Marines complain of helicopter shortage and jet shift
In Da Nang the Marines lament a gap between helicopter power and jet emphasis. Officers blame funding for jets, limiting air lift and combat reach. The 1st Marine Air Wing notes reliance on aging H34s while Hueys and Cobra gunships are added. Army units rival with larger chopper fleets.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
DA Nang
Vietnam
U.S. Marines
Navy
Air Force
North Vietnam
Army
Marine air priorities clash over jets and helicopters
In a discussion across ranks from 9 to 5 Corps, air officers say more money for helicopters would come if Marine aviation shifted from jets. The core claim is jets are needed to soften beachheads and then stay with ground forces, while helicopter crews face stringent rules and potential career black marks for taking risks to aid troops.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Marine Infantry
Vietnam
Marines Brave Hazardous Rescue Missions Amid Fire Salted Skies
Marines pilots repeatedly risk life and neck to reach wounded comrades or deliver vital supplies. Despite severe danger and career cost, they press on, performing dangerous air rescues and supply drops under intense enemy fire.
Also Mentioned on This Page
Copter
Marine Command
Leutenant
1St Marine Air Wing
Mekong Delta
1St Air Cavalry Division
Anon
Zenith TV
East Fourth ST
Benk
Ath St
Cherry
Biscayne
Zenith
Lakeport
Whitney
Space Command
Solar TV
Antati
Golden Jubbes
Danton