Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous
18 MODEL AVIATION
Chuck Garrett with the replica S.E.5a that he and his son, Craig, built from plans. Several of
the full-scale pilots dressed in appropriate uniforms for the Great War.
by Jay Smith and Lee McDuffee
THE WorLD War I Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous is a biennial fly-in hosted by the
National Museum of the United States Air
Force, which is just north of Dayton, Ohio. It
features airplanes from 1903 through 1918: the
Dawn of Aviation through the Great War.
Full-scale airplanes of the era, radiocontrol
models, re-enactors, vintage
automobiles, artists, and vendors reported to
Wright Field the fourth weekend of
September 2009 (the 25th-27th). This
marked the seventh Rendezvous since the
initial event in 1996.
Essentially a three-day air show, the
Rendezvous alternates full-scale (as well
as 3/4- and 7/8-scale) replicas of the Great
War Aeroplane Association with giantscale
RC models. The Air Force
museum’s goal is to have aircraft in the
air throughout the day, weather
permitting.
Eight full-scale airplanes and 15 RC
pilots attended the inaugural Rendezvous.
It has grown since then, with the 2009
edition drawing approximately 30 fullscale
aircraft and 60 RC pilots.
Lee McDuffee and Doug Cox ran the RC
portion of last year’s event. They assumed
that task from Dean Lukover, who had
handled it from the beginning. Lee told me
that the goal was to continue the traditions
Dean had established for the gathering,
while putting their signature on it.
A challenge during the entire fly-in was
the weather. Thursday was rainy not only in
Dayton, but also across the region.
While Lee and Doug prepared for their
RC pilots to arrive, full-scale Air Boss
David Egner and Museum Director of
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:41 PM Page 18
July 2010 19
Right: This 1/10-scale kite barrage
bal loon was the target as
volunteer pilots made multiple
passes until the top opened and
scores of orange, yellow, black,
and white helium balloons spilled
out. Ryan Grantonic photo.
Above: James W. “Rich” Richardson’s 1/4-scale Balsa USA Fokker D.VII is modeled
after one flown by Oberleutnant Erich Lowenhardt, commander of Jasta 10.
Right: Historians Doug Blackford (L) and Doug
Roush dressed as doughboys and shared stories of
how life was during WW I.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:18 PM Page 19
20 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author except as noted
A large tent was provided for modelers in which to store their aircraft to protect
from rain. Pilots appreciated not having to disassemble their airplanes each evening.
A Fokker Dr.I does a low-level flyby.
Full-scale aircraft were flown in small
groups, making photo passes over the
runway with the museum’s hangars as
the backdrop.
Even at 1/4 scale, this beautiful de Havilland D.H.4, which belongs to Balsa USA,
has a 127-inch wingspan. It is outfitted with a bomb rack with droppable bombs.
Full-scale flying was hampered by the
weather, giving RC pilots much more
flying time to use to entertain the crowds.
Pan-A-View photographed all of the participants and full-scale and RC aircraft. It took nearly a minute to get the shot, and
everyone was required to remain completely still.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:46 PM Page 20
July 2010 21
Combining RC models with full-scale airplanes works
well at this event and keeps attendees interested,
with aircraft flying throughout the day.
Mike Hawkins scratch-built this Albatros J.I and
brought it all the way from Thailand to participate
in the Dawn Patrol Rendezvous. Grantonic photo.
Arizona Models
Balsa USA
Dr. Mike Hawkins
Great Planes
Great War Aeroplanes Association
Great War Radio Modelers
Hamilton Hobbies
Micro Fasteners
Mike Bealmear
Sponsors Lee McDuffee, the RC air boss, did an
excellent job of integrating RC with all
the other activities. His main goals were
safety and getting his pilots the most
flying time possible.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:48 PM Page 21
22 MODEL AVIATION
This rare 1909 Gnome rotary was not
only for display. It was started and run
so that attendees could appreciate the
sound of a 100-year-old, seven-cylinder,
50-horsepower engine.
Billy Thompson’s 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst Udet’s “Du Docht
Nicht!!” received the award for Best Gas Model.
Pilots’ Choice Awards
Best Glow/Electric Model:
Ted and Doug Zadlo’s (Londonderry NH) 1/3-scale, electric-powered
Morane-Saulnier AI in Polish Air Service markings. (Balsa USA prize: any
1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best Gas Model:
Billy Thompson’s (Bogstown IN) 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst
Udet’s “Du Docht Nicht!!” (Balsa USA prize: any 1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best of Show:
Keith
Zimmerly’s
(Mercerville NJ)
scratch-built,
1/3-scale Avro
504C (Balsa
USA prize:
any WW I kit)
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:22 PM Page 22
Special Events David Thomas shared that
they were also having problems. Several
full-scale pilots were stranded at points
across the country, trying to get to the event
through the weather.
Thursday was quiet, except for the sound
of rain on field. However, the Thursdayevening
icebreaker at the museum was
greatly appreciated by all who attended. The
facility presented a great spread for
Rendezvous participants.
Friday brought the end of overnight rains
but left a good part of the field muddy.
Straw and woodchips were carted in
throughout the weekend, to try to cope with
the less-than-favorable conditions.
The pre-event schedule was altered,
because full-scale airplanes arrived at
various times during the day. RC aircraft
were flown continually on Friday; they were
grounded only when their full-scale
counterparts arrived and needed the runway
for landing. An average of six models were
flown at once.
Lee kept busy as the RC air boss. He was
responsible for coordinating takeoffs and
landings and keeping everyone advised
about what was happening.
The full-scale air boss would advise
when the runway was needed for arriving or
departing aircraft or when conditions
improved to the point where they could fly
circuits. Then RC pilots would relinquish
the field to the full-scale Nieuports and
Fokkers.
Once all of the large aircraft had been
recovered after their sorties, they would
swing by the RC compound with the
command to “Get Them Up”—then the
models would take to the sky for more
airtime.
The museum remained open late again
Friday, this time for the public. Re-enactors
mingled with the crowd and among the
aircraft in the evening, the movie The Blue
Max was shown in the museum theater, and
other activities took place.
Saturday found the field shrouded in fog at
7 a.m., but that didn’t stop the RC pilots
who were already preparing to fly. The fullscale
aircraft were grounded because of the
low ceiling, but a number of models flew all
morning in spite of the conditions. The key
was keeping them low to the ground.
One highlight of the morning was a
gathering of full-scale pilots who visited the
RC area as Paul Westrich prepped and flew
his 1/2-scale Fokker D.VI biplane. The
visitors were building a full-scale version of
that aircraft and were curious to see how
Paul’s flew.
The other highlight was when I got to
put in a flight on Billy Thompson’s
beautiful 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII. Finished in
the candy-striped color scheme of Ernst
Udet, a German flying ace, this model has
competed in the Top Gun Invitational and
the Scale Nats. Thanks for the flight, Billy!
Pan-A-View was on hand to take the
traditional panoramic photo of all
July 2010 23
!""#$%!&!$'()$*&!+$,-$.*/$0!$1!-$)2$3(&$1-!!&4/5$(&$.*1-(&4/5+$,-$
.(6!1$74-%$*$.%(4.!$(3$-7($1-!!&4/5$12&4/58*&61$9-%!$0!/-:)2$!/;$
1462"'$5")!1$4/-($-%!$&);;!&<+$=($"4/>*5!1$#$/($.(/-&("$%(&/1#$/($
;&*5$3&(6$!?-&*$%*&;7*&!+$@/;$-%!$1.&!71$*&!$4/.");!;+
A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-1$*&!$*C*4"*0"!$4/$3()&$7!45%-$&*/5!1#$.(C!&4/5$
6(;!"1$3&(6$D$"01$-($EF"01+$
!"#$%&'("
)%(*!""(#+,)-." /
!"#$$%&'()*+,#-."!-+/
!"#$%&'(#)*+"!#,'-#.#/*0'12%&"#.#34#.#56557#.#8,9#####
:(;#76<=>?5=?@<<#.#A*B;#76<=?5>=>77?#
!""#$%&"'($)&*+""&'%#$,-"!'!+$!'$%./#%.'
.+/,-.'!/'!+"'$)#0#$1"'2'!/'!+"'."#3/4
GHFI$G%(7/
A*4"7%!!"$=(-$,/.");!;
G462"4.4-'+
G)""4C*/$A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-+
Rendezvous participants and aircraft, both
full-scale and RC. It takes roughly a minute
to get the shot, and everyone in it is required
to remain completely still.
The weather finally cleared in the
afternoon, allowing the full-scale aircraft to
take to the skies. They were launched in
small groups and commenced flying in a
racetrack pattern with nice, long passes
down the runway. This permitted spectators
to get a good look at the airplanes and snap a
few pictures.
While the flying was going on, vendors
were busy selling products ranging from
WW I books and artwork to real surplus
from the war. Groups of re-enactors had set
up encampments, and they wandered the
event grounds. They also staged air raids
and small-arms firefights to entertain the
crowd.
Also on Saturday, judging was held for
the RC models. Each pilot received a ballot
on which to select three airplanes for each
category: best in glow or electric power, best
in gas power, and grand champion. A
sidebar features the results.
Balsa USA, the event’s primary sponsor,
awarded kits to the winners, and Glenn
Torrance Models provided trophies. Both
companies have supported the fly-in and
have shown outstanding generosity.
Later in the day, two special sorties were
flown: a “Flight of the Threes,” exclusively
for 1/3-scale models (based on the mission
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:51 PM Page 23
24 MODEL AVIATION
that is flown annually at the popular
Hoosier Dawn Patrol event each August),
and a barrage balloon attack.
Word had leaked of a secret weapon that
a team led by Fred Jungclaus had developed
in Central Indiana. I managed to get a peek
at plans for this invention of war at the
Hoosier Dawn Patrol, and it looked
impressive. But the question was whether or
not it would be ready in time for the
Rendezvous.
RC headquarters received word late
Saturday that the barrage balloon had
arrived and was being prepared. Pilots were
to be ready for a sortie to bring it down.
Volunteers were gathered for the
mission, and to the west there appeared a
1/10-scale kite balloon. The daring volunteer
pilots made multiple passes at the sausage
until the top opened up, and scores of
orange, yellow, black, and white helium
balloons spilled out as the defeated balloon
descended to earth!
Balloon busting proved to be a big hit
with the public, and the organizers received
several compliments. Fred and his support
team outdid themselves!
The Saturday-night banquet featured
another great meal by the museum and
entertainment by the museum’s Air Force
band. Lee and Doug awarded a plaque to
Dean Lukover, in appreciation of all his
efforts in establishing the event.
Then the two announced the winners of
the pilots’ choice awards. Mark Enderby,
president of Balsa USA, and Glenn
Torrance, of Glenn Torrance Models, took
the stage to present the trophies.
On Sunday, as they did the day before, RC
models started the show at just after 7 a.m.
Although it was a bit cooler and breezier
than on the previous two days (and still wet
from more overnight rains), visibility was
much better and the sun even managed to
put in an appearance.
Door prizes and raffle prizes were
awarded, thanks to the generous donations
from sponsors. Those were Hamilton
Hobbies, Balsa USA, Great Planes, Arizona
Model Aircrafters, Mike Bealmear, Micro
Fasteners, Dr. Mike Hawkins, the Great
War Aeroplanes Association, and the Great
War Radio Modelers.
By 2 p.m., most full-scale and model
pilots were ready to pack it in. That
afternoon was travel time for most of the
participants.
Lee McDuffee and his group did an
excellent job of running and coordinating
the RC portion of the Rendezvous event. He
said:
“I think we accomplished many of our
goals for the 2009 event. The main story of
the weekend was a reaffirmation of the
AMA Show Team motto, ‘We fly when
others can’t.’
“I was told by several of the full-scale
flight staff that we ‘saved their bacon.’ We
managed to keep planes in the air all
weekend long, even with very minimal
visibility on Saturday and in spite of
constant threats of rain all weekend.
