469: Dangerous Secret Missions. With Army Col (Ret) Bill Reeder.
Dec 18, 2024
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Dive into the gripping stories of a legendary aviator and his experiences in Vietnam, from combat missions to being a prisoner of war. Discover the intensity of reconnaissance flights and the emotional toll of war on soldiers. Hear about the camaraderie among pilots, humorous anecdotes from the skies, and the complexities of leadership and survival in chaos. The struggles of enduring imprisonment and the relentless spirit of veterans resonate deeply, reminding listeners of the sacrifices made and the bonds forged in battle.
Colonel Reeder's firsthand experiences highlight the immense dangers faced by aircrews during classified missions in Vietnam.
The sacrifices made by soldiers in intense battles, such as Firebase Charlie, underscore the profound camaraderie and bravery displayed by troops.
Reeder's transition from a young captain to a seasoned leader illustrates the importance of supportive leadership in high-stakes environments.
His journey as an author reflects a commitment to documenting and honoring the stories of fellow servicemen who endured unimaginable hardships.
The risks taken by combat rescue units, particularly the Jolly Green Giants, emphasize the critical role of air rescue missions in saving downed personnel.
Reeder's reflections on returning home reveal the emotional complexities faced by veterans reintegrating into civilian life after war experiences.
Deep dives
Arrival in Vietnam
As a newly promoted US Army captain, the speaker recounts his arrival in Vietnam on Halloween night in 1968, filled with anticipation and apprehension. Observing the heightened security measures, such as wire mesh across windows meant to thwart grenade attacks, he quickly realizes the dangers that lie ahead. The unit he was assigned to, the 131st, conducted hazardous, classified missions, which had a reputation for significant loss rates amongst aircrews. Little did he know that this experience would shape his journey through the complexities of war.
Colonel William Reeder's Story
The podcast dives into Colonel William Reeder's background and his remarkable resilience during the Vietnam War, which he detailed in his previous books. He shares his involvement in crucial battles and missions, including flying support for Special Forces units and his events as a prisoner of war after being shot down. His narrative emphasizes the significant sacrifices made by many, including fellow servicemen, throughout this turbulent period. This legacy aims to honor those who faced unimaginable hardships and to shed light on lesser-known accounts from the southern theater of the war.
First Tour and Initial Missions
Colonel Reeder reminisces about the beginning of his first tour in Vietnam, where he flew the Grumman OV-1 Mohawk aircraft. He talks about the unique characteristics of the aircraft, which were crucial for reconnaissance missions in treacherous conditions. The OV-1 Mohawk was known for its speed and ability to sustain damage, factors that played a significant role in the dangerous missions conducted in Laos and Cambodia. The stories from these early flights set the tone for the harrowing experiences that followed.
Firebase Charlie and Its Horrors
The accounts of Firebase Charlie reveal the intense struggles faced by the South Vietnamese paratroopers during combat operations. With an original count of 471 soldiers, the battalion faced staggering casualties, losing many troops in a brutal battle, and only a few survived. Colonel Reeder highlights the leadership of Major John Duffy, who played a pivotal role in the defense and rescue efforts. This battle stands out as a poignant example of the bravery and sacrifices made by the soldiers on the ground.
Colonel Reeder’s Writing Journey
Colonel Reeder details his journey as an author, discussing how his experiences inspired him to write multiple books in reverse chronological order. Originally driven to depict his personal POW experiences, he recognized the importance of sharing the broader context of the Vietnam War's Southern theater. After developing relationships with various figures involved in the war, he committed to capturing their stories as well. This endeavor not only established his writing career but also honored the legacy of those involved throughout that tumultuous time.
Combat Missions and Close Calls
The podcast emphasizes the constant danger faced by aircrews, including Colonel Reeder and his fellow pilots, during their missions over Laos. Each day presented harrowing challenges, such as evading ground fire while gathering crucial intelligence. The gripping narrative of being shot at follows Reeder as he recalls moments of dire urgency and the necessity to rely on training instincts. These experiences serve as stark reminders of the stakes and the impact of their mission on the soldiers involved.
The Toll of War
Colonel Reeder’s reflective insights reveal the profound emotional impact the war had on the soldiers who survived. The camaraderie formed amongst the aviators and ground personnel was built amid the chaos, instilling a sense of brotherhood in some of the toughest conditions imaginable. Many experienced the loss of friends and comrades, contributing to a blend of intense pride and sorrow. This duality defined their time in Vietnam, shaping how they navigated both their combat responsibilities and their emotional well-being.
The Role of the Jolly Green Giant
The conversation about air rescue missions highlights the significance of the Jolly Green Giants—helicopters dedicated to recovering downed aircrew. Colonel Reeder recounts instances of dangerous rescue operations, emphasizing the risks taken by combat rescue units to save stranded personnel. Their bravery and willingness to operate in perilous conditions demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fellow service members. The podcast pays tribute to these heroes and underscores the critical role they played in the various intricate operations.
Reflections on Leadership and Growth
Throughout the podcast, insights into Colonel Reeder's evolution from a young captain to a seasoned leader serve as central themes. He emphasizes the importance of leadership and the necessity of having commanding officers who genuinely care about their troops. The relationships he fostered within his unit were paramount to his transformative journey, ultimately shaping his identity during and after the war. Colonel Reeder’s reflections on the impact of leadership resonate beyond military contexts, offering valuable lessons about responsibility and support.
Returning Home
As the podcast nears its conclusion, Colonel Reeder describes the bittersweet feelings associated with leaving Vietnam. Returning home after a year of intense experiences left him with mixed emotions; while he was grateful for his survival, he felt great responsibility for his fellow service members still in the war. His transition back to everyday life was complicated by the memories of what he had experienced and witnessed. By sharing these thoughts, the Colonel sheds light on the difficulties of reintegration faced by many veterans.
Books and Legacy
The podcast also discusses the importance of documenting history through individual stories, as seen in Colonel Reeder's trilogy. His books serve not only to capture his narrative but also to honour and preserve the memories of his comrades in arms. By sharing their experiences, he hopes to contribute to the collective understanding of the Vietnam War, particularly the perspectives often overlooked. This commitment to preserving history exemplifies the significance of storytelling in fostering remembrance and understanding of past events.
Continued Involvement and Future Plans
In concluding remarks, Colonel Reeder shares insights on his post-military involvement, including his transition into academics and writing. His latest project focuses on the 24th Infantry Division during Operation Desert Storm, further expanding upon his passion for documenting military history. This journey illustrates his continuous dedication to understanding and educating others on the complexities of war. Colonel Reeder's story is one of resilience and commitment, serving as a testament to the enduring impact of military service.
COL (Ret.) William S. Reeder is a legendary aviator who has made contributions to survival, evasion, resistance, escape (SERE) training and the attack helicopter community. His 30-year career included two combat tours in Vietnam flying armed OV-1 Mohawk reconnaissance airplanes and AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters.
On May 9, 1972, he was leading a team of AH-1 Cobras supporting two Vietnamese ranger battalions and their American advisors. He was shot down, his co-pilot/gunner killed. Severely wounded, he evaded the enemy but was eventually captured spending nearly a year as a prisoner of war (POW).
