Hey guys, thanks for all the corrections on the speed of the turbine vs. rotor. What I should of said is the "turbine" spins at 6600rpm. The "rotor" spins at 324rpm. - MB
The bigger correction / omission is that I would have added is survival rate during the Vietnam War. Of the more than 12,000 helicopters operating in Vietnam, more than 5,000 were destroyed by combat or accidents. Nearly 5,000 helicopter pilots and crew-members lost their lives conducting aerial operations in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. [Many of whom were never found, and account for a significant number of the MIAs, and the reason that the Huey is on the MIA flag] However, Helicopters were used in more than 850,000 medical evacuation missions conducted during that war, and were responsible for boosting survival rates for the wounded to as high as 99 percent, according to the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association... From: www.army.mil/article/204136/vietnam_helicopter_pilots_crewmembers_memorialized_in_arlington_national_cemetery
Still incorrect. The turbine spins around 22,500 rpm into the first gearbox on the "cold" end of the unit, which has a planetary gear reduction of ~ 3.22:1 producing the ~6600 rpm for the exit of the gearbox. This feeds the transmission which reduces the ~6600 to 294-324 rpm for the main rotor. .
@@dart394 The speed is measured as N1 and N2. The output of the engine being N2 and that would be 6600 rpm at the reduction gear set at the front thus making the engine DRIVE speed 6600 rpm. Thank you for playing.
@@davidkak1354 The communist North Vietnamese invaded the South when the country couldn't be unified by elections. The South didn't want to become communist so we decided to aid them in their fight to contain communism.
I was in a Cav unit and I have an artificial knee from going down in a UH1D in 1972. It was a great bird very reliable despite my knee and even today 48 years later just hearing one brings back memories.
I graduated from the Army Flight School in August’68 as a 22 yo Warrant Officer. Upon arriving “in country” I was assigned to the 1st Cav. I flew slicks for 3-4 months out of Dau Tieng and then was transferred to Phuck Vin and Division H. Q. and the Left Bank Squad. One morning our mission area was out around Tay Nin. After pre-flight I hovered over to “POL” to top off the Jp4. We had a crew of 6, CW2 Steve ??? the AC, Ted H. and another radio operator, a crew chief, an observer and myself as 1st pilot. With the crew, all the radio equipment and topped off fuel I could couch the UH D up to a 3’ hover but not maintain it. The air temp, the thin air (density altitude) and the gross weight of the bird made normal flight difficult. After getting clearance for a “running take-off I pulled enough collective (power) to make the ship light on the skids, then slid over to and down the runway slowly picking up speed and at about 24 knots magic happens. It’s called Transitional Lift, where the force of gravity, drag, power, atmospheric conditions and air speed balance allowing the helicopter to beat the air into submission and FLY. Well, sort of fly. Yes the aircraft is off the ground and moving through the air but it is a very delicate situation, no sudden control movements until you burn off fuel and lose weight. It was a slow climb to 1500 feet and not to far from Fire Support Base Thunder 2 when we heard a horrendous metallic grinding noise. Scanning the gages gave no clue to the nature of the source of the horrific brief grinding noise. The crew chief activated the intercom asking “ Sir did you hear that” ,I replied yes and then it happened again. I told Steve, the AC I was initiating auto rotation. Even though all the gauges were “in the green “ I knew the aircraft could not make noise like that and still fly. (After all, a helicopter is just a bunch of critical moving parts moving through the sky in close formation). Was auto rotation the right call? My thinking was if it was an engine problem it would not be operating much longer and I didn’t want it to blow apart and cause secondary damage. If it was a transmission problem I didn’t want power from the engine to make it any worse. Steve, being the A C took control and continued the auto rotation. I made the Mayday call “ Mayday Mayday Mayday Jaguar 27, Two miles NE of Thunder 2 going down. I repeated the call 3 times and the response came in a slow Southern drawl “Jaguar 27 … this is. Ben Hoa approach Control. I. Got. You. On. My. Radar. My instantaneous reply, Rodger Ben Hoa, send me gun ships and medivac. We hit the ground sliding forward ran into something that stopped forward progress and rolled the aircraft onto the right side. I’m in the right seat looking at the ground pressing against door inches from my face and a helmet falls onto the door window right in front of me. I’m looking at the back of a helmet thinking there’s a head still inside it. Thankfully there was not a decapitation this time. All six of us scrambled out and even though JP4 spilled out it did not burn. We landed/crashed close to FSB Thunder 2 and men from there came running out with rifles to see why the heck a Huey would land / crash there. They made a protective perimeter around the site. Meanwhile one of the three Generals of the 1st Cav Division was in the air, his pilot CW3 Jim Nunn heard my Mayday call, recognized the call sign, ( we were hooch mates). Jim told the General and they monitored the extraction process of our crew, the sensitive materials and the broken ship. I flew Left Bank missions,moved over to the left seat and trained newbies for the rest of my tour then did the 6 month extension that the Army offered. I transferred to a Cobra Unit and flew front seat until we were shot down, extricated and I was medivaced home. More tales to tell, some other time, now I lay me down to sleep. CW2 Paul L. Seramur Jr.
Amen, the American public should’ve spat on politicians, not the servicemen who were literally conscripted to fight a war that most knew nothing about at the time. ‘Welcome home’ to any Vietnam era vet that may someday read this comment.
I flew Hueys in IV Corps in 1969 and those were busy times. I hung around and flew in Desert Storm and Somalia, but had moved on to Cobra and Blackhawk by then. Returning to the States in 1969 was a bit ugly. I have several flight school buddies who have their names on the "Wall" and named my son after my best buddy who would be 74 now, but died when he was 20! Bummer!
Not only was the huey a great work horse in "nam" it could also lift and carry downed hueys as well. The only helicopter that could do this. We did this many times while i was there in 1972! Camp Holloway!
Many was the day when we had to leave with one gunner, half fuel, and half a load of rockets and ammo simply because the heat and humidity didn't allow taking off with more. The engines we had were L9 and L11's in B and C models with the 48 rocket side mounts. Arial Rocket Artillery was the role of our unit. At least we could deliver 24 rockets even on a bad day. Charlie had a bad day whenever we showed up.
Matt you do a great job listening during interviews. Don't be shy about making these episodes a tad longer, especially when you're interviewing veterans. Their stories are awesome.
I have a lot of ride time in the Huey (which we used to call them “Slicks”).They could just slip ride in to your location and pick you up or add fire support! Love them!
Was door gunner on uh1b in first cav in 1967 we had a box on the floor with about 2000 rounds m60 on bungee cord the aircraft I flew on 049 is now restored and flying with American huey 049 in indiana
Did you do that by linking rounds from one box to another? I have a friend who served on LAVs and he said that they would link all of the ammo for their 25mm from one box to another so that they were all linked together and essentially had one super long belt of ammo instead of separate boxes and belts.
Thank you for your service. As the son of a Hawaii-trained¹ door gunner, I have to agree with you that the only *real* slick ship gunners used bungee cords on their M60s. My dad always said so. ¹Shotgun 13, Hilo, Hawaii
Thanks for the memories. I was born and raised in mid 60s in south western Vietnam and my father and uncles served the south Vietnam government . Missed the chop chop sounds from these choppers whenever they flew over our school. One of my uncle was Huey maintenance crew in Tan son nhat air base in 70s. He got 2nd degrees burns during the Vietnam war.
In the book, Chickenhawk, by Robert Mason, he had a saying among pilots. "Real pilots fly helicopters, everyone else talks about flying." Mason was on the "First Team" in 1965-66. His book acutely describes how to fly the Huey. Excellent book.
