"Spooky" was the generic nickname for the DC-3/C-47 aircraft that were converted for use in the night time "Gunship" role, pioneered by necessity during the Vietnam War. Later replaced by the more powerful C-119 and C-130 transports, the AC-47s struck their own level of fear in Viet Cong positions during the long nights in the middle of the war. This aircraft was itself christened "Spooy" and flew on many arduous missions during its time in Vietnam, only surrendering its role when the tired WW II-vintage airframe finally gave out the the stresses of repeated hammering from its three gatling guns.
"Spooky" was an AC-47D, Serial No. 43-49010, attached to the 432nd Spooky Detachment, 432nd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing, Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base, circa 1969.
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