| COL David Dryden is a multi-skilled aviator, commander, and health care administrator. One of the first MSC pilots to become a Helicopter Instrument Instructor and Standardization Pilot, he completed two tours in Vietnam, flying 1036 combat hours and evacuating over 2500 patients. Facing almost insurmountable challenges involving aircraft and maintenance support, he activated and commanded the 587th Medical Detachment in Japan that transported more than 63,000 patients during a two-year period. Returning to Vietnam in 1968, he commanded the 571st Medical Detachment during heavy fighting in the A Shau Valley, flying numerous jungle hoist operations and over-water missions to Navy hospital ships. Dave was an early selection for health care administrator training. His performance as Deputy Commander of the Army Institute of Infectious Diseases, Irwin Army Community Hospital, and William Beaumont Army Medical Center paved the way for other aviators to follow. Among his many awards and decorations are two Distinguished Flying Crosses, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star and Soldiers Medal. David Dryden was inducted into the DUSTOFF Hall of Fame on 20 February 2010. |