The Hangar Z Podcast

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts! Thank you to CNC Technologies for sponsoring this special in-person interview that was recorded just prior to the Heli Expo 2024. The expo was held in Anaheim California, this recording took place in beautiful Beverly Hills California at the famous Lou Mar Restaurant. CNC Technologies has assembled an impressive team of distinguished public safety aviators. During this two part series I got the opportunity to talk to their team in a panel style conversation that covers a wide variety of important topics pertaining to public safety aviation. CNC Technologies, a company renowned for its deep relationships with major equipment vendors, aircraft OEMs, and completion and integration facilities worldwide. These connections enable CNC to develop customized solutions tailored to each client’s unique mission profiles. They excel in creating long-range, HD video and data transmission networks, encrypted mobile communications tools for real-time surveillance, and robust systems designed for continuous operation in challenging environments. CNC Technologies brings decades of experience in deploying local, national, and global communications networks, providing custom aerial surveillance, data transmission, and counterterrorism solutions. With extensive expertise in supporting Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) projects funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, CNC delivers tailored mission suite solutions for the world's most demanding operators, backed by unparalleled 24/7 service and support. Join us as we explore the cutting-edge world of CNC Technologies and their commitment to delivering your mission. Thank you to our sponsors Metro Aviation, Robinson Helicopters, and Wysong Enterprises.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! Thank you to CNC Technologies for sponsoring this special in-person interview, recorded just prior to HAI Heli-Expo 2024. This recording took place in beautiful Beverly Hills, California, at the famous Lou’Mar restaurant. CNC Technologies has assembled an impressive team of distinguished public safety aviators. In this two-part series, host Jon Gray had the opportunity to speak with their team in a panel-style conversation that covers a wide variety of important topics pertaining to public safety aviation. CNC Technologies is a company renowned for its deep relationships with major equipment vendors, aircraft original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and completion and integration facilities worldwide. These connections enable CNC to develop customized solutions tailored to each client’s unique mission profiles. They excel in creating long-range HD video and data transmission networks, encrypted mobile communications tools for real-time surveillance, and robust systems designed for continuous operation in challenging environments. CNC Technologies brings decades of experience in deploying local, national, and global communications networks, providing custom aerial surveillance, data transmission, and counterterrorism solutions. With extensive expertise in supporting Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) projects funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, CNC delivers tailored mission suite solutions for the world's most demanding operators, backed by unparalleled 24/7 service and support. Join us as we explore the cutting-edge world of CNC Technologies and their commitment to delivering your mission. Thank you to our special sponsor CNC Technologies, as well as Collins Aerospace, and Dallas Avionics

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! Thank you to MD Helicopters for sponsoring this special in-person interview with Jake Durham and Drew Muench from the Oxford Police Department Aviation Unit. The Oxford Police Department chose the MD Helicopters 530F model as its primary airborne mission platform due to its exceptional versatility and performance characteristics, tailored to their operational needs. The MD530F's agility and maneuverability make it ideal for various law enforcement tasks, including surveillance, search-and-rescue operations, and aerial patrols. Its powerful Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine provides reliable performance in both urban and rural environments, crucial for the department's diverse operational landscape. The helicopter's compact size allows for efficient deployment and maneuvering in tight spaces, enhancing operational flexibility during critical missions. Equipped with advanced avionics and mission-specific equipment, the MD530F ensures enhanced situational awareness and operational effectiveness, enabling the Oxford Police Department to uphold public safety and respond swiftly to emergencies across their jurisdiction. To discuss the Oxford Police Department Aviation Unit, Jack Schonely speaks with Lt Jake Durham, the mastermind and commander behind Oxford’s aviation unit, and Drew Muench, the chief maintenance pilot inside Oxford’s beautifully purpose-built hangar. Jake Durham has deep roots in law enforcement and public safety that shaped his aspirations. Inspired by his family's legacy and an influential