The members of Marine Helicopter Squadron 361 Veterans Association Inc. are used to putting their mind to a task and following through with their ambitions. With all the time they have already dedicated to restoring a fallen helicopter, they will not stop until it is ready to fly.

The Marine Helicopter Squadron 361 Veterans Associations Inc. believe that the restoration of a helicopter that was used during the Vietnam War will help bring education to today's youth with firsthand experience from veterans. With amount of money raised already, the organization is well on their way to restoring the helicopter. However, more money is needed to fully restore the fallen hero.

The UH-34D Helicopter has been under construction over the last 18 months. The mechanics call themselves "The Flying Tigers" and are all war veterans themselves. Their ultimate goal is to restore the helicopter to working condition and have it fly once again by this summer.

This particular helicopter was first used to rescue astronauts after falling into Earth's waters after a mission. During Vietnam, however, the helicopter served a far more important role. It was used as a rescue chopper for injured soldiers, transporting supplies and ferrying personnel. This monster of the sky weighs 14,000 pounds, is 56-feet long and 16 feet high. During battle, it endured a total of 60 bullet holes after being shot at by enemies.

The last obstacle standing in the way of its triumphant return to the sky is a slight economical drawback. Over the last few months, bottles, cans and donations have been collected to help finance the expenses that plague success of the restoration. To date, over 9,000 cans have been collected.

Mineola resident William Urianek, one of the main fundraisers for the cause, set a goal of 20,000 cans, which will transfer into $1,000. All of the money raised by the cans and bottles will go directly to furnish and complete the helicopter's restoration. The money is also being put toward another valuable and needed cause. From every can collected, the "flip" is taken off and donated to the American Legion, which will sell the flips for money. The proceeds will be put toward the purchasing of dialysis machines for ill children.

Every contribution, no matter how small, will help chip away at the financial obstacle standing in the way of the completion of this task. If you are interested in making a donation, all checks can be made out to Marine Helicopter Squadron 361 Veterans Association Inc., and mailed to William Urianek, 335 Emery Road, Mineola 11501. This donation can also be used as a tax-deductible contribution. If you are interested in giving your cans so the money can be used for the cause, call Mr. Urianek at 741-8315. The best times to reach him are Monday or Tuesday because cans will be redeemed on Wednesdays. Arrangements can be made so that cans/bottles can be picked up at your house and taken off your hands.

Mr. Urianek would like to extend a special thanks to all of those who have made contributions already toward the restoration such as those on Emory Road, Andrew Road, Dow Avenue. A very special thanks to Assemblyman Thomas DiNapoli, who is the only elected official who has given a donation, as well as Ronald Ciesinski and Edward Hadjuk for their generous charity.

The volunteers thank you for all your support and urge you to take part in saving a part of American History.