Post-Vietnam: Following its service in Vietnam, the battalion was inactivated in 1972 but its legacy continued as Army aviation evolved into a critical component of modern military operations.
  • Historical Legacy: The 9th Aviation Battalion’s contributions are commemorated in various Vietnam War memorials and its veterans remain active in preserving its storied history through reunions and veterans’ associations.

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