Welcome to the 73d SAC

TABLE OF CONTENTS	Page

Commanders Welcome	2
Vietnam: The Country and it's People	4
Chain of Command	6
The 1st Aviation Brigade Patch	7
Mission of the 1st Aviation Brigade	8
Unit History of the 1st Aviation Brigade	8
73d Surveillance Airplane Company	10
The Vietnam Tour	11
Assignment Preference Statement	11
Individual Monthly Pay Option	12
Weapons Security	12
Additional Pay in Vietnam	13
Tax Exemption	13
US Dollar Conversion	13
Piaster Currency Exchange	13
Ration Cards	14
Health Hazards	14
Mail Procedures	15
Driving in Vietnam	16
Religious Services	16
Educational opportunities	17
Red Cross Aid	19
Sick Call	20
Alert Procedures	20
Safeguarding Remains of Deceased Military Personnel	20
Out Of Country R&R Programs	20
Code of Conduct	21
General Curfew and Pass	22
Leaves	22
Illegal or Improper Use of Drugs	24
I.G. Services Available	24
Unsolicited Correspondence	25
Useful Telephone Numbers	26

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
73d Surveillance Airplane Company
210th Combat Aviation Battalion
APO San Francisco 96291

SUBJECT: Company Greetings
All Newly Assigned Personnel

1. As your Company Commander I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the 73rd.

2. The mission of the 73rd is to perform visual, photographic, and electronic surveillance and reconnaissance in support of counter-insurgency operations. No matter what job you have, you will be an important part of the team effort.

3. While you are here always remember that you are the foreigner. We are here as guests and whatever your actions the Vietnamese will judge all Americans by them. It behooves you then to conduct yourself in the highest traditions of the United States Army.

4. You will find that the remainder of this book describes in detail the company's policies, procedures, and the tremendous facilities that are available to you in this area and throughout Vietnam.

5. My office is open to individuals who wish to discuss any problem they may have. I prefer that you give your chain of command an opportunity to first solve the problem.

6. I hope that your tour with us is an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

VIETNAM: THE COUNTRY AND IT'S PEOPLE

The Republic of Vietnam is somewhat less than half the size of California and long and narrow like that State. It occupies the south eastern section of the Indo-Chinese Peninsula in South East Asia, and borders the South China Sea and the Gulf of Siam. Near neighbors to the West are Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand. Beyond Communist Vietnam to the North is the vast territory of Red China.

South Vietnam is a country with a civilization that predates the birth of Christ, but which, since 1954 has been a divided nation, like Korea. North of the 17th Parallel and the Ben Hoi River lies Communist controlled North Vietnam and south is the free Republic of Vietnam.

The South Vietnamese produce enough rice to meet their own needs and still have plenty left over for export. Its abundant rice crop, locally grown vegetables and fish from the nicely stocked areas at its door make the country largely self-sustaining in food.

Climate wise, South Vietnam has a typically tropical climate of two seasons: hot and dry, and hot and rainy.

The population of the Republic of Vietnam is about 14 million, four-fifths of them farmers. (North Vietnam has an estimated 16 million people). The majority of the people of South Vietnam are ethnic Vietnamese. There are over half a million tribes people, about the same number of Chinese (most of whom now hold Vietnamese citizenship), just under half a million ethnic Cambodians and a few thousand each of French, Indians, and Pakistans.

Compared with most Asian nations, South Vietnam is uncrowded. But the population density varies from 19 people per square mile throughout the six high plateau provinces to 43,000 people per square mile in Saigon, the Capital. Saigon is the largest city with about 2 million people. Danang runs a distant second with 111,000.

The Vietnamese are small and well proportioned people, with dark, almond shaped eyes, and black hair. The slender small women move gracefully in their national dress of long trousers under a long sleeved tunic slit from hem to waist.

Most non-laboring Vietnamese men wear Western clothing on the street, but you see an occasional Chinese in traditional Mandarin dress. Workmen and peasants dress in loose black trousers and short black or white jackets. Often a turban tops the male costume.

