US Navy and Marine Corps A-4 Skyhawk Units of the Vietnam War 1963–1973

Osprey Combat Aircraft #69

by Peter B. Mersky

Seeing considerable combat in the nearly 50 years since its service introduction, the Skyhawk was involved in the Vietnam War (1955-1975) from the very beginning. Navy and Marine Corps A-4s quickly established a presence in Southeast Asia, flying from aircraft carriers and land bases in South Vietnam in thousands of sorties against the entrenched communist forces from Hanoi to the communist supply lines along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. This book includes details of missions including the siege of Khe Sanh, Lam Son and the contentious invasion of Laos and Cambodia in 1971 and gives a fascinating account of the variety of missions pilots were asked to perform. These operations were not without risk, and large numbers of A-4s were shot down and their pilots killed or, like Edward Alvarez, imprisoned as POWs for up to eight years in appalling conditions.

Officially endorsed by the Skyhawk Association and including first-hand accounts from veteran pilots who flew one of the greatest attack aircraft ever, Peter Mersky provides an insightful account of some of the most thrilling aerial combat missions that took place during Vietnam and the pilots who flew them. The first book to focus on the A-4's Vietnam service, this title is supported by previously unpublished colour and black and white photographs with 30 detailed colour profiles.

Genres: Nonfiction

112 pages, Paperback

First published May 10, 2007

Reviews

[Roy Szweda · Rating 4 out of 5]

None can question the commitment and bravery of all who served in the Vietnam War not least the aviators who prosecuted the intense air war from the carriers and airfields. This fine book does them great justice but it is a harrowing read that took me quite some time to finish. It is not just the shoot downs in action but also simply flying off and landing on carriers that fill you with awe as to their accomplishments.
A good addition to the series replete with excellent photos and captions with quotes from those who were there. My only teeny criticism - as usual - is I would have liked to have heard more from the guys who kept the Scooter flying. But then there was so much aerial action the book's 100 or so pages would not permit no doubt. Thanks to Jim for lending this... maybe shall pinch his edition again some time, next up a companion book in the series A4s with the Israeli AF maybe.

[Erik · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent and concise history of the A-4 units that was a pleasure to read. I will find the information inside very helpful for wargame scenario development. A "must read" for anyone studying the air war in Vietnam.

[Ken Daigrepont · Rating 5 out of 5]

awe one!

A real tribute to an amazing aircraft and the crews that flew and maintained them. I flew TA4J's from 1969 to 1973, but never saw combat.