1-4 Jan. Diversified missions were prevalent for the past 4 days .Missions varying from light troop carry, resupply, visual recon, to long range recon patrol insertions. The major units supported are 1st and 2nd Bde. of the 4th Inf. Div. and KILO TEAMS of the 2nd rangers.

5 Jan. While flying in the vicinity of firebase Blackhawk 25 Kilometers East of Pleiku along highway 19,Croc 462 was enroute to fly highway cover when they came under small arms fire. Two rounds penetrated the fuel cell and the pilots CPT GANT and W01 DALY made a precautionary landing. There were no injuries to the crew.

6-8 Jan. The Gators saw a lot of resupply and visual recon as they supported the 4th Inf Div and the 7/15 Arty. There is rumor about the area and it was heard that the 119th will support the 4th Inf Div while based in the old 119th maintenance hanger at AN KHE.

9 Jan. Firebace Kannack was once again activated. The Gators and Crocs were called to resupply the unit there. The gators for the first four sortie had negative contact with the enemy. Then enroute to the firebase with its fifth sortie Gator 719, piloted by WO1 XERI and WO1 WILLSON received intensive enemy ground fire along the ridge line. The aircraft took a total of 15 hits. 5 in the main rotor, 7 in the avionics compartment, and 3 in the passenger compartment. No injuries were inflicted upon the crew.

The month of January also saw the 119th AHC, supporting the 4th Inf. Div. while billeted in a maintenance hanger, the old gator maintenance hanger at that, The pilots, crews, maintenance personnel, and operations were 100% operational in one day. Twelve slicks were parked in their old swamp revetment while the gunships were parked at the base of the tower, All in preparation for the forthcoming TET Celebration.

12-15 Jan. Still providing support for the 4th Inf . Div, the gators carried out their missions with professionalism. MACV units in the QUIN NHON area were also being supported.

17 Jan. During troop insertions for the 4th Inf. Div. 1st Bdg, 7 KM north of LZ HARDTIMES"GATOR 464" while being cleared into an LZ hit a tree with the tailrotor. The aircraft lost its tail rotor instantly, and LT MASAK cut the throttle and initiated a hovering autorotation. The pilot lost control and the aircraft rolled. The aircraft was a total loss, but there were no injuries to the pilots, crew, and six infantry paxs on board. Learned procedures of emergency saved WO1 ROUSSELL and his crew as he had lifted off LZ, and was enroute to AN KHE where he detected cyclic feedback. Shortly afterwards he experienced a complete loss of his hydraulic system. He executed a running landing at AN KHE main without futher damage to the aircraft or the crew.

26-30 Jan. More resupplies were run today, from traveling guns to HARDTIMES and then to sub-elements around HARDTIMES VALLEY.

Febuary. Once again the company proved itself worthy. The 4th DIV.Commander asked the company to remain in AN KHE to give them air support for the forth coming TET CELEBRATION. Tension, apprehension, and precaution was in the air a day before TET. Security was doubled, positions fortified, aircrafts guarded, and Tac-E ships and crews on nightly standby.

During the day the slicks and guns carried it's daily missions. TET came on the 5th of Feb, but to everyones surprize nothing occured. Vistor Charley may have drank too many strawberry wine and decided not to sustain any damage upon AN KHE. Each day that followed there was negative resistance with light sniper fire, which was also met with negative results.

16 Feb. The Gators and Crocs initiated the insertion of the 4th Inf Div troops 1st Bdg, into a new firebase Hopper. Firebase Hopper is located 7.5 KM Northwest of firebase, LZ Lewis. The next day the company supported firebase Hopper by inserting dog teams and recom patrols 10KM west of Hopper. This operation was to detect enemy movement from the north to the AN KHE area.

24 Feb. While on a resupply mission of LZ Challenge for the 4th Inf Div and its sub-elements Gator 586 was on a short final to the Alfa element with resupplies when they came under heavy fire. SP/4 Aderholt , the door gunner, was hit in the abdomen with a single shot from an AK-47. As the aircraft lifted off the LZ, SP/4 Aderholt fell off landing on his back. Due to the intense fround fire, SP/4 Aderholt told ground handlers to tell the Gator slicks to wait for gunship cover before entering the LZ . Finally evacuated, SP/4 Aderholt was taken to QUIN NHON for emergency surgery. Now in Japan for recovery, SP/4 Aderholt has seen the last of Vietnam.

25 Feb. During the extration of troops from the 2nd Bde, 4th Inf Div, 7 KM west of firebase SUSIE, Gator 273 piloted by WO1 Norton, hovered down to the PZ (Pickup zone) when the aircraft's rpm started bleeding. Instantaneously the aircraft fell through. WO1 NORTON cut throttle when he suddenly experienced the loss of the left pedal,but the aircraft started to spin. The tail hit a stump and the aircraft rolled to its side, The aircraft was a total loss and WO1 Norton was hospitalized due to head injuries. WO1 Wilson, SP/4 Mills,SP/4 Williams and six paxs on board were not injured.

27 Feb. Another sad day confronts the Gators as SP/4 Welch was hit on the leg with an AK round during a resupply mission. He received incountry treatment and is in good shape. No other injuries were inflicted.

March. The Viet Cong and North Vietnamess Regulars were driven back, Killed of scattered by ground troops from the 4th Inf Div last month, and missions were again varied. With enemy movement halted of deescalated the ground troops were again extracted and replaced by other companies.

1-3 March. Dog teams, recon patrols, and long range patrols from KILLO company were extracted from their area of operations, 7KM west of Hopper. The Gators were covered by the Crocs as the exrtractions were initiated. For three days there was negative resistance from the enemy. On the 2nd of March WO1 Horn, flying gator 306 ,went from POL to Hook pad Via high hover at Lz Emglish when he experienced a short shaft failure. At approximately 40 feet and at 15 KTS the aircraft plumeted to the ground. WO1 Horn entered hovering autorotation and landed the aircraft without further damage. The rest of the crew also escaped injuries due to the skill of WO1 Horn.

4-6 Mar. Still living in the old Gator maintance hanger. The Gators heard rumors of moving back to An Khe from its present location in Pleiku. Speculations as to when and where are now questioned.

7Mar. A rumor turned into reality as the 119th initiated its first move back to AN KHE. The Crocs were the first to move as their personal equipment was transported by trucks to the old Gator hanger. They were operational that same day. Also on the same day the 119th returned from its almost two month stay at the old gator hanger and back to Pleiku only to pack up their equipment and personal items and move back to AN KHE, its new home.

8-10 Mar. Although on the move and still contemplating on temmporary quarters for the company the Gators carried out its missions handed down from the battalion.

11Mar. The 2nd Flight transported its equipment by convoy to AN KHE. No problems were encountered enroute through the Mang Yang Pass. This left the first flight back at Pleiku. While the 2nd flight, maintance, mess hall, orderly room personnel, and the Crocs started situating themselves in AN KHE. The location was on the eastern side of the golf course, along with the 57th AHC. The 1st flight and Gator operations were still working out of Pleiku. On the 15 th March the 119th was infromed by battalion that their move out date of the 16th of March was exstended for 10 days. This did not hamper the 119th operational capablities for they are always prepared for the worst. That same day, Gator 325 experienced a compressor stall. WO1 Stephens was enroute to Plai Me Rong from Pleiku when his engine failed. He autorotated to safe clear area without damaging the aircraft. There were niether inquries the the crew of 325 nor to the six paxs on board. On March 14th while supporting the 1st Bdg, 4th Inf Div, on a troop insertion, Gator 386, piloted by LT Gardner, was on short final inside the landing zone when he noticed his RPM bleeding, and simultaneously his N Gas producer and Torque Meter dropping. The aircraft landed hard, and the tail boom and tail rotor were destroyed. There were negative injuries to the crew or pilots.

