UNDER CONSTRUCTION

US Air Force Oral History Interview

This is a 30 June 1971 discussion between the following SE Asia Veteran Grey Berets:

Maj Keith Grimes
Maj Charles Smith
Capt Kenneth Alnwyck
Capt Robert Crowder II
Capt Edward Towne
CMSgt Thomas Watson
MSgt Henry Kelley
TSgt Maurice Kunkel
TSgt Lloyd Mitchell
SSgt Wayne Fuiten
SSgt David Kenney
SSgt Frank West
SSgt Andrew Wilder
A1C David Lindscheid

Originally marked TOP SECRET NO FORN AF EYES ONLY, this 131 page declassified document is the transcript of a discussion regarding the efficacy and challenges of Grey Beret operations in Laos

Click HERE to read it.

The document discusses the experiences and challenges faced by U.S. Air Force personnel involved in weather operations during the Vietnam War.

Weather Operations in Southeast Asia

• The document features oral histories from various U.S. Air Force personnel involved in weather operations in Southeast Asia.
• Key participants include Maj Charles Smith, Capt Kenneth Alnwyck, and others who provided insights into their experiences.
• The discussions highlight the importance of accurate weather observations for military operations, particularly air strikes.

Challenges in Weather Reporting

• Weather observations were often delayed, impacting mission planning; reports could take 6-8 hours to reach decision-makers.
• Communication issues hindered timely weather updates, with some reports being outdated by the time they were received.
• Personnel faced difficulties in getting accurate weather data due to bureaucratic inefficiencies and lack of coordination.

Training and Operations

• Training programs for local personnel, including Air America operators, were established to improve weather observation capabilities.
• Road watch teams were trained to gather weather data, but their effectiveness varied due to lack of supervision and high turnover.
• The document emphasizes the need for better training and support for local teams to enhance operational efficiency.

Incentive Programs

• An incentive fund of $60 per month was proposed to encourage local observers to provide timely weather data.
• Initial resistance from higher command delayed the implementation of the incentive program, despite its potential benefits.
• Once established, the incentive program led to a marked increase in weather observations, improving operational outcomes.

Cultural and Operational Insights

• The document reflects on the cultural challenges faced by U.S. personnel in Laos, emphasizing the need for understanding local customs.
• It discusses the importance of building rapport with local teams to ensure effective collaboration and data collection.
• The experiences shared highlight the adaptability required of personnel in unconventional warfare settings, where traditional military structures were often ineffective.