We Dared to Fly: Dangerous Secret Missions During the Vietnam War
About this ebook
The story is the author’s account of his assignment to that special mission unit, of the history that came before and the events that unfolded while he was there. When he arrived, three-quarters of the unit’s aircraft had been lost, most to combat action in Laos and North Vietnam—some of the most hostile threat environments in aviation history. The Army quickly replaced losses because of the critical need for the information they collected. Some downed crew members were recovered; most were killed or missing in action.
In recognition of the exceptional sacrifices made during the war, the unit received the Valorous Unit Award for “gallant actions and extraordinary heroism.”
The book is filled with riveting combat accounts. It is also a human-interest story, bringing the reader into the lives of this group of fascinating brave men.
About the author
William Reeder is a retired U.S. Army colonel. He is highly decorated with extensive combat experience (Silver Star for gallantry, Valorous Unit Award, two Distinguished Flying Crosses for heroism, three Purple Hearts for wounds received in combat). He flew armed OV-1 Mohawk surveillance airplanes on his first tour of duty in Vietnam and AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters on his second. He was shot down on both tours. The second time, he was captured by the North Vietnamese Army and spent nearly a year as a prisoner of war. Later in his career, he flew the AH-64 Apache advanced attack helicopter. In 2014, he was inducted into the U.S. Army Aviation Hall of Fame.
Reeder holds a Ph.D. in history and supports the education and training of NATO special operations forces.
He is a frequent speaker for veterans and other military and civic organizations.
He lives in Seabeck, Washington.
