HS-6 "Screamin Indians"              June 2009

This helicopter was a time consuming project mainly because of all the detail in the artwork. But it also had special meaning-being only 30+ days since that fateful day in may when HS-6 lost 5 of their own. The Indian pictures I used on the nose and boom were previously selected by the unit, the tail was, well, not known what would be on it. I decided on the art for the tail and incorporated a suttle memorial to the fallen.

After the prep I painted the tail dark blue, matching the units red. white and blue colors in their patch.

Scott laid out the lettering all around that will be red and white.

Next I started the airbrushing work on both sides of the boom, the dark blue becoming water that the horse was running through.

On the tail I painted the Eagle, flag and sun at the top, on both sides and a spiritual indian looking upward. On his spear are 5 feathers lifting upward... The meaning can be anything to the beholder,,

My favorite part of the whole thing,,The Indian Chiefs-painted on both sides of the nose on the junction box covers. These guys were work, but I was pleased with them. They definitely look like warriors capturing the spirit of HS-6.

The Skipper and the whole unit loved the artwork and on my last day presented me with a signed aerial photo and a plaque making me an "Honory Indian". I am very proud to be part of them, even if only in spirit.

Only a couple weeks later the Indians deployed on the U.S.S Nimitz and are now doing what the Navy does best-patrolling the worlds oceans and keeping America safe. Thanks for all you do! God Speed my friends, come home safe and sound.

HOME