Episode 43 of Military Tales features a special gathering, seemingly a reunion or tribute event referred to as “Jim Wold Day 2015“, dedicated to the memory and impact of Lt. Col. Jim Wold. The event included Jim’s family, such as his wife Joanne, who were present and recognized. Speakers shared personal remembrances and reflections on Wold’s leadership and the unique unit he commanded.

The discussion centered on the unit Jim Wold led, which operated in the “secret” war in Laos and Cambodia, often through a “secret door”. Although described as operating in a “secret war,” it’s noted that their specific war was “no secret,” though the teams they supported, the MACV-SOG teams, were truly secret. Members of the unit were sworn to the same standards as these teams, reportedly told to keep silent for 20 years or face jail time. Their existence was primarily due to MACV-SOG insisting on having air support. The unit, initially composed heavily of lieutenants, had approximately 10 airplanes and 12 pilots. Lt. Col. Wold took command around November 10, 1969, and reportedly insisted on single-seat A-1H and J models for better visibility (“not any fat faces”). The unit initially operated as two detachments before consolidating at Da Nang. The camaraderie was strong, fostering a “little Band of Brothers” atmosphere where formal ranks were often less emphasized. This atmosphere was promoted by Jim Wold and contributed to the group’s closeness and effectiveness. The unit also included crucial armors and maintenance guys who “busted their butts” and were just as proud of the unit’s accomplishments as the pilots.

The primary missions shifted from carrying heavy bombs to flying close air support and crucial Search and Rescue (SAR) for downed airmen, often operating “in the weeds” down low, sometimes only 50 feet above the trees. They supported teams on the ground, including MACV-SOG elements. SAR missions involved suppressing enemy fire and laying smoke for Jolly Green helicopters. The A-1 Skyraider was the primary aircraft, described as a “tail Dragon Beast” and a heavy but responsive plane well-suited for the job.

Veterans shared specific, often harrowing, stories. One pilot recounted a rough engine incident during a SAR mission over Laos, where Jim Wold immediately joined up on his wing to escort him back to Da Nang, demonstrating his dedication to his men. A significant rescue detailed was that of Pete Schwans, an A-4 pilot shot down in the notoriously dangerous area of Chapon. Jim Wold reportedly took this mission himself, even while sick, because it was such a dangerous location. The rescue involved low-level flying, nearly hitting the survivor with a marking rocket, and flying over active gun pits that were fortunately unoccupied at the moment. The unit experienced losses, including Glenn Manning who flew into a mountain on approach to Da Nang, the first loss under Wold’s command. Another pilot, Dean Detar, lost his plane but his passenger was rescued immediately. While losses were a grim reality given the nature of their low-level missions, the veterans reflect on the inherent danger and the belief that they were doing something “worth dying for,” which perhaps helped mitigate the constant worry about death. Despite the dangers and challenges, the unit’s members, including pilots and ground crew, shared immense pride in their work and the unique bond they forged.