The 160th SOAR “Night Stalkers”

October 27th, 2025

9 minute read

By Friedrich Seiltgen Posted in #History

The image features Green Berets of the 5th Special Forces Group conducting sniper training from an MH-6 Little Bird helicopter, operated by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. The MH-6 is hovering or in slow flight, doors open, with at least one sniper in full tactical gear positioned on the skids or inside the aircraft, aiming a precision rifle at a ground target. The terrain below may be an open training range, with visible targets, berms, or other range features. The scene emphasizes the close integration between Army Special Forces and the Night Stalkers, highlighting the unique challenges of aerial marksmanship. Safety harnesses, communication headsets, and other specialized equipment are evident. The compact size of the Little Bird and the skill required to maintain a stable firing platform are central to the photo’s context. This type of training is vital for developing rapid-response sniper teams for special operations missions. — A 160th SOAR MH-6 Little Bird provides a platform for Green Beret snipers during a live-fire training event. Firing from helicopters builds confidence and skill for real-world operations. Image: DVIDS

The Night Stalkers, officially known as the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), were created in April 1980, out of the ashes of the disaster at Desert One, the failed attempt to rescue American hostages held in Tehran after the Shah of Iran was overthrown.

President Carter ordered Chief of Naval Operations Admiral James Holloway to devise a plan for a successful second attempt at rescue.

A U.S. Army MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, operated by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), is seen conducting a flight demonstration during Special Operations Week in Tampa, Florida. The image shows the helicopter either in flight or hovering above a designated demonstration area, drawing attention from attendees. Soldiers may be visible inside or near the aircraft, displaying their tactical gear and readiness. The event setting includes elements typical of a public military demonstration, such as crowds, banners, or military vehicles in the background. This image emphasizes the MH-60’s importance to the Night Stalkers’ mission, especially in direct action and rapid deployment operations. The photo highlights the skill of the 160th SOAR (A) pilots and the advanced modifications on the helicopter. It represents the regiment’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence and innovation in Army aviation. — A Night Stalkers MH-60 demonstration at the Special Operations Week in Tampa, FL. Image: U.S. Special Operations Command

Holloway looked to the U.S. Army for pilots and personnel to be trained in short-notice Special Operations Missions. The Army looked to the 101st Aviation group of the 101st Airborne Division Air Assault at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, since they had the most experience in helicopter operations. Personnel from several 101st battalions were selected, but since the majority came from the 158th Aviation Battalion, the new unit was dubbed Task Force 158. Training began for the unit, with CH-47s and UH-60 Blackhawks. The OH-6 Cayuse from the days of Vietnam was resurrected and conducted training in a secluded part of the base.

The image shows West Coast-based Naval Special Warfare operators climbing a caving ladder from a small combatant craft onto an MH-60M Black Hawk helicopter, which is assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne). The operators, dressed in tactical gear and life vests, are ascending the ladder while the helicopter hovers just above the water’s surface. The maritime setting is clear, with waves and the boat in the background. This training evolution demonstrates the seamless integration between Navy special operations forces and the Night Stalkers. The photo emphasizes the coordination required for maritime insertion and extraction, a skill critical for special operations missions. Both the helicopter crew and the operators are focused on precision and safety. The scene illustrates the advanced training and joint capabilities of the 160th SOAR and Naval Special Warfare units. — Naval Special Warfare operators climb a caving ladder onto a 160th SOAR MH-60M Black Hawk during maritime training. Image: DVIDS

After the first class completed their training in the fall of 1980, a second rescue operation, dubbed “Honey Badger,” was scheduled for early 1981, but was called off at the last minute when the Iranians released the hostages on the morning of President Ronald Reagan’s inauguration.

