04/07/2025
Bayou Icon | Service Beyond Combat: Fifty-seven years ago, just days before the end of his Vietnam tour, Captain Herschel Ryan was severely wounded while leading a combat helicopter mission in the Suoi Ca River Valley. Despite losing his left hand and eye, he went on to build a successful civilian life and now devotes his time to supporting fellow veterans.
It was 57 years ago this past February when Captain Herschel Ryan (US Army – retired) was serving as Platoon Leader for Company A, 227th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division. On that day he was Aircraft Commander and Flight Lead flying combat assaults in the Suoi Ca River Valley in Vietnam. Just 18 days before his year of duty in Vietnam was scheduled to end, Herschel was leading a mission designed to insert troops as a blocking force and trap the enemy in the valley. Unknown to Herschel, the landing zone was surrounded by enemy troops armed with .51 caliber machine guns. Herschel landed, got the troops off his ship, but as he took off a firefight ensued. Herschel was in a left bank looking down and saw the 51 cal. tracers coming toward his helicopter. A direct hit cost him his left hand and with shrapnel destroying his left eye. Over time Herschel’s wounds have healed, the bad memories have faded somewhat, and he is grateful for the life he has lived since that year at war. Today this proud husband, father, and grandfather is grateful to be a part of our community. Now retired from a successful career that included real estate, construction, and financial advising, Herschel spends time both enjoying his family and helping other veterans by volunteering for many veterans’ organizations including the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum. In gratitude for his military service and the example that he has set for so many other veterans, Herschel Ryan is our July Bayou Icon.
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