Two RNZAF Iriquois helicopters flew veterans around Napier yesterday as part of their farewell tour. Photo / Paul Taylor
The Iroquois helicopter, which served in conflicts such as the Vietnam war, took former soldiers on a final flight around Napier yesterday.
Hawke's Bay veterans enjoyed the opportunity to fly on the historic choppers before the aircraft are officially retired.
Drenched in sunshine the Bay put on a pearler for the nostalgic trip down memory lane, which took veterans from Napier Airport to Cape Kidnappers and back.
Among them was former regimental signaller, Napier man Mike Perreau.
He said the experience was one of pure nostalgia. "Its been 48 years but feels like only yesterday. "The distinctive thump, thump, thump of the chopper blades took me right back to the jungle."
Mr Perreau served in Vietnam from 1968-69 as part of Whisky Company.
He recalled being deployed at the time of the Wahine disaster.
"It took about three weeks for us to get the full casualty list, so we were all pretty worried about our friends and family."
As a radio operator, Mr Perreau was tasked with communicating to the allies when they came under artillery fire.
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Image 1 of 18: Two RNZAF Iriquois helicopters arrived in Napier as part of a farewell tour of the country (they are being replaced).
He said the Iroquois helicopters proved an invaluable asset, once carrying him 50 miles from the jungle to the hospital base when he fell ill.
"They literally saved hundreds of lives," Mr Perreau said.
"Most of our deployments were by helicopter, they would get us in and get us out pretty quick."
As part of a farewell tour of New Zealand which began in the South Island this month, two of the machines dubbed "Hueys" during their active years, arrived at Hawke's Bay Airport around 11am yesterday. The visiting choppers are part of the last six Iroquois flying with 3 Squadron out of Ohakea Air Base and are set to be retired from service on July 1.
The Iroquois entered service in 1966 and are being replaced by eight new NH90 helicopters. While the aircraft had been put up for international sale, three will remain in New Zealand - two at the Air Force Museum in Christchurch for display and one at the Army Museum at Waiouru.
Hawke's Bay hosts Christmas lunches for those seeking company and support.
