Episode 012: 1964-10-27 | Downed Hueys in the Delta

Dearest Suzie

In this episode of Dearest Suzie, we delve into Bill Lowie’s October 27 diary entry, recounting a high-stakes troop lift deep in the Mekong Delta. During the operation, two gunships were brought down by enemy fire, triggering a complex and dangerous recovery mission. This episode explores the precarious work of H-37 recovery helicopters, facing battlefield ambush risks and the weight of protecting valuable assets. We also discuss the technical struggles that Hueys faced in Vietnam’s harsh environment, including rotor degradation and engine malfunctions, and the rapid adaptations that improved their resilience.

What’s Covered:

• The logistics and dangers of helicopter recovery in active combat zones
• Technical challenges faced by early Huey models and subsequent improvements
• The vital role of recovery crews and support operations in Vietnam

📷 Featured Photo: A downed Huey, lying in shallow water with a hazy rainbow glare—capturing a moment that reflects both the Huey’s battlefield presence and its fragility.

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