Vietnam War Patch RAVOLI RANGERS US 12th RITS at TAN SON NHUT Airbase 1970-1972 For Sale

Unit: 12th RITS – 12th Reconnaissance Intelligence Technical Squadron
Nickname: \"Ravoli Rangers\" (tongue-in-cheek reference to the canned C-rations often eaten in the field)
Time Frame: 1970–1972
Base: Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Republic of Vietnam

The 12th RITS was a key component of the USAF\'s photo intelligence and reconnaissance exploitation effort. Their mission included:

• Processing high-resolution aerial reconnaissance photography (SR-71 Blackbird, RF-4C Phantom II, and drone/UAV imagery)

• Supporting tactical strike planning by analyzing terrain, enemy positions, and battle damage

• Working in conjunction with MACV, 7th Air Force, and Strategic Air Command elements

• Producing timely, actionable intelligence reports and photo mosaics for field commanders

• The squadron was composed of photo interpreters, imagery analysts, intelligence officers, and technical support personnel.

• The nickname “Ravioli Rangers” came from a mix of humor and hardship — long shifts, 24-hour operations, and lots of C-rations like canned ravioli.

• Facilities included secure photo labs, map and imagery libraries, and briefing rooms—often heavily guarded due to the sensitive nature of the materials.

• Many members worked in blackout conditions, with red lights and specialized equipment to protect film and maintain night vision readiness.

• RF-4C Phantom II – Tactical aerial reconnaissance

• AQM-34 Firebee drones – Reconnaissance drones launched and recovered by C-130s

• SR-71 Blackbird (detached assets)

• Worked closely with Det. 1, 67th Reconnaissance Technical Squadron, and 7th Air Force Intelligence

• Members of the 12th RITS are remembered for their precision, professionalism, and technical excellence, often working behind the scenes to ensure the success of major combat operations.

• Many veterans of the unit recall their service with a mix of pride and humor—“Ravioli Rangers” was a badge of honor among those who lived on fast coffee, no sleep, and \"Chef Boyardee in a can.\"

• The unit’s contributions were essential in BDA (Battle Damage Assessment) and target verification for Arc Light, Linebacker, and Commando Hunt missions.

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