UPDATE AFTER 30 YEARS

UPDATE AFTER 30 YEARS. This person found our website and after several conversations with 159th alumni, was able to track down the family of Bob Horst to extend his appreciation after so many years. He also graciously requested I post this message to us, and indeed, ALL who served our fellow man during our tours as DUSTOFF. This tradition lives today and continues in all missions flown. "THAT OTHERS MIGHT LIVE". - "milkman"

On the 7th of April 1972, I was severely wounded in action south of Loc Ninh. Three attempts were made in the next several hours to get me, and two other advisors, out of the field. The first was by the 1st Cav, the second and third were DUSTOFF 111 and DUSTOFF 107 of the 159th.

Until very recently, I was only aware of what happened to the third bird, piloted by CW2 Horst. All aircraft took heavy fire with medics on the first two aircraft being wounded. Dustoff 107 came in at dusk and got to within 30 meters of us. However, it also came under fire and CW2 Horst was killed. We then spent a nervous night and were extracted the next morning, after extensive aerial bombing and strafing, by two OH-6s from D/229 of the 1st Cav.

During my tour, I had the opportunity to work many times with DUSTOFF, but never had I seen the courage under fire that I saw that day. We were ringed by NVA firing everything from AKs to 51 cal MGs. I imagine that the first bird was surprised, but the last two knew exactly what they were flying into...and yet they still came. It's humbling to know that others will come to your aid as a matter of course, regardless of the risks involved. No, the 159th was not successful in this mission, but you gave the three of us confidence that, if there was any chance at all to get us out, someone would attempt it.

I told the Air Cav that they took on an impossible job and made it look easy. You took on that same job with no support and gave everything you had to make it work. I will forever be in your debt.

Marv Zumwalt Captain, Infantry Deputy Senior Advisor, 52d Regt, 18th ARVN Div"

I sent the letter to CW2 Horst’s parents on 22 February. It has not been returned, nor have I received a reply. I must assume that it was delivered and that they chose not to respond. I only hope that my attempt to bring comfort did not reopen old wounds.

So, I guess that this is sort of the end. It has been great “talking” with you even if, in some cases, that was only through email. Bruce, Tom and Randy thanks for all your help. Tom, Richard, and Steve thanks again for what you did on the 7^th of April 1972.

To all of you, you have allowed this “old soldier” to come to closure on a major event in his life. Hopefully, our communication has also proved positive for you.

Don’t know if we will ever meet in person, but would appreciate knowing when and where the 159^th may get together. If possible, I would like to come and buy you all a drink.

Marvin:

Thank you again for your heartfelt comments.  You have been the voice of closure 
for us all on behalf of the brave men we served as proud DUSTOFF crews.  You are 
welcome at any function we may have, and I will be certain to notify you.  We 
look forward to meeting you in person someday, somewhere.

Sincerely,

Randy Millican
159th DUSTOFF Alumni Association

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