I think that this is all nonsense. As as guy who did this in combat near and over the borders of Laos and Cambodia and who understands the limitations of helicopter operations in a hostile enviornment, I think that these conspiracy rants are comical. RPG’s are not very good against aerial targets, but all it takes is one to ruin your day. The CH-47 that was carrying these special operators was not a special ops version, it was much closer to the version that supported me in Vietnam. But, despite the lack of bells and whistles ,it was a capable aircraft and was flown by competent crews of National Guard soldiers from Olathe, Kansas. Like many National Guard aviators, they had lots of flying hours and were very good at what they did. But, ragheads and RPG’s get lucky from time to time. It happened in my day and it has happened in Iraq and Afghanistan.
I think that the implication that these pilots were second rate and their equipment was not up to the task is just bogus. They were not flying a mission that required the extra capabilities of the aircraft of the 160th SOAR, and the crews were as good as they get. Certainly as good as the kids who flew me across the borders in Vietnam.
Michael Savage is an idiot, believe him at your peril
In a past life I spent a little time in the A Shau with the 101st, the golden BB is always out there.
That is why the Afiys all got off the flight at the last minute as they didn’t feel lucky that day. Any one that was on a sneak & peek knew if it started to smell bad it was time to go native and slip into the green. I knew a few people that just walked away never to be seen again. As for Laos and Cambodia we were never there, what are you talking about?
I believe that part of the story is at the last minute, 6 afghan soldiers jumped out and 6 new ones got on the CH-47.
Also, the parents and families were told they couldn’t see their bodies because they were burned beyond recognition, etc.
However, one of the Parents obtained a photo of several of the Seals bodies perfectly in tact and not burned.
Can you explain that?
And at the last minute, several afghans were added to the list of passengers, and that no one knew who they were. I believe the mission had also changed at that point.
And that one of the SEALs had the sense to contact his family before the mission, because he felt "something" was "off" about the situation.
There are even more parts to this story, but it's been months since I have last heard anything.
Reserve soldiers, actually, and yes, I agree with your assessment of the situation. A CH-47D at low altitude, low airspeed landing to a pinnacle makes for a juicy target. The Taliban could have hit it with a rock. An RPG hit was a piece of cake.
Thanks for the insight. I always had the greatest respect for our Vietnam Vets.