16-19 Mar. Missions are still varied from small CA,s to resupplies while the company is still in the process of moving. Speculations are that the company will be moving into the 1/69 th area as soon as thet unit departs AN KHHE.

20Mar. Today the company completed its move, Once again since last December 1969 the Gators are back at AN KHE. Until the 1/69th Inf departed their location the Gators have to live in vacated buildings to the easters side of the golf course. For 9 days the Gators operated from their temproary location.Then on the 28th the 1/69th moved out, and their area was signed over to the Gators. The move was again on, as the company packed what they had and was prepared to move. The mess facilities were moved first, and then the enlisted men. It's going to take a while to straighten things out, But the outcome will be a new home for the gators of the 119th.

The rest of the month was the usual task of resupplying the 1st Bdg and 2nd Bde 4th Inf Div. There was negative confrontation with the enemy and missions were completed safely each day. Other units supported were the 7/15 Arty at AnKhe. 5th SFG at Pleiku Cteam pad, and the engineer at engineer hill.

April. Laxity no longer persisted as the enemy, comprised of a main force of North Vietnamese Regulars,swept down from the north and set seige to Dak Seang, Dak Pak, Dak To, and Kontum. An estimated force of 3 Divs of NVA had encircled Dak Seang. The 189th Assualt Helicopter Company did most of the supporting for the 2nd Ranger Force, Mike Strike Force, and CIDG,but consentrative automatic 37MM and 51 cal fire brought ship down one right after another. Air strike after air strike the enemy continued to bring down the helicopters. During the first 16 days of the seige, the Gators stood idle flying missions for the 4th Inf Div. As the situation increased at Dak Seang, almost being over run twice, the Gators were mustered to assis further actions against the communist agression. The Crocs were at Pleiku in case futher contact was encountered. Thus far there had been (4) UH-1H, (1)F100, (2)C47A, (1)10-2 AND (2) UH-1C shot down from enemy fire. A few of the Gators were still supporting the 4th Inf Div around the Hardtimes area, and some saw action.

9Apr. Seven miles northeast of Firebase Hardtimes, Gator 719 was on a combat assault mission for the 4th Inf Div. The first pilot approached the pickup zone and brought the aifcraft to a three foot hover. He proceded to set the aircraft in the PZ on an old log pad. The aircraft fell backwords and made hard contact with the ground. The aft section of the skids met contact and the tail section(boom) was punctured. Aircraft commander WO1 Tosti recovered the aircraft aft altitude and brought the aircraft out of the PZ. No one was injured and the aircraft was flown back to An Khe.

12 Apr. While the Gators were parked on the old Dak To airstrip, and the aircraft commandere were being given a briefing by the 2nd Ranger Commander, a barage of mortars started impacting around the aircraft. A few of the 189th UH-1 received shapnel from the rockets, but no one was injured as all the ships were cranked and lifted off of the airstrip.

14 April. It has been confirmed that at least 3 regiments of North Vietnamese troops are being encountered by U.S and RVN troops in the Dak Seang, Dak Pek area.

16April. Four Gators were again sent to Dak To to support the 2nd Ranger in warding off the NVA attacks. A reinforcement of 362 ARVNs was to be inserted 100 meters northeast of Dak Seang. On this lift there was small arms, and 51 cal fire encountered with negative results. The lift was completed and the next lift being prepared. A company size Mike Strike Force was to be lifted into Dak Pek with 8 UH-1H's on hand. This is when Gator 719 commanded by WO1 Olive was froced out of the airstrip of Dak Pek three times by mortar rounds. On the second go around received small arms fire. One round penetrated the tail boom sextion with no internal damage to major component parts. Stil receiving mortar fire Gator 719 landed and dropped off its load of 6 ground troops. There was negative injuries to WO Reipe, Sp/4 Cornwell, SP/4 Robledo, as their ship dodged the mortar rounds.

17 April. While resupplying the 1st Bde, 4th Inf Div, 2 miles west of LZ Challenge, WO1 Atwood piloted Gator aircraft 408 through sporadic burst of 51 cal machinegun fire. One round penetrated the vertical fin of the aircraft narrowly missing the 90 degree gear box and tail rotor control cables. The aircraft was landed at LZ Challenge and later flown back to the Golf Course. WO1 Reipe, Sp/4 Maestas, and Sp/4 Broadston were the other members of the crew on board. That same day Gator 834 piloted by WO1 Peyton was flying a combat assault mission for the 4th Inf Div, in the Hardtimes area, just one mile west of LZ Challenge when they encountered a barage of small arms fire on a short final for the pick up zone. One round entered the front left chin buble, severing transponder wiring and piercing the caution light panes. WO Spevey, Sp/4 Dube, Sp/4 Hendrickson were the other crew members on board, but luckily no one was injured and the aircraft was flown back to An Khe.

18 APRIL With other gunships covering CA's in the Hardtimes area for the Gators Croc gunships were flying close air support for CA's up in the Dak Seang area. At 13:50 hours, 1lt James A Saufley, aircraft commander of Croc 639 was working with the ground cmmander in cooridinating air to ground fire upon enemy locations. 100 meters northeast of Dak Seang when he and his crew encountered enemy ground fire of unknown caliber. The rounds pierced their aircaft causing it to be set afame. 1Lt Saufley jetisoned his armament and forced landed the aircraft which exploded after the crew escaped from the wreckage .Subsequent injuries were inflicted to all crew members. 1Lt Saufley and first Pilot WO1 Spivey received minor burns about the face and neck. Cheif engineer SP/4 Bowen, Gunner, received minor burns about the face, arms, and legs and feet, Medivac of the downed crew was instantly preformed by CW2 Daley who was flying the sister gunship Croc 663. CW2 Daley saw the aircraft burst into flame while in flight and immediately jetisoned his rocket pods when he witnessed the crew safely departing the burning aircraft. CW2 Daley landed his charlie model in a clearing and safely extracted Lt Saufley and his injured crew. Later in the day as Croc 663 contineud with its mission for the 2nd Rangers, It too received 51 cal fire inducing a precautionary landing. One round deflected off the 90 degree gearbox striking the tail rotor. No one was injured in this incident.

21 April. Krumpet Kilo was in desperate need of ammunition, water, and food in order to sustain and repell the enemies constant attempt to over run their position. Until supplies were on board Gator 539 when it departed Dak To with other resupply birds. On short final Gator 539 piloted by Wo Warren and Wo Slaxton, started receiving fire. Crew chief SP/4 Ramsey and gunner PFC Chancellor returned covering fire as WO Warren brought the aircraft in. The supplies were dropped and Gator 539 departed to the southeast when a heavy concentration of automatic weapons fire opened up. The ship was riddled with bullets as WO Waren flew the crippled ship back to safety. As the aircraft neared highway 17 the hydraulic system was lost and then the engine failed. The aircraft crached near the highway and the crew of Gator 539 recieved minor cuts and bruises.

23 Arpil. With the enemy drive slowed down concideraly, the only operations left were search and destroy. Resupplies were being flown to Dak Seang, LZ Tango and Dak Pek every sixth day. Recoilless rifles, 51 cal, and 30 cal fire was sporadic and never in froce. The last days of this month were spent supporting the 2nd Ranger, special froces, and the Mike Forces till the 45th ARVN Regiment replaced them.

