2010 - August
Newsletters of the Comox Air Force MuseumArchived Newsletters from the Comox Air Force Museum in Lazo, BC. Documents the activities of the members of the Comox Valley Air Force Museum Association, a non-profit organization that raises funds on behalf of the Comox Air Force Museum. The Museum documents the history of 19 Wing Comox and West Coast Aviation in Canada.
Content
VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2 AUG 2010
THE COMOX VALLEY AIR FORCE MUSEUM ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER
ON PROUD WINGS
VOLUNTEER VIGNETTE: A L L I S O N
INSIDE THIS ISVOLUNTEER VIGNETTE-ALLISON
A VERITABLE TALE OF DEDICATION AND MODESTY
A Short Summary of Allison’s Journey to Here and Now.
Having graduated from North Saanich High School in 1961, Allison’s first direct introduction to aviation was when she married Colin in 1972, at which time he was stationed at 880 Squadron Shearwater and on temporary duty with VU 33 Sqn Pat Bay. They returned to Shearwater in 1973 and Allison was thus borne into a period of considerable experience. She accompanied and often worked close to Colin on his various postings in Germany, Comox, Missouri and, finally, NDHQ in Ottawa. and then with 421 “Red Indian” Squadron, was something quite new to me and full of experiences. I was initially employed at the Canex grocery store on Base, and later transferred to a small Canex grocery outlet in our town of Hugelsheim. The experience of working in a local grocery store in Germany was interesting, to say the least. Often the local German people would come in just to see what products we carried, and invariably I would get caught with my limited Gasthaus German.
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COLLECTIONS MANAGEMENT
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BOARD MEETING EXTRACTS THE PRESIDENT DIRECTOR & MANAGER CAFM & CVAG EXHIBITION
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Four years later, we transferred to Comox where Colin was posted to 409 Squadron. UnNEW MEMBERS 7 fortunately there were no opportunities for me to work. While on this posting our memories COMING EVENTS 7 Colin retired at NDHQ and they returned to from the Pat Bay days were still strong, so we their house in Courtenay. Still in the federal decided to build a house in Courtenay as a proLIGHTER THAN 8 public service, Allison was hired to assist spect for eventually settling somewhere on the AIR with transcripts at a court-martial in Building island at retirement. 22 and, six weeks later, offered a temporary QUARTER-BACK 9 CDLS(W) ..hire In 1983, we were position as secretary to the Air Force Indocqualified spouses, CVAFMA 10 trination School (AFIS), here in building 11. transferred to St Louis As all temp jobs seem to do, this one became Missouri, as part of the as locally engaged NOTICES 11 CF-18 project in the staff and so the permanent and here she stayed. After AFIS was moved to Winnipeg, Allison got the newly McDonnell Douglas wish of many wives SPECIAL POINTS created job as base hospital secretary and retired factory. Fortunately, and their husbands even though we were from there in 1998. Upon retirement, Allison OF INTEREST: foreigners and without to be working close joined the museum as a volunteer and was soon Allison’ tells almost asked to help clear up all the library books col- green cards, CDLS (W) to each other on the the Canadian Defence lected in heaps upstairs. In David Stinson’s all, plus lots on our project was grantwords: “Since retirement from the Public Service Liaison Staff founders. (Washington) could hire ed. of Canada, she has been a keen member of the qualified spouses, as library staff, keeping the book and photograph David completes the collections, and the collection records, in excellent locally engaged staff and, so, the wish of many CVAFMA 10 years’ order. Allison has also helped with the Heritage wives and husbands to be working close to each Stones project since its inception and she is a true other on the project was granted. I worked with anniversary story. contributor to Library humour and to good Musethe Major in the Detachment’s Avionics Departum staff morale.” Read on... Welcome to Don, ment. now at the podium. Ed: How would you describe the most imWhile on this contract, we were very well portant highlights of your public service career looked after by CDLS. Unfortunately, it had All about our entry and your museum volunteer work? not been the case for compatriots who had preinto the CV Art Scene. More good stuff.
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“Well, of course, the posting to #4 Wing in Baden Soëllingen, Germany, first with 1CAG, otherwise known as the “snag/servicing unit”
ceded us in California on the Aurora contract. DND learned well from that experience and the CF-18 Project was a great posting for us. For
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Colin, it meant leaving Comox as a corporal, and arriving in Ottawa five years later as warrant officer. The work was extremely interesting, the pay good and the benefits were outstanding. Many of us would have gone back without much coaxing. CONT..
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As for the project itself, it was very unusual for the aircraft maintenance guys, who no longer had their hands on an aircraft. Most of their work was done on the phone or on a computer. The actual aircraft was not seen until the rolling-out ceremony. I believe the military personnel may have gotten to see different CF-18s as they came off the line, but it was the last aircraft, #138, that we, as a Detachment, all got to stand with and have our pic- MCpl Curt Oshiro, Capt Bob Sealby, Capt McDonnell, Maj Wes tures taken. Postma, Capt Mike Forbes, Capt Bob Richter, Allison Hetman In 1989, we were transferred to NDHQ Ottawa, where Colin was with the CF-18 PMO (Program Management Office) and from there he retired in 1991. I was secretary to the Director General Management Services (DGManS); in other words, the guy responsible for ensuring that everyone had a PC on their desk. Thus, for me, this position was a great help in getting up to speed in the advent of the ubiquitous desktop.” dy closed. It seemed he had spent the majority of his career, trying to get the apostrophe taken from his name. It didn’t help that his wife’s name was Paddy! I often wondered if he actually managed to get it removed. The museum staff at that time also included a graphic artist and a researcher by the name of Jim Rasor.
The museum, which was already here along with AFIS, had a curator by the name of John Logan. The guys who Ed: Can we now go back to the future and learn how your life worked in AFIS as instructors had secondary duties requiring them to help in the museum when there weren’t any classes with the museum unfolded? scheduled, while also taking turns working the weekly bingo. “Yes, well, when we got back to Comox in 1992. I went to The curator’s salary was paid from bingo funds and AFIS staff the civilian personnel office (CPO), who needed a typist for a who were not lecturing on Tuesdays were billeted as voluncourt-martial that was about to begin. I went into Building teers for the bingo hall. Excuses, like “..No, my wife needs to number 22 each morning where we would transcribe the rec- go shopping..” or “.. the family wants to go to the beach.” just orded tapes from the daily hearings. At the end of those six didn’t work. The “volunteers” went home early on that day, weeks, the CPO assigned me to a position on CFB Comox as changed their clothes and got down to the bingo hall to call temporary secretary to AFIS. numbers, run up and down the lines with bingo cards or whatAs all temporary jobs seem to do, this one became perma- ever. nent and here I stayed and The instructors also helped the curator with the displays. worked with some interesting Many of the models that we have today are the work of the people. My first boss was Maj instructors or their students. At that time, the Library was just Wes Postma, who had just taken a small area upstairs, in the students’ lounge. In the evenings, over the Commandant position the students were allowed to use the upstairs area for studies from Maj Ian Sibbald. The in- or to watch TV. The gift shop and display area on the ground structors were Mike Forbes, floor, were only open on weekends. When working on the Bob Richter, Corky Hansen, base-side we would not hear if someone was tapping on the Harlin Price, Larry Summers, front door, so our guests had to book visits. Mort MacDonnell and a serIn 1994, we received the donation from the Rowe family geant in the orderly room by the in Victoria, and thus began our “Geoffrey Rowe” Library. name of Curt O’Shiro [sic] There were over 2500 hardcover books, thousands of maga(Oshiro). Curt was a nice young Japanese guy who trans- zines and hundreds of artifacts. Between class schedules, we ferred to Comox when Port Har- had to log in all of this huge donation. The upstairs lounge
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VOLUNTEER VIGNETTE: ALLISON
suddenly became a fully fledged library and the chairs and couches were gone! I was working with AFIS until the school was moved to Winnipeg in 1996 and then I was transferred as secretary to the base hospital. I retired from there, and public service as a whole, in 1998 to become a volunteer at the Comox Air Force Museum.” Ed: So, what is the story on how the museum began in the first place? “I believe that Lt. Col. Syd Burrows initiated the museum in 1985. It was quiet for a year or two as things for the museum were collected in what was called the Blue Room in Building 22 on the Base. It entirely depended on whether Syd was in town or out flying as to what was deposited and held there. In 1986, it was all officially moved to our present building, with Nancy Green as the first Curator. The museum was operating as a totally separate unit at the end of the building and the present library area was the Totem Times newspaper production room. CONT..
