Episode 66: Up Close and Personal – An A-1 Skyraider Pilot’s Vietnam Journey

In the latest episode of Military Tales, we hear from Lt. Don Engebretsen, an Air Force veteran who flew the iconic A-1 Skyraider, affectionately known as the “Spad,” during the Vietnam War. Don shares his remarkable journey, from unexpected assignment to this legendary aircraft to his harrowing experiences providing crucial close air support and conducting daring Search and Rescue (SAR) missions.

Don initially aimed for transport aircraft after pilot training but was assigned to the A-1, prompting a surprised “an A what?” when he saw the “leaked oil all over the ramp” from two Marine Skyraiders. Despite initial hesitation, he came to realize the A-1’s unique capabilities. Washed back two classes due to an accident, his path led him to Pleiku and later Da Nang. He was part of a unique unit where many officers were lieutenants, forcing everyone to quickly step into leadership roles and become flight leads.

His unit’s primary missions were MCV SOG support and Search and Rescue (SAR), a contrast to the bombing and trail seeding done by A-1s at NKP. Don felt a deep responsibility to the guys on the ground, believing they owed them “everything you’ve got to include your life if that’s what it takes”. These missions involved intense coordination, sometimes flying so low he could see the ground troops’ faces. The danger was constant; he described the feeling before significant missions as a “wet my pants feeling” [Previous conversation history, not in this source, but relevant context]. He became comfortable flying “in the weeds” at very low altitudes, unlike some other pilots. Bases like Pleiku also faced periodic mortar and rocket attacks, requiring pilots to be ready to defend themselves.

SAR missions were particularly impactful. While they didn’t always meet the rescued individuals immediately, later connecting through networks and attending reunions brought a profound realization of the “value of what we did”. Don shared a particularly harrowing SAR experience, the Wolf 06/Wolf 7 mission. This involved targeting a heavily fortified enemy gun position. He discussed the use of CBU smoke bombs and Dean Darrar’s tactical decision to change the attack angle, which proved critical to success. However, the mission was marred by the death of Ed Hudgens on the way out, sparking controversy and blame. Don reflects on how difficult it is to know the full story amidst the “fog of war”. He also recounts a late-day SAR mission for a crashed helicopter in bad weather, where he pressed on despite darkness and low visibility, later learning the area contained heavily disguised underground bunkers.

The episode also highlights the importance of camaraderie and support systems. Don credits individuals like Gary Bane and his late wife, Linda, for their immense help in researching missions, preserving history, and connecting veterans. The “Spads with a Load” song, co-written by Doc Blanchard and others, became an anthem for the unit, sung at reunions, reflecting shared experiences. Don also recounts the unique leadership style of Jim Wal, who selected the pilots for their unit and fostered an environment of open discussion. Meeting veterans he helped rescue at reunions, some tearfully thanking him, underscored the life-saving impact of their dangerous work.

Reflecting on his time, Don notes that they couldn’t discuss their classified missions for about 20 years. Visiting the museum where the interview took place and seeing one of the rare A-1s smuggled out of Thailand brought back vivid memories, including the cramped cockpit and the sound of the engine. After the Air Force, Don became an instructor and later flew for Federal Express during its startup phase before retiring. His story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made, the bonds forged, and the complex realities of air support in Vietnam.