And that is the rub, after long days, flying loads into wild canyons and etc. I can see the weary young pilots wanting to be 'nice' and make their presence known to the volunteers on the ground. Unfortunately, unlike a U.S. flightline, neat and tidy - no debris ready to lift off, that citizens' distribution point was a FOD farm because it was specifically not a landing zone with the helos they were supporting..
Really, I was thinking , what could the pilots do but once realizing the mess they'd created, pull collective, slowly back away and get out of there, which would also increase the debris storm on the ground. Unfortunately for all, it happened and is definitely not a 'career enhancing move'.
'So, lieutenants, how did you two get selected to be Chief of Sewage Trap Inspections and Maintenance, here on Shemya ?"
Yes, rotor blast has to be experienced to believe how powerful it is. My unit was out for a little PT run and two CH-53s decided to land to our left on our sprint back to the post. Even in top shape it was difficult to keep legs from tangling and bodies all vertical and headed the right direction; fun times.