25 April. A day hasn't gone by when a Gator ship goes up to Dak Seang to provide resupply airlifts and in the process receive intence enemy fire. "Gator" 834 piloted by WO Pexton and WO1 Walthal, were their this day. Provided essential combat resupply 2 KM northeast of Dak Seang. When on final " Gator"834 came under concentrated enemy fire. One Crew member. SP/4 Bottom was hit in the leg with a AK 47 round while putting out suppressive fire for cover. No other injuries were inflicted and the supplies were dropped off. The ship was taken back to AN KHE and SP/4 Bottoms medivaced to the 71st medivaced hospital for treatment.

"GATOR 834's sister,"GATOR 624" didn't have much of the Irish Luck either. As the ship also received small arms fire, and the pilot WO ROUSSELL subtained a superficial wound on his leg from shrapnel, His co-pilot Lt TOMLINSON, SP/4 CARDELL, and SP/4 BROWN were not injured.

28 April. Well it looks as if someone got carried away with their marshmallow cook out because they used the mess hall building. Maybe it was because of the food being served? Then again it may have been an overload of the oven which was set a blaze as a short circuit sparked a 45 minute fire that badly burned the cooking area, and a protion of the dining area. With the aid of the company water truck, personnel quickly attempted to control the blaze. Back to C Rations and LRRPS again.

May. The beginning of May has the 1st and 2nd Bdg of the 4th Inf Div moving out of firebase Hardtimes and into Plei Djereng. The start of President Nixon's "Total Victory" in Cambodia was soon to start in Hot Vally, along with the 4th Inf Div, the 101st Airborne, and Long Range Recon patrol of the ranger battalion were all based at Plei Djereng. The major operation concerned with was finding sanctuaries from the NVA's inside the Cambodian border. On 3 May the 101st Aifborne along with the 4th Inf Div troops from the 1st Bdg and 2nd Bdg were inserted west of Sen San Mountain range, Gator 6, Major Conrad ,was on hand to run the show as the sixty ships assaulted into Cambodia. Twelve Gators and Two Crocs participated in this lift which took the North Vietnamese Army by complete surprise. Along with Gator 6 was Gladitor 6,Bulldog 6, and 52nd Combat Assualt Battalion Commander LTC Utzman, Dragon 6 all took part as command and control ships for the operation. All went well as Chuck was caught off guard with negative resistance and contact. It looks like the Cambodian Territory 45 KM from Plei Djereng will be continually be flown over by the 119th Cator and Croc as they support units going in and out of Cambodia.

4May. Once again the Gators were over the Cambodian border inserting recon patrols and companies from the 1st and 2nd Bde of the 4th Inf Div. This time the enemy was a little obnoxious as he continued to put massive ground fire up at the C and C ships. There were negative injuries but operations were delayed until the enemy strongholds were equalized by heavy artillery and continuous air strikes.

5-6 May Only several Gator birds with 2 Crocs were sent to Plei Djereng to support the 101st Airborne now located at LZ Wildcat, and the 4th Inf Div inside Cambodia. For precautionary measures two Gators resupplied the same elements providing coverage for each other. Little resistance and contact confronted with negative results.

7-8 May. Another day of resupplying and recon lifting was conducted by the Gators while the Crocs stood idle for action. Gator 354, piloted by WO Sumey was resupplying elements of the 101st Airborne at LZ Wildcat when he came under fire after take off. The ship took one round throuch the chin bubble into the radio console. The aircraft was flown back from LZ Wildcat location to Plei Djereng without further problems.

9 May. Diversified missions were handed down to the 119th and thus the missions were varied from troop carry, V.I.P. and resupply. Only four ships flew over the Cambodian border to support operations within Cambodia. Colf Course took in coming mortars and rockets tonight with negative damage to equipment, but sappers peretrated the Southwestern perimeter and satchel charge into living quarters of the signal group area and killing 7.

10 May. The Gators are back resupplying around the local area of Cambodia again and the Crocs on station at PleiDjereng. The 4th Inf Div. troops and its elements were being resupplied with emergency supplies of class V, "C" rations and water. The wildcats, 101st Airborne, were also being resupplied .One of the wildcats elements located 2 km east of wildcats magor unit came into heavy contact with a large size NVA unit as "Gator 354" piloted by WO Sumey, was inbound with resupplies. "Gator 354" was hit from all sides with heavy automatic weapons as it provided the ground elements with suppressive air to ground fire with M60's on board. It wasn't long before " Gator 365,408,and 108" were orbiting the contact area to assist "Gator 354".Croc 6 and Croc 3 espended their ordanance on the well forified enemy position setting 6 hooches on fire. The Wildcat element needed reinforcement as they had already lost 7 and numerous Wounded. On the insertion of reinforcement 25 meters from the enemy position, " Gator 408" piloted by Cpt Gibson managed to get the air craft out of the LZ with 5900 RPM and with flucatuating instruments. First pilot WO McGee was injured when a round went through his leg requiring immediate attention. Losing power and instruments readings CPT Gibson forced landed his aircraft in an open area 300 meters north east of the proposed LZ with "Gator 624 piloted by WO Roussell, and 108, piloted by WO Olive right behind 408 to extract the crew. WO McGee was medivacted out and the aircaft was secured with troops on board each chip.

11 May. Same place on another day. "Gator 408" is slind loaded out of the LZ from which Cpt Gibson forced landed the aircraft. Wildcat troops, 101st Aifborne were inserted into yesterdays proposed LZ for reinforcing one of their elements. Wounded personnel and KIA'A were evacuated from the area. Light contact was confirmed with negative results.

12 May. The Gators once more flew to Plei Djereng to support the 101st Airborne and the 4th Infantry Division with resupplying of troops inside Cambodia. All combat assaults today were cold with negative contact with the enemy. Gator 362, piloted by WO Vansworth crashed. He was brought down by 51 cal fire 10 miles west of Pleiku ,Cobra gunships concentrated all of their fire power into the enemy position and expended before a medivac ship could attempt in estraction.

13 May. With the combined efforts of Gators and 57th Gladiators, the 1st BDE, 4th INF. DIV. was pulled out of Cambodia. Parts of this element was inserted 4 kilometers east of the Se San (hot) Pass.

14-15 May. Almost on a day to day basis, the Gators fly across the cambodian border in support of ground troops. Led by Gator 6 himself the Gators flew in support of the 101st Airborne for the past two days. Both missions were combat Assaults. Everything went smoothly and negative interference from the emeny. A few Gators supported the 2nd BDE, 4TH INF. DIV. running resuppplies to and from Cambodia.

16 May. Today the Gators assisted in extracting elements of the 101st Airborne out of Cambodian soil 15 miles West of Plei Djereng and brought them back to Vietnem. Thus President Nixon's attempt to withdraw all U.S. Troops from with in Cambodian territory by a deadline of 30 June appears evident. Already troops from Two Corps Areas have iniated the Withdrawal.

After a final extraction of LZ CURAHAE including the movement of some 75-100 troops from the 101st Airborne, the Gators moved the remaining 4TH INF DIV. troops from LZ SCOTT To Plei Djereng. During

During the days activities, which also included missions of resupplying, the 119th AHC were to receive its awards for flights conducted in and around Dak Seang area during the siege. But this ceremony was canceled until the 21st of May when General PUTNAM visited the unit.

19 May. It's evident that the monsoons is here. Early morning takeoff of 0700 hours was delayed due to low cumulonimbus clouds dirconferencing the An Khe area and the Mang Yang Pass. Heavy rain and thunderstorms dropped visibility below VFR.minimus. The Gators managed to sneak under and over the clouds as they supported the 1/14 Infantry.

