General Product Description

Our Bell 47 47D-1 MASH M*A*S*H Mobile Army Surgical Hospital Helicopter Model helicopter exhibits unique, unrivalled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual helicopter. It comes standard with a robust , durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished chrome steel supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The model helicopter is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic, resin or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model helicopter match the precise blueprint details of the original helicopter. The model helicopters paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original . This top-quality replica will surely enthral anyone who receives this stylish desktop display as a gift. This model helicopter is for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for every aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual Bell 47 47D-1 MASH M*A*S*H Mobile Army Surgical Hospital Helicopter Model.

Model Helicopters form a very important part of the ModelBuffs.com range of scale model handmade aircraft. We have a wide selection of both civilian and military models to choose from famous manufacturers such as Airbus Helicopters, Bell, Leonardo Helicopters (formerly AgustaWestland), Sikorsky, Russian Helicopters, Boeing, Kawasaki, MD, Kamov, NHIndustries, Robinson, Enstrom, Guimbal, Kaman, Eurocopter (merged with Aerospatiale to form Airbus Helicopters), Hindustan, Kazan, PZL-Świdnik, Chengdu, Harbin. Helicopter models dating back to the WW II, the Vietnam and Korean War and until the very present are all available. Every wooden scale helicopter model is handcrafted to the most perfect of detail - they are much more than simple models - they are works of art! If you require we can also make the in any other airline or private livery (or colour scheme) you require and if necesary in a different size or scale. Just email us a description or photographs with colours and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customisation. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airship, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat,and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Wholesale and retail and general customization inquiries welcome.

Product Details

The Bell 47 and M*A*S*H: The Helicopter That Became a Symbol of Battlefield Medicine

Introduction

When one thinks of iconic helicopters in history, the Bell 47 invariably earns a mention. Widely recognized for its bubble-shaped cockpit and exposed tail boom, the Bell 47 became an icon in both military and civilian roles. Yet, its most enduring legacy may be its crucial service in Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals (MAS*H) during the Korean War. Immortalized in film and television, the Bell 47 became the quintessential air ambulance, ferrying wounded soldiers from the front lines to life-saving medical care.

The Bell 47: A Technical Overview

Introduced in 1946, the Bell 47 was one of the first helicopters to be certified for civilian use. It features a single, three-bladed main rotor powered by a Lycoming six-cylinder piston engine. With its simple design, the Bell 47 was easy to maintain, making it ideal for the rugged conditions and quick turnarounds required in combat situations.

M*A*S*H and the Bell 47: A Lifesaving Partnership

The concept of Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals emerged as a way to provide rapid, frontline medical care to wounded soldiers. In this role, the Bell 47 found its calling. Its reliability and ease of operation made it an essential component of MAS*H units during the Korean War.

The Role in Medical Evacuation

The Bell 47’s primary mission in M*A*S*H units was medical evacuation, also known as medevac. It would swoop into often perilous conditions, its pilots guided only by the principles of aerodynamics and their commitment to save lives. With its relatively small footprint, the helicopter could land in tight spots near the front lines, enabling quick retrieval of injured soldiers.

Quick Turnaround

The simplicity of the Bell 47’s design allowed for fast turnaround times—an essential factor when minutes could mean the difference between life and death. After dropping off wounded soldiers at a MAS*H unit, the helicopter could be quickly refueled and dispatched for another mission.

Cultural Impact

The role of the Bell 47 in MASH units was cemented in popular culture through the 1970 film “MASH” and the subsequent TV series, which ran from 1972 to 1983. The unmistakable silhouette of the Bell 47 became a symbol of hope and urgent care, as it whisked away injured soldiers to the iconic canvas tents of the mobile hospitals.

Conclusion

The Bell 47 and its role in Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals during the Korean War represent a profound chapter in the history of battlefield medicine. Its versatile capabilities, matched with its rugged durability, made it the perfect aerial vehicle for the harsh realities of war. More than just a helicopter, the Bell 47 became a symbol of the urgency and life-saving mission of M*A*S*H units. Its cultural and historical impact serves as a lasting tribute to the bravery and skill of both the medical personnel and the pilots who flew these iconic helicopters in the service of saving lives.