By Catherine M. Welch
Wilmington, NC – The Wilmington airport is now home to an unused military helicopter that will be utilized by law enforcement agencies around the area. It's part of a federal program that turns over surplus helicopters to local law enforcement.
Wilmington, Pender and Leland law enforcement agencies will share the helicopter with the Wilmington Police Department providing the pilot.
At a formal announcement, Congressman Mike McIntyre said there's competition on Capitol Hill to bring surplus helicopters home to local agencies.
We got the helicopter here and we're thrilled. It flew in late last week and we had it under wraps until today and thank the good Lord it was a beautiful day to unveil it and a great day to celebrate.
New Hanover County Democratic state senator Julia Boseman has filed legislation asking for nearly a half-a-million dollars to refurbish the inside and equip the helicopter with a spotlight and police radio.
The plan is to have it up and flying by the end of the year.