WATSONVILLE — The army green helicopter that arrived at Watsonville Municipal Airport Monday began its life during the Vietnam War, and also served time in Alaska.
Most recently the Bell UH-1 series Iroquois, better known as a “Huey,” was pulling civilian crop-dusting duty in Florida.
After an overhaul and a new coat of paint, it will be ready as soon as springtime to clock in as a firefighting helicopter for the U.S. Forest Service and CalFire.
Among other things, the Huey must now be fitted with a “Bambi Bucket” that will scoop water to be dropped on fires. It will also get a slick orange-and-white paint job to distinguish it as a firefighting helicopter.
Owner Ryan Corey said he sought out the Huey for its strength and durability.
“It’s a great firefighting helicopter,” he said. “You can get them into some tough spots.”
Corey will fly the helicopter as a contractor for CalFire and the U.S. Forest Service.
Long respected for its versatility, the Huey made its appearance in 1963 and were used during the Vietnam War for Medevac, command and control, air assault and personnel transport. They could be outfitted with guns and carry 14 people. They could carry a 4,000-pound payload and had a 285-mile range.
