Huey Iroquois Helicopter Arrives at TASM
The Tulsa Air and Space Museum and Planetarium gained a new addition to the museum as a Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopter arrived on Dec. 5. The aircraft was delivered by one of Melton Truck Lines’ Military Pride wrapped trucks.
The Bell UH-1 Iroquois aircraft, nicknamed “Huey”, first flew in 1956 and entered full production in 1960. It was the first turbine-powered aircraft to be produced for the United States military and played an integral role throughout the Vietnam War. In total, more than 16,000 Huey helicopters have been built since production began and more than 7,000 were utilized in Vietnam.
“The Huey was a great workhorse of the Vietnam War, and became a symbol of the era,” said Tonya Blansett, executive director of the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium. “With this aircraft, we hope to honor those who served and remember those who gave their lives there.”
’s Huey aircraft is an ongoing restoration project, museum guests will be able to visit regularly and check the ongoing progress. A team of volunteers led by a Vietnam War veteran, who served as a Huey crew chief, will work on finishing the project. is currently accepting donations to go toward the project. Commemorative bricks to honor a Vietnam War veteran are also available for purchase.
“We are honored to partner with the Tulsa Air and Space Museum on this historical project,” said Russ Elliott, executive vice president and chief operating officer at Melton Truck Lines, Inc. “With nearly 30 percent of our company consisting of military members, we are always eager to accept opportunities that recognize our veterans. The project’s delivery to serves as an exhibit to be appreciated by all and an exceptional tribute to those who have sacrificed for our country.”
About
Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium is the region’s hub of science based learning through discovery. Each year, more than 50,000 visitors pass through the museum to explore Tulsa’s rich aviation heritage and explore the correlation of science and technology with flight. Learn more at tulsamuseum.org.
About Melton Truck Lines, Inc.
Headquartered in Tulsa, Melton Truck Lines Inc. is an award-winning leader in the air-ride flatbed industry and services the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In business for over 60 years, Melton has offices and terminals in Tulsa, Laredo, El Paso, Birmingham and Masury. For more information, visit meltontruck.com.
Updated 12-19-2018
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