The Philippine Air Force (PAF) officially turned over a historic piece of aviation history to the City Government of Passi on Thursday.
The UH-1H “Iroquois,” with Tail Number 806, will now be preserved as a cultural heritage asset and a tourist attraction in the city.
PAF Commanding General LtGen Stephen P. Parreño and Passi City Mayor Atty. Stephen A. Palmares led the event, which included the unveiling of a marker and the blessing of the aircraft.
The UH-1H has played a crucial role in various operations, including the Zamboanga Siege in 2013 and the Marawi Siege in 2017. It has also been instrumental in conducting troop insertion and extraction, medical evacuations, search and rescue missions, aerial reconnaissance, disaster response, and transporting VIPs.
This aircraft symbolizes the dedication and expertise of the men and women of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing and the Air Mobility Command, who operated and maintained it throughout its service.
After years of remarkable and dedicated service, this particular utility helicopter has been honorably retired. While its time in service has come to an end, its legacy lives on as the PAF embraces modernization with advanced Black Hawk helicopters.
In his speech, LtGen Parreño acknowledged the aircraft’s significant contributions and expressed pride in its new role as an aviation heritage piece for the city.
He highlighted that each flight of the aircraft represents a story of commitment; every hour reflects valor, and each rotation of its rotor blades brings it closer to achieving its mission.
“As the UH-1H ‘Iroquois’ takes its place as a cultural icon in Passi City, it will serve as a tribute and manifestation of PAF’s strength, adaptability, and endurance to serve the Filipino people,” said PAF Spokesperson Col. Maria Consuelo Castillo.
Meanwhile, Mayor Palmares expressed gratitude to the PAF on behalf of the people of Passi City for entrusting them with this historic piece of aviation history.
