Another full house gathered yesterday for our Air Commandos Lunch to hear from Major Gary Lucas, known by his Vietnam call sign “Playboy-19.” The “Playboys” were an Army helicopter squadron that flew Cobra gunships in Vietnam, and Gary’s presentation brought that history into the room with clarity, honesty, and a perspective only someone who lived it can provide.
Gary spoke about his years in the U.S. Army, his rise through the ranks, and his decorated combat service in Vietnam. He described missions in the Cobra, the reality of flying armed combat, and the day he was shot down and rescued—events that shaped not only his career but his understanding of the men he served with.
But perhaps the most striking part of the afternoon came when Gary talked about the weight of those memories. He noted how difficult it can be to speak about that time with people who were not there and who cannot fully understand what those experiences were like. That honesty resonated deeply throughout the room.
Gary also reminded us of something too often overlooked: the many service members who should have received medals or recognition but never did—lost paperwork, timing, or simple lack of follow-up. His point was clear and important: valor does not always come with documentation, and many acts of courage went unrecorded.
Our Air Commandos Lunch has always been a place where stories, service, and history are passed forward firsthand. Yesterday’s presentation reinforced exactly why these gatherings matter and why these voices need to be heard.
A sincere thank-you to Gary for sharing his experiences, and to everyone who joined us for another meaningful afternoon.
If you were unable to attend, we hope to see you at the next Air Commandos Lunch. Thanks!
