XBradTC

On August 1, the National Air and Space Museum will join with the United States Marine Corps and the National Museum of the Marine Corps to bid adieu to one of the most important American military aircraft of the past 50 years, the Boeing CH-46 Sea Knight, or “Phrog,” as it is almost universally known among Marines. Although often overlooked next to the Vietnam-era Huey in the pantheon of helicopter fame, this aircraft may well have been at the forefront of more American military operations in peace and war than any other. The Phrog, named for its squat, amphibian-like appearance and tendency to bounce when taxiing (the origin of the “ph” is a bit more obscure), has been the unsung hero of Marine Corps operations since June 1966 when squadron HMM-265 began operations in South Vietnam.

via Phrog Farewell – AirSpaceAirSpace.

The August 1st ceremony at Uvdar-Hazy will mark the formal sunset of the Marine’s CH-46 Sea Knight service.

Originally designed for the US Army, the Boeing Vertol Model 107 would serve with the Marines and Navy throughout the Vietnam War, and in virtually every military operation since then, right into the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

As a child, I recall the HH-46Ds at NAS Whidbey as the station SAR birds. And indeed, the only thing I recall ever actually seeing my father fly was a Phrog.

Pharewell, old friend. You’ve more than earned your retirement.