Australian Naval History on 8 June 1971

RAN HFV pilots ceased flying combat missions in Vietnam and the maintenance section were stood down on the same day. The next few days were spent packing and saying goodbye to their American comrades. With the departure of the last group of RANHFV ’70, the four year long successful integration of Fleet Air Arm personnel with the 135th Assault Helicopter Company ended and the 135th’s Experimental Military Unit status came to an end. The integration of a helicopter flight into a US Army aviation company was an event unique in the history of the Royal Australian Navy. The gallantry and distinguished service of RANHFV members was recognised by the award of three MBEs, eight DSCs, five DFCs, one BEM, 24 mentions in dispatches and numerous Vietnamese and United States decorations