The vintage footage was showing mostly UH1D/H models which had the "stretched out" fuselage meant for carrying troops. The M model was an upgraded C model and used as a Gunship. It retained the short body of the A/B/C model Hueys, but with improved engine and rotor blades, as well as improved weapons systems.
Jus a personal perception . . . this 'Wings' may need to expand if they're to include additional aircraft, that's if your desires can't be accomplished ! This facility is on the 'footprint' of Lowry AFB and, for the exception of the Air Force Accounting & Finance Center, the Air Force mission, has been retired. So . . . it is hoped that if they're to expand, they'll need to capture more property adjacent, to this WW2 aircraft hanger - home to this foundation. Personally I think they may have a great rappor with the Boneyard ! Hook'em up, on Facebook !
Don't forget the door gunners. My dad had 2500 combat hours in the twenty months he was in country. He extended twice because, as he told me recently, he was addicted to the risk. And he rotated back still loving the people of Vietnam.
The Air Force is still using Huey's to train helicopter pilots at Ft. Rucker, AL The Marines have some of the latest models. Some have 4 blade rotor systems and twin engines. No Whop Whop sounds from them.
6,600 RPM for the Main Rotor Blade RPM? No, not even close. Maybe the power plant was spinning at 6,600 RPM. The main rotor blades would fly apart at 6,600 RPM. Main rotor blades would rotate at between 315 and 330 RPM. USMC 6173 2008-2013
315 to 330 sounds about right. I used to be one of the grunts riding in the back of these things from 89 to 97, right about when the Huey was being phased out and the Blackhawk was becoming the main helicopter for the Army. In my humble opinion however, the Huey was much more fun to ride in than the Blackhawk.
Good catch, George. You are correct. The ENGINE spins up at 6600 RPMs, while the blades turn at a leisurely 324 +/- RPMs. We will correct that on our longer PBS version. Thanks for the shout out. Gotta stay correct!
@@marinetodd06 6600 RPM is the correct operating speed for a UH-1 when setting the governor. During flight, the RPMs will vary depending on what is asked of the engine.
The T53 is a free turbine. That is, there is no physical connection between the N1 or Gas Turbine (which is driven by expanding gasses exhausted from the combustion section.) and the N2. The N1 was measured in % of Max N1. The turbine itself was turning somewhere around 25,000 to 30,000 RPM and varies with power demand. The N2 or power turbine turned by exhaust from the N1 section. N2 is governed to maintain a constant RPM which in the case of the UH-1H was 6600 RPM. Through transmission gearbox reduction that RPM is further reduced to 324 Rotor RPM. Hopefully this little discussion will reduce some of the confusion. I know my numbers may be off a slight bit, but the concept is correct. But then I have not looked at a -10 in over 30 years, so don't shoot the messenger.
The Huey was the life blood of the GI's in 'Nam. After 50 years I can still hear the collective sound of 25-30 Huey rotors as the GI's went out on missions. It stays with you.
Soviet Heart pretty cool heli too, the MIL has a more of a assault role while the Huey’s have a equal 50:50 role of transport and assault. I’d take the Huey any day.
I like the Huey, I love it. It holds a special place in my heart, but the Blackhawk will always hold the key to my heart. I must admit, the Huey has such a soothing rotor sound lol
All my respect to all those crews that flew that bird. UH-1 Huey the ABSOLUTE BEST helicopter that ever flew, the Chinook is right there too. Great episode
You have no idea how jealous I am of you. When I told the recruiter I wanted anything to do with aviation, he told me kid your not smart enough. So I became an ARMY truck driver. 1987 2009. Great career both active and ARNG. Got to fly in a Huey at FT Stewart and a Chinook in Iraq. Loved every second!!!!!!!!! Got to fly in Blackhawk in Bosnia. Loved every second!!!!!!!
@Big Bill O'Reilly yes they have but sometimes it's fun to reminisce about old friends like the Huey. BTW my last type ride was in an S-92 truly a modern aircraft .
Two fantastic chaps right there and on top of that a fantastic and versatile helicopter that would become the icon for that brutal conflict we know to be Vietnam. Love the way you Yanks are so fantastic at keeping their history alive. Greetings from Britain 🇬🇧
@@thetourettesgamer8851 I am with a group called 2AiE. We go over to Normandy and Belgium to follow in the footsteps of the 2nd Armored Division in WWII. Went in 2014, and 2017. Looking to go back to Bastogne this winter to hang with the Belgians that do 101st.
I was in Nam in 70/71 and was an infantry grunt. We came out of the bush for a stand-down, me and two buddies went down to the PX and there was a 8mm film color movie camera for sale and I bought it. Took movies of buddies and when we about ready to go back in the bush, I asked a clerk to put it into our Company storeroom until I returned. He simply said it would get stolen, so after thinking about it, I put it in a M-60 ammo can to keep it dry. I took movies of our truck ride to the landing zone and with my legs hanging out sitting on the floor of the Huey I took movies of the entire combat assault and then when I got to the ground continued. I also have pictures of 174th Sharks, one I am sitting in the co-pilot seat. When I got home from Nam I put the film reels into a closet and didn't look at them until 2007. I decided to post them on RUclips. History Channel contacted me and asked if they could use my footage in their documentary Vietnam in HD. I sent them the reels and upgraded them to HD and then sent me digital copies. I decided to edit the footage and add narration and pay Tribute to the last Chaplain to be killed in combat in Nam. It was Easter Sunday 1971 and he brought hot food. He asked if he could eat lunch with us and I was sorta blessed to sit next to him for over an hour. I felt he was my new best friend. Unfortunately, his helicopter was ambushed and he and 10 other men were killed right in front of us. This video has been seen almost 1.9 million times. Wolfie the Grunt is the title.
I just remembered my neighbor Benny Crespo who wash shot down over Vietnam in a Huey. He survied the war and died a few years ago in Miami. God bless him.
I used to come home from school and be transfixed by the Hueys, Piloted and crewed by guys not much older than I was. At the time it seemed perfectly normal to get home and switch on the television to see war happening in a country that I knew nothing about. It seemed fantastic to see so many helicopters, in a gaggle, medevacs, gunships, chinooks, skycranes, to a kid it was awe inspiring. It still is!
My wife's uncle few them in Vietnam, and then again with the National Guard through the early 00's. He was deployed during Desert Storm flying these very same ships:-).
The first Huey flew in 1956, the first Black Hawk became operational in 1979. That's 23 years! The Huey was a real break through helicopter operationally for the time. Cheap to build, easy to fix, very good pay load, good speed and distance, good altitude ability. Easy to transport. Very adaptable. They still fly a bunch them.
The engine had an output of 6600 rpm after a lot of internal reductions from a turbine speed upwards of 20,000 rpm. Most huey's of the earlier types used either the L9 or L11 versions of the T53 and produced around 1100 hp. The 540 rotor system originated with the C model UH1, and later in the series was used on the M model. A variation of the 540 system was also used on the AH 1 Cobra.
No helicopter that I flew had a rotor RPM of anything even close to 6600. Output shaft rpm probably then after reduction from the main gearbox down to 325 at the rotor
@@notfornuttinschaumburg5671 Please note that I referred to the output RPM of the engine of about 6600 rpm. The nose case of the T-53 had a built in planetary gear set to reduce the turbine shaft speed down to that output. Nothing I said stated that the rotor rpm was that high. The highest rotor RPM that I encountered in the Army (22 years, mostly in Army helicopters) was the OH-6 with a rotor speed of about 400 rpm. Generally the bigger the rotor, the slower it will turn. Also, the 540 was a reference to the part number designated to the rotor system used on the noted aircraft models.
