They do, however they eventually become surplus to these users as well. They
can sell at their discretion only after a couple years ( they don't even
have to be in use during this period) and can also trade for like value just
like the feds do. Many S-64 Skycranes were abtained using the trade method
direct from Feds to the private (commercial) owners. In fact a bunch are
being released now (OH-58s) because they are sometimes quite old and newer
units and brand new units are much easier to procure now that these agencys
have proven their use. Many of these agencies are procuring state of art
equippment. So tax payers are abliged.

just an opinion mindya
Jim




"Micbloo" wrote in message
...
Subject: OH-58 for Civilian use

I thought the military only gave/sold these aircraft to public safety
agencies (Police, Sheriffs Dept. etc)?

Gerard