THE WALL OF FACES

The USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) was a U.S. Navy supercarrier participating in combat operations off the coast of Vietnam beginning in the fall of 1965. On the morning of April 15, 1966, she was conducting flight operations while underway in the waters of the South China Sea, 62 nautical miles off the coast of North Vietnam, when one of its ship-based helicopters from Squadron One went into the water following a takeoff mishap during a test flight. At 10:17 AM, a Kaman UH-2B Seasprite (#150162) attempted a liftoff from the forward angle deck when the aircraft went out of control causing its main rotor blades to strike the port (left) catwalk and partially disintegrate. The ship rolled left and fell into the sea as the carrier took evasive action to avoid hitting the stricken helicopter. Two adjacent Navy destroyers, the USS Massey (DD-778) and USS Richard E. Kraus (DD-849), assisted in the rescue, and two members of the flight crew were successfully recovered; however, pilot LTJG Michael R. Zerbe was not found and presumed to have gone down with the ship after sinking. It was believed Zerbe was knocked unconscious after the aircraft impacted the water on the pilot’s side of the helicopter. Search efforts continued until 12:50 PM. Flying debris from the shattered main rotor injured several flight deck personnel, one fatally. SA David J. Underhill died after being hit by fragments from the rotor blades. Five others received injuries and were taken below to the ship’s sick bay for treatment. A later memorial service with full military honors was conducted on the Kitty Hawk in honor of the two lost Navy personnel. Underhill’s name was added to Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., in November 1983. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever.

Dear LTJG Michael Zerbe, Thank you for your service as an Unrestricted Line Officer - Pilot on the USS KITTY HAWK. You are still MIA. Please come home. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. It is spring and Lent. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance, and faithfulness, especially now. Be at peace.

You will forever remain in our hearts and prayers

Never forget.

Semper Fortis