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To North Vietnam And Back Again: A Personal Account Of Navy A 6 Intruder Operations In Vietnam

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The A-6 Intruder: A Formidable Weapon of War

The A-6 Intruder was a twin-engine, all-weather attack aircraft that served with distinction in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Its primary mission was to provide close air support and all-weather bombing, and it proved to be a versatile and deadly weapon in the hands of its crews.

The Intruder was first deployed to Vietnam in 1965, and it quickly became one of the most feared aircraft by North Vietnamese forces. Its powerful armament included a 20mm cannon, four underwing hardpoints for bombs or missiles, and a variety of other weapons. The Intruder also had a sophisticated navigation and bombing system that allowed it to strike targets with pinpoint accuracy, even in bad weather.

The Men Behind the Machines

The Intruder crews were a diverse group of highly skilled and dedicated individuals. They came from all walks of life, but they shared a common bond of patriotism and a willingness to risk their lives for their country.

To North Vietnam and Back Again: A Personal Account of Navy A-6 Intruder Operations in Vietnam

by Ed Engle

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10442 KB
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Print length	:	246 pages

The pilots of the Intruders were some of the most experienced and talented in the Navy. They had to be able to fly in all types of weather, navigate through complex terrain, and deliver their payloads with precision. The bombardiers and navigators were also highly skilled, and they played a vital role in ensuring the success of each mission.

The Missions

The Intruder crews flew a wide variety of missions in Vietnam, including close air support, bombing raids, and reconnaissance. They often flew in support of ground troops, providing them with air cover and destroying enemy positions. They also flew bombing raids against North Vietnamese targets, such as bridges, factories, and supply depots. And they conducted reconnaissance missions, gathering intelligence on enemy movements and positions.

The Intruder crews faced many dangers on their missions. They were often targeted by enemy anti-aircraft fire and surface-to-air missiles. They also had to contend with bad weather and difficult terrain. But despite these dangers, the Intruder crews never wavered in their mission to support their fellow troops and defend their country.

The Legacy of the Intruder

The A-6 Intruder played a significant role in the Vietnam War. It was a versatile and deadly weapon that helped the United States Navy achieve its objectives. The men who flew the Intruders were some of the most brave and dedicated in the military, and they deserve our eternal gratitude for their service.

Today, the Intruder is still remembered as one of the most successful attack aircraft in history. It is a symbol of the bravery and sacrifice of the men who flew it, and it continues to inspire awe and respect in all who see it.

The Personal Account

The following is a personal account of Navy Intruder operations in Vietnam, written by a former Intruder pilot.

"I was a young pilot when I was assigned to fly the A-6 Intruder in Vietnam. I had always dreamed of flying combat aircraft, and I was eager to prove myself.

My first mission was a close air support mission in support of ground troops. I was flying with a bombardier/navigator named Bob, and our mission was to destroy an enemy bunker complex.

We arrived at the target area and began our bombing run. Bob released the bombs, and we watched as they exploded on target. The bunker complex was destroyed, and we were able to provide much-needed support to the ground troops.

I flew many other missions in Vietnam, including bombing raids and reconnaissance missions. I saw a lot of combat, and I lost some friends along the way. But I never lost my faith in the Intruder or the men who flew it.

The Intruder was a great aircraft, and the men who flew it were the best in the world. I am proud to have served with them, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have flown the A-6 Intruder."

The A-6 Intruder was a formidable weapon of war, and the men who flew it were some of the bravest and most dedicated in the military. They played a significant role in the Vietnam War, and they deserve our eternal gratitude for their service.

To North Vietnam and Back Again: A Personal Account of Navy A-6 Intruder Operations in Vietnam

by Ed Engle

4.3 out of 5