History: 161 Reconnaissance Flight in Vietnam 1965-72

As the first Australian Army Aviation unit to be deployed on active service, 161 Reconnaissance Flight faced huge challenges. The Flight’s personnel overcame the odds of unfamiliar operations and logistics difficulties to become a key element of the Australian task force. American Bird Dog aircraft were borrowed to boost operational capabilities. Other challenges were met with similarly unorthodox practices, but only the faint-hearted questioned their effectiveness.

The Possum call sign used by 161 was heard from 1965 to 1972 in Vietnam’s crowded skies. During their year of duty pilots flew up to 1200 hours on a range of intelligence-gathering and direct support missions. Their commitment to the Australian ground forces was absolute. Much of their work was at treetop level, and the cry of ‘Possum down’ was often heard as enemy fire took its toll on pilots and aircraft.

Behind the flying lies a tale of dedicated maintenance and general support based on innovation, improvisation and opportunistic acquisition. New faces and aeroplanes replaced the old, but purpose and pride never wavered. There is a rich vein of humour throughout this fine story of men at war. It will appeal to all veterans and those who have an interest in military and general aviation.

The history of 161, entitled Possums and Bird Dogs, is to be released for sale by publishers Allen & Unwin on 11 August 2006. Look for it in your favourite bookshop. A limited edition of 500 hard cover copies is also being produced. If you are interested in purchasing a copy please contact author Peter Nolan on 07 5473 9547 (Email pierren@bigpond.net.au) or 161 historian Len Avery on 07 4633 4888 (Email lavery19@tpg.com.au).