UH-1B Iroquois

UH-1B Iroquois. . , The Bell Helicopter UH-1 Iroquois is widely considered one of the most iconic aircraft in military history. Powered by a single turboshaft engine with a two-bladed main rotor and tall rotor, the helicopter was developed in 1952 to meet the Army's requirement for a medical evacuation and utility helicopter. It first flew on October 20, 1956 and was then ordered into production in March, 1960. The UH-1 was the first turbine-powered to enter production for the United States military and by the end of over 35 years of service the Iroquois would go through 13 variations. Over 16,000 Huey aircraft were built worldwide.

The HU-1B was an early version of the Iroquois and due to the "HU" aircraft designation developed its nickname, the 'Huey.' The designation was changed to "UH" in 1962, but the nickname would last forever. Powered by a Lycoming T-53-L-11, 1,100 shp engine, the B-Model Huey first entered Army service in March 1961, with 1,014 being delivered through December 1965. The first UH-1Bs, 8 gunships and 17 'slicks' (lightly armed transports), arrived in South Vietnam in May 1963 to support South Vietnamese forces. By war's end, the venerable Huey would become the symbol of the Vietnam War and redefine helicopter warfare.

This UH-1B helicopter, tall number 61-788, was one of three U.S. Army Helicopters to make the first rotary wing flight to the South Geographic Pole Antarctic, landing there February 4, 1963. This part Operation Deep Freeze. The aircraft were assigned to US Army Aviation Detachment, Antarctic Support here at Fort Eustis, which at that time was called Task Detachment #3. After returning from its historic flight, this aircraft, along with 61-789 and 61-803, was taken to the New York World's Fair. This is the only remaining aircraft of the three that first flew at the South Pole.