The image shows U.S. Naval Special Warfare operators, Australian Special Operations Command soldiers, and United Kingdom Royal Marine Commandos from 42 Commando conducting a Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) exercise on a simulated target vessel in New South Wales, Australia. A U.S. Army MH-60 helicopter from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) hovers overhead or is parked nearby, supporting the operation. The multinational special operations teams are equipped with tactical gear and helmets, climbing ladders or ropes to board the ship, while the helicopter provides aerial security or insertion capabilities. The exercise, part of Talisman Sabre 25, brings together allied special operations forces to practice coordinated maritime boarding, search, and seizure procedures. The photo highlights the strong partnership between the U.S., Australian, and British militaries. The vessel is marked and equipped for training purposes, with crew members or role players possibly visible. This image demonstrates the operational flexibility and international collaboration central to modern special operations. — U.S. Naval Special Warfare, Australian Special Operations Command, and UK Royal Marine Commandos conduct VBSS training from a 160th SOAR MH-60 helicopter during exercise Talisman Sabre 2025. Image: U.S. Navy

Task Force 158 was recognized as the premier Army Aviation unit, and their special training was not going to be wasted. On October 16, 1981, the Task Force was transferred into a separate unit from the 101st and was redesignated as the 160th Aviation Battalion. The original class of Night Stalkers called it “The Day the Eagles Came Off.”

A U.S. Army soldier from the 10th Special Forces Group, wearing tactical gear and helmet, is seen jumping with his military working dog from the rear ramp of a 160th SOAR MH‑47G Chinook helicopter hovering just above the Gulf of America. The dog, secured and alert, follows the handler into open water as part of a specialized water insertion training exercise. Rotor wash creates visible disturbance on the water below, and the open expanse of the Gulf of America stretches to the horizon. This scene highlights the unique capability of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment to insert personnel and working dogs directly into maritime environments. The teamwork and trust between the handler, dog, and aircrew are central to the mission. The photo demonstrates the advanced skills required for safe and effective helicopter water jumps. It underscores the versatility of both the Night Stalkers and Army special operations canine teams. — A U.S. Army 10th Special Forces Group soldier and his military working dog jump from a 160th SOAR MH‑47G Chinook into the Gulf of America during a training exercise. Image: DVIDS

There were several unit name changes over the years, and in May 1990, the unit was redesignated the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne).

Recruitment & Training for 160th SOAR

Recruitment for the 160th comes from volunteers throughout the Army, as well as selections made by the U.S. Army Human Resources Command based on the unit’s required MOS’s. There are positions available for Enlisted, Warrant, and Officers in certain MOSs.

The photo shows a 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) MH-60M Black Hawk helicopter taking off from Naval Air Station Point Mugu during a training event. The helicopter’s rotors are spinning, and dust or debris may be visible beneath it as it lifts from the tarmac. The background includes elements typical of a military airfield, such as runways, hangars, or other aircraft. The MH-60M is equipped with features specific to special operations, such as external fuel tanks or advanced avionics. This training exercise is part of routine operations that keep Night Stalkers pilots and crew ready for a wide range of missions. The image highlights the emphasis on flight proficiency and operational readiness within the 160th SOAR. It represents the regiment’s continuous commitment to excellence in Army aviation. — A MH-60M Black Hawk, operated by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, takes off from Point Mugu. Image: U.S. Navy

The training to become a member of the 160th is intense, to put it mildly. A recruit arrives and is assigned to the Green Platoon, where they receive intensive training in areas such as first responder, teamwork, combatives, land navigation, and weapons. Weapons training includes thousands of rounds of practice with the M4 rifle, M9 9mm, M17 9mm, and the Kalashnikov AK-47 & AK-74.

The image shows a U.S. Army Soldier assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) loading rockets into a weapons pod on the side of an MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. The setting is Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic, where a forward arming and refueling point (FARP) exercise is taking place on May 6, 2025. The helicopter is parked on a field or tarmac, with its side doors open and ground support equipment visible nearby. The soldier is wearing standard flightline safety gear, including hearing protection and gloves, while carefully securing rockets in preparation for the next sortie. The FARP setup includes fuel trucks, ammunition handling equipment, and other Night Stalkers personnel working in the background. This image highlights the importance of rapid rearming and refueling operations for special operations aviation units. The scenario demonstrates the logistics and teamwork required to keep helicopters combat-ready in remote or austere locations. — A 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment soldier loads rockets onto a Black Hawk helicopter at MCOLF Atlantic. The soldier’s face is intentionally blurred for security purposes. Image: U.S.M.C.

The Green Platoon is used to weed out any substandard soldiers who do not have what it takes to be a Night Stalker. Any soldier who passes this course proceeds to the Basic Night Stalker Course.