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In the meantime, the library collection wasn’t being tended to, and Bob Richter asked if I would consider volunteering
Capt. John Low, Col. Randy Price & CWO Terry Van Horne at
Library Opening—Oct 2003 just until the books were organized. That began in January 1998 and I never left. As you can see, that was the end of me or, on a more positive note, just the beginning!
I spent five days per week doing the books for Bob; whereas, we really needed about 12 days per week to clean up the whole library. We had to start all over again in reclassifying everything. Also, at that time, an amazing gentleman The part beyond the doors, in which the gift shop T-shirts named Don Macklin, who had a strong interest in magazines, now hang, was a little workshop known as “Skunkworks“, arrived to volunteer. He came in and read which was where the AFIS staff and students built their mod“..I was the all the Geoffrey Rowe Collection magazines els. Naturally, all information on the work was given out last one and then he just stayed. During a period of standing as only on a strict “need-to-know” basis. Rob Roy and Herbie his career, while in the Ottawa patents office, everyone else Lightfoot were already deep into the Heritage Vehicle proDon was a co-worker of Geoffrey Rowe’s. A left the room, gram at that time. lot of the impetus for museum work must so I got the badge.” have rubbed off on Don at that time. AnyMajor Postma left in 1994, way, he meticulously classified artifacts, and was replaced by Major Joel books and magazines by boxing, annotating and storing them. Clarkston. Joel became the Ask him any question about aircraft and he would answer Commandant at AFIS, and he right back, while digging out the magazine that backed up his also became the Chairman of the answer. Tragically, Don got very sick and died a little later. museum. When the AFIS school was transferred to Air Command Maj Wes Postma, Col Terry But then (Holy Cow!), along comes Geoff Plant to volunteer and with exactly the same motivation for the magazines as Winnipeg in 1996, all the staff Rogers, Maj Joel Clarkston Don had. Thus the process has continued to this day. It was here had to be posted to other quite fascinating to watch it all happen. jobs. Major Clarkston went back to 442 Sqn, Mort MacDonnell, I think, may also have gone to 442. Corky Hansen, Ed: These memories are so valuable; thank you for sharing who had retired and taken over the job of museum curator them. But now, for you, what lies ahead? after John Logan left, retired once again and Bob Richter “Well, my little friend Loretta Wetmore was a professionbecame the new curator. I think Larry Summers went back to al school librarian. She came to work with us back in the 414 Sqn. Mike Forbes returned to Air Traffic Control, and I Joel Clarkston days. She asked me once where I got my believe Harlan Price went to 19 AMS. training as a librarian. I said I was the last one standing as So there I was, out of a job with the AFIS secretarial posieveryone else left the room, so I got the badge. The only tion gone; but, fortunately, guaranteed a position somewhere library training I’ve had is knowing my alphabet, and a love on the Base. As it turned out, a position number in Trenton of putting everything into a computer database of some sort. was transferred to Comox for an hospital secretary to the So I guess I will retire, again, when I forget how the alphabet Base Surgeon. The work for this job had always been done works!” by an orderly room clerk, so I went over there and filled the position. I worked there from early 1996 until early 1998, and then I retired.
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COLLECTIONS MANAGEMENT CVAFMA History. The article in the April Newsletter explained how the Association came into being in September, 1999. This instalment will speak to the history since “we were born”.
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The first CVAFMA Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held in Oct 2000, with 14 members atDavid Stinson tending out of a total of 43. Membership fees were set at $10 annually for a regular member and $250 for a life membership – we are doing well, as the fees have not changed in 11 years! Membership grew slowly – 53 in 2001 and 2002, 55 in 2003 and 2004. The Museum, meanwhile, was notably busy, with many projects in work and thousands of visitors passing through the exhibits. The Y2K Spitfire Restoration project, launched in 1999, required much time, effort and money. To aid that project, CVAFMA applied in 2001 for a $100,000 BC direct access grant, a bid for gaming funds to support a specific project, outside the regular bingo affiliation funding. The application was refused because the Association did not own the aircraft. The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch of the BC government staff (GPEB, replaced the Gaming Commission) then asked “What, exactly, do you own and what community programs do you support?” and sent a GPEB auditor to examine all aspects of CVAFMA activity. While the direct access grant application was not approved, the audit assured the GPEB staff, then, that CVAFMA was using its gaming funds properly. It was about this time that the curator ceased to be an NPF employee and became a contractor of the Association. In 2002, to help attract donations and to permit us to issue tax receipts, the Association gained a Canada Revenue Agency license as a recognized charity. At the 2004 AGM, Mike Spooner was still President, Herb Lightfoot became a CVAFMA director, Capt John Low made his first presentation as CAFM Director and the Heritage Stone Fundraising Project was approved. In May 2005, Mike Spooner, after six years as President, stepped down, and promptly became the Treasurer. Mike Hendren, having nearly doubled the membership (to 91) during his two years as Membership Coordinator, became President. We had survived a second serious GPEB review, the gaming funding continued to flow, Ken Oxley had started the Newsletter and the Board now included eight directors. The times since May 2005 have been inspiring! Lorraine Angly was hired late in 2005 to replace Bob Richter, who retired after many years of dedicated service to the Museum. The CVAFMA Yard Sale, now an annual event, was first organized by Ken Oxley in May 2006. Heritage Stone Dedication Ceremonies began in June 2006 – the fifth will be presented on 26 September 2010. CVAFMA and the Comox Military Family Resource Centre staged a Vancouver Canucks Alumni hockey game in Feb 2007 and raised thousands of dollars for the two organizations. OP Shredder, a fundraising activity which relieved folks of unwanted personal or business papers in a very secure manner in return for a donation, ran in 2007 for the first time. Volunteer time contributed to all Museum and Association activities in a year reached the 10,000 hour mark in 2007 and has continued at about that level each year since then. Lorraine Angly departed in October 2007, replaced by Bob Richter on a short-term contract. The Association Constitution and Bylaws, issued in 1999 with the charter, were thoroughly overhauled in 2008 – all changes were accepted by the BC Registrar of Companies. Also in 2008, Harlin Price, our long serving VicePresident, retired as a director, and Jon Ambler, former Commander 19 Wing Comox, became Museum Manager and Volunteer Program Coordinator. In Sep 2008, CVAFMA dedicated the Joel Clarkston Memorial Gateway at the entrance to the Heritage Air Park. In April 2009 the Association, on behalf of and supported by 19 Wing Comox, staged a thoroughly successful dinner for 400 (!) people in 7 Hangar to mark the Centennial of Powered Flight in Canada. On 19 September 2009, CVAFMA, with membership at just under 100 folks, with all of its finances in excellent order and with many successes to its credit in conjunction with CAFM, passed its tenth birthday. David Stinson SUNDRY EXTRACTS FROM THE JULY 6 CVAFMA BOARD MEETING Dakota: The rudder and ailerons are installed and look great. The elevators will be completed next winter when the glider specialist has time to work on them. MiG-21: The recent radiation hazard check was satisfactory. The aircraft will have a full HAZMAT inspection to ensure there are no contamination surprises when it is partly disassembled for transport to the National Air Museum,. Canada Day: The weather notwithstanding, the effort was a success. The jeep and ambulance were great interest generators and won a prize for “Best Out of Town Float” of the Courtenay parade. Heritage Stones Dedication 2010: The estimate of stones to be dedicated this year is 20. Heritage Air Park: A future possibility may exist to add the recently grounded Air Cadet League L-19 tug aircraft..