Somewhat reserved and very polite, the Vietnamese are warm and friendly with people they like, and they are very cooperative and helpful. They have great respect for virtue, and acknowledge and honor older people. Many of their customs are conditioned by religious beliefs. Confucianism and Buddhism are the main religions of the people, with Catholicism accounting for 10% of the ethnic Vietnamese.

The Vietnam of today is not the Vietnam of the past nor of the future. As long as there is danger of communist agents prowling its streets, Saigon necessarily is a tensely guarded "Pearl of the Orient", and until the last Viet Cong sniper has been smoked out of the bamboo thickets, much of the beauty of the provinces will be hidden from visitors.

But there are compensations. You who help the Vietnamese maintain this freedom will have many fine things to remember about the people and the country. You will have the satisfaction of sharing the experiences of a staunch and dedicated nation in a most critical period of its history. In a broader sense, you will be helping to block the spread of communism through Southeast Asia.

Your exemplary conduct - - making a good compromise between the more informal ways of our country and the traditional ones in Vietnam, will do a lot toward bridging the gap between East and West. This is essential, as the success of your mission requires that you build up a good relationship with the Vietnamese people. This can be done only through day-by-day association with them on terms of mutual confidence and respect, both doing your military job and in your off duty hours.

You'll find opportunity for recreation, but the Vietnamese will also appreciate a helping hand on local civic projects, such as improving sanitary, medical or transportation facilities, and building a playground or school.

You will not find life dull in Vietnam, if you stay tuned in on the wave length of people around you. You will see exotic places, build lasting friendships, and be of service to a young democracy while fulfilling an important duty to your country.

CHAIN OF COMMAND

1. President of the United States	HON Richard M. Nixon
2. Secretary of Defense	HON Melvin Laird
3. Secretary of the Army	HON Stanley R. Resor
4, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff	GEN Earl G. Wheeler
5. Chief of Staff of the Army	GEN William C. Westmoreland
6. Commander Pacific	ADM J.S. McCain
7. Commander United States Forces Vietnam	GEN Crayton L Abrams
8. Commander 1st Aviation Brigade	GEN Robert R. Williams
9. Commanding 12th Combat Aviation Group	COL Herb D. Prather
10. Commander 210th Aviation Battalion	LTC Billy R. Wright
11. Commander 73d Survl Airpl Co	LTC Dwight R. French

THE 1ST AVIATION BRIGADE PATCH

The "GOLDEN HAWK" is becoming a familiar sight in Vietnam nowadays. It is found on the newly authorized crest and shoulder insignia of the 1st Aviation Brigade. The Brigade, commanded by MG R.R. Williams, is the Army's largest aviation unit and commands all non-divisional Army aviation units serving in Vietnam. Approval for the new insignia was granted by the U.S. Army Institute of Heraldry on 2 August 1966. The shoulder insignia is a shield shaped patch of ultramarine blue with a 1/8 inch gold border. In the center of the blue field is a red hilted, unsheathed crusader's sword with a swooping golden hawk grasping the hilt in its talons.

The unsheathed crusader's sword represents the origin of the mission of the brigade in Vietnam. The hawk is a symbol of the concept developed during 11th Air Assault tests in 1963, and represents the impact of Army aviation on ground warfare. The gold of the hawk and red hilt of the sword are the colors of the Republic of Vietnam, MACV, and USARV. MACV and USARV are commands under which the brigade was formed and now serves in combat.

Approval of the new shoulder patch is unique in that this is the first time since the old Army Air Corps, that an Army aviation command has been granted individual recognition in the form of distinctive shoulder insignia of its own in combat.

MISSION OF THE 1ST AVIATION BRIGADE

To provide command, less operational control, staff: planning and administrative supervision of two aviation groups and provide aviation support, as directed, to US, ARVN, and other Free World Military Assistance Forces for the conduct of combat, logistical or other counter-insurgency operations throughout the Republic of Vietnam.

UNIT HISTORY OF THE 1ST AVIATION BRIGADE

The US Army's 1st Aviation Brigade, headquarters near Saigon at Tan Son Nhut Airbase, is the Army's largest operational aviation command.