flight with the Alabama State Troopers Aviation Unit in 1997, Jake pursued a career in law enforcement. Starting as a patrolman with the Piedmont Police Department in 2003, he later joined the Oxford Police Department, where he climbed the ranks to lieutenant. Jake's visionary leadership led to the creation of the Oxford Police Department’s Aviation Support Unit in 2011, despite initial setbacks. He meticulously developed the administrative components and overcame challenges in acquiring suitable aircraft. From a motor-glider in 2013 to an OH-6, and later a TH-67, Jake's persistence paid off. In 2016, he designed and managed the construction of the department’s Special Operations Facility, housing the Emergency Services Unit, Technical Services Unit, and Aviation Support Unit. Jake's dedication continued with the refurbishment of an OH-6A helicopter in 2020 and the procurement of an MD530F in 2021, enhancing the unit's capabilities. Chief maintenance pilot Drew Muench’s aviation career spans over three decades. Starting his flying career in 1983 as a line boy at a small airport, he earned his flight time through dedication and passion. His journey took a pivotal turn in 1988, when he began his path to become a Marine Aviator, only to pivot to the Army due to an injury at OCS. Serving 10 years as an Army Pilot, he mastered multiple aircraft including the AH-1, UH-1, OH-58, and CH-47, and became an esteemed instructor pilot. Transitioning to civilian life as an airline pilot, he faced challenges such as furloughs but found his place at NetJets, where he thrived as a Citation X captain and international training instructor. His dedication to aviation extended to helping establish the Oxford Air Support Unit in 2015, where he continues to guide the unit as chief pilot. Thank you to our special Sponsor MD Helicopters as well as Garmin and Wysong Enterprises.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! Thank you to MD Helicopters for sponsoring this special in-person interview with Jake Durham and Drew Muench from the Oxford Police Department Aviation Unit. The Oxford Police Department chose the MD Helicopters 530F model as its primary airborne mission platform due to its exceptional versatility and performance characteristics, tailored to their operational needs. The MD530F's agility and maneuverability make it ideal for various law enforcement tasks, including surveillance, search-and-rescue operations, and aerial patrols. Its powerful Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine provides reliable performance in both urban and rural environments, crucial for the department's diverse operational landscape. The helicopter's compact size allows for efficient deployment and maneuvering in tight spaces, enhancing operational flexibility during critical missions. Equipped with advanced avionics and mission-specific equipment, the MD530F ensures enhanced situational awareness and operational effectiveness, enabling the Oxford Police Department to uphold public safety and respond swiftly to emergencies across their jurisdiction. To discuss the Oxford Police Department Aviation Unit, Jack Schonely speaks with Lt Jake Durham, the mastermind and commander behind Oxford’s aviation unit, and Drew Muench, the chief maintenance pilot inside Oxford’s beautifully purpose-built hangar. Jake Durham has deep roots in law enforcement and public safety that shaped his aspirations. Inspired by his family's legacy and an influential flight with the Alabama State Troopers Aviation Unit in 1997, Jake pursued a career in law enforcement. Starting as a patrolman with the Piedmont Police Department in 2003, he later joined the Oxford Police Department, where he climbed the ranks to lieutenant. Jake's visionary leadership led to the creation of the Oxford Police Department’s Aviation Support Unit in 2011, despite initial setbacks. He meticulously developed the administrative components and overcame challenges in acquiring suitable aircraft. From a motor-glider in 2013 to an OH-6, and later a TH-67, Jake's persistence paid off. In 2016, he designed and managed the construction of the department’s Special Operations Facility, housing the Emergency Services Unit, Technical Services Unit, and Aviation Support Unit. Jake's dedication continued with the refurbishment of an OH-6A helicopter in 2020 and the procurement of an MD530F in 2021, enhancing the unit's capabilities. Chief maintenance pilot Drew Muench’s aviation career spans over three decades. Starting his flying career in 1983 as a line boy at a small airport, he earned his flight time through dedication and passion. His journey took a pivotal turn in 1988, when he began his path to become a Marine Aviator, only to pivot to the Army due to an injury at OCS. Serving 10 years as an Army Pilot, he mastered multiple aircraft including the AH-1, UH-1, OH-58, and CH-47, and became an esteemed instructor pilot. Transitioning to civilian life as an airline pilot, he faced challenges such as furloughs but found his place at NetJets, where he thrived as a Citation X captain and international training instructor. His dedication to aviation extended to helping establish the Oxford Air Support Unit in 2015, where he continues to guide the unit as chief pilot. Thank you to our special Sponsor MD Helicopters as well as SHOTOVER and Technisonic.