A-1 Skyraider Pilot Don Engebretsen on Close Air Support for SOG Teams

The A-1 Skyraider and Close Air Support

• 🚀 The A-1 Skyraider, a propeller-driven aircraft, provided critical close air support for Special Operations Group (SOG) reconnaissance teams.
• 💡 Pilots like Don Engebretsen recall the Skyraider's effectiveness in delivering ordnance precisely where needed, often described as an "answered prayer" by ground teams.
• ⚠️ The Air Force's prioritization of close air support was often a point of contention, with ground forces preferring it to be a higher priority.

RT Vermont Mission: January 5, 1970

• 🎯 The mission involved RT Vermont, led by Franklin "Doug" Miller, who later received the Medal of Honor.
• 💥 The team faced immediate danger upon insertion in Cambodia due to a tripwire explosion, wounding several members before enemy contact.
• 🩸 A blood trail marked their movement as they evaded heavy automatic fire from a significantly larger enemy force.

Engebretsen's Critical Intervention

• ✈️ Engebretsen, flying as a wingman, received orders not to drop ordnance due to his lead's displacement, but he defied orders to support the team.
• 💥 He dropped a partial load of CBU-25 cluster bombs directly over the team's position, significantly reducing enemy fire.
• 🗣️ Radio calls from the ground, particularly from Ed Bllythe, confirmed the devastating impact of the Skyraider's support.

The Skyraider's Capabilities and Tactics

• 🛠️ The A-1 Skyraider was capable of carrying a significant payload, including CBU-25s, napalm, and bombs.
• 🧠 Pilots developed unique tactics, often in informal settings like the officer's club, to optimize their support missions.
• 💨 The aircraft's slow speed and maneuverability in low-altitude environments were crucial for close air support, allowing for precise ordnance delivery.

The Importance of Air Support for SOG

• 🤝 The close relationship between aircrews and ground teams, though often anonymous, was vital for survival.
• 🎖️ The bravery of pilots like Engebretsen, who risked their careers to provide critical support, saved numerous lives.
• ✈️ The A-1 Skyraider unit, OLA (Operation Location Alpha), played a crucial role in supporting SOG operations, especially in areas where other aircraft could not operate effectively.