Organized on March 1, 1966, as the US Army Aviation Brigade (Provisional), the brigade joined the ranks of the Army's official force structure on May 23, 1966, when Lieutenant General Jean E. Engler, Deputy Commanding General, US Army Vietnam, formally presented the 1st Aviation Brigade colors to Brigadier General George P. Seneff, Jr., Brigade Commander.

Headquarters, 1st Aviation Brigade, has an authorized strength of 28 officers, 4 warrant officers, and 86 enlisted men. The mission of the brigade headquarters is to command and administer all non-individual Army aviation units in the Republic of Vietnam. This simple statement understates the complexity of the Brigade's mission.

The 43 Aviation Companies that make up the Brigade are scattered throughout the Republic from Hue-Phu Bai, near the 17th Parallel to Soc Trang, deep in the heart of the Mekong Delta. These units are organized into two aviation groups and separate battalions. The 12th Group, presently headquartered at Long Binh, commands three Battalions and provides helicopter and fixed wing aviation support to American, Vietnamese, and Free World Military Assistance Forces (FWMAF) in the III Corps Tactical Zone. The 17th Group, located at Nha Trang, commands four battalions and supports operations in the I and II Corps areas. The 13th Aviation Battalion, located at Can Tho provides support to the ARVN IV Corps and other agencies operating in the Delta. The Capital Battalion, situated at Tan Son Nhut Airbase, provides support for the conduct of the combat and logistical operations of the US, ARVN, and FWMAF as directed.

The story of the 1st Aviation Brigade is the story of more than 1400 officers and men who fly and maintain the more than 1,000 aircraft that make up the Army's non-divisional aviation fleet in Vietnam, and who perform the myriad administrative, and logistical tasks that go hand in hand with the operational mission. 1st Brigade aircraft are in the skies over Vietnam 24 hours out of everyday, providing troop lift, aerial weapons systems support, tactical fixed wing transportation, surveillance, reconnaissance, and administrative and liaison support for the ground forces.

A glance at a month's operational statistics for the Brigades units provide an insight to the many tasks the Army's air wing performs. The Aviation Brigade's ability can be shown by using a typical month, in which the following passenger figures were recorded: fixed wing transported 70,815 and rotary wing transported 203,228 for a total of 274,043 passengers transported. This same month saw the transporting of 7,341 tons of cargo by fixed wing and 14,000 tons of cargo by rotary wing for a total of 21,381 tons of cargo. In doing this, the brigades pilots flew 24,825 hours in fixed wing and 40,801 in rotary wing aircraft for a total of 65,086 hours of flying during a typical month.

Many of the passengers transported were troops on combat missions. In providing this transportation support and fire support, some of the brigades units participated in major battles throughout Vietnam. Again, looking at a typical month, the brigades units accounted for 1,085 Viet Cong killed by air, 379 damaged and 420 destroyed structures, and 143 damaged and 130 destroyed sampans. Also during this month, the units destroyed 1 bridge, 3 rafts and 5 automatic weapons.

The awards and decorations earned by personnel of the Brigade are remarkable. To mention only a few: 218 DFC's, 851 BSM' s, 478 PH' s, and over 50,000 AM's is truly indicative of the calibre of personnel and the accomplishments, and results they have achieved during the first 9 months of the brigades history.

The history of Army aviation in Vietnam began in mid-December 1961 with the arrival of the 57th Transportation Light Helicopter Company at Tan Son Nhut airport. The unit, with its H-21 "Flying Banana" Helicopters, was placed indirect support of the III ARVN Corps. The company base of operations was Saigon's Rex Hotel.

After a brief and intensive training period, during which the Vietnamese troops were taught how to get in and out of the helicopters in a minimum amount of time, the 57th flew its first support mission on December 23, 1961, lifting 360 Vietnamese paratroopers on a search and destroy mission.

By June 1962, Army aviation strength in Vietnam had grown to one battalion and four aviation companies. On June 1 the US Army Support Group, Vietnam was activated to provide administrative and logistical support to the aviation units, and the few other Army organization in the Republic.

