Local News

Actions

Salute the Troops: Veterans receive Las Vegas helicopter tour

Posted at 6:54 PM, Nov 11, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-11 22:18:50-05

More than a hundred veterans from all military branches arrived in Las Vegas for a free helicopter tour in honor of Veterans Day on Sunday. 

As the tour was part of the 10th Annual Salute to the Troops event.

For many veterans, the last time they were in a helicopter was when they were on the battleground and one of them was retired Staff Sergeant Matthew Alewine.

Alewine served in the US Army for 12 years.

"I was an infantry guy in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan," said Alewine.

He also said he knew all too well what was like to ride in a helicopter that wasn't as comfortable as the one with Sundance Helicopters.

"You got the door open, you're in full kit, and, uh [it's] hot outside. You’re usually going to do some work mission wise,” Alewine said.

Sunday, Alewine and 123 other service members were in for a different kind of mission.

“It's cool seeing Vegas from the top,” Alwine said,

Sundance Helicopters dedicated all morning to the veterans to honor their service in the military.

Actor Gary Sinise, who has been working with many veterans through the years, also helped make the event happen.

"We are here to celebrate their service to the country and to make sure they know we appreciate them,” Sinise said.