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this two-part series, Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down Dr. Tania Glenn, to discuss the importance of mental health for first responders. Dr. Tania Glenn is the president of Tania Glenn and Associates, a clinical practice in Central Texas that is focused on promoting resilience and providing critical care to first responders and veterans. As a leading national clinician in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Dr. Glenn specializes in creating effective programs designed to mitigate traumatic stress and to assist patients with their return to normalcy as quickly as possible. As a licensed clinician with 30 years of experience, Dr. Glenn deployed to the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, New York City in 2001, New Orleans for Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Dallas in 2016 for the aftermath of the attack on the Dallas Police Department, and to Uvalde for the school shooter in 2022. Recognized nationally, Dr. Glenn’s clients include a host of Texas and Arizona police, fire and EMS departments, federal law enforcement agencies, commercial aviation, and air medical programs. She is the clinical director for several peer support teams with her unique perspective on special operations competencies. Dr. Glenn is a noted author with numerous books dealing with mental health, PTSD, first responders, military, and family. Additionally, she has been involved in several documentaries dealing directly with mental health trauma. Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Garmin, and Metro Aviation.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this two-part series, Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down Dr. Tania Glenn, to discuss the importance of mental health for first responders. Dr. Tania Glenn is the president of Tania Glenn and Associates, a clinical practice in Central Texas that is focused on promoting resilience and providing critical care to first responders and veterans. As a leading national clinician in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Dr. Glenn specializes in creating effective programs designed to mitigate traumatic stress and to assist patients with their return to normalcy as quickly as possible. As a licensed clinician with 30 years of experience, Dr. Glenn deployed to the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, New York City in 2001, New Orleans for Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Dallas in 2016 for the aftermath of the attack on the Dallas Police Department, and to Uvalde for the school shooter in 2022. Recognized nationally, Dr. Glenn’s clients include a host of Texas and Arizona police, fire and EMS departments, federal law enforcement agencies, commercial aviation, and air medical programs. She is the clinical director for several peer support teams with her unique perspective on special operations competencies. Dr. Glenn is a noted author with numerous books dealing with mental health, PTSD, first responders, military, and family. Additionally, she has been involved in several documentaries dealing directly with mental health trauma. Thank you to our sponsors SHOTOVER, Dallas Avionics, and Robinson Helicopters.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! This episode was recorded on location in Washington, D.C., from the U.S. Park Police aviation hangar, as part of The Hangar Z Vertical Valor Road tour. We felt this was a great episode to release on Independence Day, the Fourth of July, 2024, which is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America. Jack Schonely and Brent Bundy from Vertical Valor Magazine were invited into the U.S. Park Police Aviation hangar to see firsthand the good work they are doing as they protect the U.S. capital and its surrounding areas. We had the privilege of talking to and flying with the assistant commander of the aviation Unit, Sgt Tim Ryan, and chief pilot Sgt Ryan Evasick. Sgt Ryan began his career with the United States Park Police in 2004. After three years as a patrol officer, he transitioned to the Aviation Unit in 2008. Sgt Ryan has held multiple roles within the unit, including rescue technician, chief rescue technician, and currently, assistant commander. His extensive training includes qualifications as a National Registry paramedic, tactical medic, and expertise in swiftwater rescue and high and low angle technical rescue. Originally from New Hampshire, Sgt Ryan now resides in Maryland with his family. Sgt Evasick is the chief pilot for the U.S. Park Police. With 21 years of law enforcement experience and flying for the U.S. Park Police since 2013, Sgt Evasick holds commercial helicopter, certified flight instructor (CFI), and certified flight instructor instrument (CFII) ratings. His family includes his wife, a mental health clinician for the Virginia Department of Corrections; his son, a former U.S. Marine; and two beloved grandchildren. Look out for photos, videos, and an article by Brent Bundy highlighting the U.S. Park Police on Verticalmag.com and the Vertical YouTube page. We're excited to dive into their experiences, insights, and the incredible work they do with the U.S. Park Police Aviation Unit. So, let's get started and welcome Sgt Tim Ryan and Sgt Ryan Evasick to the Hangar Z Podcast! Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Collins Aerospace and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! This episode was recorded from the Vertical HeliCASTS studio at HAI Heli-Expo in March. Co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray had the opportunity to talk with Lieutenant Clay Lacey from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) about the Axnes wireless intercom system and how it has helped Texas DPS improve communications and situational awareness during flight operations. Lt Lacey, a distinguished member of the Texas DPS, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the podcast. Since his special assignment to the Texas DPS Aviation Operations Division in 2000, Lt Lacey has logged thousands of hours in the air, supporting critical missions such as criminal manhunts, surveillance operations, search-and-rescue missions, vehicle and foot pursuits, and airborne use of force. His dedication and skill have not only been pivotal in the field but also in the classroom. Lt Lacey developed the Texas DPS tactical flight officer (TFO) training program from scratch and currently serves as a TFO instructor, sharing his knowledge worldwide on behalf of the Airborne Public Safety Association and various law enforcement units. In addition to his instructional roles, Lt Lacey plays a vital part in the procurement and specification of equipment for the Texas DPS and acts as a consultant for emergency management and preparedness planning across the United States. During this episode, we discuss the Axnes wireless intercom system. This digital, full-mission wireless intercom system is designed to enhance secure communications and situational awareness. The Axnes system is transforming the way airborne teams operate. Its advanced integration into aircraft radios, mission maps, and intercom systems, along with its waterproof handsets and extensive battery life, make it an indispensable tool for aviation crews. Thank you to our sponsors, CNC Technologies, Technisonic, and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts! In this episode, Jack Schonely and I preview APSCON 2024, happening in Houston, Texas, from July 29th to August 3rd. We are joined by the Airborne Public Safety Association's Executive Director and CEO, Dan Schwarzbach, and Training Program Manager, Dan Knight. APSCON 2024 is the annual conference for public safety aviation professionals worldwide, offering educational programs, hands-on training, networking opportunities, and the latest in technology and equipment. Dan Schwarzbach brings 38 years of experience with the Houston Police Department, including 30 years in the Air Support Division. Since 2014, he has served as the Executive Director and CEO of the Airborne Public Safety Association. Dan Knight began his law enforcement career in 1990, later joining the Federal Air Marshal Service and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. He now serves as the Training Program Manager for the Airborne Public Safety Association. Tune in for insights on APSCON 2024 and the expertise of these industry leaders. Thank you to our sponsors Robinson Helicopters, Spectrum Aeromed, and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this episode, we talk about the ongoing battle against wildfires in Southern California, a region where the threat of wildfires persists year-round. For this conversation, we have the privilege of welcoming Desiree Horton and co-host Tony Webber to uncover the tireless efforts and evolving strategies employed by SoCal agencies to combat wildfires in a region where the fire season never truly ends. First, we have Desiree Horton, a trailblazer in public safety aviation with over three decades of experience and more than 10,000 flight hours to her name. From her early days navigating the busy airspace of Southern California to becoming the first female pilot on an exclusive use contract for Region 5 with the U.S. Forest Service, Desiree's journey is one of perseverance and ground-breaking achievements. Currently serving as a fire/rescue pilot for the Kern County Fire Department, she continues to inspire and pave the way for women in the industry. Joining Desiree on the podcast is Tony Webber, a seasoned helicopter pilot with a distinguished background in law enforcement and firefighting. With over 9,000 flight hours, extensive experience in mountainous terrain, and a strong dedication to safety demonstrated through his certifications and training, Tony's expertise is truly exceptional. His decorated career with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, where he rose to the position of corporal/fire-rescue pilot, showcases his commitment to public service and his invaluable contributions to search and rescue missions. Together, Desiree and Tony bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion for aviation to The Hangar Z Podcast, offering listeners a unique insight into the world of public safety aviation and firefighting. This podcast recording is in conjunction with an article in the summer issue of Vertical Valor Magazine. Go to Vertical Valor online to check out the fantastic writing and content in the summer issue. Thank you to our sponsors CNC Technologies, Metro Aviation and Bell.