COAST GUARD - Trusty Ole' 52

Command approved giclee' print for Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod. Limited Edition.

The Sikorsky HH-52A Seaguard's primary mission was to serve as the United States Coast Guard's premier search and rescue helicopter for over two decades. Introduced in 1963, the "Seaguard" was a game-changer for the Coast Guard. Its most distinctive feature was its amphibious capability, thanks to a watertight hull and stabilizing floats. This allowed the helicopter to land directly on water to conduct rescues, a significant advantage over previous models that relied solely on winches. The HH-52A’s versatility extended to operating from both shore-based stations and aboard larger Coast Guard cutters and icebreakers, making it a critical asset in a wide range of maritime environments. Its ability to perform in all-weather conditions and at night further solidified its role as a life-saving workhorse.

The HH-52A Seaguard earned its reputation for trustworthiness through a combination of its innovative design and a remarkable service record. Built with proven components from earlier Sikorsky models, it was a reliable and dependable machine. The Coast Guard's rigorous "fly before you buy" test program had confirmed its performance claims and suitability for the mission. Over its 26-year career, the Seaguard was credited with saving more than 15,000 lives, more than any other helicopter model in the world at the time. This staggering number, along with its participation in notable missions like rescuing over 1,200 people during Hurricane Betsy in 1965, cemented its status as a highly trusted aircraft. The HH-52A wasn't just a machine; it was an international icon of rescue and a cornerstone of Coast Guard aviation.

• 18x24" Giclee' print
• Signed and numbered by the artist
• Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity
• Ships carefully in a tube

*Please allow up two weeks prior to shipping