LTC(R) Steve Peth- MEDEVAC Pilot in Vietnam discusses Casualty Evacuation and Training Pilots for Combat Missions

    LTC(R) Steve Peth was studying to be a musician and music teacher when he joined the Army during the Vietnam War. His desires and skill set led him to Army Aviation where he was selected among top performing candidates to become an air evacuation helicopter pilot. He flew many amazing missions evacuating wounded combatants from the battlefield and encountered hostile fire on many occasions.  He was presented with the Purple Heart for injuries sustained in combat and his distinguished service was recognized by a Silver Star medal.  Ultimately Steve was inducted into the DUSTOFF Hall of Fame, an honor reserved for the best of the best. His military career spanned 26 years and includes enlisted, warrant, and commissioned service.  As an Army helicopter pilot, he accumulated 3600 hours of flight time with nearly half in combat during his two tours of duty in Vietnam.  Mr. Peth’s additional decorations include two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal for Valor, and the Bronze Star.   In this episode, you will hear about his training to become a medevac pilot and many harrowing stories. Learn about the casualty evacuation system in southeast Asia and hear about the unique tactics necessary to safely move patients from casualty collection points under fire. LTC Peth was wounded during an evacuation flight and tells the story of how he was able to complete the mission despite significant injuries to himself and damage to his aircraft.                                      Find out more and join Team WarDocs at www.wardocspodcast.com The WarDocs Mission is to improve military and civilian healthcare and foster patriotism by honoring the legacy, preserving the oral history, and showcasing career opportunities, experiences, and achievements of military medicine.   Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible, and 100% of donations go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in military medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you.    WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.         Follow Us on social media. Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast