The Captain Larry L. Taylor Exhibit is open at the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. Taylor was a Chattanooga native and Vietnam War hero who received the Medal of Honor in 2023 for his heroism during the Battle of Khe Sanh.
Designed by Encore Interpretive Design and 1220 Exhibits, the Taylor Exhibit features its namesake’s uniform, pilot helmet, flight log, patches and medals, as well as displays chronicling his life and service. Artist Alex Tisch of Kodiak Studios in Brooklyn, New York created the centerpiece attraction – a full-sized replica of Taylor’s AH-1G Cobra helicopter and life-sized sculptures of the men involved in the Medal of Honor action.
The exhibit commemorates Taylor’s actions of June 18, 1968, when he executed a daring rescue under heavy enemy fire to save a four-man long-range reconnaissance patrol team. With no evacuation helicopter available, Taylor landed his AH-1G Cobra – an aircraft not designed for passenger transport – and allowed the stranded men to cling to the helicopter’s skids as he flew them to safety.
Dave Hill, the final surviving member of the team Taylor rescued that night, says Taylor didn’t just save their lives, he changed the paths they took.
“Without his selflessness and bravery, we wouldn’t have made it home. This exhibit ensures his legacy will never be forgotten.”
Toni Taylor, widow of Taylor, says the tribute would have humbled her husband.
“His greatest hope was that his story would inspire others to act with courage and compassion when faced with difficult circumstances.”
Partners in the creation of the exhibit included the City of Chattanooga, the Hamilton County government, Captain Larry and Mrs. Toni Taylor and Marie Chinery.
The Taylor exhibit is open to the public during regular Heritage Center hours.
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