173rd Assault Helicopter Company

• Formation and Nickname: The 173rd Assault Helicopter Company, known as the “Robin Hoods,” was activated in 1966 and served with distinction during the Vietnam War. • Call Signs: The company’s call signs were “Robin Hood” for slicks (UH-1 Hueys) and “Crossbow” for gunships, contributing to their unique identity. • Primary Mission: They specialized in air assault operations, troop insertions and extractions, resupply, and medical evacuations across South Vietnam. • Support to the 173rd Airborne Brigade: The unit was closely associated with, but not formally subordinate to, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, often providing direct helicopter support for their combat operations. • Base of Operations: The company was based at Lai Khe and later at Lai Khe and Phu Loi, both critical U.S. Army bases near Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City). • Combat Record: The 173rd AHC flew thousands of combat missions, often under heavy enemy fire, and earned numerous unit citations for bravery and effectiveness. • Notable Engagements: The Robin Hoods participated in major campaigns, including the Tet Offensive, Iron Triangle operations, and the Cambodian Incursion. • Aircraft Losses and Sacrifice: The company lost many helicopters and personnel in action, with several members receiving posthumous awards for heroism, highlighting the dangers they faced daily. • Unique Unit Artwork: Their helicopters often featured distinctive “Robin Hood” and “Crossbow” nose art, making them both famous and easily recognizable. • Legacy and Reunions: After Vietnam, the 173rd AHC was deactivated, but its veterans remain active, holding annual reunions and maintaining a strong camaraderie through organizations and online communities.