20May. Still hampered by low clouds and heave rain showers the Gators finally launched at 1200 hours on a special VFR clearance from Golf Course tower. The weeks to follow do not look very suspicious, weather wise.

21 May. General PUTNAM Arrived today and presented awards to the personnel of our company for valorous actions at Dak Seang. Those awarded with the distinguished flying cross were Maj CONRAD, CW2 MAIB, AND CW2 VANSWORTH.

22-23 May. No major operations were conducted by the Gators for the pass two days as normal missions are carried out.

24 May. Today the Gators along with the 189th Gostriders and 4 shinooks supproted the 47th ARVN Regt. As they estracted 2,000 ARVINS from LZ Yellow and inserted them 7 KM North into an LZ. The LZ was prepared by a 7/17 Ruthless gunships and covered ba the same, The LZ was cold and the Ghostriders were the first in. The Gators followed right behind the Ghostriders when Higher- Highers made their mistake, ARVNS 105s started coming in, and one round landed just behind "Gator 834". WO PAYTON, WO CRAWFORD, SP/4 CORNWALL and SP/4 SPEHAR all received minor injuries. The aircraft was a total loss and was shortly there after blon up. The ARVN Field Commander for the artillery unit that shot down "GATOR 834" Awarded WO PEYTON with the Vietnamese cross of gallantry, No further action has been taken on this incident.

25-28 May. With important missions completed the Gators relax as they fly around the Duc-Co and Plei Djereng area in support of the 5th SFC and 47th ARVN Regt. in the morning and then released at noon. This gives the Gators a chance to catch up on needed hood time, Lucky GCA has its hands full as Gator after Gator request for their practice GCA.

25 May. A day for personal recoginition as aviators, chew engineers, and gunners receive the medals for their support in Dak Seang, Awards were presented .

June. With the Cabodian missions completed and the 4th INF. Div. airlifted out We'll see new operations developing around "VC Valley". Briefing were underway the night before with ground commanders and air mission commanders. The enemy situation is unknown, but all precautionary mesures are taken as a set of gunships are to be brought with assault helicopter company.

On the 1st of June the Gators cranked at 0700 hours only to be shut down at 0830 hours the flight was at firevbase BLACKHAWK, "Bulldog 6" conducted lifts along with " Gator 6" for the entire flight. By the end of the day VC VALLEY saw two new LZ's, LZ Doris and LZ Buckeye. There was negative contact with the enemy from the air, but the ground element at Doris encountered an enemy position and in no time distinguished it.

2 June. Elements of the first Brigade, 4TH INF. DIV. were resupplied at VC Valley, Over 30 shorties of Charlie Rats, water canisters, and tools were airlifted by the gruesome Gators. The Killer Crocs were on stand-by at LZ Blackhawk ready to provide firepower in case of any contact with the enemy.

3-4 Jun. Diversified missions are once more handed down to the 119th Gators and thus flown, The Gators flew in support of the 47th ARVN Regiment, 5th Special Forces Group, and 4th INF DIV.

5 Jun. Today is a sad day for the Gators as they have lost friends as well as fine aviators, "Gator 354" was shot down by enemy gunners and along with her sshe took the lives of WO POUSELL, WO LUNDEQUAM, SP/4 FROADSTON, and 4 soldiers from the 1/14th Infantry, The only survivor of the crash was PFC COMES, Who was flondering in the water after attempting to help WO LUNDEQUAM, who had already perished, PFC COMES was fished out by WO OLIVES,S quick to react crewcheif and gunner, SP/4 ALMON and SP/4 BOTTOM respectively SP/4 ALMON attempted to rescue an injured and badly burned victim who was under cerntainable, but the effort was in vain as the victim drifted in the blazing wreckage, During his attempt SP/4 ALMON lost his footing and went under almost in a verge of drowning, WO KELLY jumped out of the aircraft and retrived SP/4 ALMON. Those injured were medivacted to AN KHE, and the area was secured.

6-7 Jun. Still recovering from a tragic loss of three good individuals the Gators resume missions supporting the 1/14 Inf. and the Special Forces Group.

8-11 Jun. At 1930 this evening, memorial services was held for the 3 deceased crew of "gator 354". An elite group such as an Assault Helicopter Company feels the loss of their friends, who have given their lives for their country.

12 Jun. Missions consisted of resupply and a combat assault of the 12th LZ Marty, 15 KM south of Blackhawk, was once again restored by the insertion of some 120 troops from the 4th INF. Div. The day went smoothly with little enemy activity, The "Crocs" covered the Gators in the CA.

13 Jun. Today the on sought of the S.W monsoom proved evident as missions were delayed with a take off time of 1130 hoours. All aircraft were to participate in a final extraction of LZ Dorris.and LZ Buckeye. Narrowly slipping through low hanging clouds and overcast in the Many Yang Pass, the Alligators had to shut down at Blackhawk for another 2 hours. Finally the mission was cancelled entirely with two birds left to resupply for the remainder of the day.

14 Jun Further CA's and resupp;y was conducted in VC Valley with missions ranging from Z-13 to Baji, to Echo mission to Cheo Reo. The day passed without incident.

15 Jun. Once again, LZ Blackhawk remained the center of attention and operations as units to the west of and within "VC" Valley were resupplied by the Gators.

16 Jun. Today consisted of further resupply to the elements south of Blackhawk, LZ Spartan, and smaller elements in V.C Valley. Weather was the usual low ceiling with intermittent rain squalls throughout the day. Finally the weather persisted forcing 7 Gator aircraft to R.O.N in Pleiku. The fact that there was a live show appearing in Pleiku was purely coincidental of course.

17 Jun. The Crocs and two Gators were called on a medivac mission 6 K's east of LZ Spartan today. "Gator 11" received fire upon the initial extraction of two wounded persons, but received no hits. The enemy fire was quickly suppressed by rocket and mini-gun fire from the Charlie-model "Croc" gunshiips. The Crocs later covered another medivac in the same area by "Dustoff" aircraft. By circumnavigation rain squalls, resupply was also conducted by the Gators through the day,

18 Jun "BLACKHAWK" was once again the center of operations today, with resupply being carried th LZ Spartan and its sub-elements in the field A"National Press team was carried by a Gator Bird today, The Many Yang pass, a road convoy, an engineer team building a bridge, and a Montangnard village was photographed by the team for national release, Perhaps the Gators will be on television yet.

19 Jun. Nothing... abosolutely nothing!! Today began with the usual weather hold which lasted throoughout the day, All missions were cancelled due to severe weather warings with winds from 15 to 25 knots and gustion to 40 knots, Ever been in a 40 knot hover?

20 Jun. Resupply was a major factor for today, since weather restricted flight the day before, But clouds were still low and often rain showers required circumnavigation. But still our missions were completed.

22 Jun. "Gator 362" was about the finest aircraft in the first flight. Today the ship was destroyed by enemy mortar fire sitting in LZ Nutmeg. It was piloted by 1LT Mchugh. The only serious injury was WO1 Spivey who broke his leg while flying as first pilot. Later in the day, the Gator and Croc pulled a final extraction of LZ Nutmeg and moved the people to LZ Mark Twain 20 milles to the south.

23 Jun Another day for a weather hold as scattered rain showers and low ceiling covered the dentral highlands. The Gators were preflighted and put on stand by till the weather lifted. At 1500 hours all the ALPA birds were launched. A recon element near LZ Nutmeg was extracted and treturned to LZ Mark Twain. The rest of the day was spent ressuppling elements around the Blackhawk and LZ Yacht area.

