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THE helicopter book on Vietnam’ — Mike Carlton

The Mekong Delta was one of the most dangerous and fiercely contested theatres of the Vietnam War. Into this volatile arena came a small group of Australian Navy aviators, embedded with the US Army’s 135th Assault Helicopter Company and operating as an experimental unit known as the EMUs.

Flying daily into heavily defended landing zones, these Australian sailors led American helicopter crews through relentless fire, carried troops into battle, rescued the wounded and brought damaged aircraft home when they could. They were shot up and shot down. Some did not return.

Drawing on firsthand accounts, Just Another Day in the Delta brings to life the intensity, danger and camaraderie of helicopter warfare, told by the men who were there. It reveals a little-known chapter of the Vietnam War, the closest operational collaboration between Australian aviators and the US Army.

More than fifty years later, Max Speedy reflects on the missions, the men, the friendships and the cost of service.

Just Another Day in the Delta is a tribute to the Australian Naval Aircrew who flew another nation’s helicopters in another nation’s war. Over four bloody years, they forged an extraordinary alliance — and wrote one of the least-known stories — in Australia’s military history.

‘A timely reminder as the world is facing yet increasing political turmoil. The drums are beating and enemies are being created where none may exist.’

‘Inspiring and timely. I commend Just Another Day in the Delta for its honesty, its clarity, and its contribution to our national understanding of service, sacrifice, and alliance.’ – The Hon. Kim Beazley