We would like to thank
MSGT USAF RETIRED SHAYNE MEDER,
and all the VOLUNTEERS and CREW
  "Dedicated to Aircraft Restoration for the Preservation of Aviation History" at

 

Located just off the I-215 Freeway at the Van Buren Exit in Riverside, California
For assistance call (909) 697-6600
Some of the images below are Copyrighted © Our THANKS to the March Field Air Museum Webmaster for permitting their use.

 

 

 

The OH-6A helicopter above, serial number 68-17252, was built by Hughes and purchased by the US Army in Aug 1969 to the 25th Infantry, Vietnam.  In 1971, it was assigned to "our brothers" of CharlieTroop, 1st of the 9th Cav, serving in combat in Vietnam. It returned stateside later in 1971 after accumulating approx 1,340 combat hours.   During this time it was shot down 4 times and had 2 non-combat accidents.   It was repaired and as of 1988 was still flying in the New York Army Guard.   It was donated to March Field Air Museum in 2000 by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department .

This historical helicopter is a rare find because of its significance to all Vietnam Veterans. It is a proud addition to the museum's collection. It is currently in restoration (non-flying) and is estimated to be completed late in 2001, with an estimated cost of approximately $6000.00.   Donations to the museum for this worthy cause should be specifically marked with the words: "C/1/9 LOH Restoration".   When restored, it will display the insignia and colors of the CAV and C/1/9, the last troop to fly her in combat.

Demonstrating the bond that exists among Cavalry "brothers" - See more photos
If anyone knows of a Bravo or Charlie, 1st Squadron, 9th Cav Veteran in the So. California area who can offer their assistance to assure this helicopter is historically accurate in displayed colors and components, please contact loretta@pe.net or MSGT Shayne Meder. If you have photos of this LOH, please email them so we can add them to this section of our web site. Also, your suggestions for raising restoration funds and unveiling this LOH at completion are appreciated.

   
                                 
                              History   Boeing (McDonnell Douglas) (formerly Hughes model 369A) OH-6A, was designed for use as a military scout during the Vietnam war to meet the U.S. Army's need for an extremely maneuverable light observation helicopter (LOH program). The Hughes OH-6A Cayuse was quite effective when teamed with the AH-1G Cobra attack helicopter as part of what were known as Pink Teams. The OH-6A Loach would find targets by flying low, "trolling" for fire, and lead in a Cobra, or Snake, to attack.

   
                              Specifications
Description
Manufacturer: Hughes Aircraft Division, Culver City, California
Designation: OH-6
Version: A
Nickname: Cayuse
Type: Light Observation
Accommodation: Crew of two and provision for two seated passengers or four equipped troops in rear of cabin.
U.S. Army Serial No.: 68-17252

   
                               
Dimensions
Length: 23 ft 1 in.
Height: 8 ft 6 in.
Rotor Diameter: 26 ft 4 in.

   
                               
Weights
Empty Weight:  1,156 lbs.
Gross Weight:   2,698 lbs.
Max. Weight:    2,700 lbs.
   
                               
Propulsion
Power plant: Single Allison T63-A-5A Turboshaft
Horsepower:  317 hp

   
                               
Performance
Range: 380 miles
Cruise Speed: 134 mph at sea level
Max. Speed: 150 mph at sea level
Ceiling: 15,500 ft

   
                               
Armament
None    
                                       
 

© Loretta Stager 2000-2005 All rights reserved. Duplication of any part of this web site is strictly prohibited.
This is a non-commercial site.

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