121st Assault Helicopter Co.

• Vietnam War Origins: The 121st Assault Helicopter Company (AHC) was activated in 1963 in response to escalating U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, based primarily at Soc Trang in the Mekong Delta. • Call Signs: The company was known by several colorful call signs: “Vikings” for their gunships, “Tigers” for their slicks (troop transport helicopters), and “Griffins” for their maintenance platoon. • Distinctive Patch: Their unit patch features a Viking helmet, symbolizing the aggressive and bold spirit of the company. • Primary Aircraft: The 121st AHC flew the UH-1 “Huey” helicopter, the iconic workhorse of the Vietnam War, used for troop transport, medevac, and close air support. • High Operational Tempo: The company was renowned for its operational tempo, flying thousands of missions in the dangerous Mekong Delta, often under intense enemy fire. • Major Campaigns: The 121st participated in several key operations, including the Tet Offensive, and supported both U.S. and Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) units. • Heroic Actions: Members of the unit earned numerous awards, including Distinguished Flying Crosses and Silver Stars, for acts of bravery in rescuing wounded soldiers and supporting embattled ground forces. • Famous Rescue: In one notable incident, a 121st crew extracted a Special Forces team surrounded by enemy forces, saving the entire team while under heavy fire. • Casualties and Sacrifice: The unit suffered significant losses, with over 40 killed in action and many more wounded, illustrating the hazards faced by helicopter crews in Vietnam. • Legacy Reunion: After the Vietnam War, former members of the 121st AHC formed an active veterans’ association, holding reunions and maintaining a website to honor their history and fallen comrades.