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As the role of the OV-1 in the conflict increased, the 23rd SWAD was deactivated on 26 December 1964 and the assets were used to form the base for the 73rd Aviation Company (Aerial Surveillance).

Since that time, the 73rd Surveillance Airplane Company has built an excellent reputation for providing near real time intelligence to units involved in combat operations in Vietnam.

This history of the 73rd Surveillance Airplane Company is dedicated to those officers and men who through their unselfish personal sacrifice have contributed significantly towards ending the threat of communist oppression in the Republic of Vietnam.

The first commanding officer in Vietnam was Major William F. Morris. Major Morris' command was structured around the Aerial Surveillance and Target Acquisition Platoon Concept. At the time of the 23rd SWAD's entrance into the Vietnam conflict, the unit had six OV-1C model Mohawks configured to carry armament.

Regular operations began on 28 October 1962 at Nha Trang. The unit moved to Bien Hoa in August of 1963 and then to Vung Tau in December of 1963. The unit remained in Vung Tau until February of 1970 when it moved to Long Thanh (North) Army Airfield where it is presently located.

During the year of 1970, the ASTA platoons of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) and the 1st Infantry Division which were attached to the unit in January of 1969 were dissolved and all material and personnel assets of these two platoons were infused into the 73rd SAC's MTOE.

During the year, the unit flew a total of 14,660 hours in the air. The Visual Platoon flew a total of 1,331 sorties, Red Haze (IR) a total of 3031 sorties, and SLAR a total of 3131 sorties for a unit total of 6,297** sorties. This is an average of over 2 hours flight time per sortie and average of over 430 flight hours for each authorized aviator over the year.

By insuring the maximum in timely and accurately produced intelligence data, the unit provided a reliable foundation upon which to base command decisions and therefore enhance the effectiveness of combat operations in both III and IV Corps Tactical Zone. The remarkable proficiency and devotion to duty displayed by the members of the 73rd Surveillance Airplane Company are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect distinct credit upon themselves, the unit and the United States Army.

** figure is as contained in report, not a typo

As of the end of the year, the 73rd had gone over 15 months without an aircraft accident. This is truly an outstanding record considering the type missions the unit flies and the combat environment in which they are flown.

Unfortunately and regrettable, the outstanding accomplishments of the unit were not achieved without supreme sacrifice. On 15 October Cpt Robert T. Wilson was killed when he was accidentally struck by a propeller during ground operations.

During the year, two officers were awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary heroism while engaged in aerial flight. CW2 Jack C. Manklin and CW2 Richard W. Hafeman reflected much honor on the unit through their valorous actions.

The 73rd has taken a short time to reflect and expound upon its accomplishments over the past year. The unit continues to move onward ever trying to better the achievements of the previous year and continue the reputation of being the most "UP TIGHT" unit in Vietnam and the best fixed wing aviation company in the Army.