Gather at the Nixon Library as we unveil plans for a new, interactive, immersive education building, and bid temporary farewell to the Presidential Helicopter as it departs the campus for a complete restoration before returning as the centerpiece of a new education center.
The event is free and open to the public.Â
The Sikorsky VH-3A “Sea King” served as a flying Oval Office for Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, and Ford from 1961 to 1976. Watch it “take flight” by crane for its journey to March Field Air Museum.
Featuring remarks from
BRIGADIER GENERAL MATTHEW TRACY,
COMMANDING GENERAL OF THE MARINE CORPS EDUCATION COMMAND AND PRESIDENT OF THE MARINE CORPS UNIVERSITY
CHAPLAIN FROM THE U.S. ARMY
JIM BYRON
PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE RICHARD NIXON FOUNDATION
MICHAEL ELLZEY
DIRECTOR OF THE MARCH FIELD AIR MUSEUMI
and participation by the
1ST MARINE DIVISION BAND & COLOR GUARD
President Nixon flew aboard this helicopter on 181 missions, including to the Giza Pyramids in Egypt and into Vatican Square, where it was blessed by Pope Paul VI. This helicopter flew under the call sign Marine One when operated by the U.S. Marine Corps, and Army One when operated by the U.S. Army. The helicopter was retired from presidential service in 1976 and subsequently used for Secret Service training. The helicopter has been a highlight of every Nixon Library visitor’s experience for two decades. It is on long-term loan to the National Archives and Records Administration from the National Museum of the Marine Corps at Quantico, Virginia.
