Air & Space Forces Association – Palm Springs Chapter 134
Informal “Air Commandos” Lunch
Wednesday, November 19 • ROC’s Firehouse Grill • 11:30 AM

Our next informal Air Commandos Lunch is coming up on Wednesday, November 19, and we invite you to join us for a remarkable story of survival, skill, and courage from the Vietnam era.

This month’s guest speaker is Frank Tullo, whose combat mission over North Vietnam in July 1965 turned into one of the most dramatic rescues of the war. His F-105 Thunderchief took heavy ground fire deep in hostile territory. After fighting to keep the aircraft airborne as long as possible, he was forced to eject and survived in dense elephant grass until help arrived.

What followed has become a defining example of Air Force rescue operations. A specially modified HH-3E “Jolly Green Giant” helicopter flew into hostile territory to bring him out—an operation that showcased the bravery and precision of the Air Rescue Service. The full account of his ordeal and rescue is featured by the Smithsonian.

Read the story here:
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/air-space-magazine/tullo-and-the-giant-22068/

Frank will share the experience firsthand—what unfolded from the cockpit, what it took to survive on the ground, and how the crew that came for him executed one of the most courageous extractions of the conflict.

As always, the lunch is free to attend; simply pay for your own meal and beverage. No RSVP required—just join us, settle in with friends, and hear one of the most compelling accounts of courage and aeronautical skill you’ll ever encounter.

Location:
ROC’s Firehouse Grill
36-200 Cook Street, Palm Desert, CA 92211
Time: 11:30 AM

We look forward to seeing you there and sharing this extraordinary story from Air Force history.