WWII Airship Manoeuvres Over Helena ~ On May 3, 1942, nearly 2,000 Helenans gathered in Hill Park to watch three U. S. Army airships out of Spokane practice mooring operations. Major Charles F. Bowden told the Independent Record that the Army had deemed the Helena Civic Center minaret to be ideal for such practice. Higher than expected northwest winds complicated the operation, but Major Bowden called the exercise "A huge success, and a kick in the pants to Herr Hitler".
The airship crews were feted that evening at the Montana Club, and were driven out to the river early the next morning to look at Hauser Dam.
The airship crews were feted that evening at the Montana Club, and were driven out to the river early the next morning to look at Hauser Dam.
