The C-130 Hercules is a medium long-range combat transport aircraft that is regularly sent on missions in the harshest environments. With over 1 million hours flying, it has remained in continuous production longer than any other military aircraft. Over 2,400 C-130s have been produced for more than 70 countries worldwide. No other aircraft in history can match its versatility, flexibility and relevance. On 15 April 1972, the aircraft represented by this replica flew a now famous mission under call sign Spare 617. It was severely damaged by enemy ground fire while attempting to air-drop ammunition to surrounded South Vietnamese forces at An Loc. With key crew members killed or wounded, and with two of its engines damaged, Spare 617 still made it back to its home base after the landing gear was manually cranked by the loadmasters. The pilot Captain Caldwell and Loadmaster Shaub were awarded the USAF’s Air Force Cross for their heroic actions.

Features: