City of Sleepy Eye set receive Friday Vietnam-era Huey helicoptor for display

After months of fundraising and community support, the city of Sleepy Eye will be getting a Vietnam-era helicopter to display in its Veterans Park.

The project was driven primarily by the Sleepy Eye American Legion Post #7 and the Sleepy Eye Economic Development Authority. Over $93,000 in funds were donated by the public and area businesses to acquire and refurbish the helicopter.

The specific helicopter the Legion acquired is a 1965 Delta used in the Vietnam War. The Legion’s goal is to elevate the aircraft on the north end of the Sleepy Eye Veteran’s Park Memorial.

Rick Mages, of the Sleepy Eye American Legion post, said,

The Huey helicopter began its ride to Sleepy Eye earlier this week, and is expected to arrive in Sleepy Eye on Friday, Aug. 5, between 4 – 5 p.m. A motorcade of area residents will be accompanying it from the Iowa border.

After the helicopter arrives, it will sit on the trailer until Sleepy Eye’s 150th anniversary later this month. During the community parade on Aug. 20, it will follow the Honor Guard. After that, the final preparations will be made to do a final dedication on Sept. 11 in Sleepy Eye’s Veterans Park.