“All of our pilots made it an easy event
to manage, and they all did some
spectacular flying in the sometimes
challenging conditions; they couldn’t have
performed better. And it was also a pleasure
working with all the pilots and support
personnel from the Great War Aeroplane
Association, as well as Dave Thomas and
all his folks at the National Museum of the
United States Air Force.”
To learn more about the 2009 edition of
this event, The Aerodrome, a WW I Web
site, has a page devoted to it. See the
“Sources” list for the address.
The next Dawn Patrol Rendezvous will
be held in late September 2011. It’s not too
early to start making plans to attend this
amazing event! MA
Jay Smith
[email protected]
Lee McDuffee
[email protected]
Sources:
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
(937) 255-3286
www.nationalmuseum.af.mil
Great War Aeroplanes Association
2120 Richland Terr.
Quakertown PA 18951
www.gwaero.org
The Aerodrome Dawn Patrol Rendezvous
page:
www.theaerodrome.com/forum/upcomingevents/
39387-dawn-patrol-rendezvous-
2009-a.html
Balsa USA
(906) 863-6421
www.balsausa.com
Glenn Torrance Models
(919) 765-0814
www.flygtm.com
Great Planes
(800) 637-7660
www.greatplanes.com
Arizona Model Aircrafters
(602) 971-5646
www.arizonamodels.com
Micro Fasteners
(800) 892-6917
www.microfasteners.com
Mike Bealmear
www.bealmear.com/dawn_patrol
Hoosier Dawn Patrol
www.hoosierdawnpatrol.com
Ohio Dawn Patrol
www.ohiodawnpatrol.com
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:52 PM Page 24
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/07
Page Numbers: 18,19,20,21,22,23,24
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/07
Page Numbers: 18,19,20,21,22,23,24
Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous
18 MODEL AVIATION
Chuck Garrett with the replica S.E.5a that he and his son, Craig, built from plans. Several of
the full-scale pilots dressed in appropriate uniforms for the Great War.
by Jay Smith and Lee McDuffee
THE WorLD War I Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous is a biennial fly-in hosted by the
National Museum of the United States Air
Force, which is just north of Dayton, Ohio. It
features airplanes from 1903 through 1918: the
Dawn of Aviation through the Great War.
Full-scale airplanes of the era, radiocontrol
models, re-enactors, vintage
automobiles, artists, and vendors reported to
Wright Field the fourth weekend of
September 2009 (the 25th-27th). This
marked the seventh Rendezvous since the
initial event in 1996.
Essentially a three-day air show, the
Rendezvous alternates full-scale (as well
as 3/4- and 7/8-scale) replicas of the Great
War Aeroplane Association with giantscale
RC models. The Air Force
museum’s goal is to have aircraft in the
air throughout the day, weather
permitting.
Eight full-scale airplanes and 15 RC
pilots attended the inaugural Rendezvous.
It has grown since then, with the 2009
edition drawing approximately 30 fullscale
aircraft and 60 RC pilots.
Lee McDuffee and Doug Cox ran the RC
portion of last year’s event. They assumed
that task from Dean Lukover, who had
handled it from the beginning. Lee told me
that the goal was to continue the traditions
Dean had established for the gathering,
while putting their signature on it.
A challenge during the entire fly-in was
the weather. Thursday was rainy not only in
Dayton, but also across the region.
While Lee and Doug prepared for their
RC pilots to arrive, full-scale Air Boss
David Egner and Museum Director of
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:41 PM Page 18
July 2010 19
Right: This 1/10-scale kite barrage
bal loon was the target as
volunteer pilots made multiple
passes until the top opened and
scores of orange, yellow, black,
and white helium balloons spilled
out. Ryan Grantonic photo.
Above: James W. “Rich” Richardson’s 1/4-scale Balsa USA Fokker D.VII is modeled
after one flown by Oberleutnant Erich Lowenhardt, commander of Jasta 10.
Right: Historians Doug Blackford (L) and Doug
Roush dressed as doughboys and shared stories of
how life was during WW I.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:18 PM Page 19
20 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author except as noted
A large tent was provided for modelers in which to store their aircraft to protect
from rain. Pilots appreciated not having to disassemble their airplanes each evening.
A Fokker Dr.I does a low-level flyby.
Full-scale aircraft were flown in small
groups, making photo passes over the
runway with the museum’s hangars as
the backdrop.
Even at 1/4 scale, this beautiful de Havilland D.H.4, which belongs to Balsa USA,
has a 127-inch wingspan. It is outfitted with a bomb rack with droppable bombs.
Full-scale flying was hampered by the
weather, giving RC pilots much more
flying time to use to entertain the crowds.
Pan-A-View photographed all of the participants and full-scale and RC aircraft. It took nearly a minute to get the shot, and
everyone was required to remain completely still.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:46 PM Page 20
July 2010 21
Combining RC models with full-scale airplanes works
well at this event and keeps attendees interested,
with aircraft flying throughout the day.
Mike Hawkins scratch-built this Albatros J.I and
brought it all the way from Thailand to participate
in the Dawn Patrol Rendezvous. Grantonic photo.
Arizona Models
Balsa USA
Dr. Mike Hawkins
Great Planes
Great War Aeroplanes Association
Great War Radio Modelers
Hamilton Hobbies
Micro Fasteners
Mike Bealmear
Sponsors Lee McDuffee, the RC air boss, did an
excellent job of integrating RC with all
the other activities. His main goals were
safety and getting his pilots the most
flying time possible.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:48 PM Page 21
22 MODEL AVIATION
This rare 1909 Gnome rotary was not
only for display. It was started and run
so that attendees could appreciate the
sound of a 100-year-old, seven-cylinder,
50-horsepower engine.
Billy Thompson’s 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst Udet’s “Du Docht
Nicht!!” received the award for Best Gas Model.
Pilots’ Choice Awards
Best Glow/Electric Model:
Ted and Doug Zadlo’s (Londonderry NH) 1/3-scale, electric-powered
Morane-Saulnier AI in Polish Air Service markings. (Balsa USA prize: any
1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best Gas Model:
Billy Thompson’s (Bogstown IN) 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst
Udet’s “Du Docht Nicht!!” (Balsa USA prize: any 1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best of Show:
Keith
Zimmerly’s
(Mercerville NJ)
scratch-built,
1/3-scale Avro
504C (Balsa
USA prize:
any WW I kit)
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:22 PM Page 22
Special Events David Thomas shared that
they were also having problems. Several
full-scale pilots were stranded at points
across the country, trying to get to the event
through the weather.
Thursday was quiet, except for the sound
of rain on field. However, the Thursdayevening
icebreaker at the museum was
greatly appreciated by all who attended. The
facility presented a great spread for
Rendezvous participants.
Friday brought the end of overnight rains
but left a good part of the field muddy.
Straw and woodchips were carted in
throughout the weekend, to try to cope with
the less-than-favorable conditions.
The pre-event schedule was altered,
because full-scale airplanes arrived at
various times during the day. RC aircraft
were flown continually on Friday; they were
grounded only when their full-scale
counterparts arrived and needed the runway
for landing. An average of six models were
flown at once.
Lee kept busy as the RC air boss. He was
responsible for coordinating takeoffs and
landings and keeping everyone advised
about what was happening.
The full-scale air boss would advise
when the runway was needed for arriving or
departing aircraft or when conditions
improved to the point where they could fly
circuits. Then RC pilots would relinquish
the field to the full-scale Nieuports and
Fokkers.
Once all of the large aircraft had been
recovered after their sorties, they would
swing by the RC compound with the
command to “Get Them Up”—then the
models would take to the sky for more
airtime.
The museum remained open late again
Friday, this time for the public. Re-enactors
mingled with the crowd and among the
aircraft in the evening, the movie The Blue
Max was shown in the museum theater, and
other activities took place.
Saturday found the field shrouded in fog at
7 a.m., but that didn’t stop the RC pilots
who were already preparing to fly. The fullscale
aircraft were grounded because of the
low ceiling, but a number of models flew all
morning in spite of the conditions. The key
was keeping them low to the ground.
One highlight of the morning was a
gathering of full-scale pilots who visited the
RC area as Paul Westrich prepped and flew
his 1/2-scale Fokker D.VI biplane. The
visitors were building a full-scale version of
that aircraft and were curious to see how
Paul’s flew.
The other highlight was when I got to
put in a flight on Billy Thompson’s
beautiful 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII. Finished in
the candy-striped color scheme of Ernst
Udet, a German flying ace, this model has
competed in the Top Gun Invitational and
the Scale Nats. Thanks for the flight, Billy!
Pan-A-View was on hand to take the
traditional panoramic photo of all
July 2010 23
!""#$%!&!$'()$*&!+$,-$.*/$0!$1!-$)2$3(&$1-!!&4/5$(&$.*1-(&4/5+$,-$
.(6!1$74-%$*$.%(4.!$(3$-7($1-!!&4/5$12&4/58*&61$9-%!$0!/-:)2$!/;$
1462"'$5")!1$4/-($-%!$&);;!&<+$=($"4/>*5!1$#$/($.(/-&("$%(&/1#$/($
;&*5$3&(6$!?-&*$%*&;7*&!+$@/;$-%!$1.&!71$*&!$4/.");!;+
A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-1$*&!$*C*4"*0"!$4/$3()&$7!45%-$&*/5!1#$.(C!&4/5$
6(;!"1$3&(6$D$"01$-($EF"01+$
!"#$%&'("
)%(*!""(#+,)-." /
!"#$$%&'()*+,#-."!-+/
!"#$%&'(#)*+"!#,'-#.#/*0'12%&"#.#34#.#56557#.#8,9#####
:(;#76<=>?5=?@<<#.#A*B;#76<=?5>=>77?#
!""#$%&"'($)&*+""&'%#$,-"!'!+$!'$%./#%.'
.+/,-.'!/'!+"'$)#0#$1"'2'!/'!+"'."#3/4
GHFI$G%(7/
A*4"7%!!"$=(-$,/.");!;
G462"4.4-'+
G)""4C*/$A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-+
Rendezvous participants and aircraft, both
full-scale and RC. It takes roughly a minute
to get the shot, and everyone in it is required
to remain completely still.
The weather finally cleared in the
afternoon, allowing the full-scale aircraft to
take to the skies. They were launched in
small groups and commenced flying in a
racetrack pattern with nice, long passes
down the runway. This permitted spectators
to get a good look at the airplanes and snap a
few pictures.
While the flying was going on, vendors
were busy selling products ranging from
WW I books and artwork to real surplus
from the war. Groups of re-enactors had set
up encampments, and they wandered the
event grounds. They also staged air raids
and small-arms firefights to entertain the
crowd.
Also on Saturday, judging was held for
the RC models. Each pilot received a ballot
on which to select three airplanes for each
category: best in glow or electric power, best
in gas power, and grand champion. A
sidebar features the results.
Balsa USA, the event’s primary sponsor,
awarded kits to the winners, and Glenn
Torrance Models provided trophies. Both
companies have supported the fly-in and
have shown outstanding generosity.
Later in the day, two special sorties were
flown: a “Flight of the Threes,” exclusively
for 1/3-scale models (based on the mission
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:51 PM Page 23
24 MODEL AVIATION
that is flown annually at the popular
Hoosier Dawn Patrol event each August),
and a barrage balloon attack.
Word had leaked of a secret weapon that
a team led by Fred Jungclaus had developed
in Central Indiana. I managed to get a peek
at plans for this invention of war at the
Hoosier Dawn Patrol, and it looked
impressive. But the question was whether or
not it would be ready in time for the
Rendezvous.
RC headquarters received word late
Saturday that the barrage balloon had
arrived and was being prepared. Pilots were
to be ready for a sortie to bring it down.
Volunteers were gathered for the
mission, and to the west there appeared a
1/10-scale kite balloon. The daring volunteer
pilots made multiple passes at the sausage
until the top opened up, and scores of
orange, yellow, black, and white helium
balloons spilled out as the defeated balloon
descended to earth!
