From Jungle Rescues to Spy Missions: The Dual Life of a Skyraider and U-2 Pilot

Don Feld, a retired Air Force Colonel, shares a riveting account of his military career, spanning the dense jungles of Southeast Asia to the cold expanse of the upper atmosphere. As a pilot of the A-1 Skyraider, Feld led critical Search and Rescue (SAR) missions, notably Operation Tailwind, where his leadership and tactical prowess shone. The Skyraider, with its formidable payload and endurance, was pivotal in these high-stakes operations, embodying the Air Force's commitment to leaving no man behind.

Transitioning to the U-2 spy plane, Feld's narrative shifts to the solitude of high-altitude reconnaissance flights. The U-2's solitary missions required precision and calm, reminiscent of his night flights with the Zorros squadron. These missions, conducted at the edge of space, were crucial for gathering intelligence during the Cold War, demonstrating the strategic importance of aerial reconnaissance.

Feld's experiences in both aircraft highlight his adaptability and dedication. The contrast between the adrenaline-fueled chaos of combat SAR in the Skyraider and the serene, strategic solitude of U-2 flights underscores the diverse challenges military aviators face. Through Feld's career, we gain insight into the evolution of military aviation and the enduring value of intelligence and rescue missions. His story honors the legacy of those who serve in the skies, ensuring global security and the safe return of comrades-in-arms.

[ashleymarie]

What a gentleman and a patriot! I salute you sir!

[hmbobb]

til this day, I can still have imaging of this giant flying over our head during the war in Laos. Still have imagine of this giant coming from the sky.

[davidwell]

I stationed with a USAF Col. during a tour in Key West. He was a A1 pilot during Vietnam War and was the best officer I ever worked with during my entire time in the service. Just an outstanding officer and gentleman. He had some scary stories about flying A1 plane during several tours in that war too!

[ToyotaGuy]

I hadn't heard about his first missions before, just Tailwind, great stories!

[JMdfcv]

Whenever we flew a 117 cross country or to an airshow she would get armed guards as a national security asset. Moody AFB airshow 2002 or 2003 (?) our maintenance folks zapped the Thunderbird F-16s with 9FS stickers, first night. Well, the T-birds did not appreciate the camaraderie. As we were bedding down the Nighthawks for the second night, I briefed our security guards that no one is allowed to touch the 117s (parked in a hangar overnight) except for the Jolly Greens. Next morning go check on the birds, Jolly Green footprints on the video recorder door in the nose wheel bay. The guard said the T-birds also tried to approach the jet, nice. Airman, what do you drink?

[sammylacks]

Speaking of just the B 17s and the 25 missions required into Germany those pilots and crewmen must have had some tough resolve after a few trips that were deep in the interior of the Third Rieght. Nearly constant 88 s Triple A and intermitted fighter groups hounding them, seeing some planes going down every run.
To those brave men that flew bombing fights as well as everyone that participated in WW II either in the European or Pacific theater and lives on today many thanks for the service you all made and so glad you made it home. You guys and the gals did this country and all of us a service well beyond what could ever be repaid or commended enough. Nothing here but respect and appreciation.
Awesome duties.

[edwardhuett]

Zorro crewchief for 680 69-70. Olaa 70 Danang. MetDon atUSAF museum on 738 unvailing

[darrelmorrison]

I was an Intel Debriefer in TUOC at NKP Apr 69-Apr 70.

[kenlanier]

The things we do, so others may live!

[daviddavids]

Re, RAF did not do aircrew rescue. During WW2 we had hi-speed launches 24/7 that cover the Channel and most of North Sea, and in the Mediterranean until, 1976, I was posted to the last in76. We also operated bright yellow RAF RESCUE Whirlwinds until about 2005, along with Royal Navy Blue and Dayglo helicopters, until about the same time. During that time hundreds of civilian sailors were rescued in horrendous conditions. I recall the sad loss of a winchma, trying to rescue an A-10 pilot from RAF Bentwaters who went down in the North Sea, sadly both were lost due to the USAF pilot being injured and unable to ditch his chute, the winch broke and both were lost. All these helicopters were unarmed. We did not do the equivalent of CSAR, until the armed Chinooks in Afghanistan. The role has now been given to the Coastguard, but ant RAF/RN crew will do their best to recover any downed aircrew

[allenschmitz]

Bet he got great 'gas' milege.