HH-53 Super Jolly Green Giant

Sikorsky HH-53 Jolly Green Giant helicopter model. The Sikorsky HH-53 Super Jolly Green Giant, operated by the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service, was deployed in the Vietnam conflict starting in 1967. It swiftly joined operations with the 3rd Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Group. Known as the Jolly, this helicopter was the Air Force's most substantial, swiftest, and most potent heavy-lift chopper, with a capacity for 38 passengers or 24 stretcher patients, along with four attendants and a five-member crew, reaching speeds of up to 195 miles per hour. It was also equipped to transport hefty cargo via an external sling. For defense, it boasted three 7.62 miniguns, each capable of discharging 2,000 to 4,000 rounds per minute, and could be air-refueled by HC-130N/Ps. In Southeast Asia, most rescues were executed by a Search and Rescue (SAR) Task Force consisting of Jollys or other helicopters, Kings (HC-130s), Sandys (A-1s), and fighter aircraft (typically F-105s and F-4s). The King served as the On-Scene Commander, while the fighters secured the area. Once the enemy was cleared, the Sandys escorted the Jollys, offering close-air support as the helicopter hovered to retrieve the survivor. From 1964 to mid-August 1973, the rescue teams saved 3,883 lives at the expense of 71 rescuers and 45 aircraft. Their actions embodied their creed: "That Others May Live."

Mahogany Wood. Scale: 1/48. Rotorspan 19 1/2 inches, Length 18 1/4 inches.