Balloon busting proved to be a big hit
with the public, and the organizers received
several compliments. Fred and his support
team outdid themselves!
The Saturday-night banquet featured
another great meal by the museum and
entertainment by the museum’s Air Force
band. Lee and Doug awarded a plaque to
Dean Lukover, in appreciation of all his
efforts in establishing the event.
Then the two announced the winners of
the pilots’ choice awards. Mark Enderby,
president of Balsa USA, and Glenn
Torrance, of Glenn Torrance Models, took
the stage to present the trophies.
On Sunday, as they did the day before, RC
models started the show at just after 7 a.m.
Although it was a bit cooler and breezier
than on the previous two days (and still wet
from more overnight rains), visibility was
much better and the sun even managed to
put in an appearance.
Door prizes and raffle prizes were
awarded, thanks to the generous donations
from sponsors. Those were Hamilton
Hobbies, Balsa USA, Great Planes, Arizona
Model Aircrafters, Mike Bealmear, Micro
Fasteners, Dr. Mike Hawkins, the Great
War Aeroplanes Association, and the Great
War Radio Modelers.
By 2 p.m., most full-scale and model
pilots were ready to pack it in. That
afternoon was travel time for most of the
participants.
Lee McDuffee and his group did an
excellent job of running and coordinating
the RC portion of the Rendezvous event. He
said:
“I think we accomplished many of our
goals for the 2009 event. The main story of
the weekend was a reaffirmation of the
AMA Show Team motto, ‘We fly when
others can’t.’
“I was told by several of the full-scale
flight staff that we ‘saved their bacon.’ We
managed to keep planes in the air all
weekend long, even with very minimal
visibility on Saturday and in spite of
constant threats of rain all weekend.
“All of our pilots made it an easy event
to manage, and they all did some
spectacular flying in the sometimes
challenging conditions; they couldn’t have
performed better. And it was also a pleasure
working with all the pilots and support
personnel from the Great War Aeroplane
Association, as well as Dave Thomas and
all his folks at the National Museum of the
United States Air Force.”
To learn more about the 2009 edition of
this event, The Aerodrome, a WW I Web
site, has a page devoted to it. See the
“Sources” list for the address.
The next Dawn Patrol Rendezvous will
be held in late September 2011. It’s not too
early to start making plans to attend this
amazing event! MA
Jay Smith
[email protected]
Lee McDuffee
[email protected]
Sources:
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
(937) 255-3286
www.nationalmuseum.af.mil
Great War Aeroplanes Association
2120 Richland Terr.
Quakertown PA 18951
www.gwaero.org
The Aerodrome Dawn Patrol Rendezvous
page:
www.theaerodrome.com/forum/upcomingevents/
39387-dawn-patrol-rendezvous-
2009-a.html
Balsa USA
(906) 863-6421
www.balsausa.com
Glenn Torrance Models
(919) 765-0814
www.flygtm.com
Great Planes
(800) 637-7660
www.greatplanes.com
Arizona Model Aircrafters
(602) 971-5646
www.arizonamodels.com
Micro Fasteners
(800) 892-6917
www.microfasteners.com
Mike Bealmear
www.bealmear.com/dawn_patrol
Hoosier Dawn Patrol
www.hoosierdawnpatrol.com
Ohio Dawn Patrol
www.ohiodawnpatrol.com
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:52 PM Page 24
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/07
Page Numbers: 18,19,20,21,22,23,24
Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous
18 MODEL AVIATION
Chuck Garrett with the replica S.E.5a that he and his son, Craig, built from plans. Several of
the full-scale pilots dressed in appropriate uniforms for the Great War.
by Jay Smith and Lee McDuffee
THE WorLD War I Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous is a biennial fly-in hosted by the
National Museum of the United States Air
Force, which is just north of Dayton, Ohio. It
features airplanes from 1903 through 1918: the
Dawn of Aviation through the Great War.
Full-scale airplanes of the era, radiocontrol
models, re-enactors, vintage
automobiles, artists, and vendors reported to
Wright Field the fourth weekend of
September 2009 (the 25th-27th). This
marked the seventh Rendezvous since the
initial event in 1996.
Essentially a three-day air show, the
Rendezvous alternates full-scale (as well
as 3/4- and 7/8-scale) replicas of the Great
War Aeroplane Association with giantscale
RC models. The Air Force
museum’s goal is to have aircraft in the
air throughout the day, weather
permitting.
Eight full-scale airplanes and 15 RC
pilots attended the inaugural Rendezvous.
It has grown since then, with the 2009
edition drawing approximately 30 fullscale
aircraft and 60 RC pilots.
Lee McDuffee and Doug Cox ran the RC
portion of last year’s event. They assumed
that task from Dean Lukover, who had
handled it from the beginning. Lee told me
that the goal was to continue the traditions
Dean had established for the gathering,
while putting their signature on it.
A challenge during the entire fly-in was
the weather. Thursday was rainy not only in
Dayton, but also across the region.
While Lee and Doug prepared for their
RC pilots to arrive, full-scale Air Boss
David Egner and Museum Director of
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:41 PM Page 18
July 2010 19
Right: This 1/10-scale kite barrage
bal loon was the target as
volunteer pilots made multiple
passes until the top opened and
scores of orange, yellow, black,
and white helium balloons spilled
out. Ryan Grantonic photo.
Above: James W. “Rich” Richardson’s 1/4-scale Balsa USA Fokker D.VII is modeled
after one flown by Oberleutnant Erich Lowenhardt, commander of Jasta 10.
Right: Historians Doug Blackford (L) and Doug
Roush dressed as doughboys and shared stories of
how life was during WW I.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:18 PM Page 19
20 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author except as noted
A large tent was provided for modelers in which to store their aircraft to protect
from rain. Pilots appreciated not having to disassemble their airplanes each evening.
A Fokker Dr.I does a low-level flyby.
Full-scale aircraft were flown in small
groups, making photo passes over the
runway with the museum’s hangars as
the backdrop.
Even at 1/4 scale, this beautiful de Havilland D.H.4, which belongs to Balsa USA,
has a 127-inch wingspan. It is outfitted with a bomb rack with droppable bombs.
Full-scale flying was hampered by the
weather, giving RC pilots much more
flying time to use to entertain the crowds.
Pan-A-View photographed all of the participants and full-scale and RC aircraft. It took nearly a minute to get the shot, and
everyone was required to remain completely still.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:46 PM Page 20
July 2010 21
Combining RC models with full-scale airplanes works
well at this event and keeps attendees interested,
with aircraft flying throughout the day.
Mike Hawkins scratch-built this Albatros J.I and
brought it all the way from Thailand to participate
in the Dawn Patrol Rendezvous. Grantonic photo.
Arizona Models
Balsa USA
Dr. Mike Hawkins
Great Planes
Great War Aeroplanes Association
Great War Radio Modelers
Hamilton Hobbies
Micro Fasteners
Mike Bealmear
Sponsors Lee McDuffee, the RC air boss, did an
excellent job of integrating RC with all
the other activities. His main goals were
safety and getting his pilots the most
flying time possible.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:48 PM Page 21
22 MODEL AVIATION
This rare 1909 Gnome rotary was not
only for display. It was started and run
so that attendees could appreciate the
sound of a 100-year-old, seven-cylinder,
50-horsepower engine.
Billy Thompson’s 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst Udet’s “Du Docht
Nicht!!” received the award for Best Gas Model.
Pilots’ Choice Awards
Best Glow/Electric Model:
Ted and Doug Zadlo’s (Londonderry NH) 1/3-scale, electric-powered
Morane-Saulnier AI in Polish Air Service markings. (Balsa USA prize: any
1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best Gas Model:
Billy Thompson’s (Bogstown IN) 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst
Udet’s “Du Docht Nicht!!” (Balsa USA prize: any 1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best of Show:
Keith
Zimmerly’s
(Mercerville NJ)
scratch-built,
1/3-scale Avro
504C (Balsa
USA prize:
any WW I kit)
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:22 PM Page 22
Special Events David Thomas shared that
they were also having problems. Several
full-scale pilots were stranded at points
across the country, trying to get to the event
through the weather.
Thursday was quiet, except for the sound
of rain on field. However, the Thursdayevening
icebreaker at the museum was
greatly appreciated by all who attended. The
facility presented a great spread for
Rendezvous participants.
Friday brought the end of overnight rains
but left a good part of the field muddy.
Straw and woodchips were carted in
throughout the weekend, to try to cope with
the less-than-favorable conditions.
The pre-event schedule was altered,
because full-scale airplanes arrived at
various times during the day. RC aircraft
were flown continually on Friday; they were
grounded only when their full-scale
counterparts arrived and needed the runway
for landing. An average of six models were
flown at once.
Lee kept busy as the RC air boss. He was
responsible for coordinating takeoffs and
landings and keeping everyone advised
about what was happening.
The full-scale air boss would advise
when the runway was needed for arriving or
departing aircraft or when conditions
improved to the point where they could fly
circuits. Then RC pilots would relinquish
the field to the full-scale Nieuports and
Fokkers.
Once all of the large aircraft had been
recovered after their sorties, they would
swing by the RC compound with the
command to “Get Them Up”—then the
models would take to the sky for more
airtime.
The museum remained open late again
Friday, this time for the public. Re-enactors
mingled with the crowd and among the
aircraft in the evening, the movie The Blue
Max was shown in the museum theater, and
other activities took place.
Saturday found the field shrouded in fog at
7 a.m., but that didn’t stop the RC pilots
who were already preparing to fly. The fullscale
aircraft were grounded because of the
low ceiling, but a number of models flew all
morning in spite of the conditions. The key
was keeping them low to the ground.
One highlight of the morning was a
gathering of full-scale pilots who visited the
RC area as Paul Westrich prepped and flew
his 1/2-scale Fokker D.VI biplane. The
visitors were building a full-scale version of
that aircraft and were curious to see how
Paul’s flew.
The other highlight was when I got to
put in a flight on Billy Thompson’s
beautiful 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII. Finished in
the candy-striped color scheme of Ernst
Udet, a German flying ace, this model has
competed in the Top Gun Invitational and
the Scale Nats. Thanks for the flight, Billy!
Pan-A-View was on hand to take the
traditional panoramic photo of all
July 2010 23
!""#$%!&!$'()$*&!+$,-$.*/$0!$1!-$)2$3(&$1-!!&4/5$(&$.*1-(&4/5+$,-$
.(6!1$74-%$*$.%(4.!$(3$-7($1-!!&4/5$12&4/58*&61$9-%!$0!/-:)2$!/;$
1462"'$5")!1$4/-($-%!$&);;!&<+$=($"4/>*5!1$#$/($.(/-&("$%(&/1#$/($
;&*5$3&(6$!?-&*$%*&;7*&!+$@/;$-%!$1.&!71$*&!$4/.");!;+
A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-1$*&!$*C*4"*0"!$4/$3()&$7!45%-$&*/5!1#$.(C!&4/5$
6(;!"1$3&(6$D$"01$-($EF"01+$
!"#$%&'("
)%(*!""(#+,)-." /
!"#$$%&'()*+,#-."!-+/
!"#$%&'(#)*+"!#,'-#.#/*0'12%&"#.#34#.#56557#.#8,9#####
:(;#76<=>?5=?@<<#.#A*B;#76<=?5>=>77?#
!""#$%&"'($)&*+""&'%#$,-"!'!+$!'$%./#%.'
.+/,-.'!/'!+"'$)#0#$1"'2'!/'!+"'."#3/4
GHFI$G%(7/
A*4"7%!!"$=(-$,/.");!;
G462"4.4-'+
G)""4C*/$A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-+
Rendezvous participants and aircraft, both
full-scale and RC. It takes roughly a minute
to get the shot, and everyone in it is required
to remain completely still.
