A T-28 owned by Ken Fardie is the backdrop for the story
of the Ravens, Air America pilots and General Richard Secord, who, in August
1961, joined what would become the First Air Commando Wing. Secord flew
over 200 combat missions in Vietnam flying the T-28. Ravens were American
forward air controllers who directed strikes from vulnerable, low-flying spotter
planes. Sometimes referred to as a secret unit of brave or crazy U.S.
Fighter Pilots. The government was so concerned about them being found
out, they flew in their own clothes and carried poison to swallow if they were
captured. From 1961-1975, the CIA ran a secret war in Laos, using Hmong
tribesmen and covert U.S. Air Force air support. They were part of the
clandestine war in Southeast Asia. The Air America Pilots were deeply
entertwined with the CIA - U.S. Military during the 1960's and 1970's during the
SEA War.
Length 43:52, DVD Format