Author

Max Speedy joined the RAN in 1962 as an Observer, was promoted to Pilot in 1967, and a year later was in Vietnam. He was the Second in Charge of the RAN Helicopter Flight and flying in the US Army 135th Assault Helicopter Company, a unique collaboration called an Experimental Military Unit, the EMUs.

As First Platoon Leader leading ten troop helicopters into enemy-defended landing zones and later as the Air Mission Commander directing the Company and its gunships, he flew over 1,000 combat hours, was decorated by the US Army, the South Vietnamese Army and finally in Buckingham Palace by HRH, Queen Elizabeth II with the Distinguished Service Cross.