what where the machine guns carried on supper jollies in '71, how many of them, and wear did they have them mounted? thanks curt
They were set up differently, but a couple common set-ups were .50 cals out both forward side doors and a .50 cal on the ramp. The .50’s could also be replaced with XM-134, 7.62mm miniguns as well. In most cases, M60, 7.62 MGs would usually be carried as back-up weapons too.
this is for a 72nd scale bird i got the mini guns but are there any good .50’s or m60’s in this scale? and in what kit if not aftermarket?
In 1971 the armed Super Jollies (HH-53B/C’s) were in the 37th and 38th ARRS in SEA. The HH-53s carried three mini guns mounted on the FE’s door on the right side crewed by the FE, another across from him on the left crewed by (generally) the number one PJ, and last, the number 2 PJ crewed the ramp mounted mini. Some ships carried M-60’s as backups, but most crews used M-16’s.
I had the great fortune to be the 700th aviator rescued in SEA by the Jolly Greens (37th ARRS, JG 65, HH-53C T/N 363, 20 Jan 72) and got to watch their work on a contested pickup first hand. I have a great deal of info as I am writing a book that will include great detail on three contested rescues of army helicopter crews that occurred in a one month period, 31 dec 71-30 jan 72.)
Hugh Mills
LTC, US Army retired
thanks to both you and heavyarty for the info. the last bit i need concerns the flexi steel feed belts for the mini guns and the ammo drums for them. how do i make them, what should i use and where were they located in the super jolly? thanks curt
Hi there,
I was trying to find some 1/72 guns the other day and found this site. Luckily for me it’s in the UK, but I’m sure they’ll ship abroad. They have a few guns which might suit you, GO15 - flexi-gun, GO24 - M60 door gun. There are no pics so I’m not sure what you get exactly, whether ammo shutes and boxes are included or if thet are sold separately, you’ll have to contact them. Hope this helps, Rich
I am honored to make your aquaintance, albeit on a forum, Mr. Mills. I loved your other book, “Low Level Hell”. I have read it at least 3-5 times. I look forward to your latest work.
Thanks for your service and I am glad you made it home from the war over in Vietnam.
God Bless,
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