USS AMERICA CVA-66

ATTACK SQUADRON EIGHTY-FIVE 1968



The Grumman A6 Intruder is a two-man all weather, low-altitude, carrier-based attack plane, with versions adapted as aerial tanker and electronic warfare platform. The A6A primarily flew close-air-support, all-weather and night attacks on enemy troop concentrations, and night interdiction missions. Its advanced navigation and attack system, known as DIANE (Digital Integrated Attack navigation Equipment) allowed small precision targets, such as bridges, barracks and fuel depots to be located and attacked in all weather conditions, day or night. The planes were credited with some of the most difficult single-plane strikes in the war, including the destruction of the Hai Duong bridge between Hanoi and Haiphong by a single A6. Their missions were tough, but their crews among the most talented and most courageous to serve the United States.

When American involvement in the war ended, 591 Americans were released from prison camps in Southeast Asia. Military experts expressed their dismay that "some hundreds" suspected to be prisoner were not released. Since that time, U.S. Government intelligence agencies have conducted "over 250,000 interviews" and analyzed "several million documents" relating to Americans missing in Indochina. Many government officials who have seen this classified data believe that hundreds of Americans remain alive in captivity today.

There can be no honorable end to the Vietnam war as long as even one American serviceman remains in enemy hands. IT'S TIME TO WE BROUGHT OUR MEN HOME!!! A special thank you to "Steve" for all his help and support! 



In honor of all those who served our country but never came home!
Robert Ray Duncan Johnny C. Calhoun
Howard P. Purcell USS AMERICA CVA-66 
POW/MIA LINKS USS AMERICA
Contact Webmaster Guest Book