News

Eagle 2, New Milford Police Department’s OH58 arrives from refurbishment with all new state of the art equipment ready to serve the community

June 1, 2020 – New Milford, CT

After 6 months in Lafayette Louisiana at Avionics Solutions (www.myavionicsteam.com), a firm specializing in law enforcement helicopter airframe and avionics upgrades, Eagle 2 returns to New Milford with advanced mission systems ready to serve. The aircraft underwent a major upgrade, which included a new VanHorn tail rotor system; three color custom paint, windows, custom interior, lighting, advanced cockpit electronic displays, GPS navigation, Police and Fire communications, Loudhailer, AeroComputer UC6000 Mapping, Avalex Display, and a FLIR 380HDc system. All of the upgrades of this former Army OH58 were facilitated by donations and volunteers.

“Our entire team went above and beyond on this project given the unique organizational structure and dedication of all the volunteers with this program. We have facilitated many law enforcement aviation upgrades and this aircraft by far sets a new standard,” said Joey Calandra, Avionics Solutions President

“It was truly amazing to be part of this process” said Tom O’Halloran, the Foundation’s President that oversaw the entire project from start to finish. “The aircraft now has a platform to serve the residents of New Milford as well as the surrounding communities assisting in search and rescue, community outreach programs, school educational visits, as well as traditional law enforcement missions. I couldn’t be prouder of New Milford’s participation in the program and providing a resource like this to the area, all through volunteerism at no cost to the taxpayers. It was a special honor to fly the original Army OH58 Helicopter down to Lafayette and bring home the new improved ship. The amazing support and leadership of New Milford’s Chief of Police Spencer Cerruto and his vision to serve the community made for a perfect partnership with the foundation and the municipality.”

New Milford’s Chief of Police Spencer Cerruto was on hand for the arrival of Eagle 2 and was extremely pleased on how the aircraft was completed and what it represents to his department and the town. “When I joined New Milford as the Chief of Police, I wanted to promote a community police program that truly represents the best resources available to the town given New Milford is the largest geographical township in the state with a significant amount parks, wilderness areas, as well as Candlewood Lake. Having the helicopter assigned to New Milford gives a tremendous resource to better serve our residents as well as surrounding townships, all through donations and volunteers by partnering with the Eagle Police Helicopter Foundation” said Chief Cerruto.