More detail on this person: My father Wayne
Branch was an Aircraft Commander with the 176th
and David Blattel was his best friend. From a
very early age I can recall Dad speaking about the
day David was killed in Vietnam. Dad died on
March 24, 2002 from brain cancer that he fought
for two and a half years. Among several items of
memorabilia from his service in Vietnam was a copy
of a letter written to David Blattels mother from
David's commanding officer that detailed David's
death and those aboard his helicopter. Mrs.
Blattel knew of the strong friendship that Dad and
David had and she had enclosed a copy of that
letter for Dad to have. I know that these two are
now with God rekindling that great friendship. I
would be more than happy to share any info or
pictures that I have in order to honor my father
and those who served with him. I did not find his
name listed on this site, but I know that this
oversight can be addressed. You may contact me
at jrbranch@yahoo.com This information was last updated 05/18/2016
Please send additions or corrections to: HQ@vhpa.org VHPA Headquarters
Return to the Helicopter Pilot DAT name list
Return to VHPA web site
Date posted on this site:
07/12/2023
Copyright © 1998 - 2023 Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association
CW2 Wayne M. Branch served in Vietnam from late
1967 until early 1970. He began with the 282nd
Assault Helicopter Company, The"BlackCats" and
later served with the 176th Helicopter Assault
Company as a "Minuteman". Highly decorated,
awarded the Silver Star on April 21, 1968, The
Distinguished Flying Cross, and 48 Air Medals.
Resided in Fort Worth, Texas from 1975 until his
death on March 24, 2002. Please contact me if you
need any further information. A better e-mail
address for me is jrbranch@yahoo.com
From: Jeff Branch