As this thread is headed for the nether regions of the board I will explain the connection.
As the US were about to withdraw from Vietnam they started Operation Babylift. The plan was to evacuate 3000 orphans to the Philippines,for onward travel to the USA, to be adopted.
The first flight left Saigon in the 4 April 1975. The aircraft was a C5 Galaxy. This aircraft is basically a huge double decker.
The older children (over 2 years old) were put on the upper passenger deck, 2 per seat.
Those younger than 2 were placed on the lower cargo deck because they were in cots.
To cut a long story short the aircraft suffered a pressurisation problem just after take off, which blew out the cargo doors and severed hydraulic systems and rendered the aircraft almost uncontrollable.
On trying to return to Saigon the pilots were losing what little control they had and were forced to attempt a landing in some paddy fields. It was unsuccessful and the aircraft crashed.
Unfortunately all the occupants of the lower deck died. 78 children, and a further 50 careers and aircraft crew, were killed.
What’s the connection with Pattaya?
Well the US decided to have them buried in Thailand and they now rest in a communal grave at St Nickolous Church, Pattaya, on the Sukumvit.
Next time you are out and about on your motor bikes drop in and pay your respects as you pass by.
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Originally Posted by gerefan2
