The Georgia Tech Chapter of the American Helicopter Society (AHS) was well-represented last weekend at a special celebration of Vietnam Veterans, organized by the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation at the Henry County Airport.

AHS members Joachim Hodara, Stephen Marone, Philip Cross and Michael Mayo enjoyed a "Huey Ride" after hearing a compelling talk by Butch Elliot, a Vietnam Vet who was shot down in Laos in March of 1971.

"He survived for three days, surrounded by the North Vietnamese Army. His story was pretty epic!" said Hodara. Hodara also spent some time talking with AAHF vice president,  Cliff Stern, who indicated his interest in doing presentations at Tech some time in the future. 

Stern also said his organization would love to recruit volunteers from Tech to help them repair their helicopters.

"This would be a great experience for Tech students- really nice to leave the classroom for a bit and see actual helicopters and rotor systems," said Hodara. "Volunteers can even get free rides on the Cobra and Huey."

Hodara said the chapter will reach out to AAHF to review the possibilities.