CESSNA TL–19D/0–1D 

BIRD DOG
The Cessna Aircraft Company Model 305/l–19/0–1 was first flown in 1949 to compete in an Army/Air Force specification for a new light observation aircraft. In order to respond quickly to the specification, the tail of a civilian Cessna 195 and the wings of a Cessna 170 were used. It was the first all metal light aircraft used by the Army. Over 3000 L–19s were produced for the U.S. Army and more for foreign military services. The aircraft was adaptable for tandem wheels, skis, floats, and was used for all types of missions. The "Bird Dog" name was selected by Gen. Mark Clark from a list made by Cessna employees. The Army and Air Force modified the aircraft to several models and roles for use. The aircraft was just in time for the Korean War and saw extensive service with all three services in Vietnam. Roles included training, observation, photo reconnaissance, medical evacuation, artillery adjustment, wire laying, resupply, radio relay, flare drop, convoy escort, and target marking as Forward Air Controllers (FACs). Post war, the Civil Air Patrol continued to use this excellent observation platform for search and rescue. Civilians loved the aircraft’s high performance for glider towing. Cessna L–19 production was ceased in 1963. The aircraft remains flying throughout the world.

73rd Reconnaissance Airplane Co.

Republic of Vietnam

OUR

 AIRCRAFT

Serial No. 57-2842

1st Aviation Brigade

Republic of Vietnam
Our aircraft is a TL–19D latter modified in 1965 by the Army and designated as an 0–1D. It was manufactured by Cessna and delivered to the Army in 1957. The Aircraft served in various Army training and utility roles until it’s release from Army service in March 1972.

The aircraft is painted in the unit markings of the 73rd Aviation Company as it appeared in South Vietnam during Forward Air Controller combat missions in South Vietnam during March 1964. The 73rd Aviation Company is being memorialized by this aircraft due to this unit being one of the larger Army users during Vietnam of the 0–1D with 33 0–1D aircraft and over 30,000 combat hours flown during its first year in Vietnam. This particular memorialized aircraft, Serial No. 57–2795; crew chief was Al Adcock, author of a book by Squadron/Signal Publication on the history of the Bird Dog aircraft. Al Adcock presently resides in Florida.

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