Warwick Historical Society to host program on 'The Helicopter War in Vietnam' on Nov. 8

WARWICK — On Thursday, Nov. 8, at 7 p.m., the Warwick Historical Society will host a two-hour presentation on the types of helicopters used during the Vietnam War, the air crews that flew them and how they were employed to move troops and materials around the battlefield as well as evacuate the wounded.
The icon of the Vietnam War was the Bell Helicopter UH-1D, known as the Huey with its distinctive sound that every infantryman came to know and love.
That and the other types of helicopters used in the war will be shown and their various roles explained.
The program will be presented by BG Buck Buchanan (Pennsylvania Army National Guard, Retired), who served 33 years, including one year in Vietnam with the First Air Cavalry Division as an assault helicopter pilot.
With duty assignments from flight platoon leader, company and battalion operations, to Assault Helicopter Battalion Commander, and Aviation Brigade Executive Officer, Buchanan's 28 years as a pilot give him the full perspective about the use of helicopter flight operations.
An outline of the typical day of a helicopter pilot and what flight duties and air missions were performed will highlight the role helicopters played in Vietnam.
There will be time for questions and answers.
The talk, which will be held at the Old School Baptist Meeting House, will be followed by a Meet the Speaker Reception at the AW Buckbee Center, 2 Colonial Ave., where the "Focus 1968" exhibit will be on display.
There is a suggested donation of $10 for the event and reception.
Reservations are strongly suggested but not required.
Call the society at 845-986-3236 ext. 101 for more details and to reserve your space.