Helen Machek is a Yeoman Third Class in the United States Navy. She is a passenger on flight 171 to Dulles. While en route, Helen meets Pfc Barris, and the two strike up a conversation. When Barris states that a person should be aware of their limitations, Helen replies that she's not sure what hers are yet. Surviving the plane crash, Helen volunteers to help Lt. Colby provide medical aid despite her lack of experience, and encourages Barris to exceed his limits.