In this nighttime photo, a MH-47G Chinook from the 160th SOAR is shown landing on the runway at Tague Air Base, Korea. The helicopter is equipped with features for special operations, such as refueling probes and additional sensors, visible in the low light. The ground is illuminated by airport lights, casting shadows and reflecting off the aircraft. Crew members or support personnel may be waiting nearby, wearing reflective vests or carrying flashlights. The night sky and distant airbase buildings form the backdrop, with the Chinook as the main focus. The image emphasizes the Night Stalkers’ capability to operate and land in total darkness, often in challenging or unfamiliar locations. The scenario is typical of special operations aviation, where rapid, precise movement is critical. The photo supports the article’s coverage of the regiment’s night mission expertise. — A 160th SOAR MH-47G Chinook touches down at Tague Air Base, Korea, following a nighttime mission. The Night Stalkers routinely conduct complex operations under the cover of darkness. Image: NARA

Pilots arrive as Basic Mission Qualified. After passing a series of skills tests on leadership, experience, and oral review boards, a process that can take up to three years, the pilot is designated fully mission-qualified.

The image shows US Army personnel assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) gathered around an MH-47 Chinook helicopter on the ground in Korea. The crew is receiving a pre-flight briefing from a mission leader, who is pointing to a map or checklist as the group listens attentively. The Chinook’s rear ramp is down and the aircraft is parked on a tarmac or staging area, with additional support equipment and vehicles nearby. This pre-mission briefing is taking place in support of exercises Foal Eagle and Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration (RSOI), both of which are major joint and combined military drills. The scene emphasizes teamwork, communication, and detailed planning before launch. Personnel are in flight suits or operational uniforms, with helmets and other mission gear visible. The image highlights the complexity and coordination required for large-scale multinational operations involving special operations aviation. — Night Stalkers aircrew receive a pre-flight briefing beside their MH-47 Chinook in Korea before a mission supporting Foal Eagle and RSO&I. Image: NARA

A Night Stalker flight medic can be qualified as a special operations combat medic after completing a 36-week combat medic course at Ft Bragg, North Carolina.

The Night Stalkers Creed

“I pledge to maintain my body, mind, and equipment in a constant state of readiness, for I am a member of the fastest deployable task force in the world, ready to move at a moment’s notice anytime, anywhere, arriving time on target plus or minus 30 seconds.”

The image shows MH-6M Little Bird helicopters from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) landing in a remote or improvised field landing zone to extract U.S. Air Force airmen from the 123rd Special Tactics Squadron during Exercise Agile Chariot. The helicopters are small, agile, and configured for special operations, with open doors or external seating visible. Airmen, wearing tactical gear, helmets, and carrying rucksacks or weapons, are either boarding the helicopters or running toward them for rapid extraction. The environment is a grassy or dirt field, possibly with trees or limited cover in the background. The scene highlights the close coordination and fast-paced nature of special operations extractions, with pilots maintaining a low hover for quick embarkation. The exercise underscores the ability of the 160th SOAR to operate in austere environments and support joint missions with Air Force special tactics teams. — A pair of MH-6M Little Birds from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment extract 123rd Special Tactics Squadron Airmen during Exercise Agile Chariot. Image: DVIDS

“Night Stalkers Don’t Quit”

The 160th became known as the “Night Stalkers” because they pioneered the Army’s nighttime flying techniques, giving it the capability to strike undetected in the darkness. They continue to develop new technology and tactics for the battlefield. In every major combat operation since Grenada, the 160th has demonstrated that they live by their motto, “Night Stalkers Don’t Quit.”

Aircraft

Boeing MH-47G Chinook: This ain’t your father’s Chinook. The CH-47 Chinook, which took its first flight in 1961, has been involved with every conflict since then. It’s a tandem rotor heavy lift helicopter designed initially for troop and cargo transport. It has been heavily modified over the years for the 160th SOAR.