As a prior service Aircraft Mechanic, I was told in training that the empennage of the UH-1, was constructed with "J" stringers. Which to the layman means the profile shape of the stringer running length wise of the tail, was actually copied from the Russian Mig-15, as the Mig-15 has "J" stringers,
There are two historically brilliant beautiful idiosyncratic aircraft that have captured the hearts of their nations and lovers of aircraft in military history, the British Spitfire and the UH-1 Huey. They are special creations
Awesome museum that greatly appreciates the local military. They hosted several unit send offs from the Colorado Army National Guard Aviation from Buckley Air Force Base in Aurora, Colorado.
The turbine model is the famed Lycoming T-53 which had many different versions starting at L-11,L-13,L-13B etc. The original versions had coking problems on the fuel nozzles and cracking problems as well.
The Charlie Model had the L11 engine, the Mike Model was L13 At 1300 and !3B was 1400. We went RVN with Chuck model. Never got Mike models. Got Cobras in 67. Love the Chuck models
Thanks for producing this video; I enjoyed it. I was startled to hear the main rotor ran 6,600 RPM... 330 was my recollection from 50 years ago :) Glad to see others caught the same. Nice to see and hear the Colonel's recollections.
Jerome, I completely misspoke on the rotor RPMs! You are correct, it was 324 for rotors and 6600 for the operating RPMs of the turbine. We will correct that in a longer episode we are producing for Rocky Mountain PBS.
Yoo..! I'm also a middle 1960's Vietnam with three tours behind me ( 2 PH's )..! In my days, I could be flying a Huey one day and operating on a wounded Marine the next day.. Most of my fellow combat friends that did not die in the war have since died off one by one. Looking at 80, I will be with my buddies in the near future. Semper Fi, " DOC '.
The engine shown looks to be, at best, a T53L11D. It is certainly not a T53L13 since they had a variety of difficulties and were quickly replaced by the T53L13A which also had issues and was upgraded to the T53L13B which operated spectacularly, logging 10s of millions of flight hours in Viet Nam.
@@UriahD85 The L11 did not have fuel nozzles at all unlike the L13. The L11 had "T canes" or vaporizers rather than the fuel nozzle atomizers of the L13 (and everything newer). I don't know what you're referring to when you say two stage exhaust fans. The L11 had one gas producer nozzle and turbine wheel and one power turbine nozzle and turbine wheel. The L13 had two GP nozzles and wheels and two PT nozzles and wheels. It speaks to the advancement in technology where, in the space of 1 GP & PT nozzle and wheel there were now 2 GP & PT nozzles and wheels. The L13 came out circa in 1967 while the L11 was the most advanced version of its technology borne in the mid 1950s.
@@UriahD85 Well engine-wise, the L11 is far cheaper to maintain than the L13. There aren't many still flying as operators generally refit their B models with the L13 and make the "super B models". There is still plenty of spares/support for the L11 though so hopefully they keep flying.
Who doesn't love the Huey? My father. Helicopter pilot Vietnam veteran. He calls the Huey an underpowered death trap. He preferred the CH-54 because of its incredible climb rate. He was shot down multiple times. Always while flying a Huey.
To any Vietnam era vet that may someday read this comment, welcome home. From a 27 year old that was raised by a 25th Infantry Army vet, 68-69. Cu Chi. He passed on two years ago and I still haven’t accepted the loss of my old man.
The long hair guy did seem to be pretty cool. I really enjoyed the Video. One of my Senior Army Instructors Master Sergent Curtis Roy did several tour's in Vietnam. His MOS in the Army was a Pilot. He flew one of the first Helicopters the US ARMY ever had. Officers & NCO's in his unit and others would call him Mister Helicopter because of his lengthy service with Choppers and also being a Senior Aviation Specialist. I can recall him sporting his Calvary Stetson Cowboy Hat at the Military Ball. He helped me in life. I herd he Passed this year. Master Sergeant Curtis Roy have fun up their in the Master Aviators Airfield in The Sky.
Kevin Quinn they used the larger H version of the Huey. They were also the only ones to fit forward firing miniguns at the position just behind the pilots doors, at the front of the crew cabin door area.
I can remember riding in a UH-1D over Dayton, Ohio when I was about 6. It was a bit of a shock at first, but once the skids were off the ground it was nothing but a good time from there. Just everything about it was incredible
Whoever gave your script should be fired. The UH-1C Huey Gunship UH-1C: The UH-1B gunship lacked the power necessary to carry weapons and ammunition and keep up with transport Hueys, and so Bell designed yet another Huey variant, the "UH-1C", intended strictly for the gunship role. It is an UH-1B with improved engine, modified blades and rotor-head for better performance in the gunship role.[13] 767 built.[67] Later on, the Charlie Model was upgraded to the Mike Model UH-1M: Gunship specific UH-1C upgrade with Lycoming T53-L-13 engine of 1,400 shp (1,000 kW).[13] The M-60 mounting for the Door Gunners was Never Used and the 500 round ammo box was never used. In my unit, we shot the M-60 FreeHand and used empty shipping boxes as ammo boxes to contain about 1,200 rounds of ammo. So if this aircraft served with 1 Cav. So why does it also have the makings of the 174th Sharks?. Not a good job on the part " Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum " I server with the 282nd Assault Helicopter Company Black Cats & Alley Cats. Crew Chief 3rd Platoon Alley Cats December 1970-71 @ Marble Mountain Airfield, DaNang, Republic of South Vietnam.
Guess everyone likes to see a Shark Mouth on the aircraft. The M-23 door gun mount really not appropriate here. Have never seen it used on B/C/M gunships. Early B models and even some Air Force F/P models used a Sagami mount, but don't think that was widespread.
@@mh53j You are correct. Please keep in mind that the helicopter is coming to us "as is." We have LOTS of modifications to do to it to make is correct.
John, Keep in mind that the aircraft is coming to the museum "as is." That means that over the next few years we will be changing her look so that she is correct for both armament and markings.
@@matthewburchette7852 Ok now I have a better understanding as to the Aircraft markings. Now brush up on your History of the Huey Gunship variants! lol. Cheers from San Francisco this where I spend my weekends. www.hueyvets.com
Matthew Burchette completely understand, sometimes may not be feasible to backdate an aircraft to it's original configuration after years of updates have been added to it. Have seen Huey's at other museums displayed as Vietnam aircraft with wire cutters, modern antennas, black NVG cockpits-all found on Hueys during their final days of service. Most people don't have any idea about this kind of thing, so it's "good enough" for display purposes. Still think you should lose the M-23 mount though....
Engine a Lycoming T53-L-13. M-23 door gun mount would be very unusual on a B/C/M gunship, usually a "free 60" suspended from a bungee cord was normal for gunners. Would also be more likely to have M134 miniguns instead of the XM-6 quad machine gun system especially later in the war, though that may be understandably difficult/expensive for the museum to obtain. Also, small cover on upper part of the nose indicates it could have been fitted with the XM-5 40mm grenade launcher; this was where the feed chute was fitted. Huey my favorite aircraft of all. Only got to actually ride in one once. Could do almost anything, such a versatile platform. Saw one fly over the other day, was an obvious ex-military H model but in civilian colors. Actually have a book with pictures of a Nebraska ARNG UH-1M being worked on in 1987!
Correct on all points, Douglas. Weapons for the period were the M-6 (quad M-60 guns) on flex mounts for the UH-1B, or XM-21 (mini-guns) on flex mounts for UH-1C and (later) UH-1M birds. There were also M-3 "Hogs" with 48, 2.75" Folding Fin Aerial Rockets (24 tubes per side), and M-5 "Frogs" with 14 FFARs (7 per side) and the 40mm turret on the nose (my favorite!). All sported an M-60 free gun each for the crew chief and door gunner. AH-1G Cobras were a good replacement I suppose for the 'Huey' gunships later in the war, but I could never contemplate not having a crew chief and door gunner covering our collective asses and for their added support in accomplishing our missions.
