The Don Englebreston Collection

USAF Squadron Personnel at the "Spads" Ready Room, Vietnam War Era

USAF Squadron Personnel at the "Spads" Ready Room, Vietnam War Era

Airmen relax outside their squadron's operations building, its door stenciled with the nickname "Spads" — the affectionate call sign pilots and ground crews used for the Douglas A-1 Skyraider. Such informal gathering spots were the social heart of forward air bases in South Vietnam during the war. Project: 218942