A VIETNAM War-era helicopter has found a permanent home at Scottsdale.
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The Bell UH-1 Iroquois — affectionately dubbed the Huey — arrived yesterday on the back of a semi-trailer and Scottsdale RSL president Bruce Scott said that it would be taken to a secure location while its new home was being built.
‘‘This helicopter was used extensively in Vietnam — it would fly us out into the jungle and fly us back as well as carrying out the wounded and the dead,’’ the national service veteran said.
‘‘Work should start on the museum in the next few weeks and we expect to have it completed by Anzac Day next year.
‘‘The whole project is going to cost just over $300,000 and the state government has been very generous, giving us $230,000 towards that.
‘‘Unfortunately, we’re still a bit short, but I’m sure we’ll get there — at least we can get the building started.’’
Mr Scott said that the ramp at the back of the RSL building would be removed and the land used to accommodate a military museum, with the helicopter as its centrepiece.
The flagpole and gun in the middle of the block would be relocated towards the front boundary, he said.
Mr Scott said that Scottsdale had a rich military history and about 400 RSL members.