“We would do anything to support troops in combat, even when it seemed impossible to others.” (Memoir, “Air Commando Operations,” page 10)

Richard Earl Pierson

Color photo of Richard Pierson at time of service War: Korean War, 1950-1953; Vietnam War, 1961-1975 Branch: Air Force; Air Force Unit: 1st Air Commando Group; 23rd Tactical Air Support Squadron Service Location: California; Texas; Colorado; Illinois; Delaware; Florida; also: Vietnam; Thailand Rank: Lieutenant Colonel Place of Birth: CA

Flying with the 1st Air Commando Group, Richard E. Pierson engaged in combat in Vietnam long before most US troops arrived in-country. Flying missions out of Bien Hoa from May to October 1963, he was charged with providing air support for both the South Vietnamese and US armies fighting against the Viet Cong. Although officially deemed "combat support," there was no shortage of danger involved in these flights. Pierson’s memoirs are rich with details regarding the historical context and technical aspects of the combat missions he flew. In addition to his reminiscences, his collection also includes the original diaries he kept during his service, on which his memoirs are based, as well as photographs documenting his time in Vietnam.