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this two-part series, co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Helene Balmir, a pilot from the Phoenix Police Department. Born to a French-Canadian mother and a Haitian father who immigrated to New York in the 1960s, Helen grew up in Montreal, Canada. She is the youngest of three sisters. From a young age, Helen was an avid skier, hitting the slopes before she could walk and competing in downhill skiing until she was 17. She attended a Catholic high school but took a brief detour from her academic pursuits for a few years. Despite this, her passion for sports led her to earn a scholarship for soccer and track, eventually pursuing a degree in criminal justice at a university in Missouri. After graduating, Helen returned to Montreal for a summer before traveling to Arizona to visit her sister. Although she originally planned to continue to Hawaii, she fell in love with Phoenix and decided to stay, eventually applying to the Phoenix Police Department. Helen's career with the Phoenix Police Department began in 2004, patrolling the busy Maryvale precinct. From 2008 to 2015, she served as a detective in the Robbery-Kidnapping-Extortion unit before joining the ATF Violent Crimes Task Force, where she worked undercover until 2018. She then returned to Maryvale patrol until 2020, when she transitioned to the Air Support Unit. In 2021, Helen attended flight school, earning her commercial pilot's certificate by March 2022. Her extensive training includes three phases of TFO training, each lasting three months. In addition to her professional achievements, Helen is passionate about dog sports and training, working part-time for K9 Defense, a company specializing in raising and training police and other working dogs. Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Summit Aviation, and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this two-part series, co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Helene Balmir, a pilot from the Phoenix Police Department. Born to a French-Canadian mother and a Haitian father who immigrated to New York in the 1960s, Helen grew up in Montreal, Canada. She is the youngest of three sisters. From a young age, Helen was an avid skier, hitting the slopes before she could walk and competing in downhill skiing until she was 17. She attended a Catholic high school but took a brief detour from her academic pursuits for a few years. Despite this, her passion for sports led her to earn a scholarship for soccer and track, eventually pursuing a degree in criminal justice at a university in Missouri. After graduating, Helen returned to Montreal for a summer before traveling to Arizona to visit her sister. Although she originally planned to continue to Hawaii, she fell in love with Phoenix and decided to stay, eventually applying to the Phoenix Police Department. Helen's career with the Phoenix Police Department began in 2004, patrolling the busy Maryvale precinct. From 2008 to 2015, she served as a detective in the Robbery-Kidnapping-Extortion unit before joining the ATF Violent Crimes Task Force, where she worked undercover until 2018. She then returned to Maryvale patrol until 2020, when she transitioned to the Air Support Unit. In 2021, Helen attended flight school, earning her commercial pilot's certificate by March 2022. Her extensive training includes three phases of TFO training, each lasting three months. In addition to her professional achievements, Helen is passionate about dog sports and training, working part-time for K9 Defense, a company specializing in raising and training police and other working dogs. Thank you to our sponsors SHOTOVER, Spectrum Aeromed, and Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this two-part series, co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Andre Schabron. Andre is an accomplished helicopter pilot holding an Airline Transport Pilot certificate (ATPL) with experience across varied environments. With a professional demeanor and a proactive approach, he excels in team settings and thrives under pressure. His aviation experience encompasses flying in controlled airspaces and remote regions, including the Arctic. Andre is currently serving as a police helicopter pilot with the York Regional Police Department in Ontario, Canada. Andre contributes to the Air Support Unit, executing missions with precision and safety. His previous roles include supporting operations in the Arctic and remote oil-and-gas sites, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in challenging environments. Before his aviation career, Andre served as a police officer and detective with the Zurich Cantonal Police in Switzerland, honing his investigative and leadership skills over nearly two decades. Additionally, his experience in the Swiss Armed Forces further enriched his teamwork and communication abilities. Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Dallas Avionics and Robinson Helicopters.