Bell UH-1 Iroquois (Huey) 101st Airborne Division – Vietnam War 1:48 Scale Diecast Model By Air Force 1

• Realistic Collectible Model
• Diecast & Plastic parts
• Highly detailed cockpit and accurate markings
• Display stand included
• Measures 14.5” L x 12” Rotor diameter.
• Display model, recommended for adult hobbyists and collectors.

The Bell UH-1 Iroquois (nicknamed “Huey”) is a utility military helicopter powered by a single turboshaft engine, with two-blade main and tail rotors. The first member of the prolific Huey family, it was developed by Bell Helicopter to meet a United States Army’s 1952 requirement for a medical evacuation and utility helicopter, and first flew on October 22, 1956.

The UH-1 was the first turbine-powered helicopter to enter production in 1960 for the United States military.  Bell Helicopter built 10,005 Hueys from 1957 to 1975.  Records show that 7,013 Hueys served in the Vietnam War of which 1,925 were lost in combat and an additional 1,380 were lost due to operational accidents.

More than 16,000 Hueys have been built since the start of production.  The Huey helicopter family of many variants continues to fly to this day in both military and civilian service around the world.

This Air Force One model represents the “Huey” from B Troop, 2nd Squadron, 17th Cavalry, 101st Airborne Division  on June 2, 1969. It was during a mission on this day that SP4 Joseph LaPointe was flown into a landing zone (LZ) with his unit aboard this helicopter (BUNO 17573).  Shortly after being dropped off at the LZ two men in his unit were wounded and in the face of heavy enemy fire LaPointe risked his own life by crawling to his fellow soldiers and shielding them while sustaining his own wounds.  The 3 men were killed moments later by a grenade.  For his actions SP4 LaPointe was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honer.

This is a great historical addition to your diecast aircraft collection.