A UH-60M helicopter from the Vermont Army National Guard made its appearance Saturday at the annual military appreciation Ride-in in Waitsfield. The event was in Kenyon Field just behind Kenyon’s Variety Store in Waitsfield. Photo courtesy Military Appreciation Ride In A UH-60M helicopter from the VT Army National Guard made its appearance at last Saturday’s second annual VAST Military Appreciation Ride-In.

The Black Hawk landed just as the event opened and remained until early afternoon.

The second annual VAST Military Appreciation Ride-In took place on Kenyon’s Field behind Kenyon’s Variety Store in Waitsfield honoring the members of the Vermont Military and their families.

Snowmobilers who rode to the event won prizes and awards.

About a year and a half ago, Vermont became the first state in the country to receive the new UH-60M. The primary mission for the unit is to act as medivac transportation. According to the aircraft’s specifications it has a range of some 275 miles on a fuel load.

The Black Hawk usually flies at 120 knots (140 mph) but can reach speeds of 196 knots (220 mph).

Manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft, the UH-60M is a four-bladed, twin-engine, medium-lift utility helicopter that generates approximately 1400 shaft horsepower per engine utilizing standard jet fuel.

During the event there were snowmobile demo rides for adults and kids as well as dog sledding and skijoring demonstrations, groomer displays and an up close inspection of theBlack Hawk helicopter.

At the opening ceremonies, the crowd sang the National Anthem and gave the Pledge of Allegiance led by the children of Vermont's military.