Keychain made of real helicopter skin: Bell Huey UH-1F 66-1222

Our helicopter, 66-1222, was stationed at Ellsworth throughout its military career. It was constructed in 1966 in Fort Worth, TX, and was originally assigned to 28th BH WG, Ellsworth AFB, SD. 

After retiring from the Air Force, its journey continued in the civilian realm with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) is on the front line to provide air support and airborne firefighting for wildfire operations in the Southern California area. 66-1222, and three other retired military UH-1Fs, were added to the fleet, to be used as air tankers and air ambulances, or for parts. Although the UH-1Fs were eventually replaced, they played an invaluable role in the early days of LACoFD's robust airborne firefighting operations. 

MOTOART'S UH-1F

When MotoArt owner Dave Hall saw the distinctive silhouette of this aircraft in a California boneyard he knew how many veterans would appreciate the opportunity to own a piece. "We were fortunate to be able to secure it because our first Huey we introduced in the PlaneTags series, a UH-1B, was so well received," said Hall. The UH-1B PlaneTags were a special run of 1,000 and quickly sold out, leaving collectors and enthusiasts continually requesting more. "Our Huey was such an important aircraft to the United States Air Force that its legacy will always be remembered."

UH-1F PLANETAGS

Our Huey UH-1F PlaneTags are handcrafted from the original outer skin of 66-1222. They are numbered to just 2000. As with all of our PlaneTags, they are made from actual retired aircraft and bear the wear and tear, the dings and dents, and paint characteristics that make each one so unique. These variations and imperfections are not flaws, but part of the beauty of PlaneTags. Grab one for your collection or to give as a Veterans Day gift.