Textbook Special Ops: The Son Tay Raid

By: John Gargus, Cliff Westbrook

Narrated by: Cliff Westbrook

With the 50th anniversary of the Son Tay Raid, there was such an outpouring of articles and commemorations honoring the raid. It also prompted memoirs from North Vietnamese commanders. We have assessed the current state of the body of knowledge regarding the Son Tay Raid. We can now objectively debunk misconceptions, conspiracy theories, rumors, and outright fabrications. You'll see the facts. You'll step aboard the three aircraft carriers that launched 59 aircraft for the raid.

You'll be inside our amazing RC-135 airborne command post electronically eavesdropping on the conversations of the NVA commanders and SAM operators.

You'll see examples of the intel that our POWs inside the Son Tay POW camp were sending out through clandestine communications.

You'll be in the back seat of an F-105 slammed by the Soviet SAMs.

You'll stand with Colonel Bull Simons on the grounds of the Son Tay POW Camp and on-stage giving presentations over the years following the raid.

Now, we can help Special Operators of this current generation correct, clarify, and improve their understanding of this mission that sets the example of professional and effective planning of modern Special Ops.

©2025 Cliff Westbrook and John Gargus (P)2025 Cliff Westbrook and John Gargus

Son Tay Raid

It went over errors in other books and complete fabrications in some books. I have yet to see why participants on the ground were treated differently than those in the Sky or Secure locations for later on promotions and why a significant member was so disappointed that they would later attempt or call for unionization of Our Military.