The image captures USAF Special Tactics Operators exiting an MH-60M Black Hawk helicopter in flight over water, a maneuver known as helocasting, with the helicopter operated by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) out of Hurlburt Field, Florida. Operators, dressed in full tactical and flotation gear, are seen jumping or preparing to jump from the open doors or ramp of the hovering helicopter. The water below is calm or slightly rippled, and the horizon may include coastline or other elements indicating a training area. The MH-60M is stable and low to the surface, a hallmark of precision flying by the Night Stalkers. This joint training operation demonstrates the integration between Army aviation and Air Force special operations forces. Helocasting is used to insert personnel into maritime or riverine environments where traditional landing is impossible. The photo showcases both the teamwork and the technical expertise required for these complex missions. — U.S.A.F. Special Tactics Operators helocast from a 160th SOAR MH-47G Chinook helicopter during a joint training event near Hurlburt Field, Florida. Image: DVIDS

Sikorsky MH-60L/M: The L model is a Direct Action Penetrator version of the Black Hawk that’s been configured as a helicopter gunship and used exclusively by the 160th SOAR. Most are equipped with twin M-134D Miniguns.

The photo shows US Navy SEALs fast-roping from an MH-60M Black Hawk helicopter operated by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) during a training mission on Attu Island, Alaska. The helicopter hovers above the rugged, windswept terrain as SEAL operators, wearing cold-weather gear and helmets, descend rapidly on thick ropes to the ground below. The scene highlights the remote, challenging environment of Attu Island, with sparse vegetation, rocky ground, and possibly snow or mist in the background. The MH-60M is clearly marked with special operations features, including external fuel tanks and open doors for rapid deployment. The fast-rope technique allows for quick insertion of troops when landing is not possible or practical. The collaboration between the 160th SOAR and Navy SEALs is evident, showcasing joint training and operational integration. This image illustrates the adaptability and readiness of special operations aviation in Arctic and remote settings. — US Navy SEALs fast rope from a 160th SOAR MH-60M Black Hawk during a training exercise on Attu Island, Alaska. Image: DVIDS

McDonnell Douglas MH-6: This helicopter dates back to the OH-6 Cayuse, which was used during the Vietnam War. Now highly modified for the Night Stalker Mission

General Atomics MQ-1C Surveillance Drone: This drone is the Eyes of the Night Stalkers, providing pre-operation intelligence as well as real-time surveillance.

SOAR Locations

The Night Stalkers are based in three different locations.

1^st Battalion: Fort Campbell, Kentucky
2^nd Battalion: Fort Campbell, Kentucky
3^rd battalion: Hunter Army Airfield, Ga
4^th Battalion: Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington

Publicly Known Night Stalker Operations

The 160th has participated in numerous operations from its inception. Here are just a few of them.

Operation Just Cause: 1989 marked the debut of the Night Stalkers, who spearheaded the operation to remove Dictator Manuel Noriega from Panama.

The image shows US Navy Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (SWCC) deploying from a 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) Chinook helicopter during a training or operational scenario. The Chinook, with rear ramp or side doors open, hovers above water or a shoreline, allowing SWCC operators in tactical gear to exit quickly. Some crewmen may be descending ropes, ladders, or jumping into the water, prepared for immediate insertion into a maritime environment. The background may include visible watercraft or support boats, highlighting the integration of air and sea assets. The helicopter is equipped with night-vision gear and other modifications for special operations. This scene underscores the joint nature of SOAR and Navy missions, with an emphasis on rapid deployment and maritime readiness. The image illustrates the advanced training and interoperability essential for successful special operations. — Navy Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (SWCC) deploy from a 160th SOAR Chinook helicopter during a joint training mission. Image: U.S. Army

Desert Storm, Desert Shield, and the Global War on Terror: Beginning in 1991, the Night Stalkers have participated in hundreds of missions throughout the Middle East. In 2003, they took part in the rescue of PFC Jessica Lynch, who was taken prisoner during the Battle of Nasiriyah. Also in 2003, Saddam Hussein, who was captured in Operation Red Dawn, was exfiltrated to Baghdad International Airport by a SOAR MH-6 Little Bird and placed into custody.