The weather finally cleared in the
afternoon, allowing the full-scale aircraft to
take to the skies. They were launched in
small groups and commenced flying in a
racetrack pattern with nice, long passes
down the runway. This permitted spectators
to get a good look at the airplanes and snap a
few pictures.
While the flying was going on, vendors
were busy selling products ranging from
WW I books and artwork to real surplus
from the war. Groups of re-enactors had set
up encampments, and they wandered the
event grounds. They also staged air raids
and small-arms firefights to entertain the
crowd.
Also on Saturday, judging was held for
the RC models. Each pilot received a ballot
on which to select three airplanes for each
category: best in glow or electric power, best
in gas power, and grand champion. A
sidebar features the results.
Balsa USA, the event’s primary sponsor,
awarded kits to the winners, and Glenn
Torrance Models provided trophies. Both
companies have supported the fly-in and
have shown outstanding generosity.
Later in the day, two special sorties were
flown: a “Flight of the Threes,” exclusively
for 1/3-scale models (based on the mission
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:51 PM Page 23
24 MODEL AVIATION
that is flown annually at the popular
Hoosier Dawn Patrol event each August),
and a barrage balloon attack.
Word had leaked of a secret weapon that
a team led by Fred Jungclaus had developed
in Central Indiana. I managed to get a peek
at plans for this invention of war at the
Hoosier Dawn Patrol, and it looked
impressive. But the question was whether or
not it would be ready in time for the
Rendezvous.
RC headquarters received word late
Saturday that the barrage balloon had
arrived and was being prepared. Pilots were
to be ready for a sortie to bring it down.
Volunteers were gathered for the
mission, and to the west there appeared a
1/10-scale kite balloon. The daring volunteer
pilots made multiple passes at the sausage
until the top opened up, and scores of
orange, yellow, black, and white helium
balloons spilled out as the defeated balloon
descended to earth!
Balloon busting proved to be a big hit
with the public, and the organizers received
several compliments. Fred and his support
team outdid themselves!
The Saturday-night banquet featured
another great meal by the museum and
entertainment by the museum’s Air Force
band. Lee and Doug awarded a plaque to
Dean Lukover, in appreciation of all his
efforts in establishing the event.
Then the two announced the winners of
the pilots’ choice awards. Mark Enderby,
president of Balsa USA, and Glenn
Torrance, of Glenn Torrance Models, took
the stage to present the trophies.
On Sunday, as they did the day before, RC
models started the show at just after 7 a.m.
Although it was a bit cooler and breezier
than on the previous two days (and still wet
from more overnight rains), visibility was
much better and the sun even managed to
put in an appearance.
Door prizes and raffle prizes were
awarded, thanks to the generous donations
from sponsors. Those were Hamilton
Hobbies, Balsa USA, Great Planes, Arizona
Model Aircrafters, Mike Bealmear, Micro
Fasteners, Dr. Mike Hawkins, the Great
War Aeroplanes Association, and the Great
War Radio Modelers.
By 2 p.m., most full-scale and model
pilots were ready to pack it in. That
afternoon was travel time for most of the
participants.
Lee McDuffee and his group did an
excellent job of running and coordinating
the RC portion of the Rendezvous event. He
said:
“I think we accomplished many of our
goals for the 2009 event. The main story of
the weekend was a reaffirmation of the
AMA Show Team motto, ‘We fly when
others can’t.’
“I was told by several of the full-scale
flight staff that we ‘saved their bacon.’ We
managed to keep planes in the air all
weekend long, even with very minimal
visibility on Saturday and in spite of
constant threats of rain all weekend.
“All of our pilots made it an easy event
to manage, and they all did some
spectacular flying in the sometimes
challenging conditions; they couldn’t have
performed better. And it was also a pleasure
working with all the pilots and support
personnel from the Great War Aeroplane
Association, as well as Dave Thomas and
all his folks at the National Museum of the
United States Air Force.”
To learn more about the 2009 edition of
this event, The Aerodrome, a WW I Web
site, has a page devoted to it. See the
“Sources” list for the address.
The next Dawn Patrol Rendezvous will
be held in late September 2011. It’s not too
early to start making plans to attend this
amazing event! MA
Jay Smith
[email protected]
Lee McDuffee
[email protected]
Sources:
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
(937) 255-3286
www.nationalmuseum.af.mil
Great War Aeroplanes Association
2120 Richland Terr.
Quakertown PA 18951
www.gwaero.org
The Aerodrome Dawn Patrol Rendezvous
page:
www.theaerodrome.com/forum/upcomingevents/
39387-dawn-patrol-rendezvous-
2009-a.html
Balsa USA
(906) 863-6421
www.balsausa.com
Glenn Torrance Models
(919) 765-0814
www.flygtm.com
Great Planes
(800) 637-7660
www.greatplanes.com
Arizona Model Aircrafters
(602) 971-5646
www.arizonamodels.com
Micro Fasteners
(800) 892-6917
www.microfasteners.com
Mike Bealmear
www.bealmear.com/dawn_patrol
Hoosier Dawn Patrol
www.hoosierdawnpatrol.com
Ohio Dawn Patrol
www.ohiodawnpatrol.com
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:52 PM Page 24
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/07
Page Numbers: 18,19,20,21,22,23,24
Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous
18 MODEL AVIATION
Chuck Garrett with the replica S.E.5a that he and his son, Craig, built from plans. Several of
the full-scale pilots dressed in appropriate uniforms for the Great War.
by Jay Smith and Lee McDuffee
THE WorLD War I Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous is a biennial fly-in hosted by the
National Museum of the United States Air
Force, which is just north of Dayton, Ohio. It
features airplanes from 1903 through 1918: the
Dawn of Aviation through the Great War.
Full-scale airplanes of the era, radiocontrol
models, re-enactors, vintage
automobiles, artists, and vendors reported to
Wright Field the fourth weekend of
September 2009 (the 25th-27th). This
marked the seventh Rendezvous since the
initial event in 1996.
Essentially a three-day air show, the
Rendezvous alternates full-scale (as well
as 3/4- and 7/8-scale) replicas of the Great
War Aeroplane Association with giantscale
RC models. The Air Force
museum’s goal is to have aircraft in the
air throughout the day, weather
permitting.
Eight full-scale airplanes and 15 RC
pilots attended the inaugural Rendezvous.
It has grown since then, with the 2009
edition drawing approximately 30 fullscale
aircraft and 60 RC pilots.
Lee McDuffee and Doug Cox ran the RC
portion of last year’s event. They assumed
that task from Dean Lukover, who had
handled it from the beginning. Lee told me
that the goal was to continue the traditions
Dean had established for the gathering,
while putting their signature on it.
A challenge during the entire fly-in was
the weather. Thursday was rainy not only in
Dayton, but also across the region.
While Lee and Doug prepared for their
RC pilots to arrive, full-scale Air Boss
David Egner and Museum Director of
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:41 PM Page 18
July 2010 19
Right: This 1/10-scale kite barrage
bal loon was the target as
volunteer pilots made multiple
passes until the top opened and
scores of orange, yellow, black,
and white helium balloons spilled
out. Ryan Grantonic photo.
Above: James W. “Rich” Richardson’s 1/4-scale Balsa USA Fokker D.VII is modeled
after one flown by Oberleutnant Erich Lowenhardt, commander of Jasta 10.
Right: Historians Doug Blackford (L) and Doug
Roush dressed as doughboys and shared stories of
how life was during WW I.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:18 PM Page 19
20 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author except as noted
A large tent was provided for modelers in which to store their aircraft to protect
from rain. Pilots appreciated not having to disassemble their airplanes each evening.
A Fokker Dr.I does a low-level flyby.
Full-scale aircraft were flown in small
groups, making photo passes over the
runway with the museum’s hangars as
the backdrop.
Even at 1/4 scale, this beautiful de Havilland D.H.4, which belongs to Balsa USA,
has a 127-inch wingspan. It is outfitted with a bomb rack with droppable bombs.
Full-scale flying was hampered by the
weather, giving RC pilots much more
flying time to use to entertain the crowds.
Pan-A-View photographed all of the participants and full-scale and RC aircraft. It took nearly a minute to get the shot, and
everyone was required to remain completely still.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:46 PM Page 20
July 2010 21
Combining RC models with full-scale airplanes works
well at this event and keeps attendees interested,
with aircraft flying throughout the day.
Mike Hawkins scratch-built this Albatros J.I and
brought it all the way from Thailand to participate
in the Dawn Patrol Rendezvous. Grantonic photo.
Arizona Models
Balsa USA
Dr. Mike Hawkins
Great Planes
Great War Aeroplanes Association
Great War Radio Modelers
Hamilton Hobbies
Micro Fasteners
Mike Bealmear
Sponsors Lee McDuffee, the RC air boss, did an
excellent job of integrating RC with all
the other activities. His main goals were
safety and getting his pilots the most
flying time possible.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:48 PM Page 21
22 MODEL AVIATION
This rare 1909 Gnome rotary was not
only for display. It was started and run
so that attendees could appreciate the
sound of a 100-year-old, seven-cylinder,
50-horsepower engine.
Billy Thompson’s 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst Udet’s “Du Docht
Nicht!!” received the award for Best Gas Model.
Pilots’ Choice Awards
Best Glow/Electric Model:
Ted and Doug Zadlo’s (Londonderry NH) 1/3-scale, electric-powered
Morane-Saulnier AI in Polish Air Service markings. (Balsa USA prize: any
1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best Gas Model:
Billy Thompson’s (Bogstown IN) 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst
Udet’s “Du Docht Nicht!!” (Balsa USA prize: any 1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best of Show:
Keith
Zimmerly’s
(Mercerville NJ)
scratch-built,
1/3-scale Avro
504C (Balsa
USA prize:
any WW I kit)
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:22 PM Page 22
Special Events David Thomas shared that
they were also having problems. Several
full-scale pilots were stranded at points
across the country, trying to get to the event
through the weather.
Thursday was quiet, except for the sound
of rain on field. However, the Thursdayevening
icebreaker at the museum was
greatly appreciated by all who attended. The
facility presented a great spread for
Rendezvous participants.
Friday brought the end of overnight rains
but left a good part of the field muddy.
Straw and woodchips were carted in
throughout the weekend, to try to cope with
the less-than-favorable conditions.
The pre-event schedule was altered,
because full-scale airplanes arrived at
various times during the day. RC aircraft
were flown continually on Friday; they were
grounded only when their full-scale
counterparts arrived and needed the runway
for landing. An average of six models were
flown at once.
Lee kept busy as the RC air boss. He was
responsible for coordinating takeoffs and
landings and keeping everyone advised
about what was happening.
The full-scale air boss would advise
when the runway was needed for arriving or
departing aircraft or when conditions
improved to the point where they could fly
circuits. Then RC pilots would relinquish
the field to the full-scale Nieuports and
Fokkers.
Once all of the large aircraft had been
recovered after their sorties, they would
swing by the RC compound with the
command to “Get Them Up”—then the
models would take to the sky for more
airtime.
The museum remained open late again
Friday, this time for the public. Re-enactors
mingled with the crowd and among the
aircraft in the evening, the movie The Blue
Max was shown in the museum theater, and
other activities took place.
Saturday found the field shrouded in fog at
7 a.m., but that didn’t stop the RC pilots
who were already preparing to fly. The fullscale
aircraft were grounded because of the
low ceiling, but a number of models flew all
morning in spite of the conditions. The key
was keeping them low to the ground.
One highlight of the morning was a
gathering of full-scale pilots who visited the
RC area as Paul Westrich prepped and flew
his 1/2-scale Fokker D.VI biplane. The
visitors were building a full-scale version of
that aircraft and were curious to see how
Paul’s flew.
The other highlight was when I got to
put in a flight on Billy Thompson’s
beautiful 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII. Finished in
the candy-striped color scheme of Ernst
Udet, a German flying ace, this model has
competed in the Top Gun Invitational and
the Scale Nats. Thanks for the flight, Billy!