ON PROUD WINGS
THE PRESDENT’S
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Firstly, some encouraging words on our Association’s funding outlook. We have, indeed, gained our gaming funds grant for the 2010-11 financial year, in the amount of $27,708, i.e. slightPODIUM ly more than we had expected. That part of our overall funding is now in excellent shape for the next several months, in fact up to about the end of July 2011. In the spring of 2011, we will develop our first application for a community gaming grant (replacing bingo funding) and ascertain if we can continue that support from the BC government. Secondly, many of you have heard me mention OMMC, which is the Organization of Military Museums of Canada. The Organization was incorporated in 1992 and comprises 65 military museums. OMMC is recognized by the Department of History and Heritage, which is a part of DND. Our Museum is an OMMC member and is entitled to one vote at its AGM. In addition, one can become an individual member who is also entitled to a vote. Each year, in conjunction with the OMMC AGM, a week long study session is organized where the topics are relative to running a museum. The location changes every year and their Board of Directors (on which I serve) holds the session in different locations across Canada. Some years ago it was held in Victoria and part of the programme included a visit to our Museum. This year we visited Sydney, Nova Scotia and included a day at the Fort at Louisburg and talks by some of the staff on preserving artifacts. In 2011 we will be going to Charlottetown, PEI (date to be determined). If your travels take you that way then, I would strongly recommend you include it in your itinerary. On the home front, I would like to offer a very warm welcome to WO Mike Barnucz who has recently joined us in the new position of NCM/Deputy Director, under the supervision of our Director, Capt. John Low. We hope Mike finds in us success complementary to his substantial career. As time goes on, no doubt you will learn more of his interests in military history and of his career with CF through postings to Edmonton, Toronto, Moose Jaw, Borden and Trenton in the fields of Air Maintenance and Mechanical Support. Don Manley, CVAFMA President and OMMC Director
MANAGER ‘N DIRECTOR’S
This summer we will enjoy a partnership between Comox Valley Art Gallery and the Comox Air Force Museum. From 23 July until 11 September the Gallery will be running an exhibition entitled “Our Military Aviation Heritage: A Unique Retrospective.” This exhibition tells some of the West Coast’s military aviation history through three different sets of paintings and illustrations, a variety of aircraft models, a mannequin in full Search and Rescue Technician uniform and equipment, and through other Air Force artifacts. An artifact is defined as a product of human art and workmanship and, as such, they can inspire and enhance our collective understanding of human history in both museums and art galleries. Six models of key aircraft flown from Comox over the years: the Buffalo, the Labrador, the Voodoo, the Neptune, the Argus and the Aurora. (a real Labrador helicopter will be installed in the Air Park this summer). Three mannequins are of: ☺ A SAR Tech; ☺ An Officer in RCAF uniform; and ☺ A female RCAF NCO (Marty’s!) The Gallery, like our Museum, has a tiny paid staff and exists through the efforts of volunteers and donations at the door. So, over the next few weeks make sure you get into the Gallery to see our stuff in a whole new light. At the same time you will see some extraordinary aviation pictures from a key Canadian artist: check them out for yourself!
Included in the exhibition are: Eighteen original cartoons by famous Vancouver Sun cartoonist Len Norris capturing the stormy political issues of the 1950s and 1960s. Complementing the CAFM display is an arresting set of Five original oils by famed aviation artist Don Connolly paintings entitled : “The Architects of Heaven”, by Virginia (Ontario) covering the history of 407 Squadron, Ivanicki of Vancouver BC. . Eight watercolours by H. Pearce depicting inter-war aircraft. Jon & John
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“ O U R M I L I TA R Y AV I AT I O N H E R I TA G E A UNIQUE RETROSPECTIVE” EXHIBITION
CVAG, COURTERNAY.
(JULY 23RD — SEPTEMBER 11TH)
Opening Ceremony & Reception
Anh Le Curator/Director
“..surrealism lends a topsy turvy dream-like feeling that conveys the vertigo that pilots must experience in full colour.” ...CV Record
‘ ..an imaginative and clear mapping of pilots’ situations and thoughts, with strong, implied messages.” ...newsletter editor
“While her work is representational and photorealistic, what is striking is the unrealistic completed image.” ...CV Echo
ON PROUD WINGS
A BIG WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS: ☼ Myra McArthur ☼ Karen Fraser ☼ Eric Fredriksen ☼ Josh Bowles ☼ WO Mike Barnucz ☼ Graham Soar ☼ Capt. Fred Paradie
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☼ Michelle Spencer ☼ Leonard Patey ☼ Fletcher Wade
Some advantages to membership of the Association are in: • • • Being part of a community-focused organization Broadening your network of contacts and making new friends • Learning first hand about Canada’s role in military aviation • An opportunity to develop new skills • • • •
Involvement in a wide range of museum activities A voting member of the Comox Valley Air Force Museum Association (CVAFMA) Opportunity to become one of the Association Directors Enjoyment of membership activities and social functions A discount at the Air Force Museum Gift Shop.
