A highly detailed 1:48 scale diecast representation of the Bell H-13 Sioux, one of the defining medical evacuation helicopters of the Korean War. Released as part of Corgi's Aviation Archive Forgotten Heroes range, US51902 represents a United States Army Medical Service Corps aircraft operating in support of a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital.
The H-13 became closely associated with battlefield medical evacuation during the Korean War. Its compact size allowed crews to reach casualties in difficult terrain before transporting them rapidly to nearby surgical hospitals, considerably reducing the time between injury and specialist medical treatment.
This release is associated with Second Lieutenant Byron Howlett Jr., who flew H-13 helicopters while stationed with the 46th Surgical Hospital MASH near the Punchbowl. Pilots frequently operated in poor visibility, freezing temperatures and seasonal monsoon conditions while carrying wounded personnel from frontline areas.
The model recreates the unmistakable appearance of the Bell H-13 with its large transparent bubble canopy, exposed tubular tail structure and two-bladed main rotor. Twin external stretcher litters are fitted alongside the cabin, while US Army medical markings and the restrained olive-drab finish reflect its battlefield role.
Developed from the civilian Bell Model 47, the H-13 was used for observation, liaison, training and medical evacuation. Its simple construction, skid landing gear and excellent low-speed handling made it particularly well suited to operating from small improvised landing areas close to frontline positions.
Limited to 15,000 pieces worldwide, this substantial Corgi release features extensive diecast construction, a detailed transparent cockpit, exposed engine and tail-boom components, twin medical stretchers and a large rotating main rotor. The open structure and fine external detailing make it an especially distinctive Korean War display model.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Corgi
Series: Aviation Archive Forgotten Heroes
Model code: US51902
Aircraft: Bell H-13 Sioux
Pilot: Second Lieutenant Byron Howlett Jr.
Unit: United States Army Medical Service Corps
Associated Hospital: 46th Surgical Hospital MASH
Campaign / Event: Korean War
Role: Medical evacuation, observation and liaison helicopter
Operator / Country: United States Army / United States
Scale: 1:48
Limited Edition Size: 15,000 pieces worldwide
Material: Heavyweight diecast metal with quality sub-components
Special Features: Authentic US Army Medical Service Corps markings, olive-drab finish, large transparent bubble canopy, detailed cockpit, exposed tubular tail boom, visible engine components, twin external medical stretchers, skid landing gear and rotating main rotor
Model Dimensions
Length: 10.75" or 27.3 cm
Width (Rotor Span): 9.25" or 23.5 cm