Pan-A-View was on hand to take the
traditional panoramic photo of all
July 2010 23
!""#$%!&!$'()$*&!+$,-$.*/$0!$1!-$)2$3(&$1-!!&4/5$(&$.*1-(&4/5+$,-$
.(6!1$74-%$*$.%(4.!$(3$-7($1-!!&4/5$12&4/58*&61$9-%!$0!/-:)2$!/;$
1462"'$5")!1$4/-($-%!$&);;!&<+$=($"4/>*5!1$#$/($.(/-&("$%(&/1#$/($
;&*5$3&(6$!?-&*$%*&;7*&!+$@/;$-%!$1.&!71$*&!$4/.");!;+
A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-1$*&!$*C*4"*0"!$4/$3()&$7!45%-$&*/5!1#$.(C!&4/5$
6(;!"1$3&(6$D$"01$-($EF"01+$
!"#$%&'("
)%(*!""(#+,)-." /
!"#$$%&'()*+,#-."!-+/
!"#$%&'(#)*+"!#,'-#.#/*0'12%&"#.#34#.#56557#.#8,9#####
:(;#76<=>?5=?@<<#.#A*B;#76<=?5>=>77?#
!""#$%&"'($)&*+""&'%#$,-"!'!+$!'$%./#%.'
.+/,-.'!/'!+"'$)#0#$1"'2'!/'!+"'."#3/4
GHFI$G%(7/
A*4"7%!!"$=(-$,/.");!;
G462"4.4-'+
G)""4C*/$A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-+
Rendezvous participants and aircraft, both
full-scale and RC. It takes roughly a minute
to get the shot, and everyone in it is required
to remain completely still.
The weather finally cleared in the
afternoon, allowing the full-scale aircraft to
take to the skies. They were launched in
small groups and commenced flying in a
racetrack pattern with nice, long passes
down the runway. This permitted spectators
to get a good look at the airplanes and snap a
few pictures.
While the flying was going on, vendors
were busy selling products ranging from
WW I books and artwork to real surplus
from the war. Groups of re-enactors had set
up encampments, and they wandered the
event grounds. They also staged air raids
and small-arms firefights to entertain the
crowd.
Also on Saturday, judging was held for
the RC models. Each pilot received a ballot
on which to select three airplanes for each
category: best in glow or electric power, best
in gas power, and grand champion. A
sidebar features the results.
Balsa USA, the event’s primary sponsor,
awarded kits to the winners, and Glenn
Torrance Models provided trophies. Both
companies have supported the fly-in and
have shown outstanding generosity.
Later in the day, two special sorties were
flown: a “Flight of the Threes,” exclusively
for 1/3-scale models (based on the mission
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:51 PM Page 23
24 MODEL AVIATION
that is flown annually at the popular
Hoosier Dawn Patrol event each August),
and a barrage balloon attack.
Word had leaked of a secret weapon that
a team led by Fred Jungclaus had developed
in Central Indiana. I managed to get a peek
at plans for this invention of war at the
Hoosier Dawn Patrol, and it looked
impressive. But the question was whether or
not it would be ready in time for the
Rendezvous.
RC headquarters received word late
Saturday that the barrage balloon had
arrived and was being prepared. Pilots were
to be ready for a sortie to bring it down.
Volunteers were gathered for the
mission, and to the west there appeared a
1/10-scale kite balloon. The daring volunteer
pilots made multiple passes at the sausage
until the top opened up, and scores of
orange, yellow, black, and white helium
balloons spilled out as the defeated balloon
descended to earth!
Balloon busting proved to be a big hit
with the public, and the organizers received
several compliments. Fred and his support
team outdid themselves!
The Saturday-night banquet featured
another great meal by the museum and
entertainment by the museum’s Air Force
band. Lee and Doug awarded a plaque to
Dean Lukover, in appreciation of all his
efforts in establishing the event.
Then the two announced the winners of
the pilots’ choice awards. Mark Enderby,
president of Balsa USA, and Glenn
Torrance, of Glenn Torrance Models, took
the stage to present the trophies.
On Sunday, as they did the day before, RC
models started the show at just after 7 a.m.
Although it was a bit cooler and breezier
than on the previous two days (and still wet
from more overnight rains), visibility was
much better and the sun even managed to
put in an appearance.
Door prizes and raffle prizes were
awarded, thanks to the generous donations
from sponsors. Those were Hamilton
Hobbies, Balsa USA, Great Planes, Arizona
Model Aircrafters, Mike Bealmear, Micro
Fasteners, Dr. Mike Hawkins, the Great
War Aeroplanes Association, and the Great
War Radio Modelers.
By 2 p.m., most full-scale and model
pilots were ready to pack it in. That
afternoon was travel time for most of the
participants.
Lee McDuffee and his group did an
excellent job of running and coordinating
the RC portion of the Rendezvous event. He
said:
“I think we accomplished many of our
goals for the 2009 event. The main story of
the weekend was a reaffirmation of the
AMA Show Team motto, ‘We fly when
others can’t.’
“I was told by several of the full-scale
flight staff that we ‘saved their bacon.’ We
managed to keep planes in the air all
weekend long, even with very minimal
visibility on Saturday and in spite of
constant threats of rain all weekend.
“All of our pilots made it an easy event
to manage, and they all did some
spectacular flying in the sometimes
challenging conditions; they couldn’t have
performed better. And it was also a pleasure
working with all the pilots and support
personnel from the Great War Aeroplane
Association, as well as Dave Thomas and
all his folks at the National Museum of the
United States Air Force.”
To learn more about the 2009 edition of
this event, The Aerodrome, a WW I Web
site, has a page devoted to it. See the
“Sources” list for the address.
The next Dawn Patrol Rendezvous will
be held in late September 2011. It’s not too
early to start making plans to attend this
amazing event! MA
Jay Smith
[email protected]
Lee McDuffee
[email protected]
Sources:
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
(937) 255-3286
www.nationalmuseum.af.mil
Great War Aeroplanes Association
2120 Richland Terr.
Quakertown PA 18951
www.gwaero.org
The Aerodrome Dawn Patrol Rendezvous
page:
www.theaerodrome.com/forum/upcomingevents/
39387-dawn-patrol-rendezvous-
2009-a.html
Balsa USA
(906) 863-6421
www.balsausa.com
Glenn Torrance Models
(919) 765-0814
www.flygtm.com
Great Planes
(800) 637-7660
www.greatplanes.com
Arizona Model Aircrafters
(602) 971-5646
www.arizonamodels.com
Micro Fasteners
(800) 892-6917
www.microfasteners.com
Mike Bealmear
www.bealmear.com/dawn_patrol
Hoosier Dawn Patrol
www.hoosierdawnpatrol.com
Ohio Dawn Patrol
www.ohiodawnpatrol.com
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:52 PM Page 24
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/07
Page Numbers: 18,19,20,21,22,23,24
Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous
18 MODEL AVIATION
Chuck Garrett with the replica S.E.5a that he and his son, Craig, built from plans. Several of
the full-scale pilots dressed in appropriate uniforms for the Great War.
by Jay Smith and Lee McDuffee
THE WorLD War I Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous is a biennial fly-in hosted by the
National Museum of the United States Air
Force, which is just north of Dayton, Ohio. It
features airplanes from 1903 through 1918: the
Dawn of Aviation through the Great War.
Full-scale airplanes of the era, radiocontrol
models, re-enactors, vintage
automobiles, artists, and vendors reported to
Wright Field the fourth weekend of
September 2009 (the 25th-27th). This
marked the seventh Rendezvous since the
initial event in 1996.
Essentially a three-day air show, the
Rendezvous alternates full-scale (as well
as 3/4- and 7/8-scale) replicas of the Great
War Aeroplane Association with giantscale
RC models. The Air Force
museum’s goal is to have aircraft in the
air throughout the day, weather
permitting.
Eight full-scale airplanes and 15 RC
pilots attended the inaugural Rendezvous.
It has grown since then, with the 2009
edition drawing approximately 30 fullscale
aircraft and 60 RC pilots.
Lee McDuffee and Doug Cox ran the RC
portion of last year’s event. They assumed
that task from Dean Lukover, who had
handled it from the beginning. Lee told me
that the goal was to continue the traditions
Dean had established for the gathering,
while putting their signature on it.
A challenge during the entire fly-in was
the weather. Thursday was rainy not only in
Dayton, but also across the region.
While Lee and Doug prepared for their
RC pilots to arrive, full-scale Air Boss
David Egner and Museum Director of
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:41 PM Page 18
July 2010 19
Right: This 1/10-scale kite barrage
bal loon was the target as
volunteer pilots made multiple
passes until the top opened and
scores of orange, yellow, black,
and white helium balloons spilled
out. Ryan Grantonic photo.
Above: James W. “Rich” Richardson’s 1/4-scale Balsa USA Fokker D.VII is modeled
after one flown by Oberleutnant Erich Lowenhardt, commander of Jasta 10.
Right: Historians Doug Blackford (L) and Doug
Roush dressed as doughboys and shared stories of
how life was during WW I.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:18 PM Page 19
20 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author except as noted
A large tent was provided for modelers in which to store their aircraft to protect
from rain. Pilots appreciated not having to disassemble their airplanes each evening.
A Fokker Dr.I does a low-level flyby.
Full-scale aircraft were flown in small
groups, making photo passes over the
runway with the museum’s hangars as
the backdrop.
Even at 1/4 scale, this beautiful de Havilland D.H.4, which belongs to Balsa USA,
has a 127-inch wingspan. It is outfitted with a bomb rack with droppable bombs.
Full-scale flying was hampered by the
weather, giving RC pilots much more
flying time to use to entertain the crowds.
Pan-A-View photographed all of the participants and full-scale and RC aircraft. It took nearly a minute to get the shot, and
everyone was required to remain completely still.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:46 PM Page 20
July 2010 21
Combining RC models with full-scale airplanes works
well at this event and keeps attendees interested,
with aircraft flying throughout the day.
Mike Hawkins scratch-built this Albatros J.I and
brought it all the way from Thailand to participate
in the Dawn Patrol Rendezvous. Grantonic photo.
Arizona Models
Balsa USA
Dr. Mike Hawkins
Great Planes
Great War Aeroplanes Association
Great War Radio Modelers
Hamilton Hobbies
Micro Fasteners
Mike Bealmear
Sponsors Lee McDuffee, the RC air boss, did an
excellent job of integrating RC with all
the other activities. His main goals were
safety and getting his pilots the most
flying time possible.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:48 PM Page 21
22 MODEL AVIATION
This rare 1909 Gnome rotary was not
only for display. It was started and run
so that attendees could appreciate the
sound of a 100-year-old, seven-cylinder,
50-horsepower engine.
Billy Thompson’s 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst Udet’s “Du Docht
Nicht!!” received the award for Best Gas Model.
Pilots’ Choice Awards
Best Glow/Electric Model:
Ted and Doug Zadlo’s (Londonderry NH) 1/3-scale, electric-powered
Morane-Saulnier AI in Polish Air Service markings. (Balsa USA prize: any
1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best Gas Model:
Billy Thompson’s (Bogstown IN) 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst
Udet’s “Du Docht Nicht!!” (Balsa USA prize: any 1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best of Show:
Keith
Zimmerly’s
(Mercerville NJ)
scratch-built,
1/3-scale Avro
504C (Balsa
USA prize:
any WW I kit)
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:22 PM Page 22
Special Events David Thomas shared that
they were also having problems. Several
full-scale pilots were stranded at points
across the country, trying to get to the event
through the weather.
Thursday was quiet, except for the sound
of rain on field. However, the Thursdayevening
icebreaker at the museum was
greatly appreciated by all who attended. The
facility presented a great spread for
Rendezvous participants.
Friday brought the end of overnight rains
but left a good part of the field muddy.
Straw and woodchips were carted in
throughout the weekend, to try to cope with
the less-than-favorable conditions.
