**Warning - This video discusses actual combat events during the Vietnam War. Sensitive viewers should be advised.**
- This special episode delves into the legendary AC-47 Spooky Gunship, the latest addition to the Commemorative Air Force fleet and proudly operated by the Gulf Coast Wing. Known for its iconic role in the Vietnam War as the original gunship, the AC-47 “Spooky” brought powerful close air support to protect ground forces in combat zones. Join us as we explore its transformation from a cargo plane to a heavily armed gunship, earning its feared reputation as “Puff the Magic Dragon.” We’ll hear from CAF members about the journey to acquire and restore this historic aircraft, its significance in modern aviation history, and the mission of keeping its story alive for future generations. Whether captivated by military history or intrigued by aircraft evolution, this episode is packed with stories of courage, innovation, and legacy. To watch this podcast as a video on YouTube, go to https://youtu.be/4Tu1VfXGTzI.
- Aired on: November 20, 2024
- Guest: Nancy Kweicien, Aaron Slooper, Richard "Opie" Updike
- Host: Steve Buss
- Producer: Blaine Seaboalt
- Produced by: Commemorative Air Force
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Cardiac Cowboys
The heart was always off-limits to surgeons. Cutting into it spelled instant death for the patient. That is, until a ragtag group of doctors scattered across the Midwest and Texas decided to throw out the rule book. Working in makeshift laboratories and home garages, using medical devices made from scavenged machine parts and beer tubes, these men and women invented the field of open heart surgery. Odds are, someone you know is alive because of them. So why has history left them behind? Presented by Chris Pine, CARDIAC COWBOYS tells the gripping true story behind the birth of heart surgery, and the young, Greatest Generation doctors who made it happen. For years, they competed and feuded, racing to be the first, the best, and the most prolific. Some appeared on the cover of Time Magazine, operated on kings and advised presidents. Others ended up disgraced, penniless, and convicted of felonies. Together, they ignited a revolution in medicine, and changed the world.