G550Ted always wondered how prevalent 40mm turrets were. Was it up to the crew if they wanted one (kinda doubt it), was it up to the squadron commander or some "higher authority"?
Doug, correct. We got the helo "as is," and are now starting the process of "accurizing" her. We know the M-6 set up is wrong and will move to the miniguns in due time.
Matthew Burchette sounds good. Hope you have found a source for the miniguns and can afford them. I realize getting these aircraft fixed up correctly can cost more than what some musuems can afford. You guys are doing good work!
@Big Bill O'Reilly there were over 10,000 aircraft shot down during Vietnam. Most of them were helicopters. NVA/VC usually waited for the helicopters to land and Destroy them. They knew that that was our ticket in and ticket out. They can hear them just as well as we could. They really loved the Medevac helicopters. they would wait until they were loaded up with wounded then destroy them before they could take off. I can still hear the explosions, guns and missiles, and the screams. Mainly the screams. When you got in the chopper you tried to sit on your flak vest. Why? They would be shooting up at you through the floor of the Chopper.
Flown in them many times, nap of the earth was amazing. Put me up on 40' ladder and my knees will knock, but hanging outside the door even when this bird was banking was just exhilarating.
If you did this in Vietnam in the 68-69 range, there's a great chance you bumped into my father who was the lead technical representative for the OEM AVCO Lycoming and dealt with T53L13Bs. He went to all the bases where Army Hueys were operating at one time or another usually to help out other tech reps and the Army maintenance guys. He taught Army personnel at Fort Eustis and Fort Hood after coming back from Vietnam.
@@michaelmooney3369 Ahh...cool...different times then. He came back from Vietnam in 69 and did the Fort Eustis and Fort Hood stints in 70 and 71. Ended up leaving AVCO Lycoming in 72...
Of the more than 12,000 helicopters operating in Vietnam, more than 5,000 were destroyed by combat or accidents. Nearly 5,000 helicopter pilots and crew-members lost their lives conducting aerial operations in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. [Many of whom were never found, and account for a significant number of the MIAs, and the reason that the Huey is on the MIA flag] However, Helicopters were used in more than 850,000 medical evacuation missions conducted during that war, and were responsible for boosting survival rates for the wounded to as high as 99 percent, according to the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association... From: www.army.mil/article/204136/vietnam_helicopter_pilots_crewmembers_memorialized_in_arlington_national_cemetery
I enlisted in the U.S. Air Force at 17 after having gotten my G.E.D. from Job Corps and crewed UH-1N Huey's in an Air Rescue unit. Went in as a mechanic, discharged as a crew chief and the only thing I miss from those days IS MY Zippo lighter.
Hey guys, thanks for all the corrections on the speed of the turbine vs. rotor. What I should of said is the "turbine" spins at 6600rpm. The "rotor" spins at 324rpm. - MB
Somebody gotta introduce Lt.Col. Overturf into DCS UH-1D in VR! He'd LOVE it
The bigger correction / omission is that I would have added is survival rate during the Vietnam War.
Of the more than 12,000 helicopters operating in Vietnam, more than 5,000 were destroyed by combat or accidents.
Nearly 5,000 helicopter pilots and crew-members lost their lives conducting aerial operations in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. [Many of whom were never found, and account for a significant number of the MIAs, and the reason that the Huey is on the MIA flag]
However, Helicopters were used in more than 850,000 medical evacuation missions conducted during that war, and were responsible for boosting survival rates for the wounded to as high as 99 percent, according to the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association... From: www.army.mil/article/204136/vietnam_helicopter_pilots_crewmembers_memorialized_in_arlington_national_cemetery
Have you done the f-111
Still incorrect. The turbine spins around 22,500 rpm into the first gearbox on the "cold" end of the unit, which has a planetary gear reduction of ~ 3.22:1 producing the ~6600 rpm for the exit of the gearbox. This feeds the transmission which reduces the ~6600 to 294-324 rpm for the main rotor. .
@@dart394 The speed is measured as N1 and N2. The output of the engine being N2 and that would be 6600 rpm at the reduction gear set at the front thus making the engine DRIVE speed 6600 rpm. Thank you for playing.
“Who doesn’t love the Huey”
Well... The Vietnamese
Patrick Ancona what did they do wrong?
@@davidkak1354 EVERYTHING
Rastko Nikolic I’m pretty sure they didn’t invade themselves for no reason
@@davidkak1354 The communist North Vietnamese invaded the South when the country couldn't be unified by elections. The South didn't want to become communist so we decided to aid them in their fight to contain communism.
Joshua Coleman that doesn’t sound like America’s business
I was in a Cav unit and I have an artificial knee from going down in a UH1D in 1972. It was a great bird very reliable despite my knee and even today 48 years later just hearing one brings back memories.
if you dont mind me asking what was the mission purpose and location?
I graduated from the Army Flight School in August’68 as a 22 yo Warrant Officer. Upon arriving “in country” I was assigned to the 1st Cav. I flew slicks for 3-4 months out of Dau Tieng and then was transferred to Phuck Vin and Division H. Q. and the Left Bank Squad. One morning our mission area was out around Tay Nin. After pre-flight I hovered over to “POL” to top off the Jp4. We had a crew of 6, CW2 Steve ??? the AC, Ted H. and another radio operator, a crew chief, an observer and myself as 1st pilot. With the crew, all the radio equipment and topped off fuel I could couch the UH D up to a 3’ hover but not maintain it. The air temp, the thin air (density altitude) and the gross weight of the bird made normal flight difficult. After getting clearance for a “running take-off I pulled enough collective (power) to make the ship light on the skids, then slid over to and down the runway slowly picking up speed and at about 24 knots magic happens. It’s called Transitional Lift, where the force of gravity, drag, power, atmospheric conditions and air speed balance allowing the helicopter to beat the air into submission and FLY. Well, sort of fly. Yes the aircraft is off the ground and moving through the air but it is a very delicate situation, no sudden control movements until you burn off fuel and lose weight. It was a slow climb to 1500 feet and not to far from Fire Support Base Thunder 2 when we heard a horrendous metallic grinding noise. Scanning the gages gave no clue to the nature of the source of the horrific brief grinding noise. The crew chief activated the intercom asking “ Sir did you hear that” ,I replied yes and then it happened again. I told Steve, the AC I was initiating auto rotation. Even though all the gauges were “in the green “ I knew the aircraft could not make noise like that and still fly. (After all, a helicopter is just a bunch of critical moving parts moving through the sky in close formation). Was auto rotation the right call? My thinking was if it was an engine problem it would not be operating much longer and I didn’t want it to blow apart and cause secondary damage. If it was a transmission problem I didn’t want power from the engine to make it any worse. Steve, being the A C took control and continued the auto rotation. I made the Mayday call “ Mayday Mayday Mayday Jaguar 27, Two miles NE of Thunder 2 going down. I repeated the call 3 times and the response came in a slow Southern drawl “Jaguar 27 … this is. Ben Hoa approach Control. I. Got. You. On. My. Radar. My instantaneous reply, Rodger Ben Hoa, send me gun ships and medivac. We hit the ground sliding forward ran into something that stopped forward progress and rolled the aircraft onto the right side. I’m in the right seat looking at the ground pressing against door inches from my face and a helmet falls onto the door window right in front of me. I’m looking at the back of a helmet thinking there’s a head still inside it. Thankfully there was not a decapitation this time. All six of us scrambled out and even though JP4 spilled out it did not burn. We landed/crashed close to FSB Thunder 2 and men from there came running out with rifles to see why the heck a Huey would land / crash there. They made a protective perimeter around the site. Meanwhile one of the three Generals of the 1st Cav Division was in the air, his pilot CW3 Jim Nunn heard my Mayday call, recognized the call sign, ( we were hooch mates). Jim told the General and they monitored the extraction process of our crew, the sensitive materials and the broken ship.
