Good morning,

If you’re new to the War Chronicle newsletter, welcome! You’re in good company with over 104 newcomers since last weeks email.

I also want to thank those who submitted stories and pictures, I really enjoy reading them all and will feature them over our platforms, and include them this newsletter. Keep them coming please!

Lets get into it…

On this day in 1980:

On this day in 1980, the world was watching Operation Eagle Claw, a failed rescue attempt that left 8 American servicemen dead during the Iranian hostage crisis.

In Nov. 1979, Iranian militants stormed the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, taking 52 American diplomats hostage. This event sparked a 444-day crisis that strained U.S.-Iran relations and captured the world's attention.

Despite the efforts of President Jimmy Carter to resolve the situation peacefully, a rescue mission, Operation Eagle Claw, was authorized. However, the mission was plagued with problems from the start, including a sandstorm that caused one helicopter to crash, resulting in the loss of lives.

The hostages were eventually released in Jan. 1981, after Ronald Reagan became President. Today, on the anniversary of this tragic event, we remember those who lost their lives and those who were affected by this crisis.

Kamikaze Drones

Kamikaze drones are a new breed of unmanned aerial vehicles that are taking the military world by storm. These drones are designed to be used as weapons, and they can be remotely controlled or programmed to fly autonomously, targeting enemy forces with explosive payloads.

Kamikaze drones are a game-changer in modern warfare, as they can be used to quickly take out high-value targets with precision and accuracy.

The drones are relatively small and can fly at low altitudes, making them difficult to detect and track.

While their use has been controversial, kamikaze drones have proven to be effective in combat situations, and their deployment is expected to increase in the coming years. What do you think about this new military technology? 

Hall of Fame for this readers Father

I am honored and humbled to speak on my father’s behalf as he is inducted into the Army Aviation Hall of Fame on April 27th. He was a true American patriot, and forever my hero.

Thomas J. Janis, was Drafted in 1966 and completing flight school in 1969, Tom Janis deployed to Vietnam where he distinguished himself as an OH-6 pilot, flying hundreds of missions and earning multiple decorations.

Returning from Vietnam he became an Instructor Pilot, which truly capitalized on his ability and passion to teach and mentor. Tom spent the rest of his career as an instructor pilot, influencing thousands through his selfless leadership, instruction, and mentorship – a role model to everyone he served with, regardless of status or rank.

Spending the final ten years of his career assigned to a Special Mission Unit, Janis flew multiple platforms and deploying on numerous classified missions.

Selected to lead the first practical application of recently invented classified Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, he developed the techniques, tactics, and procedures to employ UAVs on classified national security missions which are still used today. Retiring from the Army in 1998 with over 32 years of service and 9,300 flight hours, he began flying sensitive State Department missions.

On February 13, 2003, over the mountain jungles of Colombia, his aircraft suffered an engine failure. He miraculously found a small clearing and “dead-sticked” the airplane to a crash landing that everyone on board survived.

After safely exiting the aircraft and while trying to protect his injured Colombian Crew Chief, Janis was murdered by FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia) rebels. The remaining three Americans were instantly captured and spent the next five years in captivity. At the time of his death, Janis amassed more than 17 separate aircraft type ratings and over 11,000 flight hours.

More importantly he had taught and instructed hundreds of aviators the finer points of aviation skills, all while being an exceptionally caring and compassionate leader, who always set an unequivocally positive example for all with whom he served.

Photo credit: Grace Margritz. Thank you for this Michael

Brothers at Sea

“My Dad and Uncle (twins) served together on the USS Rowan from 1952 to 1956. Dad has passed away but my uncle will be 90 next month” Jennifer.

Thanks for sending these stories and photos in. Please keep them coming and send to [email protected]

Gift ideas from Amazon

With summer heading our way, it’s time to get ready for BBQ season with this Gourmet Grilling Spices Gift Set. Treat yourself with the ultimate backyard grilling gift, also works great with pan frying. I’m hungry now.

From our YouTube Channel

This week we feature the legendary Vietnam sniper Charles "Chuck" Mawhinney, who is a former United States Marine who holds the Corps' record for the most confirmed sniper kills.

In the news this week

So each week I share news stories that I found interesting.

• US forces say ISIS planner and 2 others killed in raid in Syria. I sometimes forget operations are still going on against terrorism in the Middle East. Stay safe out there.

• Navy divers comb a Pacific graveyard, seeking lost World War II airmen. Earlier this month, a team of elite Navy divers and archaeologists from the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), ended a five-week, deep-water search of Hansa Bay for the bones of Heaven Can Wait's crew.

New RAF Drone

This footage shows a demonstration where a new RAF 'Jackal' drone fires missile at a target. The missile can be seen launching out the new drone as it flies above the ground. I’m sure you’ll agree it looks a little scary.

Did you know?

Did you know that the Vietnam War was the first-ever military conflict to be televised live?

The widespread use of television to broadcast footage of the war to the American public had a significant impact on public opinion and was a key factor in turning the tide against the war effort.

The Vietnam War was also unique in that it was the first time that journalists were given unrestricted access to the battlefield. This led to some of the most iconic images of the war, however, the graphic nature of the footage also sparked controversy and debate over the ethics of showing violence and death on television.

Today, we remember the impact that television had on the Vietnam War and how it changed the way that wars are reported on and perceived by the public.

I know from emails you have sent that it is still a controversial topic with many of you reading this because you either served of know of veterans who did.

Meme of the Week

Sponsor this newsletter

If your business or company is interested in reaching an audience of veterans, serving military personnel, or supporters of our brave men and women who keep us safe, you may want to advertise with us.

That concludes another week, time is flying it seems. If you see anything interesting let me know, and send it through to me at [email protected].

Have a great week.

Rob 🫡