As a retiree and Navy Vietnam veteran, I found myself with time on my hands and a desire to be involved in something meaningful. A visit to the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum (CAF) in Mesa, Ariz., provided the answer. The opportunity to become a docent, giving tours to the public and sharing stories of that moment in time, has become a passion project, one I love sharing with others.
One of my favorite things to share is the experience of the helicopters from that era. The Huey, Cobra and Loach 06 are all on display at the CAF, and I love giving people the ability to see them up close while I delve into the history of these amazing machines. For many, revisiting these helicopters is like reuniting with an old friend. For others, it can help to bring a little closure to an often forgotten time.
Even better is taking these helicopters on the road. When "Miss Saigon" was running at ASU Gammage, we had the privilege of displaying the Huey outside the theater, allowing people to make the real-world connection.
With the success of that endeavor, the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation (AAHF) would like to bring these helicopters to you, The American Legion. In an effort to bring veterans together, the Southwest chapter of the AAHF is ready to bring the Huey, Cobra and Loach 06 to your post. We now have a hangar at Falcon Field in Mesa.
If you are interested in scheduling a post visit with the AAHF and the helicopters, please contact Bob Williams at aahfbob@gmail.com.
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