This vintage Vietnam war in-country machine embroidered shoulder arc patch measures 3" by 0.6", used condition. 

This USAF unit conducted psychological operations and humanitarian programs during the Vietnam War from 1965-1969. The squadron consisted of sixteen single engine U-10s and four C-47s, all equipped with 3000 watt loudspeaker systems and leaflet dispenser chutes. The C-47's of the 5th Air Commando Squadron were equipped with giant speakers mounted in the cargo doorway to fly PSYOP missions. These aircraft would circle over the target area at about 3,500 feet while a PSYOP translator would broadcast the benefits of the South Vietnamese government. Along with the message of persuasion to surrender would be a warning to the Viet Cong not to fire at the speaker aircraft as great trouble would befall them. Unknown to the enemy, an AC-47 gunship, which carried 24,000 rounds and three 7.62mm mini-guns with a fast (16,000 rounds per minute) or slow (3,000 rounds per minute) rate of fire, was flying escort below and behind the PSYOP aircraft. The AC-47's were allocated the call sign "Spooky", and also earned the nickname "Puff the Magic Dragon", from those who had witnessed its nighttime show of firepower. When the enemy began to fire at the loudspeaker aircraft, the roar of Spooky's miniguns would answer them. As the silence descended again, the PSYOP aircraft would retort "See, I told you so!" The reputation of the vengeful dragon spread quickly among the superstitious people. Captured Viet Cong documents told of orders not to attack the Dragon, as weapons were useless and would only infuriate the monster.

A valuable addition to your Vietnam war military memorabilia collection.