The pre-event schedule was altered,
because full-scale airplanes arrived at
various times during the day. RC aircraft
were flown continually on Friday; they were
grounded only when their full-scale
counterparts arrived and needed the runway
for landing. An average of six models were
flown at once.
Lee kept busy as the RC air boss. He was
responsible for coordinating takeoffs and
landings and keeping everyone advised
about what was happening.
The full-scale air boss would advise
when the runway was needed for arriving or
departing aircraft or when conditions
improved to the point where they could fly
circuits. Then RC pilots would relinquish
the field to the full-scale Nieuports and
Fokkers.
Once all of the large aircraft had been
recovered after their sorties, they would
swing by the RC compound with the
command to “Get Them Up”—then the
models would take to the sky for more
airtime.
The museum remained open late again
Friday, this time for the public. Re-enactors
mingled with the crowd and among the
aircraft in the evening, the movie The Blue
Max was shown in the museum theater, and
other activities took place.
Saturday found the field shrouded in fog at
7 a.m., but that didn’t stop the RC pilots
who were already preparing to fly. The fullscale
aircraft were grounded because of the
low ceiling, but a number of models flew all
morning in spite of the conditions. The key
was keeping them low to the ground.
One highlight of the morning was a
gathering of full-scale pilots who visited the
RC area as Paul Westrich prepped and flew
his 1/2-scale Fokker D.VI biplane. The
visitors were building a full-scale version of
that aircraft and were curious to see how
Paul’s flew.
The other highlight was when I got to
put in a flight on Billy Thompson’s
beautiful 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII. Finished in
the candy-striped color scheme of Ernst
Udet, a German flying ace, this model has
competed in the Top Gun Invitational and
the Scale Nats. Thanks for the flight, Billy!
Pan-A-View was on hand to take the
traditional panoramic photo of all
July 2010 23
!""#$%!&!$'()$*&!+$,-$.*/$0!$1!-$)2$3(&$1-!!&4/5$(&$.*1-(&4/5+$,-$
.(6!1$74-%$*$.%(4.!$(3$-7($1-!!&4/5$12&4/58*&61$9-%!$0!/-:)2$!/;$
1462"'$5")!1$4/-($-%!$&);;!&<+$=($"4/>*5!1$#$/($.(/-&("$%(&/1#$/($
;&*5$3&(6$!?-&*$%*&;7*&!+$@/;$-%!$1.&!71$*&!$4/.");!;+
A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-1$*&!$*C*4"*0"!$4/$3()&$7!45%-$&*/5!1#$.(C!&4/5$
6(;!"1$3&(6$D$"01$-($EF"01+$
!"#$%&'("
)%(*!""(#+,)-." /
!"#$$%&'()*+,#-."!-+/
!"#$%&'(#)*+"!#,'-#.#/*0'12%&"#.#34#.#56557#.#8,9#####
:(;#76<=>?5=?@<<#.#A*B;#76<=?5>=>77?#
!""#$%&"'($)&*+""&'%#$,-"!'!+$!'$%./#%.'
.+/,-.'!/'!+"'$)#0#$1"'2'!/'!+"'."#3/4
GHFI$G%(7/
A*4"7%!!"$=(-$,/.");!;
G462"4.4-'+
G)""4C*/$A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-+
Rendezvous participants and aircraft, both
full-scale and RC. It takes roughly a minute
to get the shot, and everyone in it is required
to remain completely still.
The weather finally cleared in the
afternoon, allowing the full-scale aircraft to
take to the skies. They were launched in
small groups and commenced flying in a
racetrack pattern with nice, long passes
down the runway. This permitted spectators
to get a good look at the airplanes and snap a
few pictures.
While the flying was going on, vendors
were busy selling products ranging from
WW I books and artwork to real surplus
from the war. Groups of re-enactors had set
up encampments, and they wandered the
event grounds. They also staged air raids
and small-arms firefights to entertain the
crowd.
Also on Saturday, judging was held for
the RC models. Each pilot received a ballot
on which to select three airplanes for each
category: best in glow or electric power, best
in gas power, and grand champion. A
sidebar features the results.
Balsa USA, the event’s primary sponsor,
awarded kits to the winners, and Glenn
Torrance Models provided trophies. Both
companies have supported the fly-in and
have shown outstanding generosity.
Later in the day, two special sorties were
flown: a “Flight of the Threes,” exclusively
for 1/3-scale models (based on the mission
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:51 PM Page 23
24 MODEL AVIATION
that is flown annually at the popular
Hoosier Dawn Patrol event each August),
and a barrage balloon attack.
Word had leaked of a secret weapon that
a team led by Fred Jungclaus had developed
in Central Indiana. I managed to get a peek
at plans for this invention of war at the
Hoosier Dawn Patrol, and it looked
impressive. But the question was whether or
not it would be ready in time for the
Rendezvous.
RC headquarters received word late
Saturday that the barrage balloon had
arrived and was being prepared. Pilots were
to be ready for a sortie to bring it down.
Volunteers were gathered for the
mission, and to the west there appeared a
1/10-scale kite balloon. The daring volunteer
pilots made multiple passes at the sausage
until the top opened up, and scores of
orange, yellow, black, and white helium
balloons spilled out as the defeated balloon
descended to earth!
Balloon busting proved to be a big hit
with the public, and the organizers received
several compliments. Fred and his support
team outdid themselves!
The Saturday-night banquet featured
another great meal by the museum and
entertainment by the museum’s Air Force
band. Lee and Doug awarded a plaque to
Dean Lukover, in appreciation of all his
efforts in establishing the event.
Then the two announced the winners of
the pilots’ choice awards. Mark Enderby,
president of Balsa USA, and Glenn
Torrance, of Glenn Torrance Models, took
the stage to present the trophies.
On Sunday, as they did the day before, RC
models started the show at just after 7 a.m.
Although it was a bit cooler and breezier
than on the previous two days (and still wet
from more overnight rains), visibility was
much better and the sun even managed to
put in an appearance.
Door prizes and raffle prizes were
awarded, thanks to the generous donations
from sponsors. Those were Hamilton
Hobbies, Balsa USA, Great Planes, Arizona
Model Aircrafters, Mike Bealmear, Micro
Fasteners, Dr. Mike Hawkins, the Great
War Aeroplanes Association, and the Great
War Radio Modelers.
By 2 p.m., most full-scale and model
pilots were ready to pack it in. That
afternoon was travel time for most of the
participants.
Lee McDuffee and his group did an
excellent job of running and coordinating
the RC portion of the Rendezvous event. He
said:
“I think we accomplished many of our
goals for the 2009 event. The main story of
the weekend was a reaffirmation of the
AMA Show Team motto, ‘We fly when
others can’t.’
“I was told by several of the full-scale
flight staff that we ‘saved their bacon.’ We
managed to keep planes in the air all
weekend long, even with very minimal
visibility on Saturday and in spite of
constant threats of rain all weekend.
“All of our pilots made it an easy event
to manage, and they all did some
spectacular flying in the sometimes
challenging conditions; they couldn’t have
performed better. And it was also a pleasure
working with all the pilots and support
personnel from the Great War Aeroplane
Association, as well as Dave Thomas and
all his folks at the National Museum of the
United States Air Force.”
To learn more about the 2009 edition of
this event, The Aerodrome, a WW I Web
site, has a page devoted to it. See the
“Sources” list for the address.
The next Dawn Patrol Rendezvous will
be held in late September 2011. It’s not too
early to start making plans to attend this
amazing event! MA
Jay Smith
[email protected]
Lee McDuffee
[email protected]
Sources:
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
(937) 255-3286
www.nationalmuseum.af.mil
Great War Aeroplanes Association
2120 Richland Terr.
Quakertown PA 18951
www.gwaero.org
The Aerodrome Dawn Patrol Rendezvous
page:
www.theaerodrome.com/forum/upcomingevents/
39387-dawn-patrol-rendezvous-
2009-a.html
Balsa USA
(906) 863-6421
www.balsausa.com
Glenn Torrance Models
(919) 765-0814
www.flygtm.com
Great Planes
(800) 637-7660
www.greatplanes.com
Arizona Model Aircrafters
(602) 971-5646
www.arizonamodels.com
Micro Fasteners
(800) 892-6917
www.microfasteners.com
Mike Bealmear
www.bealmear.com/dawn_patrol
Hoosier Dawn Patrol
www.hoosierdawnpatrol.com
Ohio Dawn Patrol
www.ohiodawnpatrol.com
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:52 PM Page 24
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/07
Page Numbers: 18,19,20,21,22,23,24
Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous
18 MODEL AVIATION
Chuck Garrett with the replica S.E.5a that he and his son, Craig, built from plans. Several of
the full-scale pilots dressed in appropriate uniforms for the Great War.
by Jay Smith and Lee McDuffee
THE WorLD War I Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous is a biennial fly-in hosted by the
National Museum of the United States Air
Force, which is just north of Dayton, Ohio. It
features airplanes from 1903 through 1918: the
Dawn of Aviation through the Great War.
Full-scale airplanes of the era, radiocontrol
models, re-enactors, vintage
automobiles, artists, and vendors reported to
Wright Field the fourth weekend of
September 2009 (the 25th-27th). This
marked the seventh Rendezvous since the
initial event in 1996.
Essentially a three-day air show, the
Rendezvous alternates full-scale (as well
as 3/4- and 7/8-scale) replicas of the Great
War Aeroplane Association with giantscale
RC models. The Air Force
museum’s goal is to have aircraft in the
air throughout the day, weather
permitting.
Eight full-scale airplanes and 15 RC
pilots attended the inaugural Rendezvous.
It has grown since then, with the 2009
edition drawing approximately 30 fullscale
aircraft and 60 RC pilots.
Lee McDuffee and Doug Cox ran the RC
portion of last year’s event. They assumed
that task from Dean Lukover, who had
handled it from the beginning. Lee told me
that the goal was to continue the traditions
Dean had established for the gathering,
while putting their signature on it.
A challenge during the entire fly-in was
the weather. Thursday was rainy not only in
Dayton, but also across the region.
While Lee and Doug prepared for their
RC pilots to arrive, full-scale Air Boss
David Egner and Museum Director of
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:41 PM Page 18
July 2010 19
Right: This 1/10-scale kite barrage
bal loon was the target as
volunteer pilots made multiple
passes until the top opened and
scores of orange, yellow, black,
and white helium balloons spilled
out. Ryan Grantonic photo.
Above: James W. “Rich” Richardson’s 1/4-scale Balsa USA Fokker D.VII is modeled
after one flown by Oberleutnant Erich Lowenhardt, commander of Jasta 10.
Right: Historians Doug Blackford (L) and Doug
Roush dressed as doughboys and shared stories of
how life was during WW I.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:18 PM Page 19
20 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author except as noted
A large tent was provided for modelers in which to store their aircraft to protect
from rain. Pilots appreciated not having to disassemble their airplanes each evening.
A Fokker Dr.I does a low-level flyby.
Full-scale aircraft were flown in small
groups, making photo passes over the
runway with the museum’s hangars as
the backdrop.
Even at 1/4 scale, this beautiful de Havilland D.H.4, which belongs to Balsa USA,
has a 127-inch wingspan. It is outfitted with a bomb rack with droppable bombs.
Full-scale flying was hampered by the
weather, giving RC pilots much more
flying time to use to entertain the crowds.
Pan-A-View photographed all of the participants and full-scale and RC aircraft. It took nearly a minute to get the shot, and
everyone was required to remain completely still.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:46 PM Page 20
July 2010 21
Combining RC models with full-scale airplanes works
well at this event and keeps attendees interested,
with aircraft flying throughout the day.
Mike Hawkins scratch-built this Albatros J.I and
brought it all the way from Thailand to participate
in the Dawn Patrol Rendezvous. Grantonic photo.
