CH-53A SEA STALLION
$24,090
Raised
22
Donations
$100,000
Goal
CH-53A Sea Stallion
The CH-53A Sea Stallion is a heavy-lift helicopter that has significantly impacted military aviation through its robust design and versatile capabilities. Developed by Sikorsky, the CH-53A has played a crucial role in various military operations, demonstrating its ability to perform demanding tasks in challenging environments.
Click the link below for a video of the CH53:
https://youtu.be/sDtv5YTRQU0?si=pTPqmAesAI_3y6XR
Key Facts:
- Service History: The CH-53A Sea Stallion entered service with the U.S. Marine Corps in the late 1960s and quickly established itself as a vital asset for heavy-lift operations. It was used extensively during the Vietnam War to transport troops, equipment, and supplies and later saw service in conflicts such as the Gulf War and operations in the Balkans. The Sea Stallion's ability to perform long-range, heavy-lift missions made it an essential component of Marine Corps aviation and a key player in various military operations.
- Design and Capabilities: The CH-53A is powered by two General Electric T64-GE-6 engines, giving it a maximum speed of approximately 150 knots. It features a distinctive 6-bladed design, with a fully articulating rotor system, that provides significant lift capacity and maneuverability. The helicopter can carry up to 55 troops or various heavy cargo, including vehicles and equipment. Its design emphasizes durability and performance, with advanced avionics navigation and mission management systems.
- Significance in Aviation History: The CH-53A Sea Stallion represents a significant advancement in heavy-lift helicopter design, offering unparalleled cargo capacity and versatility. Its role in supporting amphibious operations and its contributions to heavy-lift missions underscore its importance in modern military aviation. The Sea Stallion's ability to perform in various operational environments, from sea-based operations to inland missions, highlights its significance in the evolution of rotary-wing aircraft.
Importance of Restoration: Restoring the CH-53A Sea Stallion is crucial for preserving the legacy of an aircraft that has been instrumental in heavy-lift operations and military support missions. The Sea Stallion's contributions to various conflicts and its impact on military logistics demonstrate its importance in aviation history. By restoring this helicopter, we honor the achievements of the pilots, engineers, and support personnel who operated and maintained the CH-53A. A restored CH-53A Sea Stallion will serve as an educational resource, offering insights into the development of heavy-lift helicopters and their role in military operations. It will also stand as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Sea Stallion and its contributions to the advancement of rotary-wing aviation.
Notice:
All donations received for this campaign will be used to support the designated project or initiative. In the event that funds raised exceed what is needed, or if circumstances prevent the completion of the campaign as described, remaining funds will be directed to the organization’s general fund to support our ongoing mission and programs.
Our donors
CS
Cathryn Sayre
donated
$100
For dear family friend who flew this, Retired Lt. Colonel Robert Wemheuer. He was based in Tustin
JG
James Garman
donated
$250
The CH-53A was the start of the long-standing Heavy Lift legacy in the Marine Corps that still continues today (CH-53A, CH-53D, CH-53E and now the CH-53K). I am proud to have flown or been part of every H-53 platform. For 20 consecutive years I have met flight minimums in an H-53 helicopter. It is great that there is an effort to restore and keep the legacy of the original CH-53A alive. Heavy lift is critical to mission of the US Marine Corps. Semper Fi. Col. James C. Garman USMC(retired)
PO
Paul Oldenburg
donated
$100
Semper Fi!
WN
Wm "Sam" Neasham
donated
$250
Happy 56th Homecoming Anniversary for Bureau No# 153304 and 80th Birthday for LtCol Robert Karow! HMH 361 was the last squadron to go "in country" as a squadron. Maj Shuter (later BGen Shuter) and squadron pilot Capt Robert Karrow (later LtCol) flew CH-53A, Bureau Number 153304, off the LPH 11 “New Orleans” into Vietnam on 27 August 1969. HMH 462 flew them to the New Orleans in Da Nang Bay so they could fly this aircraft into Vietnam at Hue Phu Bai. HMH 361 operated out of Hue Phu Bai in ProvMag 39 before relocating to Mag 16 at Marble Mountain.
TC
Tom Costa
donated
$100
SM
Stephen Maloney
donated
$100
RD
Rory Drew
Rory Drew 00 Bu No: 153304 Flown May 17, 1983 and July 23, 1983 Thanks for your hard work and dedication involved with its restoration.
CS
Cindy Sasso
donated
$100
TM
Timothy McDonnell
donated
$100
P
Paul
donated
$100
Thank you to the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum for taking on this initiative! Semper Heavy Lift!