Dedicated to Jack Lynch and all the others who flew the metal chariots night and day
Does the sound of a helicopter bring back memories, you ask?
Yes, like a flash, no matter where I am or whatever my task
So many flickering fragmented scenes I can hear and see
Of courage, mateship, humour as well as death and misery
The sound of rotor blades is an electric link to the past for me
In an arena of hostile green, strange and far from anywhere
A gladiator’s simple delight was hearing faint wockings in the air
As each turn of the beating blades grew louder in familiar tone
The sound was a strong message that you were far from being alone
It signaled a precious link to your distant and beloved home
When such trusty machines landed with resupply and precious mail
It raised spirits (a scented letter from a sweetheart never did fail)
It was so comforting to read that all was well with family far away
The magic of the pen provided powerful strength for many a day
Sharing news and dreams in whispers at night wherever we lay
The metal chariots brought fresh young faces to join our weary band
From civilian street in peaceful OZ to cannon fodder in a foreign land
They were eager to do well and yet with a touch of doubt and fear
Like all reinforcements on day one, wet behind the ears
They had to learn fast and be prepared for pain and tears
Many times this noisy bird hovered to winch out wounded and dead
Supported by the gunships which spat out death at the enemy ahead
They were our umbilical cord with a world of sanity so far way
Always was the excitement when the Woks came to take us home
To shower, eat fresh food, drink and sleep before again we did roam
Now our ranks are thinner and for missing comrades, often a tear
We still march proud on that special day every year
High above is the haunting noise we knew so well from yesterday
An ancient metal warrior passes by, beating blades as if in a fray
And you ask me if the sound brings back memories this very day?
George Mansford © November 2016
Listen to the Huey sounds here, especially the last 45 seconds.
