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RAPID CITY, S.D. — The LUH-72 Lakota helicopter is a key asset in the South Dakota Army National Guard’s aviation capabilities. Equipped for day and night operations, the aircraft can cover large areas quickly and safely, enabling Guardsmen to respond effectively across challenging terrain. Guard aircrews train year-round alongside civilian partners, building confidence in their skills and ensuring rapid, seamless support when needed.
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Ben English, a LUH-72 Lakota helicopter pilot assigned to Bravo Company, 1/112th Aviation Battalion, Search and Security, said the aircraft’s capabilities highlight the importance of trust and teamwork in every operation.
“A civilian helicopter follows search patterns, and uses camera equipment to locate whatever the mission calls for that day,” English explained. “No two missions are ever the same, so the environment is always changing. Our aircraft and crews are trained to cover large areas quickly and safely, which can be a major advantage during complex operations.”
English also shared the personal fulfillment the mission brings him.
“It’s rewarding to be part of this mission because it allows me to actively contribute to the community whether that’s helping law enforcement locate someone, conducting search and rescue operations, or finding people who are lost or stranded. This especially happens a lot during tourist season. It feels good to be engaged and serve as a positive member of society.”
For English, flying the Lakota during operations is more than demonstrating capability it’s a way to strengthen trust within the team and the community.
“It’s exciting,” English said. “I’m really happy to be involved with my community and to help make it a better place.”
The South Dakota Army National Guard regularly partners with local, state, and federal organizations to provide specialized capabilities such as aviation support, search and rescue operations, and emergency response. These partnerships reinforce the Guard’s dual mission of serving both the nation and the people of South Dakota.
| Date Taken: | 02.08.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 02.19.2026 13:30 |
| Story ID: | 557711 |
| Location: | RAPID CITY, SOUTH DAKOTA, US |
| Web Views: | 17 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, South Dakota Army National Guard Helicopters Provide Rapid Response Support, by SSG Caleb Minor, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