24 Jun. Take offs were earlier today as the Gators and the Crocs got off to an early start to support the 5th SFG, 47th ARVN Regt, and 1st BDG, 4th Inf. Div . Some Gators helped another assault Helicopter company in a little lift.

25 Jun. With the clouds holding their own the Gators were able to lift off at 9:30. Not having enouth time and were avle to accomplished 75% of their missions.

26 Jun. With the weather being more favorable, the Gators and Crocs were able to pass through the Many Yang and proceed to the Pleiky area where mont of the missions were flown, Units of the 5th SFG Mike Strike Force, 47th ARVN Regt, and sub-elements of both units were supported, The Crocs took fire while providing low level coverage of another element. Both ships took hits, but luckily no one was injured.

27 Jun. Today pilots snd crews who flew missions for the 5th SFG in Dak Seang were presented the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry by MAJ. CONRAD.

28 JUN. LZ LEWIS is once again operational as 10 Gator, 2 Gladiators, and the Crocs inserted the 1/14 INF BN in. There was negative contact with the enemy, but its's for sure that chuck was around earlier for 2 grunts were immediately evacuated after they jumped from the chopper into a Pungi stakes as the grunts slowly picked their way about.

29 Jun. 52nd Battalion Commander, LTC UTZMAN, visited the 119th AHC to bid farewell, and commended the Gators and Crocs for an outstanding job. He is followed by LTC MERRITT, who will assume command of the 52nd Battalion on the 1st of July.

30 Jun. Normal missions are flown as the weather permits the Gators to lift off on schedule, "Gator 371", piloted by WO PICKETT received miltiple shrapnel on his shiip as he was on a low level scorpion mission. Th detenated a home made B40 round on top a tree. No one was injured in the mishap.

1 Jul. A sub-element of the 1/14th INF.,1ST BDG, 4TH INF, DIV, was airlifted today from the swamp to an LZ 2 KM northest of LZ WELCH. There was negative contact with enemy as a total of 75 grunts were inserted. The rest of the afternoon was spent resupplying the units out of LZ LOUIS.

2 Jul. The first part of the morning was resupplying LZ WELCH and LZ LOUIS out of LZ ARMAGEDDED. Over 20 sorties of resupplies were airlifted to elements of the 1/12 INF and 1/14 INF, 4TH INF.DIV. At 1300 Gator kicked off a combat assault 7 KM West ofLZ WELCH with WELCH as the pick up point. Later on in the afternoon the gators and crocs were called on a TAC-E to extract LURPS in contact, around LZ SUSIE. A total of 3 teams were extracted as crocs 4 and 5 kept the enemys head down with mini-gun fire and 10 lb rockets.

3 Jul. With regular missions completed the Croc's departed for home base only to be called out on a contact mission. Eight dinks were seen crossing an open field into tree line and Hawkey 22 vectored Croc's 4 and 8 into the area. Croc 8, WO ESTES, Punched off rockets from his Charlie model hog as Croc4.,WO PADUAN, came in with mini-guns. Then one Croc's rockets hung up and exsploded sending deadly shrapnal on the left side of the aircraft. Croc 039's crew chief SP/4 CLARK sustained a serious leg wound and WO ESTES forced landed the ship 50 meters north of the enemies position. A call was put out and " Gator14" extracted the crew of Croc 039 as Croc 4 provided gun cover. In bound to the location " Gator 16", LT TOMLINSON exsperienced engine problem and forced landed his ship 15 KM west of Croc 039. "Gator 317" was near by to extract the crew as the rest of the Gators inserted a security force of 35 Grunts around " Gator 100" both ships were sling loaded out by FLIPPER 25 while Gamblers 16 and 26 provided gunship cover.

4 Jul. The Gators today kicked off a 3 ship CA as the other Gators resupplied and carried passengers. The Gators all shut down at the swamp and celebrated Forth of July with barbaque and beer party.

5 Jul. LZ CAJUN , 3/8th INF. , 4TH INF. DIV. troops were inserted today by 12 Gator's covered by Crocs gunships. Bunker complexes and hooches were spotted but there was negative contact with the enemy. Over 400 troops were airlifted intoLZ CAJUN by ten Gators in 15 hours. The rest of the day was spent resupplying LZ WELCH AND LZ LOUIS.

6 Jul. Two small lifts were completed today. With Hash and Trach for the 3/8th. 1/14th and 1/12, and 4TH INF DIV. mision to the south of AN KHE were scrubbed due to bad weather.

7-8 Jul. Normal resupply and small lifts were accomplished by the Gators. The Crocs constantly find themselves on contact missions, which net destruction of hooches, bunkers complexes, and elimination of the enemy lives. The weather holds its own but the areas are workable.

9 Jul. The weather again is disagreeavle as golf course gives wind speed to 20 knots, gusting to 30 knots. Yet the Gators provided air support to the 1st Birgade, 4th INF. DIV. Meanwhile, back at the company area formation is held as the 119th Assault Helicopter Company meets their new Battalion Commander, LTC MERRITT, also during LTC MERRITT,S visit a presentation for SOLDIER OF THE MONTH was awarded to SP/4 VASATKA. He received a $25 savings bond and $84.00-$200.00 worth of clothes to be ppurchased thru the post exchange.

10 Jul. Weather conditions, and a poor landing zone made by 4th INF DIV. Troops combined and brought "Gator 365" to its last flight. Piloted by WO SLATON. The aircraft was at a stationary hover over stumps which prevented an aircraft from landing. Trying to position his aircraft as best he could to avoid the stumps, WO SLATON experienced a sudden loss of left pedal simultaneously losing RPM. The aircraft fell throough and crashed. The crew of "Gator 365" emerged without injuries, but 2 packs on board broke their legs. The aircraft was a total loss as the forward and aft section of the ships had totally seperated.

11 Jul Another sad day dawns upon the 119th Gators as the second flight looses one of its better gunners SP/4 LIVELY was killed when the aircraft he was gunning for,"Gator 317" entered an unsecured LZ to insert a reactionary force of Long range recon patrol (LRRPS). As the aircraft was comming to a stationary hover a burst of AK fire shot out. The aircraft took multiple hits and SP/4 LIVELY stopped one of the rounds, WO PICKETT expedited his take off in order to get SP/4 LIVELY back to AN KHE for medical attention, but SP/4 LIVELY perished shortly after the aircraft departed the area. Memorial service is pending.

12 Jul. Ships working for the 1st BDE. 4th INF. DIV. were able to complete this morning's run of resupplies from LZ ARMAGEDDEN and travelings guns pad to the perspective elements. Afternoon winds forcasted at 30 knots gusting to 35 knots keept the Gators from flying the rest of the afternoon.

13 Jul. More resupplies are flown to and from LZ ARMAGEDDEN as 1st BDE. units prepare for their departure from Happy Valley to LZ TWO BITTS. Final preparations are made and ground commanders brief the 119th Gators as to their prospective plans.

14 Jul. With two flights of 15 ships each LZ CAJUN and LZ WELCH are extracted and flown to LZ TWO BITTS. in the English. 1Lt Meyers, "GATOR 66" conducted the flight of 15 ships in extracting LZ WELCH and its sub-elements out of the field. Over 600 troops were airlifted from Happy Valley to LZ TWO BITTS.In 6+30 hours. There was negative contact with the enemy, and the operation was done very smoothly. Gator 6 acted as command and controlled for the entire operation.