COMING EVENTS
Date
24 Jul to 11 Sep 10:
Item
CVAG: "Our Military Heritage: A Unique Retrospective" Exhibit
14 Aug
Art Talk, CVAG, Courtenay: “History of the Comox Air Force Base”
by Jon Ambler 11am to 12pm Admission is by donation, suggested $2 - $5 Recreation Exposition (REXPO) [Museum involvement unconfirmed as yet] Heritage Air Park: Battle of Britain Ceremonies. Heritage Air Park:
18 Sep: 19 Sep:
26 Sep:
A Two-Part Ceremony for: 1) our annual dedication of the heritage stones, and 2) a ribbon cutting ceremony welcoming Labrador 310 into our heritage aircraft collection. More info to follow Library, CAFM with much to talk about. Followed by potluck lunch.
TBD Oct
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LIGHTER THAN AIR
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Spotters’ QUIZ result
Question #1: What
Humour on the Wing
A passenger called asking how it was possible that her/his flight from Detroit left at 8.30 am, and got to Chicago at 8.33 am. It was explained that Michigan was an hour ahead of Illinois, but s/he couldn’t understand the concept of time zones. Finally, s/he was told that the plane went really fast. fast …..Disoriented The odds against there being a bomb on a plane you flying in are a million to one. The odds against there being two bombs on a plane you fly in are a million times a million to one. To shorten the odds the next time you fly, should you take a bomb?
is this picture?
Question #1: What
is wrong with this picture?
Answers:
Congratulations on the correct answers
received from Mike Spooner and Geoff Plant. Although neither answer was fully correct, and one 2. can blame the picture quality for that, the photo is of a Cessna Crane, which is airborne and in a slight climb. What is wrong in it, is that no one is at the controls, despite the lack of autopilot!
Still curious? For more exact details, dump the editor and please ask Frank Steven, the absent pilot who took the photograph.
This issue’s challenge:
There are no prizes for answering who this is. Despite referrals to the subject himself, your editor could not adequately caption the picture, as it appears on page 5. Thus, the challenge is, in a manner respectful of our good President, to supply such a caption. Any/all results will be published in the next issue and readers will judge.
8. 5. 6. 7. 4. 3. 1. 2. What, in aviation terms was the “Queen Mary”? What is a microlight aircraft , which is controlled by moving the fuselage about under the wing known as? When was the name “Canuck” first applied to an aircraft? Is the altitude record for a hot air balloon, 45,000’, 55,000’ or 65,000’? Who or what was “Hungry Liz”? In which year did the Concorde enter commercial service? Do the words “Zero-zero” refer to an ejection seat coding or thick fog? What was the phonetic alphabet code word for “M” in WWI?
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QUARTER-BACK REVIEW
GARAGE SALE — MAY
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(THE PAST THREE MONTHS)
VISITORS’ TRAILS
The association held it's garage sale on May 22nd. We managed to raise $750 from this. As always, this would not have been possible without the tremendous effort on the part of all those who donated items, helped set-up and assisted during the day. Many thanks.
Phil Hambrook — June ‘10
“In your dreams will I yield!”
Lindsay Chung, CV Record, Jun ’10. Destined for, but didn’t make the CV Record’s Visitor’s Guide
PROVINCIAL HERITAGE FAIR COMPETITION WINNER
The young lad on right travelled with his family and friend from Abbotsford, BC to meet James Stocky Edwards, Canada’s only living air ace, at Comox Air Force Museum June 5, 2010. 13 year old Mark Dhillon won the Provincial Heritage Fair competition by writing about Stocky's exploits during WW II. After spending some time in the Museum, Stocky took them over to see the Y2K Spitfire project and the Museum's Airpark. It is great to see that youth also have a great interest and appreciation for our history and heritage. Stocky, his wife Toni and cousins visiting from New Hampshire obviously enjoyed the day which happened to be Stocky's 89th birthday. Ken Oxley
SIGNING THE AWARD-WINNING SNOWBIRDS PHOTO
All told, 46 large copies of the issue were sold, signed by this flight’s formation leader and the winning photographer for $30/copy.
UH-OH, WHO’S 55 THEN?
VINTAGE WINGS CORSAIR SWINGS WEST Following June/July showings in Lethbridge and Calgary..
“You know, the reason most people come to this museum is to see something old...” Manager, Jon Ambler, 10 Aug 10.
..here it is for a QTR refuelling stop en route to Victoria and the Abbotsford Air Show
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CVAFMA Executive 20102010-11
President
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Don Manley
Membership Bingo Coordinator Fund Raising Director at Large
Bill Cuell Herb Lightfoot Dave Mellin Mike Hendren Rodney Jones Ken Oxley
Director at Large Val Kaehler Director at Large Chris Tuck Observer Observer
Vice President Bob Mortimer Secretary Treasurer
David Stinson Mike Spooner
John Low Jon Ambler
Newsletter Editor Special Reporter & Photographer
Contact Information
Museum Director Assistant Director Program Manager & Volunteer Coordinator Gift Shop Manager
John Low, Capt. 19 Wing Heritage Officer WO Mike Barnucz Jon Ambler Ken Oxley
Comox Air Force Museum
19 Wing Comox, Lazo BC V0R 2K0
Phone/Fax: E-mail: Website: 250-339-8162 [email protected] www.comoxairforcemuseum.ca www.y2kspitfire.com
Spitfire/Y2K Project Website:
OPENING TIMES: Museum, Library and Gift Shop 10am - 4pm Tuesdays—Sundays, incl. Spitfire Hangar Heritage Airpark Saturdays 10am-3pm May-September - 10am - 4pm, in Museum times
COLLABORATIVE OPPORTUNITIES
To join our Association, download the application on our website (below) under Volunteer, leave a phone message at the Museum, or drop by and fill out an application. For only $10 annually, some of the benefits you receive include our newsletter, discounts in the gift shop, and a voice in the organization. If you are currently receiving this newsletter by mail, please forward your email address to receive a high quality issue via the Internet. Our thanks to those of you who have contributed articles and other material for this issue. If you have been thinking of doing so, with something of interest to submit, whether it be a photo, story, or anything relevant to what we do and who we are, please don’t hesitate to send it along to the contacts below: [email protected] or leave a message at the Museum; Your editor at: [email protected] ; or Visit www.comoxairforcemuseum.ca or drop by the museum to find out more about current activities. Ed.
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NOTICES
The Comox Valley Air Force Museum Association Cordially Invites You and a Guest to the 5th Annual Heritage Stones Dedication Ceremony
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Sunday, 26 September 2010
Place: CAFM Heritage Air Park Time: 1 P.M. (Please be seated by 12:45) Special Guest: Colonel Michele Lalumière, Commander 19 Wing, or his delegate Suggested Dress: RSVP
Canada Post: Business Casual by 17 Sep 2010 Museum Library (250) 339-8162; E-mail: [email protected]
CVAFMA Building 11, 19 Wing Comox, PO Box 1000, Station Main, Lazo, BC, V0R 2K0
The heritage stones ceremony will be followed by the official “unveiling” of CH-113 Labrador 11310 as the latest addition to the Heritage Air Park. Reception on site after the “unveiling” of the Labrador If the weather is inclement, the heritage stone ceremony will be conducted in the 19 Wing Protestant Chapel across the street from the Air Park.
HERITAGE STONES For Sale
$155.00 ea, with tax receipt
Answers: 1. A 40’ long steel lattice trailer for transporting aircraft parts; 2. A Flexwing;
3. In WWI, to the Canadian-built Curtiss JN-4 Jenny; 4. 65,000’; 5. In WWI, an ambulance called to the scene of a crash; 6. 1976; 7. Both; 8. Emma.
