Life Flight!

A Metro Health Life Flight helicopter flew in to the tennis courts adjacent to Henry Field on the Hiram College Campus. This is a long-standing tradition in Hiram as part of the pre-fireworks concert and family fun activities. The crew was on hand to show off the EC145 helicopter and answer questions. I'm like a kid when I get up close to helicopters. Very exciting to see and photograph them. Thanks to everyone that posed for me. Here are some of the highlights. 

As with most of my photo blogs, it my take a few days to upload all of the images, so check back if you don't see your photo. If I photographed you at some point away from the helicopter, watch for your photo in a separate blog. Thanks!

Pilot Melvin Steedly in flight helmet equipped with night vision goggles.

This was. wonderful opportunity for kids to have their picture taken with the helicopter.

The crew was very patient with my many request for poses. The helicopter itself made a very colorful photographic backdrop. The gray skies not so much.

In-flight view of the EC145 about to set down on the tennis courts. I used the camera to shield me eyes from grit and debris being thrown up from the rotor wash.

Pilot Bob Montier (left) and DNP David Kaniecki.

Hiram Fire Chief Bill Byers with Flight Nurse Molly Gerber.

Rear view of the Life Flight; double doors allow access to the full width of the rear compartment to facilitate patient loading. 

Another view of the EC145 showing configuration of side doors.

Great memories for kids!

Not long after they arrived, the crew had to fly off to an emergency call. Bystanders were ushered away as the crew prepared for takeoff. I lingered for a few moments to document the final moments. I finally surrendered to the brooding clouds and reverted to my default gritty BW mode.