In addition to the bi-annual Rattler-Firebird Association Reunion, the Summer ’69 Firebirds continued ‘off-year’ Reunions at LZ George.

The most infamous Firebird was Jim ‘George’ Hardeman – a crew chief and from Georgia, he adopted ‘George’ as his name sake. George enjoyed a resortlike camp in eastern Georgia near the Savannah River and was christened ‘LZ George’.

In a tree shaded grove – a small central house, a separate ‘bunk house’, and a permanently anchored mobile home. All with enough hot water showers, bath facilities, and beds for the Firebirds there on R&R – remembering and reminiscing. The main attraction was a large, open covered porch attached to the main house where the war stories were retold.

Three days of BBQ, beer, and bullshit – – – lots of fun for everyone!

Nowhere to go – no Wi-Fi, no Internet. Three days on the porch – Happy Hour began at breakfast and continued until the lights went out. The food was plentiful and excellent – the evening meal was huge and often not enjoyed until late.

The war stories took on imagination with embellishments and exaggeration – depending on the storyteller. No matter the topic or the tale, creative boundaries were limitless. Each story was more exciting and adventurous than previously told. The stories took on new lives but never got ‘old.’ The Firebirds always victorious. Great therapy.

A short Memorial Service was always held on Saturday afternoon. Thankfully the Firebirds experienced no combat losses in the Summer of 1969. Several were wounded, but no Firebird was killed in action. The Rattler crews did however suffer several losses beginning with Paul Lukins in May, the entire four-man crew of Rattler 19 Gerry Silverstein and the 3/21 Inf. Bn. Command staff on August 19, five KIAs on September 22 (Black Monday) and Dave Jackson killed by a single .51 cal. round while flying at 2,500 feet. Sacred commemorations of all.

The last LZ George reunion was held in 2011. George passed away in January 2013 – LZ George closed. Thanks for the great memories – rest in peace.

(C) Copyright – 2023 – Vic Bandini