The image shows multiple U.S. Army soldiers from the 19th Special Forces Group fast roping from the rear or side doors of a 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) MH-47 Chinook helicopter during African Lion 2021 in Morocco. The helicopter hovers low above rugged, dusty terrain with its rotors spinning, and thick ropes extended down to the ground. Soldiers, fully equipped with helmets, gloves, and tactical gear, are captured mid-descent, focused and moving quickly. The Moroccan environment is visible below, featuring arid, open ground and sparse vegetation, with clear skies overhead. This scene highlights the collaboration between U.S. special operations aviators and Special Forces in North Africa. The fast rope insertion technique allows for rapid deployment of personnel in locations where landing is not possible. The image demonstrates interoperability, operational readiness, and partnership as core aspects of African Lion. — Soldiers from the 19th Special Forces Group fast rope from a 160th SOAR Chinook during African Lion 2021 in Morocco. Image: DVIDS

The Battle of Mogadishu: In October 1993, the 160th was tasked, along with U.S. Army Rangers and Delta Force operators, to participate in Operation Gothic Serpent. The result was the Battle of Mogadishu, which was the subject of a book and movie entitled Black Hawk Down. The Night Stalkers were stationed in Somalia, as part of Task Force Ranger, alongside a multinational group tasked with capturing Mohamed Farah Aidid, a local warlord who had declared himself President of Somalia.

On this day, the 160th was on a mission to capture two of Aidid’s top men. The Delta operators successfully captured Aidid’s henchman while air units were taking heavy fire. A Black Hawk, call sign Super Six-One, was hit by an RPG round and crashed. A ground-based rescue operation began. During the rescue mission, a second Black Hawk, Super Six-Four, was shot down a few blocks away.

The image shows U.S. Army Green Berets from the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) walking across a snow-covered landscape toward an MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne). The helicopter is on the ground with its rotors still or slowly turning, positioned in a remote area near Wiseman, Alaska, during Exercise ARCTIC EDGE 2022. The Green Berets are wearing heavy cold-weather gear, including parkas, gloves, and face coverings, carrying rucksacks and weapons suited for arctic operations. Snow, ice, and rugged terrain dominate the scene, with mountains or forest visible in the distance. The exercise emphasizes cold-weather mobility, teamwork, and rapid insertion in harsh environments. This joint operation demonstrates how the 160th SOAR supports Army special operations in some of the world’s most challenging climates. The photo highlights the adaptability and resilience required for success in Arctic missions. — Green Berets from the 10th Special Forces Group approach a 160th SOAR MH-60 Black Hawk during Exercise ARCTIC EDGE 2022 in Wiseman, Alaska. Image: DVIDS

With resources stretched, D-Boys Randy Shughart and Gary Gordon volunteered to be inserted and provide security for the site, knowing the outcome was unlikely to be good. The pair arrived and found the pilot still alive. Despite their heroic efforts, the site was overrun, and they were killed. As the Night Stalkers leave the area due to fuel and ammunition shortages, they assured their brothers that they will return, and used their loudspeakers to repeat the motto, “Night Stalkers Don’t Quit.”

The image captures an MH-60L Black Hawk helicopter from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) hovering just above the deck of a surfaced submarine, delivering a team of soldiers from the 7th Special Forces Group. The soldiers, equipped with tactical gear, helmets, and possibly scuba or maritime equipment, are seen exiting the helicopter onto the submarine’s narrow deck. The helicopter’s rotors are spinning, and the aircraft is positioned with precision to allow safe and rapid disembarkation. The submarine is partially visible in open water, with waves and the horizon in the background. This scene highlights the complexity and risk involved in maritime special operations, emphasizing the close cooperation between Army aviation and Special Forces. The photo showcases the technical skill of the Night Stalkers pilots and the readiness of the 7th SFG team. The operation demonstrates the unique insertion techniques used for clandestine maritime missions. — A 160th SOAR MH-60L helicopter lands a team from the 7th Special Forces Group on the deck of a submarine during a maritime infiltration exercise. Image: U.S. Dept. of War

Of the 18 soldiers killed in the operation, five of them were from the 160th. Delta operators Shughart and Gordon were awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously, the first MOH recipients since the Vietnam War.