THE COMOX VALLEY AIR FORCE MUSEUM ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER
ON PROUD WINGS
VOLUNTEER VIGNETTE: A L L I S O N
INSIDE THIS ISVOLUNTEER VIGNETTE-ALLISON
A VERITABLE TALE OF DEDICATION AND MODESTY
A Short Summary of Allison’s Journey to Here and Now.
Having graduated from North Saanich High School in 1961, Allison’s first direct introduction to aviation was when she married Colin in 1972, at which time he was stationed at 880 Squadron Shearwater and on temporary duty with VU 33 Sqn Pat Bay. They returned to Shearwater in 1973 and Allison was thus borne into a period of considerable experience. She accompanied and often worked close to Colin on his various postings in Germany, Comox, Missouri and, finally, NDHQ in Ottawa. and then with 421 “Red Indian” Squadron, was something quite new to me and full of experiences. I was initially employed at the Canex grocery store on Base, and later transferred to a small Canex grocery outlet in our town of Hugelsheim. The experience of working in a local grocery store in Germany was interesting, to say the least. Often the local German people would come in just to see what products we carried, and invariably I would get caught with my limited Gasthaus German.
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COLLECTIONS MANAGEMENT
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BOARD MEETING EXTRACTS THE PRESIDENT DIRECTOR & MANAGER CAFM & CVAG EXHIBITION
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Four years later, we transferred to Comox where Colin was posted to 409 Squadron. UnNEW MEMBERS 7 fortunately there were no opportunities for me to work. While on this posting our memories COMING EVENTS 7 Colin retired at NDHQ and they returned to from the Pat Bay days were still strong, so we their house in Courtenay. Still in the federal decided to build a house in Courtenay as a proLIGHTER THAN 8 public service, Allison was hired to assist spect for eventually settling somewhere on the AIR with transcripts at a court-martial in Building island at retirement. 22 and, six weeks later, offered a temporary QUARTER-BACK 9 CDLS(W) ..hire In 1983, we were position as secretary to the Air Force Indocqualified spouses, CVAFMA 10 trination School (AFIS), here in building 11. transferred to St Louis As all temp jobs seem to do, this one became Missouri, as part of the as locally engaged NOTICES 11 CF-18 project in the staff and so the permanent and here she stayed. After AFIS was moved to Winnipeg, Allison got the newly McDonnell Douglas wish of many wives SPECIAL POINTS created job as base hospital secretary and retired factory. Fortunately, and their husbands even though we were from there in 1998. Upon retirement, Allison OF INTEREST: foreigners and without to be working close joined the museum as a volunteer and was soon Allison’ tells almost asked to help clear up all the library books col- green cards, CDLS (W) to each other on the the Canadian Defence lected in heaps upstairs. In David Stinson’s all, plus lots on our project was grantwords: “Since retirement from the Public Service Liaison Staff founders. (Washington) could hire ed. of Canada, she has been a keen member of the qualified spouses, as library staff, keeping the book and photograph David completes the collections, and the collection records, in excellent locally engaged staff and, so, the wish of many CVAFMA 10 years’ order. Allison has also helped with the Heritage wives and husbands to be working close to each Stones project since its inception and she is a true other on the project was granted. I worked with anniversary story. contributor to Library humour and to good Musethe Major in the Detachment’s Avionics Departum staff morale.” Read on... Welcome to Don, ment. now at the podium. Ed: How would you describe the most imWhile on this contract, we were very well portant highlights of your public service career looked after by CDLS. Unfortunately, it had All about our entry and your museum volunteer work? not been the case for compatriots who had preinto the CV Art Scene. More good stuff.
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“Well, of course, the posting to #4 Wing in Baden Soëllingen, Germany, first with 1CAG, otherwise known as the “snag/servicing unit”
ceded us in California on the Aurora contract. DND learned well from that experience and the CF-18 Project was a great posting for us. For
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VOLUNTEER VIGNETTE: ALLISON
Colin, it meant leaving Comox as a corporal, and arriving in Ottawa five years later as warrant officer. The work was extremely interesting, the pay good and the benefits were outstanding. Many of us would have gone back without much coaxing. CONT..
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As for the project itself, it was very unusual for the aircraft maintenance guys, who no longer had their hands on an aircraft. Most of their work was done on the phone or on a computer. The actual aircraft was not seen until the rolling-out ceremony. I believe the military personnel may have gotten to see different CF-18s as they came off the line, but it was the last aircraft, #138, that we, as a Detachment, all got to stand with and have our pic- MCpl Curt Oshiro, Capt Bob Sealby, Capt McDonnell, Maj Wes tures taken. Postma, Capt Mike Forbes, Capt Bob Richter, Allison Hetman In 1989, we were transferred to NDHQ Ottawa, where Colin was with the CF-18 PMO (Program Management Office) and from there he retired in 1991. I was secretary to the Director General Management Services (DGManS); in other words, the guy responsible for ensuring that everyone had a PC on their desk. Thus, for me, this position was a great help in getting up to speed in the advent of the ubiquitous desktop.” dy closed. It seemed he had spent the majority of his career, trying to get the apostrophe taken from his name. It didn’t help that his wife’s name was Paddy! I often wondered if he actually managed to get it removed. The museum staff at that time also included a graphic artist and a researcher by the name of Jim Rasor.
The museum, which was already here along with AFIS, had a curator by the name of John Logan. The guys who Ed: Can we now go back to the future and learn how your life worked in AFIS as instructors had secondary duties requiring them to help in the museum when there weren’t any classes with the museum unfolded? scheduled, while also taking turns working the weekly bingo. “Yes, well, when we got back to Comox in 1992. I went to The curator’s salary was paid from bingo funds and AFIS staff the civilian personnel office (CPO), who needed a typist for a who were not lecturing on Tuesdays were billeted as voluncourt-martial that was about to begin. I went into Building teers for the bingo hall. Excuses, like “..No, my wife needs to number 22 each morning where we would transcribe the rec- go shopping..” or “.. the family wants to go to the beach.” just orded tapes from the daily hearings. At the end of those six didn’t work. The “volunteers” went home early on that day, weeks, the CPO assigned me to a position on CFB Comox as changed their clothes and got down to the bingo hall to call temporary secretary to AFIS. numbers, run up and down the lines with bingo cards or whatAs all temporary jobs seem to do, this one became perma- ever. nent and here I stayed and The instructors also helped the curator with the displays. worked with some interesting Many of the models that we have today are the work of the people. My first boss was Maj instructors or their students. At that time, the Library was just Wes Postma, who had just taken a small area upstairs, in the students’ lounge. In the evenings, over the Commandant position the students were allowed to use the upstairs area for studies from Maj Ian Sibbald. The in- or to watch TV. The gift shop and display area on the ground structors were Mike Forbes, floor, were only open on weekends. When working on the Bob Richter, Corky Hansen, base-side we would not hear if someone was tapping on the Harlin Price, Larry Summers, front door, so our guests had to book visits. Mort MacDonnell and a serIn 1994, we received the donation from the Rowe family geant in the orderly room by the in Victoria, and thus began our “Geoffrey Rowe” Library. name of Curt O’Shiro [sic] There were over 2500 hardcover books, thousands of maga(Oshiro). Curt was a nice young Japanese guy who trans- zines and hundreds of artifacts. Between class schedules, we ferred to Comox when Port Har- had to log in all of this huge donation. The upstairs lounge
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VOLUNTEER VIGNETTE: ALLISON
suddenly became a fully fledged library and the chairs and couches were gone! I was working with AFIS until the school was moved to Winnipeg in 1996 and then I was transferred as secretary to the base hospital. I retired from there, and public service as a whole, in 1998 to become a volunteer at the Comox Air Force Museum.” Ed: So, what is the story on how the museum began in the first place? “I believe that Lt. Col. Syd Burrows initiated the museum in 1985. It was quiet for a year or two as things for the museum were collected in what was called the Blue Room in Building 22 on the Base. It entirely depended on whether Syd was in town or out flying as to what was deposited and held there. In 1986, it was all officially moved to our present building, with Nancy Green as the first Curator. The museum was operating as a totally separate unit at the end of the building and the present library area was the Totem Times newspaper production room. CONT..