Arizona Models
Balsa USA
Dr. Mike Hawkins
Great Planes
Great War Aeroplanes Association
Great War Radio Modelers
Hamilton Hobbies
Micro Fasteners
Mike Bealmear
Sponsors Lee McDuffee, the RC air boss, did an
excellent job of integrating RC with all
the other activities. His main goals were
safety and getting his pilots the most
flying time possible.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:48 PM Page 21
22 MODEL AVIATION
This rare 1909 Gnome rotary was not
only for display. It was started and run
so that attendees could appreciate the
sound of a 100-year-old, seven-cylinder,
50-horsepower engine.
Billy Thompson’s 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst Udet’s “Du Docht
Nicht!!” received the award for Best Gas Model.
Pilots’ Choice Awards
Best Glow/Electric Model:
Ted and Doug Zadlo’s (Londonderry NH) 1/3-scale, electric-powered
Morane-Saulnier AI in Polish Air Service markings. (Balsa USA prize: any
1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best Gas Model:
Billy Thompson’s (Bogstown IN) 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst
Udet’s “Du Docht Nicht!!” (Balsa USA prize: any 1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best of Show:
Keith
Zimmerly’s
(Mercerville NJ)
scratch-built,
1/3-scale Avro
504C (Balsa
USA prize:
any WW I kit)
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:22 PM Page 22
Special Events David Thomas shared that
they were also having problems. Several
full-scale pilots were stranded at points
across the country, trying to get to the event
through the weather.
Thursday was quiet, except for the sound
of rain on field. However, the Thursdayevening
icebreaker at the museum was
greatly appreciated by all who attended. The
facility presented a great spread for
Rendezvous participants.
Friday brought the end of overnight rains
but left a good part of the field muddy.
Straw and woodchips were carted in
throughout the weekend, to try to cope with
the less-than-favorable conditions.
The pre-event schedule was altered,
because full-scale airplanes arrived at
various times during the day. RC aircraft
were flown continually on Friday; they were
grounded only when their full-scale
counterparts arrived and needed the runway
for landing. An average of six models were
flown at once.
Lee kept busy as the RC air boss. He was
responsible for coordinating takeoffs and
landings and keeping everyone advised
about what was happening.
The full-scale air boss would advise
when the runway was needed for arriving or
departing aircraft or when conditions
improved to the point where they could fly
circuits. Then RC pilots would relinquish
the field to the full-scale Nieuports and
Fokkers.
Once all of the large aircraft had been
recovered after their sorties, they would
swing by the RC compound with the
command to “Get Them Up”—then the
models would take to the sky for more
airtime.
The museum remained open late again
Friday, this time for the public. Re-enactors
mingled with the crowd and among the
aircraft in the evening, the movie The Blue
Max was shown in the museum theater, and
other activities took place.
Saturday found the field shrouded in fog at
7 a.m., but that didn’t stop the RC pilots
who were already preparing to fly. The fullscale
aircraft were grounded because of the
low ceiling, but a number of models flew all
morning in spite of the conditions. The key
was keeping them low to the ground.
One highlight of the morning was a
gathering of full-scale pilots who visited the
RC area as Paul Westrich prepped and flew
his 1/2-scale Fokker D.VI biplane. The
visitors were building a full-scale version of
that aircraft and were curious to see how
Paul’s flew.
The other highlight was when I got to
put in a flight on Billy Thompson’s
beautiful 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII. Finished in
the candy-striped color scheme of Ernst
Udet, a German flying ace, this model has
competed in the Top Gun Invitational and
the Scale Nats. Thanks for the flight, Billy!
Pan-A-View was on hand to take the
traditional panoramic photo of all
July 2010 23
!""#$%!&!$'()$*&!+$,-$.*/$0!$1!-$)2$3(&$1-!!&4/5$(&$.*1-(&4/5+$,-$
.(6!1$74-%$*$.%(4.!$(3$-7($1-!!&4/5$12&4/58*&61$9-%!$0!/-:)2$!/;$
1462"'$5")!1$4/-($-%!$&);;!&<+$=($"4/>*5!1$#$/($.(/-&("$%(&/1#$/($
;&*5$3&(6$!?-&*$%*&;7*&!+$@/;$-%!$1.&!71$*&!$4/.");!;+
A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-1$*&!$*C*4"*0"!$4/$3()&$7!45%-$&*/5!1#$.(C!&4/5$
6(;!"1$3&(6$D$"01$-($EF"01+$
!"#$%&'("
)%(*!""(#+,)-." /
!"#$$%&'()*+,#-."!-+/
!"#$%&'(#)*+"!#,'-#.#/*0'12%&"#.#34#.#56557#.#8,9#####
:(;#76<=>?5=?@<<#.#A*B;#76<=?5>=>77?#
!""#$%&"'($)&*+""&'%#$,-"!'!+$!'$%./#%.'
.+/,-.'!/'!+"'$)#0#$1"'2'!/'!+"'."#3/4
GHFI$G%(7/
A*4"7%!!"$=(-$,/.");!;
G462"4.4-'+
G)""4C*/$A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-+
Rendezvous participants and aircraft, both
full-scale and RC. It takes roughly a minute
to get the shot, and everyone in it is required
to remain completely still.
The weather finally cleared in the
afternoon, allowing the full-scale aircraft to
take to the skies. They were launched in
small groups and commenced flying in a
racetrack pattern with nice, long passes
down the runway. This permitted spectators
to get a good look at the airplanes and snap a
few pictures.
While the flying was going on, vendors
were busy selling products ranging from
WW I books and artwork to real surplus
from the war. Groups of re-enactors had set
up encampments, and they wandered the
event grounds. They also staged air raids
and small-arms firefights to entertain the
crowd.
Also on Saturday, judging was held for
the RC models. Each pilot received a ballot
on which to select three airplanes for each
category: best in glow or electric power, best
in gas power, and grand champion. A
sidebar features the results.
Balsa USA, the event’s primary sponsor,
awarded kits to the winners, and Glenn
Torrance Models provided trophies. Both
companies have supported the fly-in and
have shown outstanding generosity.
Later in the day, two special sorties were
flown: a “Flight of the Threes,” exclusively
for 1/3-scale models (based on the mission
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:51 PM Page 23
24 MODEL AVIATION
that is flown annually at the popular
Hoosier Dawn Patrol event each August),
and a barrage balloon attack.
Word had leaked of a secret weapon that
a team led by Fred Jungclaus had developed
in Central Indiana. I managed to get a peek
at plans for this invention of war at the
Hoosier Dawn Patrol, and it looked
impressive. But the question was whether or
not it would be ready in time for the
Rendezvous.
RC headquarters received word late
Saturday that the barrage balloon had
arrived and was being prepared. Pilots were
to be ready for a sortie to bring it down.
Volunteers were gathered for the
mission, and to the west there appeared a
1/10-scale kite balloon. The daring volunteer
pilots made multiple passes at the sausage
until the top opened up, and scores of
orange, yellow, black, and white helium
balloons spilled out as the defeated balloon
descended to earth!
Balloon busting proved to be a big hit
with the public, and the organizers received
several compliments. Fred and his support
team outdid themselves!
The Saturday-night banquet featured
another great meal by the museum and
entertainment by the museum’s Air Force
band. Lee and Doug awarded a plaque to
Dean Lukover, in appreciation of all his
efforts in establishing the event.
Then the two announced the winners of
the pilots’ choice awards. Mark Enderby,
president of Balsa USA, and Glenn
Torrance, of Glenn Torrance Models, took
the stage to present the trophies.
On Sunday, as they did the day before, RC
models started the show at just after 7 a.m.
Although it was a bit cooler and breezier
than on the previous two days (and still wet
from more overnight rains), visibility was
much better and the sun even managed to
put in an appearance.
Door prizes and raffle prizes were
awarded, thanks to the generous donations
from sponsors. Those were Hamilton
Hobbies, Balsa USA, Great Planes, Arizona
Model Aircrafters, Mike Bealmear, Micro
Fasteners, Dr. Mike Hawkins, the Great
War Aeroplanes Association, and the Great
War Radio Modelers.
By 2 p.m., most full-scale and model
pilots were ready to pack it in. That
afternoon was travel time for most of the
participants.
Lee McDuffee and his group did an
excellent job of running and coordinating
the RC portion of the Rendezvous event. He
said:
“I think we accomplished many of our
goals for the 2009 event. The main story of
the weekend was a reaffirmation of the
AMA Show Team motto, ‘We fly when
others can’t.’
“I was told by several of the full-scale
flight staff that we ‘saved their bacon.’ We
managed to keep planes in the air all
weekend long, even with very minimal
visibility on Saturday and in spite of
constant threats of rain all weekend.
“All of our pilots made it an easy event
to manage, and they all did some
spectacular flying in the sometimes
challenging conditions; they couldn’t have
performed better. And it was also a pleasure
working with all the pilots and support
personnel from the Great War Aeroplane
Association, as well as Dave Thomas and
all his folks at the National Museum of the
United States Air Force.”
To learn more about the 2009 edition of
this event, The Aerodrome, a WW I Web
site, has a page devoted to it. See the
“Sources” list for the address.
The next Dawn Patrol Rendezvous will
be held in late September 2011. It’s not too
early to start making plans to attend this
amazing event! MA
Jay Smith
[email protected]
Lee McDuffee
[email protected]
Sources:
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
(937) 255-3286
www.nationalmuseum.af.mil
Great War Aeroplanes Association
2120 Richland Terr.
Quakertown PA 18951
www.gwaero.org
The Aerodrome Dawn Patrol Rendezvous
page:
www.theaerodrome.com/forum/upcomingevents/
39387-dawn-patrol-rendezvous-
2009-a.html
Balsa USA
(906) 863-6421
www.balsausa.com
Glenn Torrance Models
(919) 765-0814
www.flygtm.com
Great Planes
(800) 637-7660
www.greatplanes.com
Arizona Model Aircrafters
(602) 971-5646
www.arizonamodels.com
Micro Fasteners
(800) 892-6917
www.microfasteners.com
Mike Bealmear
www.bealmear.com/dawn_patrol
Hoosier Dawn Patrol
www.hoosierdawnpatrol.com
Ohio Dawn Patrol
www.ohiodawnpatrol.com
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:52 PM Page 24
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/07
Page Numbers: 18,19,20,21,22,23,24
Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous
18 MODEL AVIATION
Chuck Garrett with the replica S.E.5a that he and his son, Craig, built from plans. Several of
the full-scale pilots dressed in appropriate uniforms for the Great War.
by Jay Smith and Lee McDuffee
THE WorLD War I Dawn Patrol
Rendezvous is a biennial fly-in hosted by the
National Museum of the United States Air
Force, which is just north of Dayton, Ohio. It
features airplanes from 1903 through 1918: the
Dawn of Aviation through the Great War.
Full-scale airplanes of the era, radiocontrol
models, re-enactors, vintage
automobiles, artists, and vendors reported to
Wright Field the fourth weekend of
September 2009 (the 25th-27th). This
marked the seventh Rendezvous since the
initial event in 1996.
Essentially a three-day air show, the
Rendezvous alternates full-scale (as well
as 3/4- and 7/8-scale) replicas of the Great
War Aeroplane Association with giantscale
RC models. The Air Force
museum’s goal is to have aircraft in the
air throughout the day, weather
permitting.
Eight full-scale airplanes and 15 RC
pilots attended the inaugural Rendezvous.
It has grown since then, with the 2009
edition drawing approximately 30 fullscale
aircraft and 60 RC pilots.
Lee McDuffee and Doug Cox ran the RC
portion of last year’s event. They assumed
that task from Dean Lukover, who had
handled it from the beginning. Lee told me
that the goal was to continue the traditions
Dean had established for the gathering,
while putting their signature on it.
A challenge during the entire fly-in was
the weather. Thursday was rainy not only in
Dayton, but also across the region.
While Lee and Doug prepared for their
RC pilots to arrive, full-scale Air Boss
David Egner and Museum Director of
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:41 PM Page 18
July 2010 19
Right: This 1/10-scale kite barrage
bal loon was the target as
volunteer pilots made multiple
passes until the top opened and
scores of orange, yellow, black,
and white helium balloons spilled
out. Ryan Grantonic photo.
