Brian Wizard and various crewmembers shot the combat footage during his combat tour in 1968-’69 as a door gunner on the prestigious combat assault helicopter Pollution IV…
Pollution IV was the 118th Assault Helicopter Co.’s smokeship. The NASM has a Huey that has a history of being a smokeship, that is why Roger Connor contacted me…
Brian discusses his work fighting 419 scams in a multi-part video interview, exploring the many forms these schemes can take and the people affected by them.
On 5-15-2012 Brian discussed combat stress and the challenges faced by those who have experienced military conflict with Tami Urbanek with EmpowermentThroughHealing.org. This audio interview explores the emotional and psychological effects that can remain long after combat has ended.
Listen to Brian Wizard’s POW/MIA radio interview, featuring reflections on the Vietnam War and the enduring importance of remembering prisoners of war and those still missing in action.
March 3, 2026:
- “Good post. I certainly appreciate this site. Continue the good work!”
- June 9, 2026:
- “Very interesting points you have noted, regards for posting.”
- June 8, 2026:
- “I don’t normally comment but I gotta say regards for the post on this amazing one :D.”
“I attended the Forest Fire Lookout Association Conference in Enterprise, OR. There were several lookout tours and the first one was to the Tope Creek lookout, privately owned by Brian Wizard.” – Cheryl Hill
What A Fellow Veteran Has Said
A review from a fellow airman: John Brennan, SP5 Flight Operations Coordinator with the 114 AHC, 1970-71, noted Viet Nam historian and author of the books “U.S. Army Helicopter Names in Viet Nam” and “U.S. Army Helicopter Nose Art in Viet Nam.”
Now ain’t that just about as cool as two shoes when walking on hot pavement?
The Honoring of a Veteran
by Alyas Rokovitz
Brian “Wizard” Willard is someone I would personally like to honor for his tenacity, creativity, and sheer zest for life! Brian served as a combat assault helicopter door gunner during the Vietnam War in 1968–1969, serving in Vietnam during one of the most challenging periods of the conflict.
Even today, Brian remains a go-getter, focused on building his legacy and living life to the fullest despite the challenges and curveballs life can bring. He’s a quirky, unconventional individual who doesn’t always filter his words, but his straightforward nature is part of what makes him uniquely himself. He isn’t someone who sets out to be rude or insulting; he simply sees and expresses things in his own way.
One of the things I admire most about Brian is that he has spent his life creating. His artistic spirit shines through in the more than 17 e-books he has written, including fictional stories inspired by his years in Vietnam and the challenges of returning to civilian life afterward. His creativity extends beyond writing to the many statues, buttons, and musical projects he has poured his time and energy into bringing to life.
Brian’s legacy also includes helping preserve an important piece of aviation and military history at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. Pollution IV was the 118th Assault Helicopter Company’s smoke ship, and Brian’s book and movie tell the story of a day in the life of a smoke ship in combat. When he donated his helmet and scarf to the museum, he realized that the Huey on display, despite its smoke ship history, was missing a crucial piece: its smoke generator.
When the museum’s Roger Connor asked where they could find such a vintage piece of equipment, Brian’s response was classic Wizard: “Hold that thought. I’ll get back to you.” And he did! Brian tracked down the missing smoke generator, which Roger installed, helping complete the Huey display. Brian didn’t just contribute artifacts; he helped bring a piece of the smoke ship’s story to life for future generations. That kind of initiative, knowledge, and determination speaks volumes about the man behind the Wizard nickname.
Some of his creations and ideas may be considered unconventional, but then again, Brian himself is anything but ordinary! He has continued to express himself, pursue his passions, and build a legacy that reflects his individuality, experiences, and willingness to think outside the box.
To me, honoring a veteran means recognizing not only the service they gave, but also the life they’ve continued to live, the obstacles they’ve faced, the history they’ve helped preserve, and the unique mark they leave on the world.
Hats off to you, Mr. Wizard! Thank you for your military service in Vietnam, your creativity, your generosity, your perseverance, and for continuing to live life on your own terms. Your story deserves to be celebrated!