The Hanoi Taxi is Retired

[BIGUN 1,490]

The Hanoi Taxi (tail #66-0177) was retired from active service in May 2006. She was the last of the 285 C-141s built by Lockheed to leave active service. She flew 100 POWs out of Hanoi on 12 February 1973, some of them tasting freedom for the first time in six years. Each POW put their shot-down date on the face of the oxygen panel during their flight to Clark AB in the Philippines. For her retirement ceremony, the POWs she brought home were brought back for the ceremony and one last flight by this gracious lady. Most of them are old men now but their enthusiasm, emotions, and excitement were evident during this flight and retirement ceremony. She was then flown to Dayton, OH where she will spend her final days in the Air Force Museum. A very touching video.

http://www.c141heaven.us/movies/C141retire.wmv

Nobody has time to listen; because they're desperately chasing the need of being heard.

[Gawain 0]

Good stuff.

So I try and I scream and I beg and I sigh
Just to prove I'm alive, and it's alright
'Cause tonight there's a way I'll make light of my treacherous life
Make light!

[rickjump1 0]

Jumped them at Ft Campbell, then went on "Operation Eagle Thrust" to Vietnam in one. At that time, it was the largest troop movement by air: 2 Brigades+. Nice way to retire that great bird.

Do your part for global warming: ban beans and hold all popcorn farts.

[BIGUN 1,490]

That's what I thought, guys. A very distinguished tribute of warriors honoring warriors. And, while I know Vietnam seems like a thousand years ago to some, or as unfamiliar to the next generation as WWII was to the Vietnam generation... In keeping with the POW motto, "Never Forget."

Nobody has time to listen; because they're desperately chasing the need of being heard.

[kschilk 0]

"T'was ever thus."

[itllclear 1]

Quote

In keeping with the POW motto, "Never Forget."

My next door neighbor, who got me interested in aviation when I was a real young kid, was shot down and captured in 1966. I think he was the third off the plane when it landed at Clark.

Memories......

BSBD.

Harry L

"Harry, why did you land all the way out there? Nobody else landed out there."

"Your statement answered your question."

[Unstable 9]

I watched that - It was a really touching video. It amazing how an aircraft especially, can take on such a personality and almost become a living being in it's own sense....

=========Shaun ==========

[masterrig 1]

I recall watching the news the day she landed at Clark AFB and watched those men step off that plane... the first time. It's something you just don't forget. I'm glad, she'll be in a place of honor.


Chuck