I flew Left Bank missions,moved over to the left seat and trained newbies for the rest of my tour then did the 6 month extension that the Army offered. I transferred to a Cobra Unit and flew front seat until we were shot down, extricated and I was medivaced home.
More tales to tell, some other time, now I lay me down to sleep. CW2 Paul L. Seramur Jr.
Those two men are still more badass than anyone I can think of today. It's a shame our country didn't appreciate them in their youth.
Amen, the American public should’ve spat on politicians, not the servicemen who were literally conscripted to fight a war that most knew nothing about at the time. ‘Welcome home’ to any Vietnam era vet that may someday read this comment.
Man that's a big shame. That's why they are the way they are today
😊 those two old timers at the end :)
I flew Hueys in IV Corps in 1969 and those were busy times. I hung around and flew in Desert Storm and Somalia, but had moved on to Cobra and Blackhawk by then. Returning to the States in 1969 was a bit ugly. I have several flight school buddies who have their names on the "Wall" and named my son after my best buddy who would be 74 now, but died when he was 20! Bummer!
Unknown Combat Instructor: "The only time you can have too much fuel or ammo........... is when you're on fire..........................."
Karl Brundage 👍🏻🤣👏🏻
Not only was the huey a great work horse in "nam" it could also lift and carry downed hueys as well. The only helicopter that could do this. We did this many times while i was there in 1972! Camp Holloway!
@ "Shit hooks" and Sky Hooks, for the squeamish.
Many was the day when we had to leave with one gunner, half fuel, and half a load of rockets and ammo simply because the heat and humidity didn't allow taking off with more. The engines we had were L9 and L11's in B and C models with the 48 rocket side mounts. Arial Rocket Artillery was the role of our unit. At least we could deliver 24 rockets even on a bad day. Charlie had a bad day whenever we showed up.
Matt you do a great job listening during interviews. Don't be shy about making these episodes a tad longer, especially when you're interviewing veterans. Their stories are awesome.
Yeah, it threw me off a little at 8:21 when he interrupted.
Col. Bill McPherson and Lt. Col. Ken Overturf you guys are the strength of America in wartime; highest reguards to you both sirs!
*fortunate son intensifies*
SOME FOLKS ARE BORN
MAAAADE TO WAVE THE FLAG
OOOOO THEYRE RED WHITE N’ BLUUEE
AND WHEN THE BAND PLAYS HAAAIIILLL TO THE CHIEF
OOOOOH THEY POINT THE CANNON AT *YOOOU*
IT AIN'T ME IT AIN'T ME I AIN'T NO FORTUNATE SON
Man these episodes with veterans are always the best. Could be way longer if you ask me
I have a lot of ride time in the Huey (which we used to call them “Slicks”).They could just slip ride in to your location and pick you up or add fire support! Love them!
Was door gunner on uh1b in first cav in 1967 we had a box on the floor with about 2000 rounds m60 on bungee cord the aircraft I flew on 049 is now restored and flying with American huey 049 in indiana
Did you do that by linking rounds from one box to another? I have a friend who served on LAVs and he said that they would link all of the ammo for their 25mm from one box to another so that they were all linked together and essentially had one super long belt of ammo instead of separate boxes and belts.
Oohrah Mr. Cuttress! (Hooah, in Army).
C model door gunner 1st inf div out of phu loi 68 and 69 rebel gunships welcome home bro
Thank you for your service.
As the son of a Hawaii-trained¹ door gunner, I have to agree with you that the only *real* slick ship gunners used bungee cords on their M60s. My dad always said so.
¹Shotgun 13, Hilo, Hawaii
Thanks for the memories. I was born and raised in mid 60s in south western Vietnam and my father and uncles served the south Vietnam government . Missed the chop chop sounds from these choppers whenever they flew over our school. One of my uncle was Huey maintenance crew in Tan son nhat air base in 70s. He got 2nd degrees burns during the Vietnam war.
Thanks for the info 👍 real cool 😎 🙏🤠
In the book, Chickenhawk, by Robert Mason, he had a saying among pilots. "Real pilots fly helicopters, everyone else talks about flying." Mason was on the "First Team" in 1965-66. His book acutely describes how to fly the Huey. Excellent book.
ElfHighMage Great book. He suffered blackouts after his tour. Had to stop flying.
The vintage footage was showing mostly UH1D/H models which had the "stretched out" fuselage meant for carrying troops. The M model was an upgraded C model and used as a Gunship. It retained the short body of the A/B/C model Hueys, but with improved engine and rotor blades, as well as improved weapons systems.
When are you guys gonna go give the Tomcat some love?
No fears, Scratch! She is on our list. :)
Dcs f 14 hype? Or just That its just damm sexy
Robert Borjesson just reply to my comment if you wanna fly the tomcat with me or just fly in dcs in general
Jus a personal perception . . . this 'Wings' may need to expand if they're to include additional aircraft, that's if your desires can't be accomplished ! This facility is on the 'footprint' of Lowry AFB and, for the exception of the Air Force Accounting & Finance Center, the Air Force mission, has been retired. So . . . it is hoped that if they're to expand, they'll need to capture more property adjacent, to this WW2 aircraft hanger - home to this foundation. Personally I think they may have a great rappor with the Boneyard ! Hook'em up, on Facebook !
ruclips.net/video/_iH6pQAxdUA/видео.html
Huge respect to the pilots who flew these in Vietnam 😎👊☘
Don't forget the door gunners. My dad had 2500 combat hours in the twenty months he was in country. He extended twice because, as he told me recently, he was addicted to the risk. And he rotated back still loving the people of Vietnam.
Always loved hearing the Huey beat the air as they passed overhead. Went for a mapping of the Earth ride in Camp Grayling Mi. Had a blast!
Nap-of-the-earth.
Who wouldn't love to sit down with those two pilots over a beer and listen to their stories?!
They do have awesome stories!
Count me in!
I know I would! These guys are heroes in my book and they have balls! God Bless them all.
Thank you for sharing your opportunity to interview these Vietnam Veterans.
They are great guys, and I hang out when them every chance I get!
so many hueys still in service on all sides of the globe. i love em
The Air Force is still using Huey's to train helicopter pilots at Ft. Rucker, AL The Marines have some of the latest models. Some have 4 blade rotor systems and twin engines. No Whop Whop sounds from them.
6,600 RPM for the Main Rotor Blade RPM? No, not even close. Maybe the power plant was spinning at 6,600 RPM. The main rotor blades would fly apart at 6,600 RPM. Main rotor blades would rotate at between 315 and 330 RPM.
USMC 6173 2008-2013
315 to 330 sounds about right. I used to be one of the grunts riding in the back of these things from 89 to 97, right about when the Huey was being phased out and the Blackhawk was becoming the main helicopter for the Army. In my humble opinion however, the Huey was much more fun to ride in than the Blackhawk.
Good catch, George. You are correct. The ENGINE spins up at 6600 RPMs, while the blades turn at a leisurely 324 +/- RPMs. We will correct that on our longer PBS version. Thanks for the shout out. Gotta stay correct!
@@marinetodd06 6600 RPM is the correct operating speed for a UH-1 when setting the governor. During flight, the RPMs will vary depending on what is asked of the engine.