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this two-part series, co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Andre Schabron. Andre is an accomplished helicopter pilot holding an Airline Transport Pilot certificate (ATPL) with experience across varied environments. With a professional demeanor and a proactive approach, he excels in team settings and thrives under pressure. His aviation experience encompasses flying in controlled airspaces and remote regions, including the Arctic. Andre is currently serving as a police helicopter pilot with the York Regional Police Department in Ontario, Canada. Andre contributes to the Air Support Unit, executing missions with precision and safety. His previous roles include supporting operations in the Arctic and remote oil-and-gas sites, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in challenging environments. Before his aviation career, Andre served as a police officer and detective with the Zurich Cantonal Police in Switzerland, honing his investigative and leadership skills over nearly two decades. Additionally, his experience in the Swiss Armed Forces further enriched his teamwork and communication abilities. Thank you to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing, Summit Aviation and SHOTOVER.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this two-part series, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Kris Stone, owner and handler of K9 Torque and the Huey Vets crew from EMU Inc. In this conversation, the EMU Crew discusses their work with K9 Torque, a detection dog trained to find electronic storage devices. Torque specializes in finding flash drives and SD cards to help investigators gather evidence against child sexual predators and traffickers. Torque is also a therapy dog, providing comfort and support to veterans and children in hospitals and schools. The EMU Crew also shares their work with Huey Vets, an organization that uses helicopters to raise awareness about the forgotten heroes of the Vietnam War. We discuss the challenges and maintenance considerations of operating and restoring the Huey helicopter. EMU 309 Geoff Carr, a Vietnam vet, and his team, discuss the battle damage and life expectancy of the aircraft during the Vietnam War. They also discuss the nonprofit nature of their organization and their mission to support veterans and raise awareness about PTSD. Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Dallas Avionics and Metro Aviation.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this two-part series, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Kris Stone, owner and handler of K9 Torque and the Huey Vets crew from EMU Inc. In this conversation, the EMU Crew discusses their work with K9 Torque, a detection dog trained to find electronic storage devices. Torque specializes in finding flash drives and SD cards to help investigators gather evidence against child sexual predators and traffickers. Torque is also a therapy dog, providing comfort and support to veterans and children in hospitals and schools. The EMU Crew also shares their work with Huey Vets, an organization that uses helicopters to raise awareness about the forgotten heroes of the Vietnam War. We discuss the challenges and maintenance considerations of operating and restoring the Huey helicopter. EMU 309 Geoff Carr, a Vietnam vet, and his team, discuss the battle damage and life expectancy of the aircraft during the Vietnam War. They also discuss the nonprofit nature of their organization and their mission to support veterans and raise awareness about PTSD. Thank you to our Sponsors Bell, Precision Aviation Group and CNC Technologies.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Airbox, a trailblazing company reshaping the landscape of situational awareness technology. During this episode, hosts Richard Brandon and Jon Gray sit down with Airbox Systems co-founder and CEO, William Moore and director, Gerry Hill, for an exclusive insider's look at their groundbreaking journey. Airbox isn't just a software company; it's a lifeline for those on the frontlines of emergency response. Moore and Hill illuminate the genesis of Airbox, tracing its roots from a navigation solution for private pilots to becoming the go-to provider of situational awareness tools for law enforcement, military and emergency services worldwide. With over 400 maps available and the ability to operate offline, Airbox's software ensures seamless coordination and decision-making in the most challenging environments. Moore's entrepreneurial acumen, coupled with Hill's extensive military background, has fueled Airbox's mission to connect air and ground responders, creating a unified operational picture to save lives. Hear firsthand how Airbox's passion for protecting life drives the company’s relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. Moore's visionary leadership and Hill's wealth of experience from 34 years with 22 SAS, the active regiment of the U.K. Special Air Service, converge to deliver software solutions that empower responders with critical information when it matters most. But Airbox isn't just about technology; it's about people. Learn how Hill's dedication to supporting service personnel led him to establish Hire A Hero, a military charity aiding in the transition from service to civilian life. His decorated military career underscores the commitment to service that permeates Airbox's DNA. Join us as we explore the intersection of technology, service and humanity with two remarkable individuals at the helm of Airbox Systems. Whether you're fascinated by cutting-edge tech or inspired by stories of courage and compassion, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the future of emergency response. Thank you to our sponsors Technisonic, Metro Aviation and Robinson Helicopters

