Mandy
A Kansas Vietnam veteran from Pratt, Greg Lesh, entered the U.S. Army in 1969 after working as a young civilian flight instructor. He originally expected to fly fixed-wing aircraft, but Army needs quickly redirected him.
Instead of airplanes, Lesh was assigned to Army helicopters, a decision that would define his military service. After completing flight training, he was promptly deployed to Vietnam, beginning a demanding year overseas.
Flying Huey Helicopters in Combat Zones
Once in Vietnam, Lesh flew the iconic Huey helicopter, transporting troops, supporting missions, and assisting allied forces. The pace was intense—especially early on.
During his first 30 days, he logged 120 flight hours, an exceptionally heavy workload for helicopter pilots that placed significant physical and mental strain on aviators operating in combat conditions.
In addition to troop transport, Lesh participated in “sniffer” missions designed to detect enemy activity. Some flights extended into Cambodia, adding further risk to already dangerous operations. Despite the daily hazards, he never questioned his role.
Flying remained a source of fulfillment. For Lesh, aviation itself—despite the circumstances—was something he genuinely loved.
Training Vietnamese Pilots and Cultural Connections
Midway through his tour, Lesh transitioned into a new responsibility: training Vietnamese pilots to operate helicopters. Teaching across a language barrier presented challenges, but the experience left a lasting impression.
He recalls strong working relationships with Vietnamese trainees and meaningful cultural exchanges, including celebrating Tet New Year together. These moments helped shape his positive memories of the people he worked alongside during the war.
Life After Military Service
Lesh returned to Kansas in 1971, leaving the Army as a Chief Warrant Officer, Second Class. Back home, he built successful careers in both aviation and banking in Wichita, widely known as the Air Capital.
Yet his connection to Vietnam did not fade with time.
Giving Back to Vietnam’s Orphanages
Long after his service ended, Lesh and fellow veterans continued supporting Catholic orphanages established during the war. Their helicopter company has contributed financially to three orphanages and has made return visits to deliver additional aid.
This ongoing commitment reflects how military service shaped not only his career but also his sense of responsibility toward the communities affected by the conflict.
The story of Greg Lesh, a Kansas Vietnam veteran, highlights the demanding realities of Huey helicopter missions, the challenges of combat aviation, and the lasting bonds formed through service.
From flying high-risk missions and training allied pilots to giving back decades later, his experience reflects dedication, adaptability, and a lifelong connection to Vietnam that continues well beyond the war.