New OFM Acquisition (It's Official)

[Curtis Block]

The official unavailing of the "new" Olympic Flight Museum OH-6A was last night at a volunteer dinner. Sorry Brad, I guess you jumped the gun. This aircraft is a combat veteran and was shot down multiple time serving in Vietnam It will be an excellent addition to the stable of flying helicopter warbirds already at the OFM which include two AH-1P's, a UH-1H, and a HH-1K. During the unavailing, distinguished volunteer, Vietnam Vet. and undisputed OFM helicopter crew chief (and Santa) Chuck Manly was honored. Not only by getting his wish for an OH-6, but also by having his name displayed as "Door Gunner," on this aircraft. Unfortunately I do not have the complete history on this helicopter, Brian, if you wish to enlighten us please do so.

[RickH]

This OH-6 was restored by Jim Ray of JR Helicopters at Ellington Field-Houston. Jimmy is a retired Warrant 4 and knows all things helicopter. He was instrumental in returning the Collings UH-1E to flight status. Jimmy is qickly becoming the UH-1 guru down here.

[Shay]

Nice helo, always a fav.

Just one thing, why does have to be "shiney"? Don't believe they were in SEA.

Still a beautifully restored bird.


Shay
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Semper Fortis

[RickH]

Because Gary Trichter, the guy who had it rebuilt wanted it that way, I guess.

[Shay]

Because Gary Trichter, the guy who had it rebuilt wanted it that way, I guess.

Works for me


Shay
_____________
Semper Fortis

[jamesintucson]

Nice helo, always a fav.

Just one thing, why does have to be "shiney"? Don't believe they were in SEA.

Still a beautifully restored bird.


Shay
____________
Semper Fortis

Surprisingly enough some were painted in gloss paint in Vietnam. I discovered it while I was researching the paint scheme for the OH-6 we just redid here at Pima. Sometime around 1970 they appear to have started painting the Loach in gloss colors. I've no idea why but it is clearly evident in photos that the paint is not flat.

James