The T53 is a free turbine. That is, there is no physical connection between the N1 or Gas Turbine (which is driven by expanding gasses exhausted from the combustion section.) and the N2. The N1 was measured in % of Max N1. The turbine itself was turning somewhere around 25,000 to 30,000 RPM and varies with power demand. The N2 or power turbine turned by exhaust from the N1 section. N2 is governed to maintain a constant RPM which in the case of the UH-1H was 6600 RPM. Through transmission gearbox reduction that RPM is further reduced to 324 Rotor RPM. Hopefully this little discussion will reduce some of the confusion. I know my numbers may be off a slight bit, but the concept is correct. But then I have not looked at a -10 in over 30 years, so don't shoot the messenger.
Nf turbin spins at 33,000, CBG spins the input shaft at 6600b and planetary gears in the xmsn reduce it to 324 (100% Nr) but nice video overall.
Huey by far the most iconic and recognizable American helicopter.
The Huey was the life blood of the GI's in 'Nam. After 50 years I can still hear the collective sound of 25-30 Huey rotors as the GI's went out on missions. It stays with you.
Greatest helicopter ever made
@@PieAndChips Whats about the Mil Mi 24?
Soviet Heart pretty cool heli too, the MIL has a more of a assault role while the Huey’s have a equal 50:50 role of transport and assault. I’d take the Huey any day.
Black Hawk is serious challenger.
"I'll see you later honey, I've gotta go down to the hangar and do an interview with this hippy tv host. Heh, he wants to know about the choppers."
You were right. This is one of the best videos of your channel. It was awesome!.
How cool is this!
Thanks, FalconMasters! We love doing this, and we really love you guys watching what we make!
Just found your video, really enjoyed this.
Being an air cavalryman is awesome but those hats are even more awesome! Thank you Gentlemen for your service!
I like the Huey, I love it. It holds a special place in my heart, but the Blackhawk will always hold the key to my heart. I must admit, the Huey has such a soothing rotor sound lol
Валерия Карреон wow jou must be a badass girl
@@rgerber simp
How many subs can prison Mike get
😂😂😂
I crewed both and the Huey was so much easier to maintain however the Blackhawk has the power
Soothing rotor sound? ruclips.net/video/QOvCNnqIsr4/видео.html
All my respect to all those crews that flew that bird. UH-1 Huey the ABSOLUTE BEST helicopter that ever flew, the Chinook is right there too. Great episode
You have no idea how jealous I am of you. When I told the recruiter I wanted anything to do with aviation, he told me kid your not smart enough. So I became an ARMY truck driver. 1987 2009. Great career both active and ARNG. Got to fly in a Huey at FT Stewart and a Chinook in Iraq. Loved every second!!!!!!!!! Got to fly in Blackhawk in Bosnia. Loved every second!!!!!!!
@Big Bill O'Reilly yes they have but sometimes it's fun to reminisce about old friends like the Huey. BTW my last type ride was in an S-92 truly a modern aircraft .
Two fantastic chaps right there and on top of that a fantastic and versatile helicopter that would become the icon for that brutal conflict we know to be Vietnam. Love the way you Yanks are so fantastic at keeping their history alive. Greetings from Britain 🇬🇧
Thanks, Gamer! I have lots of buddies in the UK that I come over to reenact with ever two years or so. :) I hope to be back this December!
Matthew Burchette where do you do your re-enacts and what periods?
@@thetourettesgamer8851 I am with a group called 2AiE. We go over to Normandy and Belgium to follow in the footsteps of the 2nd Armored Division in WWII. Went in 2014, and 2017. Looking to go back to Bastogne this winter to hang with the Belgians that do 101st.
I was in Nam in 70/71 and was an infantry grunt. We came out of the bush for a stand-down, me and two buddies went down to the PX and there was a 8mm film color movie camera for sale and I bought it. Took movies of buddies and when we about ready to go back in the bush, I asked a clerk to put it into our Company storeroom until I returned. He simply said it would get stolen, so after thinking about it, I put it in a M-60 ammo can to keep it dry. I took movies of our truck ride to the landing zone and with my legs hanging out sitting on the floor of the Huey I took movies of the entire combat assault and then when I got to the ground continued. I also have pictures of 174th Sharks, one I am sitting in the co-pilot seat. When I got home from Nam I put the film reels into a closet and didn't look at them until 2007. I decided to post them on RUclips. History Channel contacted me and asked if they could use my footage in their documentary Vietnam in HD. I sent them the reels and upgraded them to HD and then sent me digital copies. I decided to edit the footage and add narration and pay Tribute to the last Chaplain to be killed in combat in Nam. It was Easter Sunday 1971 and he brought hot food. He asked if he could eat lunch with us and I was sorta blessed to sit next to him for over an hour. I felt he was my new best friend. Unfortunately, his helicopter was ambushed and he and 10 other men were killed right in front of us. This video has been seen almost 1.9 million times. Wolfie the Grunt is the title.
This was your best episode yet!!
Thanks, Mr. Clem!
I'm super stoked to have found Behind the Wings, I can't wait for life to go back to normal so I can go around and see all these awesome aircraft
Used to fly in the UH1H, and Super Huey in the fire service. Love these old birds! Always look up when I hear the familiar twin blade rotors!
I just remembered my neighbor Benny Crespo who wash shot down over Vietnam in a Huey. He survied the war and died a few years ago in Miami. God bless him.
God Bless these two
Veterans
God Bless ALL Veterans
God Bless all
🇺🇸 American Military
God Bless
🇺🇸America🇺🇸
64K Gunnar echt so. Die blöden Amerikaner und ihre vergötterten Kriegsverbrechen
boot
I used to come home from school and be transfixed by the Hueys, Piloted and crewed by guys not much older than I was.
At the time it seemed perfectly normal to get home and switch on the television to see war happening in a country that I knew nothing about.
It seemed fantastic to see so many helicopters, in a gaggle, medevacs, gunships, chinooks, skycranes, to a kid it was awe inspiring.
It still is!
My wife's uncle few them in Vietnam, and then again with the National Guard through the early 00's. He was deployed during Desert Storm flying these very same ships:-).
Very 1st Helo I flew in was a Huey UH-1.
The first Huey flew in 1956, the first Black Hawk became operational in 1979. That's 23 years! The Huey was a real break through helicopter operationally for the time. Cheap to build, easy to fix, very good pay load, good speed and distance, good altitude ability. Easy to transport. Very adaptable. They still fly a bunch them.
Greatest Helicopter of all time!
Edit: Best sounding one too!
I'm sure you thanked these magnificent gentlemen for their service.
Pretty sure those two seniors could still get a fine tune out that old girl.
This channel deserves more subs. Really cool to see vets telling their experience.
Thanks! We agree with your assessment! ;)
The engine had an output of 6600 rpm after a lot of internal reductions from a turbine speed upwards of 20,000 rpm. Most huey's of the earlier types used either the L9 or L11 versions of the T53 and produced around 1100 hp. The 540 rotor system originated with the C model UH1, and later in the series was used on the M model. A variation of the 540 system was also used on the AH 1 Cobra.
No helicopter that I flew had a rotor RPM of anything even close to 6600. Output shaft rpm probably then after reduction from the main gearbox down to 325 at the rotor
@@notfornuttinschaumburg5671 Please note that I referred to the output RPM of the engine of about 6600 rpm. The nose case of the T-53 had a built in planetary gear set to reduce the turbine shaft speed down to that output. Nothing I said stated that the rotor rpm was that high. The highest rotor RPM that I encountered in the Army (22 years, mostly in Army helicopters) was the OH-6 with a rotor speed of about 400 rpm. Generally the bigger the rotor, the slower it will turn. Also, the 540 was a reference to the part number designated to the rotor system used on the noted aircraft models.