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In the meantime, the library collection wasn’t being tended to, and Bob Richter asked if I would consider volunteering
Capt. John Low, Col. Randy Price & CWO Terry Van Horne at
Library Opening—Oct 2003 just until the books were organized. That began in January 1998 and I never left. As you can see, that was the end of me or, on a more positive note, just the beginning!
I spent five days per week doing the books for Bob; whereas, we really needed about 12 days per week to clean up the whole library. We had to start all over again in reclassifying everything. Also, at that time, an amazing gentleman The part beyond the doors, in which the gift shop T-shirts named Don Macklin, who had a strong interest in magazines, now hang, was a little workshop known as “Skunkworks“, arrived to volunteer. He came in and read which was where the AFIS staff and students built their mod“..I was the all the Geoffrey Rowe Collection magazines els. Naturally, all information on the work was given out last one and then he just stayed. During a period of standing as only on a strict “need-to-know” basis. Rob Roy and Herbie his career, while in the Ottawa patents office, everyone else Lightfoot were already deep into the Heritage Vehicle proDon was a co-worker of Geoffrey Rowe’s. A left the room, gram at that time. lot of the impetus for museum work must so I got the badge.” have rubbed off on Don at that time. AnyMajor Postma left in 1994, way, he meticulously classified artifacts, and was replaced by Major Joel books and magazines by boxing, annotating and storing them. Clarkston. Joel became the Ask him any question about aircraft and he would answer Commandant at AFIS, and he right back, while digging out the magazine that backed up his also became the Chairman of the answer. Tragically, Don got very sick and died a little later. museum. When the AFIS school was transferred to Air Command Maj Wes Postma, Col Terry But then (Holy Cow!), along comes Geoff Plant to volunteer and with exactly the same motivation for the magazines as Winnipeg in 1996, all the staff Rogers, Maj Joel Clarkston Don had. Thus the process has continued to this day. It was here had to be posted to other quite fascinating to watch it all happen. jobs. Major Clarkston went back to 442 Sqn, Mort MacDonnell, I think, may also have gone to 442. Corky Hansen, Ed: These memories are so valuable; thank you for sharing who had retired and taken over the job of museum curator them. But now, for you, what lies ahead? after John Logan left, retired once again and Bob Richter “Well, my little friend Loretta Wetmore was a professionbecame the new curator. I think Larry Summers went back to al school librarian. She came to work with us back in the 414 Sqn. Mike Forbes returned to Air Traffic Control, and I Joel Clarkston days. She asked me once where I got my believe Harlan Price went to 19 AMS. training as a librarian. I said I was the last one standing as So there I was, out of a job with the AFIS secretarial posieveryone else left the room, so I got the badge. The only tion gone; but, fortunately, guaranteed a position somewhere library training I’ve had is knowing my alphabet, and a love on the Base. As it turned out, a position number in Trenton of putting everything into a computer database of some sort. was transferred to Comox for an hospital secretary to the So I guess I will retire, again, when I forget how the alphabet Base Surgeon. The work for this job had always been done works!” by an orderly room clerk, so I went over there and filled the position. I worked there from early 1996 until early 1998, and then I retired.
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COLLECTIONS MANAGEMENT CVAFMA History. The article in the April Newsletter explained how the Association came into being in September, 1999. This instalment will speak to the history since “we were born”.
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The first CVAFMA Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held in Oct 2000, with 14 members atDavid Stinson tending out of a total of 43. Membership fees were set at $10 annually for a regular member and $250 for a life membership – we are doing well, as the fees have not changed in 11 years! Membership grew slowly – 53 in 2001 and 2002, 55 in 2003 and 2004. The Museum, meanwhile, was notably busy, with many projects in work and thousands of visitors passing through the exhibits. The Y2K Spitfire Restoration project, launched in 1999, required much time, effort and money. To aid that project, CVAFMA applied in 2001 for a $100,000 BC direct access grant, a bid for gaming funds to support a specific project, outside the regular bingo affiliation funding. The application was refused because the Association did not own the aircraft. The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch of the BC government staff (GPEB, replaced the Gaming Commission) then asked “What, exactly, do you own and what community programs do you support?” and sent a GPEB auditor to examine all aspects of CVAFMA activity. While the direct access grant application was not approved, the audit assured the GPEB staff, then, that CVAFMA was using its gaming funds properly. It was about this time that the curator ceased to be an NPF employee and became a contractor of the Association. In 2002, to help attract donations and to permit us to issue tax receipts, the Association gained a Canada Revenue Agency license as a recognized charity. At the 2004 AGM, Mike Spooner was still President, Herb Lightfoot became a CVAFMA director, Capt John Low made his first presentation as CAFM Director and the Heritage Stone Fundraising Project was approved. In May 2005, Mike Spooner, after six years as President, stepped down, and promptly became the Treasurer. Mike Hendren, having nearly doubled the membership (to 91) during his two years as Membership Coordinator, became President. We had survived a second serious GPEB review, the gaming funding continued to flow, Ken Oxley had started the Newsletter and the Board now included eight directors. The times since May 2005 have been inspiring! Lorraine Angly was hired late in 2005 to replace Bob Richter, who retired after many years of dedicated service to the Museum. The CVAFMA Yard Sale, now an annual event, was first organized by Ken Oxley in May 2006. Heritage Stone Dedication Ceremonies began in June 2006 – the fifth will be presented on 26 September 2010. CVAFMA and the Comox Military Family Resource Centre staged a Vancouver Canucks Alumni hockey game in Feb 2007 and raised thousands of dollars for the two organizations. OP Shredder, a fundraising activity which relieved folks of unwanted personal or business papers in a very secure manner in return for a donation, ran in 2007 for the first time. Volunteer time contributed to all Museum and Association activities in a year reached the 10,000 hour mark in 2007 and has continued at about that level each year since then. Lorraine Angly departed in October 2007, replaced by Bob Richter on a short-term contract. The Association Constitution and Bylaws, issued in 1999 with the charter, were thoroughly overhauled in 2008 – all changes were accepted by the BC Registrar of Companies. Also in 2008, Harlin Price, our long serving VicePresident, retired as a director, and Jon Ambler, former Commander 19 Wing Comox, became Museum Manager and Volunteer Program Coordinator. In Sep 2008, CVAFMA dedicated the Joel Clarkston Memorial Gateway at the entrance to the Heritage Air Park. In April 2009 the Association, on behalf of and supported by 19 Wing Comox, staged a thoroughly successful dinner for 400 (!) people in 7 Hangar to mark the Centennial of Powered Flight in Canada. On 19 September 2009, CVAFMA, with membership at just under 100 folks, with all of its finances in excellent order and with many successes to its credit in conjunction with CAFM, passed its tenth birthday. David Stinson SUNDRY EXTRACTS FROM THE JULY 6 CVAFMA BOARD MEETING Dakota: The rudder and ailerons are installed and look great. The elevators will be completed next winter when the glider specialist has time to work on them. MiG-21: The recent radiation hazard check was satisfactory. The aircraft will have a full HAZMAT inspection to ensure there are no contamination surprises when it is partly disassembled for transport to the National Air Museum,. Canada Day: The weather notwithstanding, the effort was a success. The jeep and ambulance were great interest generators and won a prize for “Best Out of Town Float” of the Courtenay parade. Heritage Stones Dedication 2010: The estimate of stones to be dedicated this year is 20. Heritage Air Park: A future possibility may exist to add the recently grounded Air Cadet League L-19 tug aircraft..
