On June 18 last year arrangements were made to transport a 1966 Bell Cobra helicopter from California to Fairmont. Exactly one year later, that same helicopter, now completely refurbished, was mounted Thursday on a 10-foot pole now part of a permanent display at the Martin County Veterans Memorial on Winnebago Avenue in Fairmont. When it was new, the helicopter carried a $334,000 price tag, equivalent to about $2.6 million today.
The Official Dedication Ceremony for the Cobra is set for August 1 this year. A parade, including many VIP’s, Military Personnel (both active and retired),and family members of those serving on this very helicopter will take place.