In early 1964 a detachment of U-2 were sent to Bien Hoa AB, South Vietnam consisting of two aircraft. The US was denying their existence as the had renamed them as TR-1s. I saw them twice. Probably in mid 67 or early 68. We flew down to Bien Hoa and the Douglas Skyraider maintenance hangar to get spare parts for our 20mm Cannon. While killing time I walked a few hangers and there sat a U-2 backed into the hanger with hangar door up. Also there was a blue rope across the opening with a sign saying no Entry, Violators Will Be Shot! There was also a Air Force MP with a M-16 guarding that plane. I asked him if I could look at it and he said look all I want but no pictures. I took him for his word. The next time I saw one was on a return trip while landing on a commercial flight from the states. As we taxied down the runway there sitting at a entry point was a U-2 on his pogo sticks and his Air Force Blue 1966 396 El Camino chase vehicle. I might have a quick picture of that but finding it might be a very long project. Sill an amazing aircraft and from what I have read is being used as we speak. If you really want to learn more about the U-2 and it's history check it out here. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lockheed_U-2
An El Camino chaser? Excellent! I've posted a couple others https://justacarguy.blogspot.com/search?q=U2 and I've learned enough and posted enough that I'm ok with that much. Heck, I just forget it anyway. I prefer to search for photos and stories to share! Like your mention of a 396 Elk chaser!
In early 1964 a detachment of U-2 were sent to Bien Hoa AB, South Vietnam consisting of two aircraft. The US was denying their existence as the had renamed them as TR-1s. I saw them twice. Probably in mid 67 or early 68. We flew down to Bien Hoa and the Douglas Skyraider maintenance hangar to get spare parts for our 20mm Cannon. While killing time I walked a few hangers and there sat a U-2 backed into the hanger with hangar door up. Also there was a blue rope across the opening with a sign saying no Entry, Violators Will Be Shot!
ReplyDeleteThere was also a Air Force MP with a M-16 guarding that plane. I asked him if I could look at it and he said look all I want but no pictures. I took him for his word. The next time I saw one was on a return trip while landing on a commercial flight from the states. As we taxied down the runway there sitting at a entry point was a U-2 on his pogo sticks and his Air Force Blue 1966 396 El Camino chase vehicle. I might have a quick picture of that but finding it might be a very long project. Sill an amazing aircraft and from what I have read is being used as we speak. If you really want to learn more about the U-2 and it's history check it out here.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lockheed_U-2
An El Camino chaser? Excellent! I've posted a couple others https://justacarguy.blogspot.com/search?q=U2 and I've learned enough and posted enough that I'm ok with that much. Heck, I just forget it anyway. I prefer to search for photos and stories to share! Like your mention of a 396 Elk chaser!
DeleteMy Pleasure Sir!
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