Current News

Helicopter used in 9/11 rescue missions finds new purpose in South Carolina 24 years after it flew search and rescue missions during the Sept. 11 attacks, a military helicopter known as a Huey is being restored in the Midlands.

By Stephen Biddix | Published: Sep. 11, 2025 (EDT) https://www.wistv.com/2025/09/12/helicopter-used-911-rescue-missions-finds-new-purpose-south-carolina/

WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - 24 years after it flew search and rescue missions during the Sept. 11 attacks, a military helicopter known as a Huey is being restored in the Midlands to serve a new mission: educating the next generation. The aircraft, which was involved in rescue operations at the Pentagon, is at the Celebrate Freedom Foundation. They’re a local nonprofit, leading the restoration effort and based next to the Columbia Regional Airport.

“Having this bird here with us actually carries on the legacy and the honor of those who have passed,” said Lori Brady, executive vice president of the foundation.

To bring the helicopter to South Carolina, the foundation had to work with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to change federal regulations. The restoration is being carried out by veterans and students who volunteer with the organization. “Everybody has that story, everybody has that memory of what happened on 9/11,” Brady said. “So it is a part of them to keep those who didn’t survive—to continue their legacy.”

The foundation’s mission goes beyond restoration. It uses its fleet of helicopters, drones and vehicles to teach students about aeronautical STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) opportunities. Volunteers bring the equipment to schools across the region, with veterans sharing their expertise. “We actually repair helicopters, drones, vehicles, and then we take them to schools and talk to kids about STEM education,” Brady said.

On Sept. 11, the foundation also announced its newest initiative: the South Carolina Aerospace STEM Academy Lab.

Mark Morgan, a volunteer and Army and Navy veteran, said the experience is rewarding. “You see the kids come in and they know about helicopters—that’s really about all they know,” Morgan said. “You start talking to them, explain what it’s used for, and how this helicopter could be a medevac helicopter and pick up wounded.”

“We had a flight program down in Charleston and spent the day,” Morgan said. “By the end of the day, I could hardly move my arms from lifting kids up, putting them in the helicopter and putting them down. But it was just really fulfilling.”

The Celebrate Freedom Foundation expects the Huey to be fully operational within a year. Once restored, it will continue its mission of bringing STEM education to Title I schools across South Carolina.

Source: WIS-TV (Gray Local Media). All rights reserved by the original publisher.