Commander's Briefing Film

This silent "Commander's Briefing Film" was prepared for the 7th Air Force, and presents a visual overview of the use of various aircraft including the F-105, F-100, F-4, A-1, B-57, AC-47, and B-52 in theater. Interestingly, while most of the footage in the film are dupey copies, some of the footage in the film is unique and appears to be first or second generation. The 7th Air Force was primarily responsible for air operations in Vietnam and Southeast Asia from 1966 to 1973, serving as the Air Component Command to the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV). Based at Tan Son Nhut Air Base in South Vietnam, it controlled all U.S. Air Force air assets and operations in the region until its transfer to Thailand in 1973 and subsequent inactivation in 1975.

0:00 The film starts with images of the F-105 Thunderchief performing bombing missions over Vietnam. At 3:18, rare air-to-air footage shows the downing of a North Vietnamese Mig.

4:13 A look at F-100 Super Sabre operations including ground support at 10:00.

10:30 F-4 Phantom II operations.

14:43 A-1E Skyraiders.

15:33 Martin B-57 Canberra tactical bombers.

17:25 AC-47 Gunship at work.

18:48 B-52 bombers dropping large bomb loads, with fighter escort in view.