Save for the MACV advisors and the Special Forces teams, the bulk of the US Army's effort in Vietnam from 1962 through 1964 was centered on Army Aviation. This was the great testing ground for the helicopter, as well as for the Army's surveillance aircraft, the turboprop 'Mohawk' and the old, but faithful 0-1, 'Birddog' .

By late 1964 the proud but battered H-21's had been honorably retired and the famous UH-1 'Huey' had taken their place. This turbojet powered helicopter, an omnipresent sight in the skies over Vietnam, probably symbolizes more than any other item of equipment, vehicle or aircraft in the war in Vietnam. In its troop-carrying configuration as the UH-1D; or as the UH-B 'gunship' or command and control aircraft, the 'Huey' or 'Iroquois' to use the officially sanctioned nickname, is the workhorse of Army aviation.

The first of the four 'Chinook' companies arrived in Vietnam in November 1965. These assault support helicopter companies (CH-47) are the prime movers of the 105 howitzer about the battlefield. They also provide the necessary mobility for distributing heavy priority items of supplies and equipment to tactical units. When the tactical situation dictates, they are also employed to provide troop lift and medical evacuation.

Since the escalation of the US effort in Vietnam in 1965, when the advisory and assistance role was changed to a full-scale commitment of combat forces and their logistical and administrative support, Army aviation has grown. In the future, as our assets increase, our accomplishments and results will multiply.

73D SURVEILLANCE AIRPLANE COMPANY

The low pitched hum and passing whine of twin turboprops is a familiar sound to the residents of the Vietnamese Coastal Town of Vung Tau. It continues throughout the night, greets them as they wake up in the morning and is with them all day. The sound belongs to the Mohawks (OV-1) of the 73d Surveillance Airplane Company as they depart and return on their round-the-clock surveillance schedule in the southern half of the Republic of Vietnam.

Utilizing the Mohawk, a high performance aircraft crammed with sophisticated electronic sensors and cameras, the officers and men of the 73d SAC work on a 24 hour basis to locate and provide intelligence on an enemy that does not want to be detected. During the day, flight teams of camera-equipped Mohawks range over the country side performing low-level visual photo reconnaissance in search of VC activity, areas of infiltration, and troop buildup. At night, the surveillance continues as electronic sensor aircraft take to the air. The integrated use of its several surveillance systems is a standing operating procedure of the 73d, and it is not unusual for an area to be covered by electronic sensor and photo/visual in one 24-hour period. A variety of information is obtained in this manner, and each flight has the benefit of the data previously collected. Always in contact with troop units on the ground and naval units on the rivers and off shore waters, the 'Hawks' report timely information for immediate action.

The 73d is effective. In the four years the unit and its predecessor, the 23d Special Warfare Aviation Detachment, have been in the country, the techniques of surveillance in unconventional warfare have been developed and perfected to the point where VC operations and movement is severely hampered. The enemy constantly fears that a Hawk may appear overhead ready to detect them, even on the darkest of nights. A routine movement by sampan is hazardous. Naval patrol craft or rocket firing helicopters are likely to appear at any moment, directed to the point of interest by a Hawk aircraft flying quietly above. The conditions for movement and observation during the daylight hours are even less favorable as two aircraft flight teams roam their mission areas, noting changes in the landscape below for signs of activity by the unit's imagery interpretation section. No better evidence of the hatred and fear the VC have for the Mohawks can be found than the 50,000$VN piaster reward to any VC gunner who shoots one down.

The organization of Army aerial surveillance companies, such as the 73d, is unique in that the units are virtually self-controlled, requiring no outside support in order to produce the final product - intelligence. Equipped with a full range of facilities, from photo labs to camera and sensor repair shops, plus a complete imagery interpretation section, the 73d is capable of dealing with all phases of the surveillance effort, from the receipt of the mission request to the final delivery of the mission results in the form of an immediate imagery interpretation report.

Speed, with accuracy, is the operational criteria for the 73d. Inflight reporting of mobile targets is standard, and rapid interpretation of mission imagery is a necessity if effective action is to be taken in the areas of concern. Working around the clock, the 73d Interpreters prepare reports on the 500 to 600 feet of photographic, SLAR, and infrared imagery produced in a typical 24 hour period. Detailed analyses are performed in an effort to detect the telltale changes, which indicate enemy activity. 'Hot' reports are called in the minute after the imagery is received, with full reports following later. Total time from aircraft landing to finished report, on its way by teletype, is frequently less than 3 hours.

In the 73d, each man's job is critical to the accomplishment. It is the knowledge of this that has fostered the attitude of professionalism that takes the pilot down 'on the deck' in VC territory for a closer look, or finds maintenance personnel working under floodlamps at 0200 hours to repair a battle damaged aircraft for the next day's flight. There is a great demand for Mohawk surveillance in Vietnam, and each man is aware that the requirements can be met only by individual contributions to the team effort.

Airpower is seinging the tide of war in Vietnam. With their continued support for the Army, Navy, and Vietnamese units, the personnel of the 73d are confident in the knowledge that they are making a large and very significant contribution to the final victory.

THE VIETNAM TOUR

The normal overseas tour in Vietnam is 12 months, computed from the day you left the continental United States to your DEROS (Date Estimated Return Overseas). You may request voluntary extensions of this tour for an extended period of time up to 12 months.

ASSIGNMENT PREFERENCE STATEMENT

All officers, warrant officers and enlisted men in the grades of E-7, E-8, and E9 are reminded of the requirement to submit an Assignment Preference Statement prior to completing this tour. Officers and warrant officers are required to submit preference statements 9 months prior to rotation. Enlisted personnel, in the grades mentioned above, are required to submit an Enlisted Preference Statement 7 months prior to rotation. Enlisted personnel promoted to E-7 must submit a preference statement immediately upon appointment. Other enlisted personnel, in grades El through E6, will be contacted by the Personnel Section, usually in their 6th or 7th month in Vietnam, for submission of their Assignment Preference Statement.

INDIVIDUAL MONTHLY PAY OPTION

The introduction of the Military Pay Certificate as the monetary medium for US Military forces, lifted the limitations on the amount of cash an individual may draw each payday. Furthermore, since a check is a negotiable instrument, the delivery of US Government checks to an individual is not authorized.

In order to properly effect your monthly pay, you have the following options:

Individuals who select option 2 or 3 must furnish the name and address of the bank or person to whom the check will be payable. The check will be mailed by the servicing finance office.

It is recommended that you give consideration to option 4, as this option is a safeguard against loss or theft or excessive cash on hand, and insures your funds arriving home with no cost or trouble to you.

WEAPONS SECURITY

Security and safeguarding of individual weapons is an individual, as well as, a command responsibility. Weapons will be stored in the proper rifle racks in the arms room when not in use. Weapons should be checked twice a week and will be cleaned and oiled once a week. Privately owned weapons will be listed on the unit arms register and secured in the unit arms room. Vietnamese gun permits are not considered as authorization to carry personal weapons. Personnel weapons may be carried only with written permission of the unit commander.

The carrying of dangerous weapons, other than firearms, openly or concealed on the person is prohibited. Dangerous weapons include, but are not limited to:

a. Swords, stilettos, sabres and similar instruments.

b. Knives with blades longer than three inches, except as authorized when carried on missions.

c. Straight razors.

d. Spring release (switchblade) knives.

e. Trench knives or bayonets, except as authorized for duty.

f. Metal knuckles, blackjacks, saps, or clubs.

g. Instruments in which compressed air or a chemical propellant is used.

Ammunition will be issued when and as needed. The ammunition will be stored and issued by the Supply Sergeant or individuals as directed by the unit commander.

The proper use of any firearm is the responsibility of the person handling the weapon. Individuals should insure the chamber is clear when the weapon is not actually being fired. Chambers should always be checked when the weapon is issued and prior to storage.

ADDITIONAL PAY IN VIETNAM

1. Hostile Fire Pay - $65.00 a month.

2. Family Separation Pay. (E-4 over four years and above)

3. Overseas pay, according to rank.

TAX EXEMPTION

Warrant Officers and enlisted personnel do not pay income tax while serving in Vietnam. Officers receive a $500.00 per month exemption in the form of non-taxable pay.

