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| By Carmelo Turdo |
Missouri's National Veterans Memorial will dedicate their newest outdoor display - a Vietnam War-Era Bell Helicopter UH-1B Iroquois, popularly known as the Huey, during a public unveiling this Saturday, July 12. The iconic aircraft, destined for the scrap yard, was rescued just over a year ago by a volunteer group of veterans and skilled tradesmen determined to see her proudly represent those who served during that tumultuous decade in Southeast Asia. It will become a place of contemplation and healing along with the replica Vietnam War Memorial Wall, Honor Flag Memorial, Guardians of Freedom Pavilion, the Old Guard statue and the James M. Eddleman Military Museum located on the sprawling Memorial grounds.
The Aero Experience visited West Star Aviation Perryville as the volunteers completed the final touches on the aircraft and transported it to the Memorial in advance of this weekend's dedication ceremony. We were warmly welcomed by West Star General Manager Kyle French, project coordinator Kevin Robinson, Memorial Executive Director Rae Lynn Munoz and the project crew as they worked hard on hot summer days to ensure the Huey landed on its mount on time. The safe transport of the aircraft was accomplished with the help of Whisler Aviation and Scott Jannin Crane Service and Trucking. Once on site, additional assistance in securing and wiring the aircraft for lights was provided by Dreyer Electric.
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| Kevin Robinson |
In the coming weeks, The Aero Experience will tell the tale of how this Huey helicopter was recovered and given a place of honor representing America's military heroes, their families, the local community, the State of Missouri and the nation. Look for our multi-part series containing exclusive photos and video of the process from those who dedicated 1707 hours of volunteer work over the last fourteen months leading up to this weekend. Here is a preview of our coverage:
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