The UH-19B is a USAF version of the Sikorsky S-55, an aircraft used by all U.S. military service in the 1950s and 1960s. It was the first of the Sikorsky helicopters with enough cabin space and lifting ability to allow satisfactory operation in troops transport or rescue roles. The engine is mounted in the nose, leaving the main cabin free for passengers or cargo. The prototype was fist flown in November 1949, and in 1951 the USAF ordered production model H-19s (redesignated the UH-19s in 1962). After receiving 50 H-19As, the USAF acquired 270 H-19Bs with increased engine power. Many were assigned to Air Rescue squadrons as SH-19s (later redesignated HH-19S). For rescue service, a 400lb capacity hoist was mounted above the door. The aircraft also could be equipped with external sling capable of carrying 2,000 lbs. During the Korean War, H-19s were used extensively for rescue and medical evacuation work. Other missions included observation and liaison. The H-19 was the first helicopter combat airlift missions during the Korean War while serving with U.S. Marine Corps as the HRS.

Warner Robins Air Logistics Center managed all H-19s for the USAF during their service life. The H-19 on display is actually an Army HH-19D delivered in August 1956 and painted and marked as a USAF aircraft. Its service career is unknown and it was transferred to Robins AFB in 1986.