I recently visited the Ronald Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California. Two of the more popular items on display are a former Air Force One jet (you can see the nose of this aircraft in the upper-left corner of this image), and a former Marine One helicopter. This image is one of my favorites taken during my visit.

I have always loved helicopters. Their ability to gracefully hover and pivot is simply intriguing to watch. With their long blades and sleek designs, helicopters look every bit as impressive sitting on the ground as they do in flight. While serving in the military, I had the incredible opportunity to spend an entire afternoon repelling from a UH-1 helicopter. Amazing fun!

If you’re interested, the internet can provide you with detailed information about Marine One’s history. Wikipedia provided the following summary information:

Marine One is the call sign of any United States Marine Corps aircraft carrying the President of the United States. Marine One is sometimes the preferred alternative to motorcades, which can be expensive and logistically difficult. The controlled environment of a helicopter adds greatly to the safety factor as well. Marine One is also used to transport senior Cabinet staff and foreign dignitaries.