Restored Vietnam-era Huey helicopter coming to West Chester

The Vietnam War was known as “The Helicopter War” due to the versatility of rotary wing craft during the conflict. The Bell UH-1 Iroquois “Huey” became the war’s symbol as it effortlessly rescued, deployed, transported, supplied and supported the troops.

These iconic workhorses are now part of an artist’s sculpture titled, “Take Me Home Huey,” that will arrive at the American Helicopter Museum and Education Center (AHMEC) on Thursday, June 15, complete with motorcade. It will be the focus of a presentation by three of her original crew members on Saturday, June 17, and the star of this year’s FatherFest on Sunday, June 18, including screenings of an eponymous award-winning documentary.

The U.S. Army aircraft, known by its serial number simply as 174, served in Vietnam as a medevac before being shot down in 1969 during a rescue mission. Unfortunately, two crewmen perished, but, others survived to tell their tales.

Three survivors from #174 will speak on June 17 and 18, in AHMEC’s theatre at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., respectively. Hosted by Dr. Robert Kodosky, AHMEC Board member and West Chester University history professor, Ralph Tutrani, Walter McNees and David Adams will join Dave Barron of Light Horse Legacy, Inc., who spearheaded #174’s restoration, to discuss their service and what reuniting with this valuable ship, each other and other Vietnam veterans means to them.

“To experience the Take Me Home Huey exhibit is not to see some old beatup helicopter,” said Barron, “174 has a presence; you can touch it, and history. One of the veterans with the project explains (that) the spirit of all those who fought are in that ship. As you stand in (its) shadow you hear and see the emotional impact of the veterans. For younger generations, the art form coupled with the size and scope of the helicopter brings into focus the events that have shaped our lives today.”