21 October 2008, luncheon – The Commons, Ft. McPherson

One of our largest turnouts enjoyed our very own Flight Member Mack Secord’s presentation on Operation Dragon Rouge.  Mack had us on the edge of our seats as we listened to his presentation about this most dramatic military mission.  His “there I was” recount of this mission to evacuate thousands of hostages and refugees from the rebel held territory in the Republic of the Congo was fascinating. 

After hearing Mack’s story, from mission preparation through execution, it was plain to see how this enormous humanitarian mission resulted in his 464^th Troop Carrier Wing being awarded the prestigious Mackay Trophy – a trophy awarded yearly by the USAF for the “most meritorious flight of the year” by a person, persons, or organization. 

Not only did you miss a good meal and a great opportunity to be with fellow military aviators, you missed a fantastic recount of this fascinating story.

Enjoy a couple of photos from Mack’s mission and snapshots from the meeting:

21 Oct lunch	Bill and SPEAKER Mack	Bob Bowman Jim Kraft and Bob McCreary checking out the FAC book	Brad with 4 guests
Brad, with guests Charlie Koninsky and Gary Adkisson	Daedalian the Longest - Bob Early wins a bottle of wine.	Great turnout	Guest Charlie getting an earful from Ralph and JW
Guests John, Cliff and Jim	Joe telling more lies	JW, Dave and 4 guests	Les is full
Money Makers doing their thing	Punchy, Ollie, Bill, and Mack telling tales	Ralph doing business	Yet another of Punchy...., and Olie
Dragon Rouge 10	Mack with his co-pilot and nav at Stanleyville where their aircraft was hit by gunfire