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Fixed wing air support played a crucial role in the survival of Leroy Wright's recon team and the successful rescue of the team by Roy Benavidez and the 240th AHC. Valor Remembered would like to recognize all who participated in the mission, but we only have information about the first flight of fighters that responded to Robin Tornow's declaration of a "Daniel Boon Tactical Emergency." Just a few minutes after Tornow made his call for help a flight of F-100 fighter bombers flown by Howard "Howie" Hanson and Robert Knopooka, arrived over the scene. They were carrying a mixed load of Napalm and CBU - cluster bomb units. Their bombing was highly effective and according to forward air controller, Robin Tornow, "The napalm was gone in two passes. It took out most of the swarm in the open and took some pressure off our troops." [A number of other flights of fighter bombers followed these two. We don't have access to records of who they were or how many flights were flown. Apparently no casualties were suffered by the fighter bombers on this day, but their work was dangerous. Near the Ho Chi Minh trail, as this mission was, antiaircraft defenses were often very strong and a real threat to the fighter bombers. The valor of those pilots who flew in support of the Benavidez mission should not be forgotten....editor]
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Valor Remembered Foundation |