Screaming Eagles

[kraigwy]

Having been a member of the 101st Abn Div in Vietnam (when it was still airbonre) I've always considered it "MY UNIT"

At a pistol match today I met a retired army guy who, after finding out I was with the 101s told me this story of where the Eagle, and the name "Screaming Eagle" came from.

Apparently during the Civil War, a member of the Wisc. NG's Iron Mountain Bde. bought an trained eagle from an indian.

The eagle would set on top of the guidon when they marched. It went with them to battles in the Civil War. When marching, it would set on the guidon. During the fight, he would fly over the battle field screaming.

Southerners hated the bird and tried, but failed to kill it. They called it the Yankee's Screaming Buzzard.


I don't know if this story is real or not, I found it interesting. I'm gonna try to find out more about this Screaming Eagle.

 

[chud333]

Interesting bit of history if correct. Let us know what you find out Kraig.
And thank you for your service as well.

Chuck

 

[Sprefix]

I was "am" a Screaming Eagle. Air Assault!! OooHaaa!!!!

 

[Chipmunk6]

His name is "Old Abe". Definitely had
an illustrious career.
Chipmunk6

 

[VPNAVY]

Until someone pipes in - I searched the net and found...Old Abe - (1861? – March 28, 1881) - a bald eagle!

 

[LoboGunLeather]

I served with the 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam, but had never heard about "Old Abe" until seeing this. Thanks for posting.

 

[REM 3200]

I'm an Eagle, and yes it is a true story.

 

[imjin138]

I was with C. Co. 2/502nd and I beleive AOld Abe is now at the museum at Ft. Campbell. I loved wearing the Screaming Eagle patch

 

[BE Mike]

Proudly served with the "Screaming Eagles" from Sept. 68 to Aug. 69. Thanks for the story. I had never heard it before.