ON PROUD WINGS
THE PRESDENT’S
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Firstly, some encouraging words on our Association’s funding outlook. We have, indeed, gained our gaming funds grant for the 2010-11 financial year, in the amount of $27,708, i.e. slightPODIUM ly more than we had expected. That part of our overall funding is now in excellent shape for the next several months, in fact up to about the end of July 2011. In the spring of 2011, we will develop our first application for a community gaming grant (replacing bingo funding) and ascertain if we can continue that support from the BC government. Secondly, many of you have heard me mention OMMC, which is the Organization of Military Museums of Canada. The Organization was incorporated in 1992 and comprises 65 military museums. OMMC is recognized by the Department of History and Heritage, which is a part of DND. Our Museum is an OMMC member and is entitled to one vote at its AGM. In addition, one can become an individual member who is also entitled to a vote. Each year, in conjunction with the OMMC AGM, a week long study session is organized where the topics are relative to running a museum. The location changes every year and their Board of Directors (on which I serve) holds the session in different locations across Canada. Some years ago it was held in Victoria and part of the programme included a visit to our Museum. This year we visited Sydney, Nova Scotia and included a day at the Fort at Louisburg and talks by some of the staff on preserving artifacts. In 2011 we will be going to Charlottetown, PEI (date to be determined). If your travels take you that way then, I would strongly recommend you include it in your itinerary. On the home front, I would like to offer a very warm welcome to WO Mike Barnucz who has recently joined us in the new position of NCM/Deputy Director, under the supervision of our Director, Capt. John Low. We hope Mike finds in us success complementary to his substantial career. As time goes on, no doubt you will learn more of his interests in military history and of his career with CF through postings to Edmonton, Toronto, Moose Jaw, Borden and Trenton in the fields of Air Maintenance and Mechanical Support. Don Manley, CVAFMA President and OMMC Director
MANAGER ‘N DIRECTOR’S
This summer we will enjoy a partnership between Comox Valley Art Gallery and the Comox Air Force Museum. From 23 July until 11 September the Gallery will be running an exhibition entitled “Our Military Aviation Heritage: A Unique Retrospective.” This exhibition tells some of the West Coast’s military aviation history through three different sets of paintings and illustrations, a variety of aircraft models, a mannequin in full Search and Rescue Technician uniform and equipment, and through other Air Force artifacts. An artifact is defined as a product of human art and workmanship and, as such, they can inspire and enhance our collective understanding of human history in both museums and art galleries. Six models of key aircraft flown from Comox over the years: the Buffalo, the Labrador, the Voodoo, the Neptune, the Argus and the Aurora. (a real Labrador helicopter will be installed in the Air Park this summer). Three mannequins are of: ☺ A SAR Tech; ☺ An Officer in RCAF uniform; and ☺ A female RCAF NCO (Marty’s!) The Gallery, like our Museum, has a tiny paid staff and exists through the efforts of volunteers and donations at the door. So, over the next few weeks make sure you get into the Gallery to see our stuff in a whole new light. At the same time you will see some extraordinary aviation pictures from a key Canadian artist: check them out for yourself!
Included in the exhibition are: Eighteen original cartoons by famous Vancouver Sun cartoonist Len Norris capturing the stormy political issues of the 1950s and 1960s. Complementing the CAFM display is an arresting set of Five original oils by famed aviation artist Don Connolly paintings entitled : “The Architects of Heaven”, by Virginia (Ontario) covering the history of 407 Squadron, Ivanicki of Vancouver BC. . Eight watercolours by H. Pearce depicting inter-war aircraft. Jon & John
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“ O U R M I L I TA R Y AV I AT I O N H E R I TA G E A UNIQUE RETROSPECTIVE” EXHIBITION
CVAG, COURTERNAY.
(JULY 23RD — SEPTEMBER 11TH)
Opening Ceremony & Reception
Anh Le Curator/Director
“..surrealism lends a topsy turvy dream-like feeling that conveys the vertigo that pilots must experience in full colour.” ...CV Record
‘ ..an imaginative and clear mapping of pilots’ situations and thoughts, with strong, implied messages.” ...newsletter editor
“While her work is representational and photorealistic, what is striking is the unrealistic completed image.” ...CV Echo
ON PROUD WINGS
A BIG WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS: ☼ Myra McArthur ☼ Karen Fraser ☼ Eric Fredriksen ☼ Josh Bowles ☼ WO Mike Barnucz ☼ Graham Soar ☼ Capt. Fred Paradie
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☼ Michelle Spencer ☼ Leonard Patey ☼ Fletcher Wade
Some advantages to membership of the Association are in: • • • Being part of a community-focused organization Broadening your network of contacts and making new friends • Learning first hand about Canada’s role in military aviation • An opportunity to develop new skills • • • •
Involvement in a wide range of museum activities A voting member of the Comox Valley Air Force Museum Association (CVAFMA) Opportunity to become one of the Association Directors Enjoyment of membership activities and social functions A discount at the Air Force Museum Gift Shop.
COMING EVENTS
Date
24 Jul to 11 Sep 10:
Item
CVAG: "Our Military Heritage: A Unique Retrospective" Exhibit
14 Aug
Art Talk, CVAG, Courtenay: “History of the Comox Air Force Base”
by Jon Ambler 11am to 12pm Admission is by donation, suggested $2 - $5 Recreation Exposition (REXPO) [Museum involvement unconfirmed as yet] Heritage Air Park: Battle of Britain Ceremonies. Heritage Air Park:
18 Sep: 19 Sep:
26 Sep:
A Two-Part Ceremony for: 1) our annual dedication of the heritage stones, and 2) a ribbon cutting ceremony welcoming Labrador 310 into our heritage aircraft collection. More info to follow Library, CAFM with much to talk about. Followed by potluck lunch.
