TOPEKA (KSNT) – The Combat Air Museum has officially received the title to a Boeing CH-47D chinook helicopter after having the aircraft on loan for the past five years.
The helicopter, 85-24346, was first delivered to the U.S. Army in 1968 and went on to serve in multiple conflicts, including Vietnam and Iraq. Museum officials said the aircraft carries a long operational history, including service with the 101st Airborne and later deployments overseas.
“We’ve learned a lot about the helicopter, its mission, its importance in Vietnam and especially to one of our volunteers who actually crewed this helicopter in Iraq. But its history traces back to the Vietnam War,” said Combat Air Museum Director Kevin Drewelow.
(Photo By: Delaney Gregory)
(Photo By: Delaney Gregory)
(Photo By: Delaney Gregory)
The chinook is now undergoing restoration with help from veterans and community volunteers. Officials said the project has drawn support from individuals with direct experience working on the aircraft during its military service.
The museum said the goal is to eventually fully restore the helicopter and display it for visitors, preserving its history for future generations.
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