CH-46 Fly In

If you didn't already know, my dad flew helicopters for the Marines. The one he flew exclusively (?) was the CH-46. It has been in use since the 1960s but it was decided this year to retire it. One of these helicopters is going to be on display at the National Museum of the Marine Corps. However, that museum isn't quite ready for it. Until then, it's going to be housed at the Dulles Air and Space (by far the cooler of the two Air and Space museums).

On Saturday they held a special program for this aircraft, including a fly in. Sadly, because my parents are on a mission in Germany, they missed it. But happily, we didn't! I'm so glad we were able to see this, as I have no recollection of ever seeing one fly before. (This is largely in part that I was little when he retired.) But as Chuck and I have a few more years to go in our 18-year plan, I'm sure my parents will be back to visit us and we can see it wherever it is then.

Taxiing on the runway. Who didn't know this museum has a runway?! (This girl.) Who probably should have guessed this museum has a runway? (This girl.)




We didn't hear this part so well, but those Marines sure are fancy.


This one, however, is not at all fancy.


Getting to go inside.










And of course, pictures from the outside.




This picture was taken by a man that actually knew my dad! When he told me his name, Raquel, I'm sure you can understand why I was so confused. It wasn't until I skyped with my parents the next day that they told me it was a nickname. Phew.


We had a great time and really enjoyed seeing this machine in action. I can't wait to show it to my parents!

P.S. If you want, here's the three-minute video of the entire fly in. That other crazy helicopter behind the CH-46? An Osprey. It's crazy.