October 12, 1998

USS Benewah Helo Landing Update

In a recent "River Currents" article the membership was asked for info as to how many helo's actually landed on the USS Benewah. MRFA member Richard Pettit (USS Satyr ARL-23) sent an article that appeared in a November '70 issue of "Stars and Stripes". The article, Benewah Bids Goodbye to Vietnam, stated that the Benewah landed 16,800 helo's during her time in-country with the Brown Water Navy and Army. Vic Campbell, the Benewah's last XO sent the Benewah's decommissioning brochure. The Benewah was decommissioned for the last time on February 26, 1971.

During the June 1998 San Diego Reunion, MRFA member George Schnieder (USS Benewah 67-68) presented an American Flag to MRFA President Albert B. Moore.  The flag flew over the Benewah during TET of 1968.

Any information about helo landing's on the Benewah would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks to all,

MRFA
Albert B. Moore President