In war there have been individual men
Who have risen to the occasion when it was time
Their stories have been put to the pen
Placed in books, on film, or written in rhyme

In this war there was a platoon that stood out
Making their mark in the annuals of history
Flying in helicopters was what they were about
What made them special is still a mystery

They all had different backgrounds before signing on
But they had one love and one reason to fight
Flying in an aircraft equipped with M-60, rocket pod and mini-gun
Gave them the wherewithal to prove their might

When the guys on the ground were in big trouble
The Wolf Pack crews were always ready to lend a hand
They would arrive at the scene on the double
To cover the teams and the hole ships who had to land

If one of their own was down for the count
They would rally their courage and strength
With an all out effort they would mount
An attack that would repel the enemy at great length

Once they were back home safe and sound
With their loved ones by their side
They would remember those who kept them around
Especially those who risked it all and died

So who was this band of men called Wolf Pack?
They were ordinary guys who volunteered to do
A tough job where others would lack
The wanton disregard and tenacity to follow through

They were brave men those soldiers of the air
Fighting with their machines from the sky
To show others in need that someone up there
Was willing to protect, rescue and even die

For no greater love has any man than that one
Who was willing to lay down his life for a friend
Just as out Savior did for everyone
Because of his great love for us, that He did send

_____________________________________

This poem was penned by Duane “Tubby” Brudvig, who has the distinction
of serving as president of the first group of 281st Intruders to organize as an association.
Duane resided in Bella Vista, AR, with his Lovely wife Deborah Faye.
He can be contacted at:  debnduane@highstream.net

(Duane died in 2014; he is remembered in our DAT files.)