US DOLLAR CONVERSION

Possession of US dollars and dollar instruments is not permitted in Vietnam. US currency will be converted immediately upon arrival in Vietnam to Military Payment Certificates (MPC) at an authorized conversion station. Violators are subject to disciplinary action.

PIASTER CURRENCY EXCHANGE

As a result of negotiations between RVN and US authorities, a basic standard conversion was established for exchange of the American dollar and the Vietnam piaster note. This means, with the standard now in effect, MPC may be converted to piasters on a basis of $1.00US to 118$VN, giving the servicemen an 18 cent bonus.

The reasons for this arrangement are:

a. To assist in avoiding rising inflationary conditions now present due to the continuous flow of American Dollars into the Republic of Vietnam.

b. To give the serviceman an allowance by permitting him to convert dollars on an agreeable exchange basis.

c. To discourage black market activities that have been thriving in Vung Tau, obstructing economic efforts of both governments.

It is of extreme importance that all members of this command understand this situation, and without exception, exchange their dollars only at authorized exchange facilities, ie, Payline or Finance. Personnel who patronize and encourage black marketeers are doing a harmful dis-service to their country and to the Republic of Vietnam. Such practices will not be tolerated. Exchange only those dollars needed and curb the flow of gold out of the US.

RATION & MACV CONTROL CARDS

During your initial processing, you will be issued a Ration and MACV Control Card for post exchange purchases. Two rationed items are liquor (3 bottles per month) and cigarettes (6 cartons per month). Other items such as beer, tape recorders, fans, watches, slide and movie projectors, radios and certain cameras, are controlled items and will be marked on your card at the time of purchase. The sales, barter, or trade of items purchased through armed forces exchanges or commissaries is prohibited.

HEALTH HAZARDS

All major installations now have medical facilities and a flight surgeon. Regardless of where you are stationed, medical assistance will be available. The major health hazards in the Republic of Vietnam are:

MAIL PROCEDURES

The 73d Surveillance Airplane Company Mail Room is located next to the Civilian Personnel building. Mail call hours and pickup times are posted at the mail room.

All incoming personnel are required to fill out 4 change of address cards, obtained from the unit mail clerk.

No stamp is required on letters or personal sound tapes for personnel stationed in RVN, to the United States, England, Scotland, Ireland, all other APO's and FPO's, Canada and Newfoundland.

The word 'FREE' must be hand written in the upper right hand corner of the envelope. The correct method of addressing an envelope is as follows:

Packages under 5 lbs. can be sent to the United States under surface rates to San Francisco. However, the packages will actually be air mailed to San Francisco, and then go by surface means to its destination.

Packages under 100 inches in width can be airmailed. Weight limitation is 70 lbs. Packages the same size or larger can also be mailed to the States by surface mail. Check with the unit mail clerk for proper customs forms and additional information. Film does not require a customs form.

An example of a properly addressed package is as follows:

Postal Money orders purchases, package mailing facilities and all other postal transactions can be done at the APO located at Vung Tau Airfield.

DRIVING IN VIETNAM

Driving in Vietnam, at best, be called hazardous. All personnel are expected to become familiar with the International road signs and traffic instructions as described in the MACV publication "Vietnamese Traffic Signs with English Translation".

The following is a copy of a letter from General Westmoreland concerning driving conditions and situations you will encounter during your tour in Vietnam.

All personnel are required to obtain a military drivers license. The Motor Pool will arrange for the necessary drivers and written tests.

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

The following schedule of religious services is announced for the information of all interested personnel.

Protestant :

0900 Vung Tau Post Chapel

1000 Airfield Chapel

Catholic Daily Mass:

1130 Vung Tau Post Chapel

Catholic Masses - Sunday:

0900 Driftwood Service Club

1030 Vung Tau Post Chapel

1000 Australian Air Force Chapel

1415 36th Evacuation Hospital (Ward 8)

Jewish Services:

1900 Vung Tau Post Chapel

Other Services:

Latter Day Saints - 0900 Sunday at 36th Evac Hosp (Ward 8)

Episcopalian - 0800 Australian Army Chapel

Lutheran - 1115 39th Signal Bn Chapel

Church of Christ - 1400 Airfield Chapel & 1500 Vung Tau Post Chapel

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Through the USAFI Program, the Army has afforded the opportunity to further one's education while on active duty. Whatever your education needs or goals may be, USAFI has a plan for you.

