THE WALL OF FACES

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. As long as you are remembered you will always be with us.

On July 29, 1970, a U.S. Army helicopter UH-1H (tail number 69-15119) from A Company, 227th Assault Helicopter Battalion, was participating in the final extraction of Fire Support Base Mo, five miles northwest of Djamap Air Field in Phuoc Long Province, RVN. The flight had loaded its troops on the northern landing pad of the base. The first aircraft lifted out, cleared adjacent barriers, and proceeded to climb out. Aircraft 119 next initiated its takeoff and started to clear the barriers. While lifting off, the helicopter made some minor blade strikes on stalks in a clump of bamboo. The aircraft then started a left bank to avoid hitting a large, dead tree. The corrective action was made too late, and the main rotor system struck the tree on the right side of the aircraft. The aircraft started settling toward the ground into a clearing in the direction of its flight. The helicopter impacted tail-low on its right side and burst into flames. Three crew members and two passengers were trapped in the wreckage and perished in the post-crash fire. One crew member and three passengers survived and were evacuated to medical facilities. The lost crew included pilot WO1 Karl T. Anteau, crew chief SP5 Jack H. Dillon, and gunner SP4 Ricky J. Hills. The lost passengers were SGT Walter B. Golombeski and CPL Stephen W. Bancroft. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org and vhpa.org]

Specialist Five Jack Howard Dillon, Served with Company A, 227th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 11th Aviation Group, 1st Cavalry Division, United States Army Vietnam.

Dear Sp5 Jack Dillon,
Thank you for your service as a Huey, U-1 Helicopter Repairer with the 1st Cavalry. Today is Armed Forces Day. Memorial Day is coming up, and we remember all you who gave their all. It has been too long, and it's about time for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

Dear SP5 Jack Howard Dillon, sir

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned.

May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you.

With respect, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter