During a time when our country is currently at war, it is more imperative than ever to acknowledge, honor, and preserve what has made our country what it is today; a nation of pride and dedication.  Marine Helicopter Squadron 361 Veterans Association, Inc. is an all volunteer, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation located in Jamesport, New York whose goal is to both recognize and memorialize the brave servicemen and women that fought and continue to fight for our country, through education of the public, especially our youth.  Specifically, this organization focuses on the complete cosmetic and mechanical restoration of a Marine Corps (Sikorsky) UH-34D helicopter that was actually used by the U.S. military for combat rescue in Vietnam, served during the Cuban missile crisis, and used by NASA in its astronaut recovery operations during Project Mercury. 

  One of the principle objectives of our organization’s mission is to promote the historical significance and symbolism of this helicopter through public education and awareness by becoming a New York State recognized Aviation Museum.  We plan to more centrally relocate our traveling museum in order to be more accessible to over 120 Long Island public and private schools.  Additionally, our project will serve as a physical memorial to those who have faithfully served our country in the military, especially those who served during the Vietnam era in which this Marine helicopter was operational.

  We are pleased to report that in November 2005 the restoration phase was completed.  The Traveling History and Educational Museum has already been flown to numerous air shows and other events.  The helicopter is now scheduling events at air shows as well as being displayed in parades, schools, veteran events, and other public places throughout New York and across the United States. However, there are numerous monetary demands that remain to be met in order to continue our goal of becoming a successful and functional educational institution.

  We have been favorably recognized and acknowledged by public officials on both a local and national level including U.S. Senators John Glenn (D-Ohio), John McCain (R-Arizona), Charles Schumer (D-New York) and General Martin Steele of the Intrepid Air Sea Space Museum, as well as many public and private organizations including many schools.  Your company’s financial support would be most helpful as we begin the second phase of this ambitious and worthwhile project.

  I encourage you to review the Educational Sponsor Document where you will find additional information regarding the organizational, financial and technical status of our helicopter restoration project.  If there are any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at (631) 827-5526 or
.  Thank you in advance for your consideration. 

Marine Helicopter Squadron 361 Veterans Association, Inc. is an all volunteer 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization under the Internal Revenue Code

Sincerely,

Alan J. Weiss
President