As a prior service Aircraft Mechanic, I was told in training that the empennage of the UH-1, was constructed with "J" stringers. Which to the layman means the profile shape of the stringer running length wise of the tail, was actually copied from the Russian Mig-15, as the Mig-15 has "J" stringers,
Now THAT is cool!
"Loaded for Bear"....
Actually, the Huey was loaded for Charlie!
@mario Alas Yeah because the Democrats walked away from the deal the US signed onto with South Vietnam...
charlie don't surf
Outstanding. Love the Huey!!! Special Thank you to our Hero's that gave us the background on this aircraft. Thank you for your service!!
Love how the USMC UHY1 Venom video is shown.
Great video.
Thanks
There are two historically brilliant beautiful idiosyncratic aircraft that have captured the hearts of their nations and lovers of aircraft in military history, the British Spitfire and the UH-1 Huey.
They are special creations
Sorry for the shit you boys got when you got back, we never forget and always remember, thank you Sir
What a gorgeous looking airframe! It’s great to listen to the veteran aircrew and their stories. Keep up the good work!
Please keep uploading videos.. love your video's. I hope someday i visit this museum...Love from India
Thanks, RC World. Keep watching, and we will keep uploading!
Wow...me too
Thanks for this episode and huge respect to everyone who ever worked on or with this machine
Awesome museum that greatly appreciates the local military. They hosted several unit send offs from the Colorado Army National Guard Aviation from Buckley Air Force Base in Aurora, Colorado.
I was stationed at Lowry AFB where this museum now is. Can't understand why it was closed. I remember that hanger from my days there
ayy props to matt for taking the time to respond to comments and try improve the videos.
Thanks, Eddie. We are working to improve all the time. Sometimes it's easy - sometimes it isn't! We 100% appreciate all the feedback!
We still use that here in the Philippines. Get some!!
Many country still using this helicopter some country even use it as a Gunship :D
You could hear the Pride, Love & Passion in those old boys voices.
Thank you for your service
Amen Brothers
The turbine model is the famed Lycoming T-53 which had many different versions starting at L-11,L-13,L-13B etc. The original versions had coking problems on the fuel nozzles and cracking problems as well.
A very concise explanation of what it takes to maneuver a rotor wing aircraft in flight!
The Charlie Model had the L11 engine, the Mike Model was L13 At 1300 and !3B was 1400. We went RVN with Chuck model. Never got Mike models. Got Cobras in 67. Love the Chuck models
Just beautiful to see and hear - the men and the bird.
Weirdly animated war hippie with gameshow music. *Subscribed*
Underrated comment
Thanks for producing this video; I enjoyed it. I was startled to hear the main rotor ran 6,600 RPM... 330 was my recollection from 50 years ago :) Glad to see others caught the same. Nice to see and hear the Colonel's recollections.
Jerome, I completely misspoke on the rotor RPMs! You are correct, it was 324 for rotors and 6600 for the operating RPMs of the turbine. We will correct that in a longer episode we are producing for Rocky Mountain PBS.
Thank you for this, what an awesome video... Also thank you, gentlemen, for your service!
Never heard a more concise or accurate description of how helicopters work than what that second gentleman said.
Great video!Here in Greece still in service!
Nice! We still use the Huey in some parts of the U.S. military, but you really see a lot of them helping fight fires as a water tanker.
Yoo..! I'm also a middle 1960's Vietnam with three tours behind me ( 2 PH's )..! In my days, I could be flying a Huey one day and operating on a wounded Marine the next day.. Most of my fellow combat friends that did not die in the war have since died off one by one. Looking at 80, I will be with my buddies in the near future. Semper Fi, " DOC '.
The engine shown looks to be, at best, a T53L11D. It is certainly not a T53L13 since they had a variety of difficulties and were quickly replaced by the T53L13A which also had issues and was upgraded to the T53L13B which operated spectacularly, logging 10s of millions of flight hours in Viet Nam.
L 11s had shitty fuel nozzels and the two stage exhaust fans didn't have that metal piece around the fan
@@UriahD85 The L11 did not have fuel nozzles at all unlike the L13. The L11 had "T canes" or vaporizers rather than the fuel nozzle atomizers of the L13 (and everything newer). I don't know what you're referring to when you say two stage exhaust fans. The L11 had one gas producer nozzle and turbine wheel and one power turbine nozzle and turbine wheel. The L13 had two GP nozzles and wheels and two PT nozzles and wheels. It speaks to the advancement in technology where, in the space of 1 GP & PT nozzle and wheel there were now 2 GP & PT nozzles and wheels. The L13 came out circa in 1967 while the L11 was the most advanced version of its technology borne in the mid 1950s.
@@billyboblillybob344 lol still I'm still learning about T53s I'm working on a B model ZK-HHB that's going through a refurb job
@@UriahD85 Well engine-wise, the L11 is far cheaper to maintain than the L13. There aren't many still flying as operators generally refit their B models with the L13 and make the "super B models". There is still plenty of spares/support for the L11 though so hopefully they keep flying.
Who doesn't love the Huey? My father. Helicopter pilot Vietnam veteran. He calls the Huey an underpowered death trap. He preferred the CH-54 because of its incredible climb rate. He was shot down multiple times. Always while flying a Huey.
Great episode! Can't wait for more! Hopefully that Tomcat back there would love to get the camera on her!
Trooper, we are SO on top of a Tomcat episode! Stay tuned!
To any Vietnam era vet that may someday read this comment, welcome home. From a 27 year old that was raised by a 25th Infantry Army vet, 68-69. Cu Chi. He passed on two years ago and I still haven’t accepted the loss of my old man.
Thank you, Mr. Burchette! 👍
Nothing but respect for my veterants!
Great Video, Thanks to the Col. , and Lt Col. Thanks for your service! MIA/POW Never Forgotten !
Outstanding! Fly Army Air!
This is really cool to see. My grandfather flew these while in Vietnam as part of the 281st AHC
Love the Huey. Mad love. I wanna fly one then marry it.
In this day and age they'll let you marry anything.
Marry it first! Her daddy is watching!
The long hair guy did seem to be pretty cool.
I really enjoyed the Video.
One of my Senior Army Instructors Master Sergent Curtis Roy did several tour's in Vietnam.
His MOS in the Army was a Pilot.
He flew one of the first Helicopters the US ARMY ever had. Officers & NCO's in his unit and others would call him Mister Helicopter because of his lengthy service with Choppers and also being a Senior Aviation Specialist.
I can recall him sporting his Calvary Stetson Cowboy Hat at the Military Ball.
He helped me in life.
I herd he Passed this year.
Master Sergeant Curtis Roy have fun up their in the Master Aviators Airfield in The Sky.
My dad used to service these helicopters in Germany
Thank you very much for the service of those 2 gentlemen
Keep the videos coming!!!
Will DO! You will really like next month's video. I promise!
Fort Worth, Texas! Woot woot! Home of Bell Helicopter, Lockheed Martin's F-35, F-16, and a sky full of military hardware!
The 9SQN RAAF UH-1 Bushrangers had a similar setup but with twin M60s mounted on each door.
Kevin Quinn they used the larger H version of the Huey. They were also the only ones to fit forward firing miniguns at the position just behind the pilots doors, at the front of the crew cabin door area.
