Tragic Helicopter Accidents Claim Lives of ‘Combat!’
Star and Director
In 1961, the picturesque beaches of Malibu served as an unlikely backdrop for a Hollywood production crew.
They were tasked with recreating the iconic storming of Ohama Beach on D-Day during World War II.
This ambitious project, titled “A Day In June,” was directed by Boris Sagal and starred Vic Morrow as Sgt.
“Chip” Saunders.
Morrow, known for his rugged on-screen presence, was given a chance to shine in the lead role.
Despite being the first episode filmed, “A Day in June” ended up airing as the 11th installment of the series Combat!.
Vic Morrow’s name, however, would later become associated with a tragic incident that forever changed the course of his career.
Two decades after Combat!
premiered, Morrow secured a role in Twilight Zone: The Movie.
In this anthology film, directed by John Landis, Morrow portrayed a racist who travels back in time to learn empathy.
Unfortunately, it was during the filming of a war scene set in Vietnam that a horrifying accident occurred.
A pyrotechnics explosion caused a helicopter to lose control and crash onto Morrow and two child actors.
This devastating incident claimed the lives of Morrow and the two young performers, leaving a dark mark on the history of filmmaking.
Ironically, Morrow was not the only casualty from the Combat!
series to meet a tragic fate involving a helicopter.
Just months prior to Morrow’s accident, director Boris Sagal, who had worked closely with him on the show, also lost his life due to a helicopter-related incident.
Sagal, known for his contributions to classic TV, including directing his daughter Katey Sagal in a Columbo episode, met his untimely demise when he accidentally walked into a helicopter blade on the set of the miniseries World War III.
These unfortunate occurrences serve as a grim reminder of the dangers that can arise during the production of television and film.
The loss of Morrow and Sagal not only devastated their families but also left a void in the entertainment industry.
While their names will forever be associated with these tragic accidents, it is important to remember them for their contributions to the world of acting and directing.
Vic Morrow’s portrayal of Sgt.
“Chip” Saunders in Combat!
showcased his talent and screen presence, capturing the hearts of audiences.
Boris Sagal, a respected director, left behind a legacy of memorable TV moments
Image file: The_star_and_the_director_of_the_1961_’Combat!