15-16 Jul. Hash and Trash and Taxi service was handed down for today's missions and completed without any difficulties. Four ALPHA ships worked for the 1st BDE. On the 16th a blocking force was inserted in preparation for the next day's big lift into an area 6 KM Southwest of LZ PONEY. There was negative contact as the Gators inserted over 100 troops.

17 Jul. The Briefing went under way at 0700 in the Gators operation building' this morning as planned, "GATOR 3"1LT McHIGH, gave a run down on what was required of each individual. Over 1,000 troops from the 1st BDE. 4th INF. Div were airlifted by 3 of the 4 52nd Combat Assault Battalion. The 189th Ghostriders with their Avanger gunships, the 57th Gladiators and their Cougar guns, and 119th Alligators with their terribly terrifying Killer Crocs. Each air mission Commander worked closely with Dragon 6,LTC MERRITTT,and Gator 6, MAJ CONRAD. By 1530 the last element was inserted into LZ ABBY without any problems. Gun cover was outstanding as each slick entered and departed their prospective LZ. There was negative contact with the enemy throught the day.

18-19 Jul. Normal resupplies and transportation service was provided by the Gators while the Killer Crocs were on stand-by at LZ ENGLISH . The 1st BDE. now working out of LZ UPLIFT, was supported with the sun brightly shining and the sky blue as the Pacific Ocean. Gator birds were able to put in a good 9 hours of flight time.

20-21 Jul. Two more days of faverable flying weather and once again a cooperative Unit supported the 1st BDE.4TH INF. DIV. Also supported was the 47th ARVN REGT. 3rd Cav, and the 5th Special Forces Grooup.

22-23 Jul. Flip flops or otherwise known as 3 ship CA's for less than 50 ground troops was taken care of by the Gators for the 1st BDG 4TH INF. DIV. More resupplies and troops carry as sorties mount and flying hours add up.

24-25 Jul. More of the same these two days. Small combat assaults moving recon elements of the 1st BDE aroound LZ ABBY. Each combat assault met negative contact with the enemy, which doesn't phase the Gators any. Resupplies are still run off of LZ UPLIFT to each perspective unit. Over 8'000 lbs. of supplies have been airlifted for the 1st and 2nd BDE, 4TH INF.DIV.

On the 24 th, "Gator 108" piloted by CPT McHIGH, "Gator3", made a precautionary landing southwest of Challenge when he lost transmission oil pressure . The ship was Sling loaded back to AN Khe for repairs.

26 Jul. The last ground elements working around LZ ABBY was extracted today by a flight of 6 Gators and covered by a pair of Killer Crocs. Over 100 troops were extracted from a LZ 5 KM north of LZ ABBY. A quick turn around time enabled the Gators to extract the ground elements in less than an hour. The rest of the day was devoted to resupplying LZ ABBY and LZ CHALLENGE.

27 Jul. The major mission carried today was resupplying LZ ABBY and cleaning up the resupplying out of LZ UPLIFT. Later in the afternoon after bad weather had cleared up 6 Gator ships with the Crocs made a final extraction of troops from LZ CHALLENGE to LZ ABBY. The formiable weather. There was negative contact with the enemy as CHALLENGE was airlifted out.

28 Jul. 0730 takeoff after a 0700 hours briefing by Gator 3, CPT MCHIGH, and a flight of 10 Gators and 8 Gladiators with 4 sets of gunships headed out toward LZ PONY. From there 180 troops were airlifted to a propose LZ on top of Nui Mieu Hill. Four firebases around the hill preped along with an Australian battleship. The arty prep was so outstanding that the gunships did not have to prep the LZ themselves. After the lift was completed the flights were split up to be used on flip flops and resupplying.

29 Jul. With the help of " Supper C Hooks" ,The FLIPPERS, The Gators with the combined efforts of the 57th Gladiators airlifted over 300 ground troops of the 135 Arty into LZ POWDER in the An Lo Valley. Smaller recon elements were also inserted around LZ POWDER making up a total of 5 landing zones. Gator 6 commanded and controlled the entire lift which was only 4 KM south of the I corp border. Although there was negetive contact with the enemy the Killer Crocs and the Cougers provided close air cover for the slicks.

1-2 Aug. With the Southwest monsoon in full swing the weather in the Pleiku Highlands is lease appreciated by all pilots as visibility and cloud clearance go below VFR minimums. Those that make it out of ANKHE on a Special VFR are only turned back by an unpassable cloud layer from the ground up to 7'000 feet at the Mang Yang Pass. Ships stand by at the swamp revetments area waiting for the clouds to dissipate, but sometimes find the complete day weathered in. Out towards the coastal areas of LZ ENCLIGH the ALPHA birds working for the 4TH INF. DIV. find better flying conditions. With the new firebase just South of 1 Corp LZ POWDER, the Gators work out resupplying and carring troops from LZ to LZ. On a daily basis the 2/35th, 1/8th, 1/14, and 3/12, 4TH INF.DIV. Are supported by the Gators. On the 2nd of Aug "Gator 624" Piloted by 1LT TORRES made a emergency landing at AN KHE main when his ship lost its hydrolics system. 1LT TORRES made a safe hydrolics off landing and prevented any injuries to the crew as well as the aircraft.

3-5 Aug. Bad weather caused many of the Gators Birds to be idle at the swamp. Low clouds and scattered thundershowers circumferenced the AN KHE area all the way to the Mang Yang Pass, and up toward the Pleiku Highlands. ALPHA birds were able to launch and fly out towards the Eastern coast where the 4th Inf.Div. is being supported. The An Loa Valley with its new firebase, LZ POWDER is constantly being flown by the Gators resupply and troop lift from that location to LZ UPLIFT and other landing zones. Out towards Pleiku, when the Gators were able to squeeze by the Mang Yang Pass the units supported whre the 5th SFG out of the "C" team pad, 4/60th arty out of Arty Hill, 47th Mike Stride froce out of Due Co.

6-7 Aug. Action and fear is always prevalent when one flies in Vietnam, but for those who have flown in Vietnam for a considerable length of time know exactly what to expect. On the 7th of Aug.,"Gator 108" piloted by CPT MUHUGH, took fire while on a normal day resupply mission. Sniper fire came from CPT MCHUGH'S 12 o"clock and 9 O"clock position as he was setting the aircraft to the ground, one round went through the front windshield missing CPT MCHUGH'S head, and the other went through the cargo compartment knocking a case of sodas from the aircraft. The aircraft was flown back to AN KHE with the Crocs close by for cover. There were no injuries to the crew of GATOR 108. Although most of the combat assault missions have been cold, there is no doubt in any pilots mind that the enemy is present. Precautionary measures are taken while flying around the An Loa Valley by having immediate commo with the Crocs guns and other Gator birds.

8 Aug. Almost near the same location, 5KM to the Southeast of LZ POWDER,"GATOR 271", piloted by WO PICKETT took the same harassing sniper fire as did 'GATOR 108" the previous day, Taking multiple hits on his aircraft WO PICKET flew the aircraft back to AN KHE for repairs. There were no injuries to the crew.

17 Aug. Bad weather once again delayed early morning takeoff as the Gators weren't able to launch until 1300 hours. Once launched the Gators were enroute to LZ POWDER. At approximately 1600 hours a tragic mishap occurred as Gator 587, piloted by WO WENTLEZ went down.Medivac ships from LZ ENGLISH landed at the crash site, 12KM due east of NORTH ENGLISH to recover the victims. There was no hope for rescue as the crew and 5 packs had perished on impact. WO WENTZEL, WO O'BRIEN, SP/4 JOHNSTON, SP/4 STANSBURY were among those who had not survived the accident. Memorial services are pending. The company now mourns those who were close to them.

