The Final Helicopter Evacuations of Saigon
April 30, 1975, marked a pivotal moment in U.S. history as the Vietnam War came to an end amidst chaos.
A Chaotic Escape
As the Vietnam War reached its conclusion, the situation in Saigon turned desperate. The American Embassy became a focal point of panic, filled with individuals desperate to escape the impending advance of North Vietnamese troops.
During this tumultuous period, American pilots initiated a historic evacuation, executing the largest helicopter operation ever undertaken. Communication logs from Marine Corps archives reveal the urgency and challenges these pilots faced.
The Role of Helicopters
In the face of escalating danger, a coordinated response was established. Helipads were established at both the Embassy and Tan Son Nhut Airport. One commander, using the call sign “Alamo,” directed helicopters to transport evacuees despite the ominous artillery fire from advancing forces.
As the evacuation progressed, around 70 helicopters took to the skies, flying between ships offshore and the trapped civilians on land.
Dangerous Conditions
The environment was perilous; reports indicated enemy anti-aircraft artillery was becoming increasingly active. With the airport under threat and the embassy overwhelmed by thousands awaiting rescue, the situation worsened. Communication highlighted the urgency of the limited helicopter lifts available.
At the airport, casualties had already occurred, spurring frantic efforts to complete the evacuation before it became unsalvageable.
Landing at the Embassy
The embassy courtyard was besieged as crowds clamored for exit, complicating the operations. The first pilot to land at the embassy was Gerry Berry, whose CH-46 helicopter could access the rooftop, becoming a critical point for the evacuation.
Berry reported an efficient load capacity — previously able to accommodate numerous Vietnamese evacuees. This adaptability became crucial as conditions continued to deteriorate.
The Last Moments
As the evacuation hours advanced, tensions heightened. Reports indicated that the North Vietnamese forces were making closer approaches. The frantic urgency escalated as Ambassador Graham Martin initially hesitated to leave, a decision that could prove fatal without immediate action.
Finally, under pressure from Berry’s commanding presence, the ambassador agreed to evacuate. The solemnity of the moment was accentuated as he descended with the American flag, embodying the war’s tragic end.
The Final Helicopter
As morning approached on April 30, the chaotic retrieval of remaining Marines became paramount. Guards stationed on the embassy roof were uncertain of their fate, facing imminent danger from incoming forces.
The last helicopter, Swift 22, completed the perilous journey to collect the final personnel. Sergeant Juan Valdez was among the last to board, marking the conclusion of an unprecedented mission. “All souls on board,” the pilot confirmed, signaling a final victory amidst overwhelming strife.