USAF C-130E #62-1854 seen after the November 17, 1969 rocket attack and likely after it was hit again days later by a mortar. Aircraft was repaired but later destroyed May 23, 1972. [photographer unknown]
This image is also used in
Aircraft Database:
C-130 #62-854
Struck by a 122mm rocket on the right wing and debris punched 266 holes in the aircraft. Loadmaster Norm Thomas was killed in attack. MSGT Bob Gabel, also a loadmaster onboard was laying on the ramp next to Norman during the attack was thrown into a tie down that severely injured his back. Shrapnel also severed his fermoal artery. With these significant injuries Bob carried his fellow loadmaster, who was unresponsive, to the crew door to escape the fire and where he collapsed and then was treated by awaiting medical staff. Bob received Silver Star for his heroic actions. Aircraft was taxiing at the end of the runway after landing to unload a cargo of TNT. Pilot was Captain Lou Hari of the 346th TAS.
Aircraft was repaired after several months of repair that was made difficult by constant mortar attacks. One mortar did damage the wing even further than the original impact of the rocket. So aircraft was moved after that to a location more interior to the airfield for further repair. During that repair time, the aircraft received the name Quan Loi Queen. Once repaired, crew often stated how the aircraft never flew quite as well, Was later destroyed May 23, 1972.Link this photo
- Use in a forum post
- Use to link from other websites