A Vietnam War era UH-1 Huey helicopter last seen in 1969 has been recovered from Table Rock Lake in one of the most mysterious discoveries ever made in the Ozarks.
Divers located the wreck, leading to a full scale recovery operation involving cranes, emergency crews, and military experts. As the mud-covered aircraft was hoisted out of the lake, faint U.S. Army markings could still be seen along its frame.
How the helicopter, which vanished over 8,000 miles away during the war, ended up in southwest Missouri remains a complete mystery. Officials have not commented on whether any human remains or equipment were found inside.
Hundreds of spectators lined the shoreline as the helicopter emerged from the water, many recording the dramatic lift with their phones. Local authorities say federal investigators will now examine the aircraft in detail.
The discovery has fueled speculation across the region, with some calling it the most bizarre historical find ever linked to Table Rock Lake.