TBD Oct
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LIGHTER THAN AIR
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Spotters’ QUIZ result
Question #1: What
Humour on the Wing
A passenger called asking how it was possible that her/his flight from Detroit left at 8.30 am, and got to Chicago at 8.33 am. It was explained that Michigan was an hour ahead of Illinois, but s/he couldn’t understand the concept of time zones. Finally, s/he was told that the plane went really fast. fast …..Disoriented The odds against there being a bomb on a plane you flying in are a million to one. The odds against there being two bombs on a plane you fly in are a million times a million to one. To shorten the odds the next time you fly, should you take a bomb?
is this picture?
Question #1: What
is wrong with this picture?
Answers:
Congratulations on the correct answers
received from Mike Spooner and Geoff Plant. Although neither answer was fully correct, and one 2. can blame the picture quality for that, the photo is of a Cessna Crane, which is airborne and in a slight climb. What is wrong in it, is that no one is at the controls, despite the lack of autopilot!
Still curious? For more exact details, dump the editor and please ask Frank Steven, the absent pilot who took the photograph.
This issue’s challenge:
There are no prizes for answering who this is. Despite referrals to the subject himself, your editor could not adequately caption the picture, as it appears on page 5. Thus, the challenge is, in a manner respectful of our good President, to supply such a caption. Any/all results will be published in the next issue and readers will judge.
8. 5. 6. 7. 4. 3. 1. 2. What, in aviation terms was the “Queen Mary”? What is a microlight aircraft , which is controlled by moving the fuselage about under the wing known as? When was the name “Canuck” first applied to an aircraft? Is the altitude record for a hot air balloon, 45,000’, 55,000’ or 65,000’? Who or what was “Hungry Liz”? In which year did the Concorde enter commercial service? Do the words “Zero-zero” refer to an ejection seat coding or thick fog? What was the phonetic alphabet code word for “M” in WWI?
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QUARTER-BACK REVIEW
GARAGE SALE — MAY
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(THE PAST THREE MONTHS)
VISITORS’ TRAILS
The association held it's garage sale on May 22nd. We managed to raise $750 from this. As always, this would not have been possible without the tremendous effort on the part of all those who donated items, helped set-up and assisted during the day. Many thanks.
Phil Hambrook — June ‘10
“In your dreams will I yield!”
Lindsay Chung, CV Record, Jun ’10. Destined for, but didn’t make the CV Record’s Visitor’s Guide
PROVINCIAL HERITAGE FAIR COMPETITION WINNER
The young lad on right travelled with his family and friend from Abbotsford, BC to meet James Stocky Edwards, Canada’s only living air ace, at Comox Air Force Museum June 5, 2010. 13 year old Mark Dhillon won the Provincial Heritage Fair competition by writing about Stocky's exploits during WW II. After spending some time in the Museum, Stocky took them over to see the Y2K Spitfire project and the Museum's Airpark. It is great to see that youth also have a great interest and appreciation for our history and heritage. Stocky, his wife Toni and cousins visiting from New Hampshire obviously enjoyed the day which happened to be Stocky's 89th birthday. Ken Oxley
SIGNING THE AWARD-WINNING SNOWBIRDS PHOTO
All told, 46 large copies of the issue were sold, signed by this flight’s formation leader and the winning photographer for $30/copy.
UH-OH, WHO’S 55 THEN?
VINTAGE WINGS CORSAIR SWINGS WEST Following June/July showings in Lethbridge and Calgary..
“You know, the reason most people come to this museum is to see something old...” Manager, Jon Ambler, 10 Aug 10.
..here it is for a QTR refuelling stop en route to Victoria and the Abbotsford Air Show
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CVAFMA Executive 20102010-11
President
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Don Manley
Membership Bingo Coordinator Fund Raising Director at Large
Bill Cuell Herb Lightfoot Dave Mellin Mike Hendren Rodney Jones Ken Oxley
Director at Large Val Kaehler Director at Large Chris Tuck Observer Observer
Vice President Bob Mortimer Secretary Treasurer
David Stinson Mike Spooner
John Low Jon Ambler
Newsletter Editor Special Reporter & Photographer
Contact Information
Museum Director Assistant Director Program Manager & Volunteer Coordinator Gift Shop Manager
John Low, Capt. 19 Wing Heritage Officer WO Mike Barnucz Jon Ambler Ken Oxley
Comox Air Force Museum
19 Wing Comox, Lazo BC V0R 2K0
Phone/Fax: E-mail: Website: 250-339-8162 [email protected] www.comoxairforcemuseum.ca www.y2kspitfire.com
Spitfire/Y2K Project Website:
OPENING TIMES: Museum, Library and Gift Shop 10am - 4pm Tuesdays—Sundays, incl. Spitfire Hangar Heritage Airpark Saturdays 10am-3pm May-September - 10am - 4pm, in Museum times
COLLABORATIVE OPPORTUNITIES
To join our Association, download the application on our website (below) under Volunteer, leave a phone message at the Museum, or drop by and fill out an application. For only $10 annually, some of the benefits you receive include our newsletter, discounts in the gift shop, and a voice in the organization. If you are currently receiving this newsletter by mail, please forward your email address to receive a high quality issue via the Internet. Our thanks to those of you who have contributed articles and other material for this issue. If you have been thinking of doing so, with something of interest to submit, whether it be a photo, story, or anything relevant to what we do and who we are, please don’t hesitate to send it along to the contacts below: [email protected] or leave a message at the Museum; Your editor at: [email protected] ; or Visit www.comoxairforcemuseum.ca or drop by the museum to find out more about current activities. Ed.
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NOTICES
The Comox Valley Air Force Museum Association Cordially Invites You and a Guest to the 5th Annual Heritage Stones Dedication Ceremony
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Sunday, 26 September 2010
Place: CAFM Heritage Air Park Time: 1 P.M. (Please be seated by 12:45) Special Guest: Colonel Michele Lalumière, Commander 19 Wing, or his delegate Suggested Dress: RSVP
Canada Post: Business Casual by 17 Sep 2010 Museum Library (250) 339-8162; E-mail: [email protected]
CVAFMA Building 11, 19 Wing Comox, PO Box 1000, Station Main, Lazo, BC, V0R 2K0
The heritage stones ceremony will be followed by the official “unveiling” of CH-113 Labrador 11310 as the latest addition to the Heritage Air Park. Reception on site after the “unveiling” of the Labrador If the weather is inclement, the heritage stone ceremony will be conducted in the 19 Wing Protestant Chapel across the street from the Air Park.
HERITAGE STONES For Sale
$155.00 ea, with tax receipt
Answers: 1. A 40’ long steel lattice trailer for transporting aircraft parts; 2. A Flexwing;
3. In WWI, to the Canadian-built Curtiss JN-4 Jenny; 4. 65,000’; 5. In WWI, an ambulance called to the scene of a crash; 6. 1976; 7. Both; 8. Emma.
