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”. 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.