| The Incident
LtCdr. Robert D. Johnson was an
assistant operations officer assigned to Light Helicopter Attack
Squadron 3, Detachment 1, onboard the USS GARRETT COUNTY (LST
786). On 01 September 1967, he was scrambled on a pre-dawn
emergency launch to interdict Viet Cong forces attacking a
friendly outpost. The UH1H on which he launched carried a full
crew, including Petty Officer Edward L. Ott III, a jet engine
mechanic.
The helicopter was seen to lift
off the deck of the USS GARRETT COUNTY and crash into the Bassac
River. When the survivors of the crash appeared on the river's
surface, Johnson and Ott were not among them. An immediate search
was initiated using River Patrol Boats and other helicopter
search aircraft. The search lasted for several days and nights;
however, the results were negative.
The cockpit/cabin portion of
the aircraft was located partially covered by mud, and debris was
scattered over the river bottom. It was believed that the bodies
of Ott and and the pilot, Rovbert Johnson could not be recovered.
Both were listed as Killed, Body Not Recovered.
Johnson and Ott are among
nearly 2500 who remained unaccounted for at the end of the
Vietnam War. The cases of some, like Johnson and Ott, can be
simply stated. Other cases, however, are more complex. Many of
the missing were known to have been alive in sight of the enemy
the last they were seen. Others were actually photographed in
captivity, only to disappear.
It is not likely that Ott and
Johnson survived the crash of their helicopter to be captured
under such closely observed circumstances. No doubt hope is lost
for these two men. For unknown numbers of others, hope still
exists. We must do everything we can to bring these men home
while there is still time.
NOTE: Casualty records show
Johnson lost NOT at Sea, in Vinh Long Province. Records show Ott
"At Sea", "Offshore, MR4."
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