The probability is that many of you will make the military service a career. Education is a major prerequisite for promotion to the higher enlisted grades or attainment of a commission. The lack of education is a deterrent to future success in the Army.

For those returning to civilian life upon completion of your current obligation, education is important. The primary factor for employment outside the military service is education; needless to say. The prospects are not too bright without at least a high school education.

Now.....you may take advantage of your spare hours to construct an educational plan that will enable attainment of your personal goals --- whether military or civilian. Rather than waste your spare hours drinking, chasing women or playing poker, put this time towards a definite educational goal and reap the rewards.

Over 200 courses may be taken directly from USAFI in high school, college and technical subjects. For an initial $5.00 fee, you may enroll in you first USAFI correspondence course; thereafter, you may continue to take additional USAFI courses at no further costs as long as your progress is satisfactory. In addition to the courses offered directly by USAFI, more than 6,000 correspondence courses are available through USAFI from the extension division of 45 leading colleges and universities. These courses are offered at reduced prices to military personnel.

The question may arise as to how long do you have to complete a selected course. You may take up to 12 months to complete a USAFI correspondence course, while students enrolled in courses from participating colleges are allowed up to 24 months in which to complete their study.

On the next and following pages are listed the courses available thru USAFI, from pre-high school to the second year of college.

OUTLINE OF PROGRAMS AND COURSES AVAILABLE THROUGH USAFI

There is a program here for you. The initial cost of $5.00 is less than you would spend on an average night out on the town in Vung Tau. The last remaining obstacle is how should you enroll. Course catalogs and information pertaining to courses are available from the Education Officer. Don't regret that you did not complete your education, the opportunity is here; the rest is up to you. With sincere effort and determination you can make this a profitable tour in Vietnam.

RED CROSS AID

Red Cross assistance is available should the need arise. The Red Cross Officer is located in the Rosa Hotel, Telephone VT 6516 & VT 6752

SICK CALL

The 85th Medical Detachment has sick call from 0700 to 1000 hours daily at the Air Field Dispensary. Emergencies at any time. Personnel desiring to go an sick call must stop by the Orderly Room and obtain an Individual Sick Slip, DA Form 689, from the 1SG prior to going to the Dispensary.

ALERT PROCEDURES

Newly arrived personnel will be assigned to a platoon and briefed on the current alert and defense procedures.

SAFEGUARDING REMAINS OF DECEASED US MILITARY PERSONNEL
(USARV REG 638-30 )

Every member of the US Forces in Vietnam has a duty to safeguard the remains of deceased US Military personnel until the responsibility is passed to his immediate superior. The responsibility will not be delegated to nationals of another country. Once in US custody, remains will not leave that custody, except in dire emergency . An example of dire emergency is attack prior to or during evacuation. In such instances, a report will be rendered by the fastest means to USARV headquarters. Remains will be cared for in a reverent manner, in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

OUT OF COUNTRY R&R PROGRAM

GENERAL: an-out-of-country R&R Program is established for all personnel assigned to this unit. This program provides for aerial transportation for R&R passengers to Bangkok, Hang Kong, Taipei, Tokyo, Manila, Singapore, Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Hawaii.

Personnel are permitted one-out-of-country R&R trip for every 12 months in Vietnam, not to exceed seven (7) days. The individual is on TDY status, without per diem cost to the Government, during this period. Monthly R&R are scheduled, and space allocations are allocated, to the 73d by the 210th Cbt Avn Bn.

When a space allocation is received by the company, each section will be notified to submit names of individuals desiring to fill this quota. If more than one person desires to go, priority will be established based on time in country.

Concurrent with the 210th Avn Bn advising this unit of the allocation of space, this unit will inform applicants of the latest requirements regarding:

R&R Flight Information:

Complete utilization of R&R quotas is urged and each member of the unit is encouraged to take part in the program.

Additional information and help on matters pertaining to R&R quotas can be obtained from the 1st Sergeant, or the Administrative Officer.

CODE OF CONDUCT

Each man should have in his possession at all times a Code of Conduct Card. The Code of Conduct is a guide for you to use. You should be familiar enough with the code to recall the general provisions from memory. This will be especially helpful should you become a prisoner of war (POW). It will assist you greatly in withstanding the pressures you will be confronted with. The Code of Conduct is an important part of soldiering and can not be over emphasized.

GENERAL CURFEW AND PASS

LEAVES

a. Purpose: To prescribe policies governing leaves of military personnel of the 73d Surveillance Airplane Company.

ILLEGAL OR IMPROPER USE OF DRUGS

The possession, illegal or improper use of narcotics by any member of this command, is prohibited and punishable under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The habit of using drugs is easy to initiate but extremely hard to terminate. Easy access to marijuana and narcotics, which are habit forming through the 'black market' in Vung Tau, makes it every man's duty to promptly report any knowledge he may possess concerning the illegal or improper use of drugs by his fellow soldiers.

I.G. SERVICES AVAILABLE

1. All military personnel an duty with the U.S. Army have the right to register complaints with an Inspector General, either orally or in writing.

2. Personnel are encouraged to discuss their problem first with their commanding officer. Many problems are unresolved simply because complaining individuals are hesitant to make their problems known to their immediate superior. When an individual wishes to visit an Inspector General during duty hours he must first obtain permission from his appropriate superior to be absent from his duties.

3. Complaints may be registered in person or in writing with:

4. The above officer is the immediate acting Inspector General in this unit's chain of command, however, complaints may also be registered with the Vung Tau area acting I.G. at the following address:

6. Any type of disciplinary action against any individual for registering a complaint is prohibited. However, any person who makes statements to an I.G. which are proven to be knowingly untruthful may be subject to disciplinary action.

UNSOLICITED CORRESPONDENCE

It is acknowledged that material received through the mail is personal property of the recipient. However, all personnel are encouraged to report the receipt of, and surrender to their commanding officer, all matter which appears to be of inflammatory nature or adverse to or critical of the military effort in Vietnam, since such matter is of possible intelligence interest.

Further all personnel will refrain from further distributing correspondence or material which may have been received; and are encouraged not to answer such mail, nor offer their name and address for publication in order to solicit mail.

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

EMERGENCIES

Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Ambulance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

Military Police  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115





COMPANY							Vung Tau (VT)

Commanding Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6270
First Sergeant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6517
Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6817
Records & Clerks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6133
Signal Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6798
Avionics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6747
Signal Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6798
Camera Repair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6744
Image Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6603
Infrared Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6655
Side Looking Airborne Radar (SLAR) . . . . . . . . . . . 6536
Direct Support Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6840
                                                         6819
Organizational Maintenance (Maintenance Officer) . . . . 6196
Flight Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6687
Motor Pool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6636
Mess Hall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6795
Visual Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6542
Unit Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6646
Awards & Decorations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6542





OTHER COMMON USED NUMBERS

MARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6277
8th Aerial Port (Passenger Terminal) . . . . . . . . . . 6948
292d Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6234
                                                         6137
Legal Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6528
Red Cross. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6516
                                                         6752
Chaplain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6630
                                                         6828
85th Medical Detachment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6090
Vung Tau Regional Post Exchange. . . . . . . . . . . . . 6453
Valentino BOQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6934
54th UAC Flight Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6858

Disclaimer

No restricted and/or classified information is contained herein. This home page and web site have been constructed and will be maintained entirely by the author, and the author is responsible for the contents and accuracy of this site. The contents of this page have not been reviewed, approved, or monitored by the United States Army, nor is this page and/or it's contents a representation of such. All comments, questions, and concerns should be directed to the author - Howard Ohlson

This document is from the private collection of Ron Wheeler who served as a Technical Observer with the 73d SAC in 1969. It is reproduced here courtesy of Ron Wheeler.

Maintained by:

Howard Ohlson hohlson@ov-1.com

Last update: September 30, 1997