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120th Aviation Co.

U.S. Army•26 members

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About this Unit

120th Aviation Co.

U.S. Army

The 120th Aviation Company, known as the "Deans," was an assault helicopter unit of the United States Army active during the Vietnam War. Formed in 1963, the company operated primarily out of Tan Son Nhut Air Base near Saigon and later Long Binh, providing vital helicopter support for troop transport, reconnaissance, and resupply missions. Flying UH-1 Hueys and CH-21 Shawnees, the 120th played a crucial role in air mobility operations throughout III Corps Tactical Zone, frequently participating in major combat and support operations. The unit earned several commendations for its service before being inactivated in the early 1970s as the U.S. reduced its involvement in Vietnam.

About 120th Aviation Co.

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Vietnam War Service: The 120th Aviation Company, known as the "Deans," was a prominent helicopter unit in the Vietnam War, providing critical airlift, resupply, and troop transport missions starting in 1962.
Aircraft Used: The company primarily operated UH-1 "Huey" helicopters, becoming one of the first units to receive and utilize the iconic aircraft in combat operations.
Attached to Major Commands: The 120th was under the 145th Combat Aviation Battalion and the 13th Combat Aviation Battalion at various times, supporting major U.S. Army operations in III Corps Tactical Zone.
Distinctive Insignia: Their unit patch featured a white background with a blue "Dean" cap, giving them the nickname "Deans."
Significant Early Deployments: The 120th was one of the first aviation companies deployed to Vietnam, arriving in December 1961 and significantly expanding U.S. helicopter operations.
Support for Special Operations: The 120th frequently supported Special Forces, ARVN troops, and MACV-SOG, conducting insertions, extractions, and resupply in dangerous areas.
Heroic Actions: Many aviators from the 120th received awards for valor, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal, for actions under heavy enemy fire during rescue and medevac missions.
First Combat Losses: The unit sustained some of the earliest helicopter combat losses in Vietnam, highlighting the dangerous nature of their missions.
Expansion and Redesignation: The 120th Aviation Company was later expanded and redesignated as the 120th Assault Helicopter Company, reflecting its increased size and combat role.
Legacy and Reunions: Veterans of the 120th maintain an active association, holding reunions and maintaining their history through websites and published memoirs, preserving the legacy of the "Deans."

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120th Aviation Co.

U.S. Army•26 members

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About this Unit

120th Aviation Co.

U.S. Army

Unit members

Gregory Pace

U.S. Army Veteran · 1977 - 1979

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Paul Hartmann

U.S. Army · 1965 - 1968

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Carl Velez

U.S. Army Veteran · 1983 - 1987

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Bruce Anderson

U.S. Army Military Retiree · 1975 - 1979

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Army photos

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About 120th Aviation Co.

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Vietnam War Service: The 120th Aviation Company, known as the "Deans," was a prominent helicopter unit in the Vietnam War, providing critical airlift, resupply, and troop transport missions starting in 1962.
Aircraft Used: The company primarily operated UH-1 "Huey" helicopters, becoming one of the first units to receive and utilize the iconic aircraft in combat operations.
Attached to Major Commands: The 120th was under the 145th Combat Aviation Battalion and the 13th Combat Aviation Battalion at various times, supporting major U.S. Army operations in III Corps Tactical Zone.
Distinctive Insignia: Their unit patch featured a white background with a blue "Dean" cap, giving them the nickname "Deans."
Significant Early Deployments: The 120th was one of the first aviation companies deployed to Vietnam, arriving in December 1961 and significantly expanding U.S. helicopter operations.
Support for Special Operations: The 120th frequently supported Special Forces, ARVN troops, and MACV-SOG, conducting insertions, extractions, and resupply in dangerous areas.
Heroic Actions: Many aviators from the 120th received awards for valor, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal, for actions under heavy enemy fire during rescue and medevac missions.
First Combat Losses: The unit sustained some of the earliest helicopter combat losses in Vietnam, highlighting the dangerous nature of their missions.
Expansion and Redesignation: The 120th Aviation Company was later expanded and redesignated as the 120th Assault Helicopter Company, reflecting its increased size and combat role.
Legacy and Reunions: Veterans of the 120th maintain an active association, holding reunions and maintaining their history through websites and published memoirs, preserving the legacy of the "Deans."