The aeroscouts of the 1st Infantry Division had three words emblazoned on their unit patch: Low Level Hell. It was then and continues today as the perfect concise definition of what these intrepid aviators experienced as they ranged the skies of Vietnam from the Cambodian border to the Iron Triangle. The Outcasts, as they were known, flew low and slow, aerial eyes of the division in search of the … the enemy. Too often for longevity’s sake they found the Viet Cong and the fight was on. These young pilots (19-22 years old) “invented” the book as they went along.
Praise for Low Level Hell
“An absolutely splendid and engrossing book. The most compelling part is the accounts of his many air-to-ground engagements. There were moments when I literally held my breath.”—Dr. Charles H. Cureton, Chief Historian, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine (TRADOC) Command
“Low Level Hell is the best ‘bird’s eye view’ of the helicopter war in Vietnam in print today. No volume better describes the feelings from the cockpit. Mills has captured the realities of a select group of aviators who shot craps with death on every mission.”—R.S. Maxham, Director, U.S. Army Aviation Museum
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After reading this book, I can’t believe any helicopter crew made it out alive! These men had cajones!
I was shocked as I read this book to the similarity to my husbands time in the 1st Air Calvary in Vietnam. From being at Fort Knox at the same time. At Fort Walters Texas at the same time and going o Vietnam at the same time. Although they never crossed paths that we know of. It was so strange. Also gave me more insight into what my husband …
As someone who came of age during the Vietnam War, I found this to be a very good read about one type of helicopter pilot. It was an easy read.
This was a fascinating look into a moment in our nation’s history. Thanks so much for sharing it.
Another historical novel telling us more of what we need to know about the Vietnam War.
Having been in the military during this period, his writing brought back memories, smells, the fear, and the tension. It is that engrossing.
Gives you a taste of what Vietnam was really like!
Great book!!
A very good nam/war story.
A very well written account of one Vietnam Vet’s tour of duty in The Big Red One as a pilot of a hunter chopper in a hunter/ killer duo that searched for and engaged the Vietcong. Very detailed on the operations, action, events , flying techniques of his flights, encounters with the enemy and of how he actually flew his plane.
Gave a good perspective of the quick training and commitment of young men into the Vietnam War and the use of the light helicopter as the tactics evolved,
A good account of the day to day missions.
No macho stuff. Good read.
Memories!! Well done!
Great read for those who served in Vietnam
i can almost visualize this guys experiences. crazy guy. lucky he made it out alive
was in the area I served in also.
Provides real insight into the daily rigors and dangers of war in the air.
An outstanding and informative read giving an insiteful view of the Vietnam war. A definite must read
Fantastic memoir of the Vietnam War from a unique perspective.
Lots of action and patriotic.