18-19th Aug. For the past 2 days the weather played a major roll as it brought the constant downpour of rain kept everyone in doors. For the whole day the Gators stood idle as the monsoon swept over the AN KHE area. The 4th will have to wait for their resupplies.

20Aug. The weather today eased off as all ALPHA birds launched on time. The 2/35th at Powder was resupplied and LZ TPAK was also resupplied. Sub-elements of the 2/35th Arty, the Echo people, were extracted out of LZ'S and inserted back to FB POWDER and elements from and at the base of Powder were aiflifted into an LZ, 5 KM east of the firebase. A Gator flight of 5 moved over 160 packs as the killer Crocs provided air cover. There was negative contact with the enemy.

21 Aug After a late take off due to bad weather the Gators flew out to LZ POWDER and started extracting and inserting troops from the 2/35th Arty. Over 50 troops were aiflifted out of and into their perspective LZ'S. The other Gator ships picked their way around storm clouds and made it through the Mang Yang Pass so as to work for units out at Pleiku. "GATOR 126" Piloted by WO DAVIS safely landed his UH-1H at Arty Hill after he experienced a hydraulic failure.

22Aug. The Gators today worked around the Pleiku Highlands for the ARVN'S but bad weather called for the cancellation of all operation. MAJ CONRAD had his going away party tonight at the company area. Everyone was there to help celebrate the occassion with a company dunking. The 119th AHC bid MAJ CONRAD fairwell and good luck on his next assignment.

23-25 Aug. After bad weather had lifted around the AnKhe, golf course area the Gators were able to work for their assigned units. The 4th INF.DIV.,5THSFG,4/60TH ARTY, 7/15 ARTY and the 22nd ARVN DIV.were all supported for the past 3 days. The only enemy encountered during the monsoon season is nature.

26 Aug. 3 ALPHA birds made their early morning takeoffs to work for the 4TH INF.DIV. out of LZ POWDER and LZ TAPE. The other Gator birds stood idle all day as the MANG YANG and Pleiku Highland remained IFR throughout the day.

27 Aug. With a 7:00 takeoff time the Gators launched along with the Gladiators to FBS POWDER and FBS TAPE. Today was the Big move for the units on each FBS. The 2/35th Arty up on FBS POWDER and the 1/12th INF up on FBS TAPE were extracted along with all their sub-elements with the aid of super C Chinooks from Pleiku the entire lift was completed by noon. The elements extracted were all airlifted at an LZ at FBS BEAVER. There was negative resistance of harassing fire from the enemy. Within at least a 3 day stand down on ALPHA mission for the 4th Div. The Gators will continue to support the units at Pleiku.

28-29 Aug. Heavy enemy contact was made 1 and 1/2 KM off of AN KHE mains north eastern extended as a 1/10 Cav UH-1H was shot down on short final to an LZ on resupply mission. Later in the day 4th INF. DIV. troops moved in to engage the enemy. With this the enemy left behind 2 dead. Today the Gator inserted recon elements around the southern Part and there was negative contact with the enemy as the Gators inserted their sorty into an Lz where no friendlies were around for 17 KM.

31 Aug. Change of comand Ceremonies took place today as MAJ CONRAD handed over his Command of the 119th Gators to MAJ WAGNER. The Gators hate to see MA CONRAD leave, but glad he's going home. His professionalism and command is a great asset to his outstanding ability to lead. MAJ WAGNER has a big shoe to fill, but in time he'll fill in the big shoe.

Septeber. The southwest monsoon is in full swing this month as heave rains, high winds. and low clouds come in from the southwest. These condidtion make the Pleiku highland unworkable as the highlands become IFR from early morning to late noon. As the weather moves along its path the Mang Yang becomes engulfed by a mass of persistant cumulonimbus clouds. This makes the Mang Yang Pass impassable as the SW monsoon works itself towards AN KHE. Around the local areas of AN KHE the 4th INF DIV. troops are able to be resupplied by air as the cloud base is relatively higher here in the low lands. Only problems encountered are scattered thunder showers, which puts limitation on location with this condition. Also effecting a safe flight in high velocity unstable winds from 180 to 270 degree's. Further east in the coastal plains weather condition are more tolerable cause cloud bases are lifted to and above 3,500 and the effects of the SW monsoon increasingly dissapated. Scattered clouds to a broken condition is more prevalent. The gators stand idle as the SW monsoon is in full effect. For the past 5 days the gators preflight their aircraft and stood bye hoping for the weather to break, but it persisted. This will be the Gators lowest flying month due to the SW monsoon. Maybe.

6 Sep. After a short wait for the weather to break the Gators launched and started airlifting the 1/22 INF. BDE. New fire support base, located approximately 17 KM on a 150 degrees heading from An Khe. . The new FBS was preped with Arty and then by the Crocs. After the major element was moved in the Gators far hash and trash. The second lift was for the 3/12th INF BDE., inserted into a new fire support base 500 meters southwest of ESB WINNIE. All the sub-elements were exstracted and inserted into their new FBS LINCOLN. On both lifts there was negative contact with the enemy and the entire lift was concluded by 1700 hours.

7-8 Sep. Dong Tre was todays big area of operation as the Gators along with the assistance of the Gladiators inserted over 300 troops into LZ WASHINGTON. Gator 6 was on hand to command and control the operation with close coordination with ground commanders. The Gators pilots were baffled by their new Gator 6"s method of combat assault. but they flew the mission with professional compentance.

12 Sep Today the Swamp Rats move into their new Rats Nest on the easters side of Golf Course. A new location, new hanger, and a water point. Swamp Rat 6, LT LOGAN, has a job ahead of him.The gators flew diversified missions from Pleiku and ANKHE without any magor operations. Weather wasn't much of a problem.

13-14 Sep. Bad weather limited the Gators flying time for the past 2 days. The $TH INF DIV. Troops up at LZ LINCOLN and LZ WHINNIE were resupplied. Where weather permitted the aforementioned sub-elements were also taken care of with supplies. Up around Pleiku the 5th SFG had e Gator Birds running their usual taxi service. The "Mike Strike" Force at Plei Me were supported by the Gators also as 516 troops were inserted where a Battalion size enemy unit was believed to be operating. "Gator 14", WO OLIVE, AMCED the lift with the help of 4 189th Ghostriders, and 2 57th Cougars guns.

15-16 Sep. On the 15th the Gators flew out to LZ LINCOLN to insert several elements of the 3/12 INF. South of the LZ sniper fire was received, but without toll as they inserted their troops on board after the lift was completed the flight was separated to run resupplies out to the units. The next day was committed to all resupplies but by 1500 hours, all flying halted when a squall like storm engulfed the AN KHE area and it rained for the rest of the day. Only through a special VRF clearance was the Gators able to land back at the swamp.

18 Sep. The final day for resupplying LZ LINCOLN as the 3/12th INF 4yh INF DIV, prepare to move back to base camp the following day, Hipshot Gazzell was initially inserted by the Gators today. The day was short as the Gators completed resupplying and returning Blackhawk to traveling guns at 1600 hours.

20 Sep. With a flight of 8 Gators, 7 129th Bulldogs, and a pair of Killer Crocs LZ LINCOLN and all its sub-elements were extracted and taken back into the XYZ and at Golf Course. With the slicks airlifting troops and light ordinances, and the hooks taking out the heavy ordinances the entire operation was completed by 330 hours. There was negative contact with the enemy as Gator 11 controlled the lift.

