Huey Helicopter Dedication Ceremony: A Day to Remember

On Saturday, July 12, 2025, Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial hosted the Huey Helicopter Dedication Ceremony, a truly unforgettable moment in our mission to honor and preserve the legacy of our nation’s Veterans.

We were blown away by the turnout, with over 600 visitors gathering to witness the dedication of the restored UH-1 “Huey” helicopter. And just in time, the skies cleared, creating the perfect backdrop for a powerful and meaningful ceremony.

Ceremony Highlights

The event began with an invocation from Ben Wiles, BCC, followed by a presentation of colors by H&S Company, 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marines, 4th Marine Division – Marine Corps Forces Reserve. Their presence brought both dignity and reverence to the occasion.

We were honored to welcome the following guest speakers:

  • Sandra Adams and Family
  • Major General Charles D. Hausman, Adjutant General, Missouri National Guard
  • Kevin Robinson, Colonel, U.S. Army Retired

Each speaker shared reflections that captured the heart of the Huey’s legacy and the importance of honoring those who served.

Following the ceremony, we held a ribbon cutting with the Perryville Chamber of Commerce, officially welcoming the Huey to its new home on our campus.

A Community Effort

One of the most unforgettable moments of the day came when Chris and Linda Kertz brought their M4A3 Sherman Tank and fired it in salute! It was a powerful reminder of the strength, service, and sacrifice we gather to honor.

We also want to extend our deepest gratitude to the 40+ volunteers who worked tirelessly to restore the Huey helicopter. Their dedication to every detail is evident; the Huey looks absolutely stunning.

A special and heartfelt thank-you goes to Kevin Robinson, who not only served as a guest speaker but also spearheaded the effort to bring the Huey to Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial. Without Kevin’s leadership, vision, and relentless commitment, this project would not have come to life. For that, we offer our sincere thanks.

With Gratitude to Our Sponsors

This event would not have been possible without the generosity of our event sponsors:

  • Midamerica Hotels Corporation
  • Mary Jane’s Burgers & Brew
  • Buchheit
  • BBL Construction

Your support helped bring this vision to life and made the day one to remember.