The image shows U.S. Army Rangers assigned to the 75th Ranger Regiment fast-roping from the rear ramp of a 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) MH-47 Chinook helicopter during an airborne assault demonstration at CAPEX2025, held at Fort Bragg. The helicopter is hovering just above the ground with its rear ramp lowered and thick ropes extending down, as Rangers in full tactical gear and helmets rapidly descend onto a grassy landing zone. Spectators and additional military personnel may be visible in the background, watching the demonstration. The Chinook’s distinctive twin rotors and dark Night Stalkers livery are prominent. This scene highlights the advanced insertion techniques practiced by elite special operations forces, demonstrating their ability to deploy quickly and efficiently from rotary-wing aircraft. The demonstration showcases the partnership between the 160th SOAR and the 75th Ranger Regiment, as well as the high standards of training maintained by both units. — U.S. Army Rangers from the 75th Ranger Regiment fast rope from a 160th SOAR MH-47 Chinook during an airborne assault demo at CAPEX2025, Fort Bragg. Image: U.S. Army

Operation Neptune Spear — The Hunt for Bin Laden: In May 2011, the 160th took part in a raid on the compound of Usama bin Laden. The Night Stalkers used a pair of specially modified stealth Black Hawk helicopters to insert Navy Seals on the target. Upon insertion, the tail rotor on one of the Black Hawks struck a compound wall and crashed. The SOAR crew was able to extract themselves from the wreckage and provide cover for the SEAL team. All personnel were able to exfiltrate in the second Black Hawk, making the mission a success despite the loss of the Black Hawk.

The image captures a US Army MH-47 Chinook helicopter, assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, departing the flight deck of the US Navy amphibious assault ship USS WASP (LHD 1) during deck landing qualification training. The Chinook, with its tandem rotors spinning, lifts off from the ship’s marked landing area, with the vast expanse of the ocean visible in the background. Deck crew in colored vests and helmets may be seen on the flight deck, providing hand signals and ensuring safe operations. The USS WASP’s island superstructure, aircraft markings, and various naval equipment are visible, emphasizing the joint Army-Navy environment. The image highlights the importance of deck landing training for Army aviation units supporting maritime and amphibious missions. The photo demonstrates the technical skill required for precise shipboard operations, as well as the coordination between the 160th SOAR flight crew and Navy personnel. This type of training is vital for enabling rapid deployment and joint special operations at sea. — A 160th SOAR MH-47 Chinook departs the flight deck of USS *Wasp* (LHD-1) during deck landing qualifications. The Night Stalkers train with the Navy to ensure seamless ship-to-shore operations. Image: NARA

While not confirmed, it is rumored that the stealth model Black Hawk is challenging to fly due to the added technology, as helicopters are not stealthy to begin with.

Legacy of the Night Stalkers

From Grenada to the present, Night Stalkers have been involved in countless operations. Over the years, their constant push to improve has led to advancements in technology, enabling them to perform their mission more safely and efficiently. This technology carries over to regular units of all military branches and has undoubtedly saved many lives.

The image shows a formation of U.S. Army MH-60 Black Hawk helicopters assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) approaching Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic during a forward arming and refueling point (FARP) exercise on May 6, 2025. The helicopters are flying low in close formation, their rotors kicking up dust and debris as they near the landing zone. The scene includes the open expanse of MCOLF Atlantic, with visible training range markers, temporary fueling equipment, and possibly support vehicles or personnel on the ground. This FARP exercise involves rapidly landing, refueling, and rearming helicopters to sustain special operations missions in austere or contested environments. The Night Stalkers’ emphasis on speed, precision, and logistical coordination is evident in the photo. The event utilizes MCAS Cherry Point’s facilities, highlighting joint use of Marine Corps resources for Army aviation training. The image underscores the operational flexibility and expeditionary capability of the 160th SOAR. — Night Stalkers MH-60 helicopters conduct a FARP operation at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic, using MCAS Cherry Point’s ranges to maintain expeditionary readiness. Image: U.S.M.C.

The Night Stalker Memorial Wall, located at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, lists the names of 94 Night Stalkers who have “Borne the Battle.” It serves as a poignant reminder of the high cost paid by these soldiers and their families in service to their country.

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Friedrich Seiltgen

Friedrich is a retired master police officer with the Orlando Police Department. He was a firearms instructor, a less lethal alternatives instructor and an armorer. Now, as a recovering LEO, he enjoys a second career as a military historian and firearms writer.

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The 160th SOAR “Night Stalkers”

By Friedrich Seiltgen

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The 160th SOAR “Night Stalkers”