21-22 Sep With LZ LINCOLN extracted the Gators help out the 57th Gladiators resupply and airlift troops from the 2nd BDE., XYZ pad only requries 3 birds each day. Already there is speculations of the company moving down south within 2 mounths. No official word is out yet but the Gators are hoping for a move.

24 Sep. Most of the Gators went up to Pleiku today to work for the ARVNS. Over 300 ARVN pack from the 47th Regt., Camp Enari, airlifted. The problems encountered was low ground fog which delayed the lift. New Battalion policy takes place as the 52nd CAB is now required to log 80 minutes a day of formation flying.

25-26 Sep. Regular resupplies were completed today by the Gators for the 4TH INF.DIV. A few Gators went to Qui Nhon to run a combat assaults south of the Phu Cat Mountains for the ARVNS. The crocs had 15 confirmed killed during the operation. The Gators inserted a blocking force near the suspected area where the VC,S Were using sampans to run resupplies up the blue line.

27-28 Sep. For the past 2 days the Gators stood idle as bad weather prevented them from flying. On the 27th 7 Gators flew to Pleiku to work for the 47th ARVN REGT. but arrived only to fly back to AN KHE due to severe weather conditions. On the 28th the Gators never launched for Pleiku because of bad weather. Some Gators were able to work the AN KHE area for the 47th DIV Troops.

1 Oct. Another month starts for the Gators which saw the Gators stand idle as it brought in rain and high winds all day. The ships never launched as the pilots and crews were confined to their rooms. The Northeast monsoon had arrived and with it heavy rain and turbulent sinds. Fro the next 2 to 3 months the weather will be a hazzard to flight.

2 Oct. North of AN KHE 4 Gators extracted and inserted over 200 packs from a LZ to FSB AUGUSTA. Although the winds were turbulent the Gators completed the lift. Other Gators resupplied and flew command and control for the 47th Div. and the 47th ARVN FGT.

3 Oct. More new pilots arrived into the company Four of the pilots were from the 189th AHC and one from the 170th AHC. Already sistuated out new pilots are ready to fly.

The Magor operation today was up at once Camp Enari, Where the 47th ARVN Regt. is based. Six Gators along with the Crocs inserted troops to the Southwest of base camp.

4 Oct. Last night a briefing was held for todays operations and it is decided the 4th INF. DIV. will go back into Happy Balley and the Hardtimes area. LZ CHALLENGE would be operational on the 4th.

At 0700 pilots and crews stood by ready for the lift. Five minutes later mortar rounds and 122 rounds landed within Golf Course. One roound fell short of the POL point where ships refues. Traffic was temperarily closed as personnel scrambled for cover. When things quieted down the lift was under way.

With Gator 6, MAJ WAGNER, as command and control, over 600 troops were inserted into FBS. Two company size elements were inserted into the LZ"s just at the base of the hill mass where FBS CHALLENGE sits. The Gators were joined by the 219th Bulldogs as the lift took 8:00 hours total lift time.

The Gators will now work the valley once more as they once did. Croc 5, flown by CPT GARDNER experienced a hyfrolic failure while covering the slicks into one of the LZ's. CPT GARDNER flew his crippled ship back to Hardtimes, the nearest secure area, and executed a hydrolics off landing, CPT GARDNER safely brought his ship down safely without injury to his crew.

6 Oct. In AN KHE 3 Gators worked for the 4th INV DIV.. Resupplies were airlifted from the XYZ pad at the Golf Course to FBS CHALLENGE. Weather Condidtios grounded the Gators for a short period of time during the early part of the day, but once the weather lifted and precipitation ceased work was carried on. Out towards Pleiku 5 Gators and a pair of Croc guns teamed up to insert troops of the 47th ARVN REGT. from Camp Enari to an LZ 15 KM south. There was negative contact, but the ground elements did capture 2 82mm mortar tubes with ammo and killed 5 VC"S.

GATOR 12", WO WATHALL, flying Gator 456 on a Z-13 mission experienced an engine failure on short final to the IVY pad in Camp Enari. No one was injured as WO1 WALTHAL took the controls and set the aircraft down, the only damage done was bant stkds. Later in the day the Swamp Rats(Maintance Crew> Sling loaded the ship back to AN KHE for repairs.

For the past week normal resupplies were conducted from the fraveling guns to FBS CHALLENCE, the XYZ pad to FBS WINNIE. From the FBS's 3 to 4 sorties of resupply went out to the sub-elements. Aside from resupplies 3 of the Gators conducted a troop lift of 80 packs from an LZ to LZ AQUARIPUS. With the Croc guns the 3 Gators extracted the troops from the 4th INF DIV. out of the jungle. Early morning takoffs for the Pleiku missions continued to hamper the Gators as the stand idle in the swamp waiting for the bad weather to dissapate, late in the morning the ships launched and zig- zaged their way through low clouds to pass through the awesome Mang Yang Pass up in Pleiku the 5th SFG., 2nd Rangers, /60 Arty, and 47th ARVN REG. are supported.

On the 11th of Oct. normal missions were flown, Pleiku ships made it past the Mang Yang Pass to work that AO, and two ships were provided for the 4TH INF. DIV.

14 Oct. After having been grounded for a whole day due to heavy rain the Gators finally got under way. Today the Gators extracted the 1/22nd out of PSB WINNIE and airlifted the unit back to base camp. The unit will no longer operate in the AN KHE area as they are preparing to stand down. There was negative contact with the enemy as over 600 troops and equipment was extracted. Fire support base CHALLENGE is now the only 4TH INF DIV. left out in the field operating out of Hartimes Valley. Within 2 weeks speclations have it that CHALLENGE will be extracted.

15 Oct Being the only Gator ship working for the 4th INF DIV,."GATOR 18" WO1 HOLLAND, flying Gator 181 had lady luck on his side as enemy snipers opened up on his ship as it was sitting in an LZ being unloaded of supplies. three rounds pierced through the ships as the crew scrambled to return the fire. Immediately pulling pitch Gator 181 narrowly excapped without injury to his crew. WO1 HOLLAND flew his ship back for repairs. Gator 31, WO1 JENSEN conpleted the rest of the resupply run.

16 Oct. Typhoon warning today kept aircraft and crews groounded most of the day. Each aircraft was tied down securely in preperation for wind speeds up to 52 kts, gusting to 60 knts. At 1500 hours weatherman tracked the typhoon and said it had taken a new course and would pass the AN KHE area way to the north of base camp. The ships were then untied and normal missions were resumed. Only one hour of productive time was available and the Gators utilized the time.

18 Oct. The last 4th INF.DIV unit today was extracted out of FBS CHALLENGE. 8 Gators along with 2 Black Jack ships wad "Gator 6" as command and control. Three other sub-elements were extracted and airlifted to FSB HARDTIMES. The lift took approzimately 7 hours and without any contact with the enemy as the Crocs provided close air cover for the entire lift.

19-22 Oct With almost the entire 4th INF DIV,. On stand down, the number of daily missions for the Gators has dropped from ten to tewlve a day down to three to five a day. These few missions are mainly hash and trach and administrative flights, with some resupply in the Pleiku area.

23 Oct. For the past month and a half many rumers have been circulating. These rumors pertaining to the future of the 119th. This evening, in a metting. MAJ WAGNER, put out the offical word, the company is to be deactivated. For those of us to be reassigned it will be hard, for no company will be able to take the place of the 119th.

30 Oct. The 119th flew it's last mission today. It was an administrative mission for the 4th INF DIV,. Tomorrow the company goes on stand down in prepparation of it's forth coming deactivation. MAJ. WAGNER will go to Battalion tomorrow also, however he will continue to command the 119th during the short time prier to it's deactivation.