Above: James W. “Rich” Richardson’s 1/4-scale Balsa USA Fokker D.VII is modeled
after one flown by Oberleutnant Erich Lowenhardt, commander of Jasta 10.
Right: Historians Doug Blackford (L) and Doug
Roush dressed as doughboys and shared stories of
how life was during WW I.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:18 PM Page 19
20 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author except as noted
A large tent was provided for modelers in which to store their aircraft to protect
from rain. Pilots appreciated not having to disassemble their airplanes each evening.
A Fokker Dr.I does a low-level flyby.
Full-scale aircraft were flown in small
groups, making photo passes over the
runway with the museum’s hangars as
the backdrop.
Even at 1/4 scale, this beautiful de Havilland D.H.4, which belongs to Balsa USA,
has a 127-inch wingspan. It is outfitted with a bomb rack with droppable bombs.
Full-scale flying was hampered by the
weather, giving RC pilots much more
flying time to use to entertain the crowds.
Pan-A-View photographed all of the participants and full-scale and RC aircraft. It took nearly a minute to get the shot, and
everyone was required to remain completely still.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:46 PM Page 20
July 2010 21
Combining RC models with full-scale airplanes works
well at this event and keeps attendees interested,
with aircraft flying throughout the day.
Mike Hawkins scratch-built this Albatros J.I and
brought it all the way from Thailand to participate
in the Dawn Patrol Rendezvous. Grantonic photo.
Arizona Models
Balsa USA
Dr. Mike Hawkins
Great Planes
Great War Aeroplanes Association
Great War Radio Modelers
Hamilton Hobbies
Micro Fasteners
Mike Bealmear
Sponsors Lee McDuffee, the RC air boss, did an
excellent job of integrating RC with all
the other activities. His main goals were
safety and getting his pilots the most
flying time possible.
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:48 PM Page 21
22 MODEL AVIATION
This rare 1909 Gnome rotary was not
only for display. It was started and run
so that attendees could appreciate the
sound of a 100-year-old, seven-cylinder,
50-horsepower engine.
Billy Thompson’s 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst Udet’s “Du Docht
Nicht!!” received the award for Best Gas Model.
Pilots’ Choice Awards
Best Glow/Electric Model:
Ted and Doug Zadlo’s (Londonderry NH) 1/3-scale, electric-powered
Morane-Saulnier AI in Polish Air Service markings. (Balsa USA prize: any
1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best Gas Model:
Billy Thompson’s (Bogstown IN) 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII in the colors of Ernst
Udet’s “Du Docht Nicht!!” (Balsa USA prize: any 1/4-scale fighter kit)
Best of Show:
Keith
Zimmerly’s
(Mercerville NJ)
scratch-built,
1/3-scale Avro
504C (Balsa
USA prize:
any WW I kit)
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 2:22 PM Page 22
Special Events David Thomas shared that
they were also having problems. Several
full-scale pilots were stranded at points
across the country, trying to get to the event
through the weather.
Thursday was quiet, except for the sound
of rain on field. However, the Thursdayevening
icebreaker at the museum was
greatly appreciated by all who attended. The
facility presented a great spread for
Rendezvous participants.
Friday brought the end of overnight rains
but left a good part of the field muddy.
Straw and woodchips were carted in
throughout the weekend, to try to cope with
the less-than-favorable conditions.
The pre-event schedule was altered,
because full-scale airplanes arrived at
various times during the day. RC aircraft
were flown continually on Friday; they were
grounded only when their full-scale
counterparts arrived and needed the runway
for landing. An average of six models were
flown at once.
Lee kept busy as the RC air boss. He was
responsible for coordinating takeoffs and
landings and keeping everyone advised
about what was happening.
The full-scale air boss would advise
when the runway was needed for arriving or
departing aircraft or when conditions
improved to the point where they could fly
circuits. Then RC pilots would relinquish
the field to the full-scale Nieuports and
Fokkers.
Once all of the large aircraft had been
recovered after their sorties, they would
swing by the RC compound with the
command to “Get Them Up”—then the
models would take to the sky for more
airtime.
The museum remained open late again
Friday, this time for the public. Re-enactors
mingled with the crowd and among the
aircraft in the evening, the movie The Blue
Max was shown in the museum theater, and
other activities took place.
Saturday found the field shrouded in fog at
7 a.m., but that didn’t stop the RC pilots
who were already preparing to fly. The fullscale
aircraft were grounded because of the
low ceiling, but a number of models flew all
morning in spite of the conditions. The key
was keeping them low to the ground.
One highlight of the morning was a
gathering of full-scale pilots who visited the
RC area as Paul Westrich prepped and flew
his 1/2-scale Fokker D.VI biplane. The
visitors were building a full-scale version of
that aircraft and were curious to see how
Paul’s flew.
The other highlight was when I got to
put in a flight on Billy Thompson’s
beautiful 1/3-scale Fokker D.VII. Finished in
the candy-striped color scheme of Ernst
Udet, a German flying ace, this model has
competed in the Top Gun Invitational and
the Scale Nats. Thanks for the flight, Billy!
Pan-A-View was on hand to take the
traditional panoramic photo of all
July 2010 23
!""#$%!&!$'()$*&!+$,-$.*/$0!$1!-$)2$3(&$1-!!&4/5$(&$.*1-(&4/5+$,-$
.(6!1$74-%$*$.%(4.!$(3$-7($1-!!&4/5$12&4/58*&61$9-%!$0!/-:)2$!/;$
1462"'$5")!1$4/-($-%!$&);;!&<+$=($"4/>*5!1$#$/($.(/-&("$%(&/1#$/($
;&*5$3&(6$!?-&*$%*&;7*&!+$@/;$-%!$1.&!71$*&!$4/.");!;+
A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-1$*&!$*C*4"*0"!$4/$3()&$7!45%-$&*/5!1#$.(C!&4/5$
6(;!"1$3&(6$D$"01$-($EF"01+$
!"#$%&'("
)%(*!""(#+,)-." /
!"#$$%&'()*+,#-."!-+/
!"#$%&'(#)*+"!#,'-#.#/*0'12%&"#.#34#.#56557#.#8,9#####
:(;#76<=>?5=?@<<#.#A*B;#76<=?5>=>77?#
!""#$%&"'($)&*+""&'%#$,-"!'!+$!'$%./#%.'
.+/,-.'!/'!+"'$)#0#$1"'2'!/'!+"'."#3/4
GHFI$G%(7/
A*4"7%!!"$=(-$,/.");!;
G462"4.4-'+
G)""4C*/$A*4"7%!!"$B&*.>!-+
Rendezvous participants and aircraft, both
full-scale and RC. It takes roughly a minute
to get the shot, and everyone in it is required
to remain completely still.
The weather finally cleared in the
afternoon, allowing the full-scale aircraft to
take to the skies. They were launched in
small groups and commenced flying in a
racetrack pattern with nice, long passes
down the runway. This permitted spectators
to get a good look at the airplanes and snap a
few pictures.
While the flying was going on, vendors
were busy selling products ranging from
WW I books and artwork to real surplus
from the war. Groups of re-enactors had set
up encampments, and they wandered the
event grounds. They also staged air raids
and small-arms firefights to entertain the
crowd.
Also on Saturday, judging was held for
the RC models. Each pilot received a ballot
on which to select three airplanes for each
category: best in glow or electric power, best
in gas power, and grand champion. A
sidebar features the results.
Balsa USA, the event’s primary sponsor,
awarded kits to the winners, and Glenn
Torrance Models provided trophies. Both
companies have supported the fly-in and
have shown outstanding generosity.
Later in the day, two special sorties were
flown: a “Flight of the Threes,” exclusively
for 1/3-scale models (based on the mission
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:51 PM Page 23
24 MODEL AVIATION
that is flown annually at the popular
Hoosier Dawn Patrol event each August),
and a barrage balloon attack.
Word had leaked of a secret weapon that
a team led by Fred Jungclaus had developed
in Central Indiana. I managed to get a peek
at plans for this invention of war at the
Hoosier Dawn Patrol, and it looked
impressive. But the question was whether or
not it would be ready in time for the
Rendezvous.
RC headquarters received word late
Saturday that the barrage balloon had
arrived and was being prepared. Pilots were
to be ready for a sortie to bring it down.
Volunteers were gathered for the
mission, and to the west there appeared a
1/10-scale kite balloon. The daring volunteer
pilots made multiple passes at the sausage
until the top opened up, and scores of
orange, yellow, black, and white helium
balloons spilled out as the defeated balloon
descended to earth!
Balloon busting proved to be a big hit
with the public, and the organizers received
several compliments. Fred and his support
team outdid themselves!
The Saturday-night banquet featured
another great meal by the museum and
entertainment by the museum’s Air Force
band. Lee and Doug awarded a plaque to
Dean Lukover, in appreciation of all his
efforts in establishing the event.
Then the two announced the winners of
the pilots’ choice awards. Mark Enderby,
president of Balsa USA, and Glenn
Torrance, of Glenn Torrance Models, took
the stage to present the trophies.
On Sunday, as they did the day before, RC
models started the show at just after 7 a.m.
Although it was a bit cooler and breezier
than on the previous two days (and still wet
from more overnight rains), visibility was
much better and the sun even managed to
put in an appearance.
Door prizes and raffle prizes were
awarded, thanks to the generous donations
from sponsors. Those were Hamilton
Hobbies, Balsa USA, Great Planes, Arizona
Model Aircrafters, Mike Bealmear, Micro
Fasteners, Dr. Mike Hawkins, the Great
War Aeroplanes Association, and the Great
War Radio Modelers.
By 2 p.m., most full-scale and model
pilots were ready to pack it in. That
afternoon was travel time for most of the
participants.
Lee McDuffee and his group did an
excellent job of running and coordinating
the RC portion of the Rendezvous event. He
said:
“I think we accomplished many of our
goals for the 2009 event. The main story of
the weekend was a reaffirmation of the
AMA Show Team motto, ‘We fly when
others can’t.’
“I was told by several of the full-scale
flight staff that we ‘saved their bacon.’ We
managed to keep planes in the air all
weekend long, even with very minimal
visibility on Saturday and in spite of
constant threats of rain all weekend.
“All of our pilots made it an easy event
to manage, and they all did some
spectacular flying in the sometimes
challenging conditions; they couldn’t have
performed better. And it was also a pleasure
working with all the pilots and support
personnel from the Great War Aeroplane
Association, as well as Dave Thomas and
all his folks at the National Museum of the
United States Air Force.”
To learn more about the 2009 edition of
this event, The Aerodrome, a WW I Web
site, has a page devoted to it. See the
“Sources” list for the address.
The next Dawn Patrol Rendezvous will
be held in late September 2011. It’s not too
early to start making plans to attend this
amazing event! MA
Jay Smith
[email protected]
Lee McDuffee
[email protected]
Sources:
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
(937) 255-3286
www.nationalmuseum.af.mil
Great War Aeroplanes Association
2120 Richland Terr.
Quakertown PA 18951
www.gwaero.org
The Aerodrome Dawn Patrol Rendezvous
page:
www.theaerodrome.com/forum/upcomingevents/
39387-dawn-patrol-rendezvous-
2009-a.html
Balsa USA
(906) 863-6421
www.balsausa.com
Glenn Torrance Models
(919) 765-0814
www.flygtm.com
Great Planes
(800) 637-7660
www.greatplanes.com
Arizona Model Aircrafters
(602) 971-5646
www.arizonamodels.com
Micro Fasteners
(800) 892-6917
www.microfasteners.com
Mike Bealmear
www.bealmear.com/dawn_patrol
Hoosier Dawn Patrol
www.hoosierdawnpatrol.com
Ohio Dawn Patrol
www.ohiodawnpatrol.com
07sig1x_00MSTRPG.QXD 5/25/10 1:52 PM Page 24
