1039

56-0360 after mortar attack.

Photo: Unknown photographer © c.March-July 1968 - via Chuck Ross - Aird Archives

56-0360 somewhere in the United States.

1039

56-0360

• 56-0360 US Army #1661. L-20 No. 662. Command A-11. Delivered 06-Feb-1957. Built as L-20A and re- designated U-6A in 1962. Was converted to RU-6A.

• "Weakened Warrior" 156th Aviation Co., Can Tho, South Vietnam.

• Returned to USA.

• Fate Unknown •

Note from Chuck Ross (05-Feb-2024).

Some time in the first half of 1968 a mortar round landed in the 156^th Aviation Company's revetments. The explosion damaged RU-6A number 56-0360 identified as MSN #1039. I did not take this picture, in fact I found it on the internet and I am actually in the picture. I am the face showing behind the wing strut. It must have been a day off because I am in civvies.

I see by my logbook that the last time I flew 360 was 26 February 1968. The Tet Offensive was still active and I suspect this occurred during that era because the Viet Cong were not much of a presence following the drubbing they took by coming out into the open. Prior to that date, with random rotation I seem to have flown 360 as often as three or four times a month. So I am not sure if it was ever repaired. I do remember that we acquired at least one "new" Beaver from another unit after that.

regards,

Chuck