I can remember riding in a UH-1D over Dayton, Ohio when I was about 6. It was a bit of a shock at first, but once the skids were off the ground it was nothing but a good time from there. Just everything about it was incredible
Whoever gave your script should be fired. The UH-1C Huey Gunship UH-1C: The UH-1B gunship lacked the power necessary to carry weapons and ammunition and keep up with transport Hueys, and so Bell designed yet another Huey variant, the "UH-1C", intended strictly for the gunship role. It is an UH-1B with improved engine, modified blades and rotor-head for better performance in the gunship role.[13] 767 built.[67] Later on, the Charlie Model was upgraded to the Mike Model UH-1M: Gunship specific UH-1C upgrade with Lycoming T53-L-13 engine of 1,400 shp (1,000 kW).[13]
The M-60 mounting for the Door Gunners was Never Used and the 500 round ammo box was never used. In my unit, we shot the M-60 FreeHand and used empty shipping boxes as ammo boxes to contain about 1,200 rounds of ammo.
So if this aircraft served with 1 Cav. So why does it also have the makings of the 174th Sharks?.
Not a good job on the part " Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum "
I server with the 282nd Assault Helicopter Company Black Cats & Alley Cats. Crew Chief 3rd Platoon Alley Cats December 1970-71 @ Marble Mountain Airfield, DaNang, Republic of South Vietnam.
Guess everyone likes to see a Shark Mouth on the aircraft.
The M-23 door gun mount really not appropriate here. Have never seen it used on B/C/M gunships. Early B models and even some Air Force F/P models used a Sagami mount, but don't think that was widespread.
@@mh53j You are correct. Please keep in mind that the helicopter is coming to us "as is." We have LOTS of modifications to do to it to make is correct.
John, Keep in mind that the aircraft is coming to the museum "as is." That means that over the next few years we will be changing her look so that she is correct for both armament and markings.
@@matthewburchette7852 Ok now I have a better understanding as to the Aircraft markings. Now brush up on your History of the Huey Gunship variants! lol.
Cheers from San Francisco this where I spend my weekends.
www.hueyvets.com
Matthew Burchette completely understand, sometimes may not be feasible to backdate an aircraft to it's original configuration after years of updates have been added to it. Have seen Huey's at other museums displayed as Vietnam aircraft with wire cutters, modern antennas, black NVG cockpits-all found on Hueys during their final days of service. Most people don't have any idea about this kind of thing, so it's "good enough" for display purposes.
Still think you should lose the M-23 mount though....
I love that the guy running back to the tailrotor from the huey at 1:45 is pushed down to the ground by the rotorwash!
1:46 guy who jumped out of the left side was KIA when boots touched the dirt.
Rip
Or he just ate it..... Good catch tho.
Yeah I think he effectively ate major shit
Engine a Lycoming T53-L-13.
M-23 door gun mount would be very unusual on a B/C/M gunship, usually a "free 60" suspended from a bungee cord was normal for gunners.
Would also be more likely to have M134 miniguns instead of the XM-6 quad machine gun system especially later in the war, though that may be understandably difficult/expensive for the museum to obtain.
Also, small cover on upper part of the nose indicates it could have been fitted with the XM-5 40mm grenade launcher; this was where the feed chute was fitted.
Huey my favorite aircraft of all. Only got to actually ride in one once. Could do almost anything, such a versatile platform. Saw one fly over the other day, was an obvious ex-military H model but in civilian colors.
Actually have a book with pictures of a Nebraska ARNG UH-1M being worked on in 1987!
Correct on all points, Douglas. Weapons for the period were the M-6 (quad M-60 guns) on flex mounts for the UH-1B, or XM-21 (mini-guns) on flex mounts for UH-1C and (later) UH-1M birds. There were also M-3 "Hogs" with 48, 2.75" Folding Fin Aerial Rockets (24 tubes per side), and M-5 "Frogs" with 14 FFARs (7 per side) and the 40mm turret on the nose (my favorite!). All sported an M-60 free gun each for the crew chief and door gunner.
AH-1G Cobras were a good replacement I suppose for the 'Huey' gunships later in the war, but I could never contemplate not having a crew chief and door gunner covering our collective asses and for their added support in accomplishing our missions.
G550Ted always wondered how prevalent 40mm turrets were. Was it up to the crew if they wanted one (kinda doubt it), was it up to the squadron commander or some "higher authority"?
Doug, correct. We got the helo "as is," and are now starting the process of "accurizing" her. We know the M-6 set up is wrong and will move to the miniguns in due time.
Matthew Burchette sounds good. Hope you have found a source for the miniguns and can afford them. I realize getting these aircraft fixed up correctly can cost more than what some musuems can afford. You guys are doing good work!
When the trees start speaking Vietnamese and the Huey’s start talking
And this veterans Nightmares come back...
@Big Bill O'Reilly there were over 10,000 aircraft shot down during Vietnam. Most of them were helicopters. NVA/VC usually waited for the helicopters to land and Destroy them. They knew that that was our ticket in and ticket out. They can hear them just as well as we could. They really loved the Medevac helicopters. they would wait until they were loaded up with wounded then destroy them before they could take off. I can still hear the explosions, guns and missiles, and the screams. Mainly the screams. When you got in the chopper you tried to sit on your flak vest. Why? They would be shooting up at you through the floor of the Chopper.
Flown in them many times, nap of the earth was amazing. Put me up on 40' ladder and my knees will knock, but hanging outside the door even when this bird was banking was just exhilarating.
When did we get so OLD?
I did 1 tour flying H model's. Put in 1,204 hours in that 12 month period of time. Greatest adventure of my life.
Lycoming T53-L-13B is the engine I fixed them in the Army. I worked on everything that spins.
If you did this in Vietnam in the 68-69 range, there's a great chance you bumped into my father who was the lead technical representative for the OEM AVCO Lycoming and dealt with T53L13Bs. He went to all the bases where Army Hueys were operating at one time or another usually to help out other tech reps and the Army maintenance guys. He taught Army personnel at Fort Eustis and Fort Hood after coming back from Vietnam.
@@billyboblillybob344 I was 8 in 1968. I trained as 68B and 68D now 15B and 15D. at Eustis, 6 years active at Fort Hood 1988 to 1993.
@@michaelmooney3369 Ahh...cool...different times then. He came back from Vietnam in 69 and did the Fort Eustis and Fort Hood stints in 70 and 71. Ended up leaving AVCO Lycoming in 72...
@@billyboblillybob344 I was 12 in 72 in a boarding school.
To my Uncle W.O. Charles Franklin Smith. Shot down in a medevac flight trying to save American Soldiers. Oct. 28 1970. God Bless you.
Of the more than 12,000 helicopters operating in Vietnam, more than 5,000 were destroyed by combat or accidents.
Nearly 5,000 helicopter pilots and crew-members lost their lives conducting aerial operations in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. [Many of whom were never found, and account for a significant number of the MIAs, and the reason that the Huey is on the MIA flag]
However, Helicopters were used in more than 850,000 medical evacuation missions conducted during that war, and were responsible for boosting survival rates for the wounded to as high as 99 percent, according to the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association... From: www.army.mil/article/204136/vietnam_helicopter_pilots_crewmembers_memorialized_in_arlington_national_cemetery
I enlisted in the U.S. Air Force at 17 after having gotten my G.E.D. from Job Corps and crewed UH-1N Huey's in an Air Rescue unit. Went in as a mechanic, discharged as a crew chief and the only thing I miss from those days IS MY Zippo lighter.
1:48 so we ain’t gonna talk about how my man fell
Huey is THE coolest chopper ever made hands down.
I'm here with a REAL AND ALIVE PERSON
Thanks for Sharing this on a Helio that my past Uncle flew in Vietnam as a medic Army Pilot, ARMY AVIATION
That line of 5 bullet holes is real?
Kinda. The holes are decals that show where the real holes were that were patched in country. MB