A group of Veterans from the 192nd Attack Helicopter Company of the 1st Aviation Division reunited at the Bell Training Academy in Fort Worth, TX for a tour, sharing memories and remembering their time serving. The 192nd AHC served in the Vietnam war as Pole Cats and Tiger Sharks. Now they have formed an organization of AHC family for those that served from 1965 to 1974 to support one another. The reunion tour strengthened the deep connection between Veterans and Bell, showing the evolution of the helicopter and its role in both military and civilian applications.
The tour gave the Veterans an in-depth look at Bell’s state-of-the-art facilities and advancements in aviation technology, as well as a chance to see an operationally active Huey again. As they walked through the academy and maintenance hangars, the Veterans shared stories of their experiences, and the profound impact Bell aircraft had on their lives.
“We keep our spirits up by getting together and letting each other know that regardless, we were and still are patriots, brothers and true aviators,” said Frank Bermudez, board member of the 192nd AHC. “With our perseverance induced skills added to the great training, we did the unexpected with those aircraft. The tour taught us the historical role Bell has played and how helicopters have now become an essential part of all military branches.”
The reunion was not only a time to share stories but a testament to the enduring legacy of Bell. The Veterans recounted their time in Vietnam emphasizing how Bell aircraft, specifically the iconic Huey, played a crucial role in saving lives during service.
“Bell holds a special significance for these veterans, as the Huey’s they piloted played a vital role in supporting and executing lifesaving missions overseas,” said Aaron Runnerstrom, sales representative, North America, Bell. “Stories were shared about Bell's tremendous impact in Vietnam, highlighting how the Huey saved lives and played a crucial role during deployments. We deeply appreciate their service and sacrifices, and it means so much to Bell to continue supporting both veterans and United States active-duty personnel. Their dedication and bravery inspire us every day.”
The Bell Training Academy, a state-of-the-art flight facility, offers an opportunity to learn from Bell’s expert instructors. The BTA utilizes flight simulators, interactive academics, and full touchdown autorotation’s, something that separates Bell’s customer training experience.
To find out more about the Bell Training Academy, visit https://www.bellflight.com/support/commercial/training.
About Bell
Thinking above and beyond is what we do. For more than 85 years, we’ve been reimagining the experience of flight – and where it can take us.
We are pioneers. We were the first to break the sound barrier and to certify a commercial helicopter. We were a part of NASA’s first lunar mission and brought advanced tiltrotor systems to market. Today, we’re defining the future of advanced air mobility.
Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas – as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Textron Inc., – we have strategic locations around the globe. And with nearly one quarter of our workforce having served, helping our military achieve their missions is a passion of ours.
Above all, our breakthrough innovations deliver exceptional experiences to our customers. Efficiently. Reliably. And always, with safety at the forefront.
About Textron
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Pipistrel, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, and Textron Systems. For more information, visit: www.textron.com.
Contact details
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- Alexis Baird
- Innovation and Commercial Business for Europe, Middle East and Africa
- kbaird@bellflight.com
- +1 817-487-1020
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- Gianna Messina
- Commercial Business, The Americas
- gmessina@bellflight.com
- 682-219-3532
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