Monday, November 21, 2011

Helicopter and Crew Jump into Action in Reno

PFLUGERVILE, TX – NOVEMBER 21, 2011 -- As we celebrate Thanksgiving here in the United States, we have so much to be thankful for.  There are 5 people that were injured in the crash of the Galloping Ghost at the Reno Air Races that are especially thankful for one 1965 Bell UH-1 Huey Helicopter and its crew for airlifting them from Stead Field to the Renown Regional Medical Center in downtown Reno. 

LiveAirShowTV interviewed this incredible crew less than 48 hours after the event, and now they tell their story.  Chief Pilot, Ray Murphy, Pilot and First-Responder, Brent Marker, and Co-owner, Chris Miller recounted the moments following the crash when they pressed this helicopter back into service just like it had done so many times in the late 1960’s in Vietnam. 

Imagery for this story was provided by Ron Kaplan, who was in the Heritage Invitational area where the Huey was on display.  He witnessed and shot the events that took place as the Huey was pushed out.  He was also there when it returned and was placed back inside the fence.  Special thanks to the Reno Gazette Journal and Liz Margerum for the shots in the park next to the hospital.

“This was a tragic event in every sense of the word”, said LiveAirShowTV President, Jeff Lee.  “We witnessed the crash, but we were unable to see this heroic mission due to the media restrictions on the field.  It is gratifying to know that some of those who served so many years ago were ready, willing and able to step up and help out again.  They will brush off the ‘hero’ label, but their actions speak to their character and courage.”

To see this incredible story, Click Here.

Also, go to http://www.liveairshowtv.com/links to find out more about this helicopter and its history.  A companion article is also available in the November/December 2011 issue of Warbird Digest.  Connie May’s article “One More Mission” expands the story with an interview from the other owner, Tim Horrell.

LiveAirShowTV continues to bring new stories to the air show and aviation community even though the air show season has ended.  The Sport Air Racing League season just crowned its season champions, the International Council of Air Shows convention is upon us, and many more profiles and features are on the way.

Continue to watch the web site, Facebook Fan Page, and follow us on Twitter.  We are the “Eyes and Ears of Aviation, Today!”

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