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Airbox, a trailblazing company reshaping the landscape of situational awareness technology. During this episode, hosts Richard Brandon and Jon Gray sit down with Airbox Systems co-founder and CEO, William Moore and director, Gerry Hill, for an exclusive insider's look at their groundbreaking journey. Airbox isn't just a software company; it's a lifeline for those on the frontlines of emergency response. Moore and Hill illuminate the genesis of Airbox, tracing its roots from a navigation solution for private pilots to becoming the go-to provider of situational awareness tools for law enforcement, military and emergency services worldwide. With over 400 maps available and the ability to operate offline, Airbox's software ensures seamless coordination and decision-making in the most challenging environments. Moore's entrepreneurial acumen, coupled with Hill's extensive military background, has fueled Airbox's mission to connect air and ground responders, creating a unified operational picture to save lives. Hear firsthand how Airbox's passion for protecting life drives the company’s relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. Moore's visionary leadership and Hill's wealth of experience from 34 years with 22 SAS, the active regiment of the U.K. Special Air Service, converge to deliver software solutions that empower responders with critical information when it matters most. But Airbox isn't just about technology; it's about people. Learn how Hill's dedication to supporting service personnel led him to establish Hire A Hero, a military charity aiding in the transition from service to civilian life. His decorated military career underscores the commitment to service that permeates Airbox's DNA. Join us as we explore the intersection of technology, service and humanity with two remarkable individuals at the helm of Airbox Systems. Whether you're fascinated by cutting-edge tech or inspired by stories of courage and compassion, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the future of emergency response. Thank you to our sponsors Collins Aerospace Goodrich hoist and winch, Garmin and Airbus Helicopters.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts! In this two-part series, Mike Calhoun and Jon Gray sit down with Andrew Edgerton, chief pilot of the Fairfax County Police Department. The Fairfax County Police Department is the largest law enforcement agency in Virginia, serving a population of over 1.1 million residents. Fairfax County borders the Potomac River, with Washington, D.C., directly across on the northern and eastern banks. Edgerton discusses his experiences flying in and around Washington, D.C., which is arguably the world's most restrictive airspace. He also talks about his journey into aviation and law enforcement, as well as the role of certified flight instructors (CFIs) and training in the industry. The group also discusses the use of civilian pilots in law enforcement aviation, and recruitment and retention issues in the field. They discuss the importance of crew coordination and the transition from being an electronic newsgathering (ENG) pilot to a law enforcement pilot. Lastly, Edgerton provides an overview of the Fairfax County Police Department and the opportunities available within the agency. Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Metro Aviation, and SHOTOVER.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts! In this two-part series, Mike Calhoun and Jon Gray sit down with Andrew Edgerton, chief pilot of the Fairfax County Police Department. The Fairfax County Police Department is the largest law enforcement agency in Virginia, serving a population of over 1.1 million residents. Fairfax County borders the Potomac River, with Washington, D.C., directly across on the northern and eastern banks. Edgerton discusses his experiences flying in and around Washington, D.C., which is arguably the world's most restrictive airspace. He also talks about his journey into aviation and law enforcement, as well as the role of certified flight instructors (CFIs) and training in the industry. The group also discusses the use of civilian pilots in law enforcement aviation, and recruitment and retention issues in the field. They discuss the importance of crew coordination and the transition from being an electronic newsgathering (ENG) pilot to a law enforcement pilot. Lastly, Edgerton provides an overview of the Fairfax County Police Department and the opportunities available within the agency. Thank you to our sponsors Garmin, MD Helicopters and Robinson Helicopters.