A U.S. Army HH-60M helicopter will land at UCCS March 21 as part of the Colorado Springs Recruiting Company STEM Week activities. The helicopter will be available on the West Lawn for students, faculty and staff to visit, and local U.S. Army Reserve representatives will be on site to answer questions.

The UCCS Army ROTC is sponsoring the visit, which is designed to showcase potential STEM careers and opportunities within the U.S. Army Reserve.

Nearly 20 percent of UCCS students have a direct connection with the military, either as active duty, veteran or as an immediate family member of a service member. Multiple staff and faculty members are also veterans. Since there will be military vehicles on campus, UCCS wants to make sure that the university is sensitive to the needs of those who may have an adverse reaction. If you feel uncomfortable in any way, please allow additional time to walk around the area. Those who may benefit from additional support can utilize the Wellness Center services (719-255-4444) and take advantage of seven free visits for students with military connections.

The helicopter that will be on display is a special purpose vehicle used to evacuate injured troops from the battlefield and provide medical services in transport.

Timing and campus impacts

Landing at 7:45 a.m. Sidewalks and the road immediately surrounding the West Lawn will be closed to pedestrians and vehicles for approximately five minutes while the helicopter lands. They are expected to reopen with enough time for people to reach 8 a.m. classes.

Takeoff between 1:30-2 p.m. Sidewalks and the road immediately surrounding the West Lawn will be closed for approximately five minutes as the helicopter departs.

UCCS Police will be on site to assist during the landing and takeoff times.