A large and enthusiastic crowd braved overcast skies to witness a significant new chapter in Missouri’s commemoration of military service: the unveiling and dedication of a restored Vietnam War-era Bell UH-1 Iroquois “Huey” helicopter at Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial (MNVM) in Perryville.
The ceremony, emceed by MNVM executive director Rae Lynn Munoz, marked the culmination of a yearlong restoration effort and celebrated the helicopter’s new status as a permanent outdoor display.
The Huey, a 1964 model, was previously on display at Wentworth Academy before being transferred to Perryville in March 2024 through the cooperation of the Museum of Missouri Military History.
Its journey to Perryville signaled the start of a significant transformation, as a team led by Col. Kevin P. Robinson, US Army (Ret.), and supported by more than 50 volunteers and local businesses, dedicated over 1,700 hours to restoring the aircraft to its former glory.
As the centerpiece of the day’s events, the Huey’s restoration included extensive cleaning, disassembly, sheet metal repair, and reassembly, ensuring its place as a lasting tribute to those who served in the Vietnam War.
The morning’s program featured remarks from Major General Charles D. Hausman, adjutant general of the Missouri National Guard, who was instrumental in facilitating the helicopter’s transfer to Perryville.
In his speech, Hausman underscored the Huey’s importance as a living testament to the courage and resilience of Vietnam-era veterans. “This Huey represents a promise fulfilled to you and your families,” he said, addressing veterans and their loved ones in attendance.
“It’s a testament to your resilience, your courage and the enduring power of the American spirit. What a fitting home it has found to stand beside this wall. To stand in the presence and memories of heroes.”
Col. Robinson shared the story behind the restoration, describing the project as an “unscripted plan” that developed through teamwork and community spirit. He highlighted the contributions of numerous volunteers, whose efforts restored the Huey, tail number 908, as an educational and inspirational centerpiece for future generations.
According to Robinson, the addition of the Huey helicopter not only enhances the memorial’s ability to honor those who served but also strengthens its mission to preserve military history and educate the public about the cost of freedom.
“It will be a great attraction to an already amazing place in the world, right here in our backyard,” Robinson said, expressing pride in the collaborative effort that made the project possible.
The dedication attracted a diverse crowd, including local and state officials, members of the Missouri National Guard, veterans and their families, memorial board members, and community supporters. The ribbon-cutting was performed by the MNVM board, and the event wrapped up with an impressive salute — a World War II-era M4A3 Sherman Tank, brought by Chris and Linda Kertz, fired a ceremonial blank round, echoing across the memorial grounds.
Visitors to the site can now see the Huey along with other prominent tributes, including a full-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall—one of the most accurate in the nation—as well as the Honor Flag Memorial, the Guardians of Freedom monument, and the Old Guard statue.
The MNVM grounds are open 24 hours a day, offering a peaceful setting for reflection, while the welcome center and military museum provide educational exhibits and staff assistance daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information about Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial, upcoming events, or to plan a visit, the public is encouraged to visit the memorial’s official website at mnvmfund.org or the MNVM Facebook page.
