The Mistys

In 1967, a group of experienced jet fighter pilot volunteers was brought together in South Vietnam to form a top secret unit officially designated Operation Commando Sabre and known by the call sign Misty, after Bud and Dorie's favorite song. Bud Day was its first commander. The unit was stationed at Phu Cat Air Base and moved to Tuy Hoa Air Base in 1969. Its mission was to fly the two-seat F-100F Super Sabre fast and low over enemy territory as Fast FACs, or Forward Air Controllers, armed only with two 20mm cannons and 14 smoke-marking rockets. Although they flew at 400 knots and continually jinked to spoil the enemy's aim, 28% of the Misty pilots were shot down, some twice. Colonel Bud Day was the first Misty pilot shot down over North Vietnam. Mistys who survived the war included two Air Force Chiefs of Staff, seven general officers, two astronauts, numerous industry CEOs, and the first man to fly around the world unrefueled in a light aircraft. Under Colonel Bud Day, they pioneered a unique jet FAC mission that continues to this day.

Fort Walton Beach, Florida · United States