LGB Honors One of its First Helicopter Mechanics

Presentation of challenge coin

Bernard with his gifts

LGB had the honor of welcoming one of Los Angeles County Fire Departments first helicopter mechanics. Staff welcomed Bernard Rollinger in June when he came for an airport tour. Long Beach Airport's local TSA representative, Chris Tiampo,  presented Bernard with a challenge coin.

A challenge coin is presented to individuals as a sign of membership and has also been used in certain instances to boost moral and is also presented by the unit commander. Earlier this year, Bernard lost his wife Frances and LGB and TSA staff were glad to be able to bring Bernard a small amount of happiness in a period of mourning.

Bernard worked on the Bell 204B and Bell Model 47G helicopters. The 204B was the commercial counterpart of the famed UH-1B military ships. Jet powered with a capacity of 11 persons and a cargo capacity of 3,000 pounds.