Did you ever wonder where the RED HORSE logo really came from?
Not the rumors — the real story.
Turns out the guy who designed Chargin’ Charlie was 20 years old, in Vietnam, a Dirtboy, and yes … he drew the first version with crayons in a hooch during the war.
Jason Nieves (RHPBA Board of Directors) tracked down the full origin story and put it into a PDF for the Association — the Airman, Mr. Bill Ackley, the moment, and how that sketch became the identity we still wear, paint, and argue over today.
When did you first encounter Chargin’ Charlie?
I am a proud former RH member (VietNam 67-68) and would like to purchase some of those RH patches. Can you please advise if and how possible?
Suggest you contact Dan Raske at “RHB Dan Raske” <draske@verizon.net>. He has numerous patches from many RED HORSE and Prime BEEF units.
In 1971, a friend was a Lt Col in Michigan ANG. He told me they were looking for pilots, so I took and passed the written test (I had a private pilot license then). With a heart glitch, I failed the physical. I then joined the Ohio ANG at Toledo. After basic training, I found I was assigned to the very new 200th CES at Camp Perry, Port Clinton, Ohio. That was my introduction to Chargin’ Charlie.
After electrician, then power production, I graduated college, and went to ANG Officers School at McGhee Tyson ANG Base.
Our unit did significant two week summer duty at Travis AFB building a rifle range. The following year we built a campground at Elmendorf AFB. Then, the following year, we rehabbed buildings on Rhein-Main AFB in Frankfurt, Germany.
I am still very proud to have served in a RED HORSE unit. Very special and unique.