About this Unit
The 147th Aviation Company (147th AVN CO) was a U.S. Army aviation unit that served in the Vietnam War under the United States Army Vietnam (USARV) command. Activated in the mid-1960s, the 147th provided critical helicopter support, including troop transport, resupply missions, medical evacuations, and combat assaults. The unit operated various aircraft such as the UH-1 Huey and CH-47 Chinook, playing a vital role in mobility and logistical operations throughout South Vietnam. The 147th AVN CO earned commendations for its service before being inactivated following the drawdown of U.S. forces in the early 1970s.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Designation: The 147th Aviation Company (Assault Support Helicopter), known as the "Hillclimbers," was activated in 1966 and assigned to the United States Army Vietnam (USARV).
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Chinook Helicopters: The unit was equipped with CH-47 Chinook helicopters, renowned for their heavy-lift capabilities, which played a crucial role in troop movements, resupply missions, and artillery relocation.
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Nickname "Hillclimbers": The company was aptly nicknamed "Hillclimbers" due to their frequent missions flying into mountainous and difficult terrain, often delivering supplies to remote firebases.
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Base Locations: The 147th operated out of several bases in Vietnam, including Vung Tau, Phu Loi, and Can Tho, adapting to the shifting demands of the war.
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Operation Lam Son 719: During the 1971 incursion into Laos (Lam Son 719), the 147th played a pivotal support role, conducting daring resupply and medevac missions under heavy enemy fire.
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Distinguished Service: Members of the 147th AVN CO received numerous awards for valor, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medals, reflecting their courage and skill in hazardous conditions.
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"Hillclimbers" Patch: The unit's unique patch features a CH-47 Chinook ascending a mountain, symbolizing their specialty in challenging terrain operations.
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Casualties and Heroism: The unit suffered losses during their service in Vietnam, with several pilots and crew lost in action, often while attempting to rescue others or deliver vital supplies.
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Reputation for Innovation: The 147th developed creative solutions for sling-load operations, enabling them to transport everything from artillery to vehicles, sometimes improvising equipment in the field.
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Legacy and Reunions: Former members of the 147th AVN CO maintain a strong sense of camaraderie, holding reunions and sharing their stories, preserving the unit's legacy and contributions to Army aviation history.
