About this Unit
The 175th Attack Helicopter Company, known as the "Outlaws," was a distinguished United States Army aviation unit that served during the Vietnam War. Activated in 1966, the company was equipped with UH-1 Iroquois (Huey) helicopters and later transitioned to AH-1 Cobra gunships as the war progressed. The 175th provided critical air assault, close air support, and reconnaissance missions, often operating in high-risk environments across the Mekong Delta and other contested regions. Renowned for their tenacity and effectiveness, the Outlaws played a vital role in supporting ground operations and extracting troops under fire, earning numerous commendations for their service.
Historical Facts
•
Origins: The 175th Attack Helicopter Company (AHC), nicknamed the "Outlaws," was constituted in 1966 and activated in Vietnam, becoming one of the earliest U.S. Army aviation units dedicated to armed helicopter attack missions.
•
Vietnam Service: The unit served with distinction during the Vietnam War, primarily operating the Bell UH-1 "Huey" helicopters in support of infantry and special forces operations.
•
Nickname and Mascot: The "Outlaws" name became synonymous with aggressive tactics and fearless flying, and the unit adopted imagery of outlaws and the Wild West for their insignia and nose art.
•
Gun Platoon – Mavericks: The gun platoon of the 175th AHC was called the "Mavericks," specializing in direct attack roles, providing close air support, and escorting transport helicopters.
•
First Combat Action: The 175th AHC saw its first combat action shortly after arrival in Vietnam, quickly earning a reputation for daring low-level attacks and rapid-response air assault missions.
•
Distinguished Personnel: Several members of the 175th AHC received high-level decorations for valor, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Silver Star, for acts of heroism in combat.
•
Tragic Losses: Like many helicopter units in Vietnam, the 175th AHC suffered significant casualties due to enemy fire, hazardous flying conditions, and the demanding nature of combat support operations.
•
Support for Special Forces: The Outlaws frequently supported MACV-SOG and other special operations units, flying dangerous insertion and extraction missions in contested areas such as the Mekong Delta.
•
Reunion and Legacy: Veterans of the 175th AHC continue to maintain a strong bond, holding regular reunions and preserving their unit's history through organizations and online archives.
•
Call Sign in Pop Culture: The "Outlaw" call sign and stories from the 175th AHC have featured in books, documentaries, and oral histories about helicopter warfare in Vietnam, cementing their place in military aviation lore.
