52 MODEL AVIATION
by Michael Ramsey
Gary Bussell restored, to like-new, every element of this Army Jeep from the
frame outward. It is a replica of the vehicle he used while stationed in Vietnam.
Paul LeTourneau (Oconto WI) performs a simulated bomb run with his plans-built P-61 Black Widow. Twin DA-100 engines
turns 27 x 10 propellers. Paul uses a JR radio and JR servos.
Indiana Warbird
Campaign
The heavy metal
of people
and machines
is remembered during
Labor Day weekend
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 52
THE INTERNATIONAL Aeromodeling Center (IAC) in Muncie,
Indiana, is partially known for its National Model Aviation Museum,
which, in many of its thousands of displays, glorifies the trials and
triumphs of our hobby and sport. The IAC also hosts many model
aviation flying events, and one that serves as a great historic tribute to
full-scale aviation is the Indiana Warbird Campaign (IWC), which is in
its fifth year.
The 2008 edition of the heavy-metal event was held Labor Day
weekend: August 29-31. The Henry County Wright Flyers of Millville,
Indiana (which is roughly a half hour from Muncie), has hosted the
IWC at AMA Headquarters several times.
This club is honored to have a home flying site bathed in aviation
greatness: the Wilbur Wright Birthplace and Museum. The field is
shaded with tall trees along the pit area and features manicured grass,
and an 8th Army Air Force flight-tower replica watches over the field.
The club members fly almost every type of RC model, but they have a
strong interest in International Miniature Aircraft Association (IMAA)-
legal aircraft—particularly warbirds.
Henry County is a beautiful area, but the Wright Flyers’ field can’t
accommodate modelers who travel cross-country the way the IAC can.
It offers on-site camping with electrical hookups, and anyone with a tent
can park a sleeping bag for an even smaller fee than those with homes
on wheels. There are several hotels in the area, but camping on-site is a
popular option, because the show goes on after the 5 p.m. closing bell
rings.
To participate in the 2008 IWC, there was a $20 fee for use of the
paved crosswind runway and an additional $10 charge for the Saturdaynight
dinner with all the trimmings. This year’s catered meal, held under
clear, starlit skies, was compliments of Robart Manufacturing.
Check out the vendor list to get an idea of what was available on the
other side of the flightline. Some of the big-name companies have a
long tradition of aeromodeling, and they had talent with them that was
more than willing to support customers and demonstrate how the
products are best used.
Trailers were parked wheel to wheel in the pit area, and the pilots
were allowed to pitch their E-Z Up-type tents close by; there was no
lugging 30-pound models a football field’s length from the parking lot
to the flying area.
Pilots’ tents were so close to each other that they almost staked their
structures’ legs together. It made the shaded seating that much more
plentiful and the friendly atmosphere that much more of a healthy
bonding experience.
In many ways, this yearly tribute to the heroes of aviation is a reunion
of old friends, but in many instances the generations of modelers were
three-deep. Jack Benny tunes played through the loudspeaker
harmonized with the
roar of the engines.
At the same time,
new members of the
IMAA crowd were
welcomed and shown
the ropes.
The IWC
welcomes all military
aircraft
representations, no
matter what conflict
era they represent.
Gas-engine-powered
World War II fighters
were the most
popular; almost every
Nick Ziroli model
was at the event.
The P-47
Thunderbolt was the
most popular
warbird, with the P-
51 Mustang coming
in a distant second.
Skilled pilots made
demonstration flights
with turbine-powered
models throughout
January 2009 53
Elements surrounding the field were in character with the
military-campaign theme. The sponsors were generous this year.
Check out Sam Norris’s Deuce and a half truck in the background.
Brian Ward (Jacksonville IL) is confident with his Ziroli Skyraider. In this photo pass, the model was within
inches of the deck. The crowd stood and cheered.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 53
Photos by Jacob Ramsey, William Ramsey, and the author
54 MODEL AVIATION
Bob Patton (Saint Joseph IL) debuted his 3W-106-powered Scottish Aviation Bulldog
at this year’s Nats and flew it for fun at the IWC. It features a sliding canopy.
Mika Woodward (Indianapolis IN) demonstrated his Bell 47
helicopter at noon every day during the IWC. The G-23-powered
MASH replica looked smooth in flight.
Paul Westrich (Cincinnati OH) scratch-built his DA-150-powered
Dr.I. Spanning 130 inches, it required an AMA waiver that Paul
obtained before flying at the IWC.
Buddy Hale’s (Lexington KY) P-47 Thunderbolt screamed through the skies. His skills
as a precision Aerobatics pilot gave him a definite edge.
Dennis Crooks (Rockville IN) held onto
his Yellow Aircraft SR-71 long enough for
two turbine power systems to be
available. He flew it daily, four to five
minutes at a time.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 54
January 2009 55
Zack Spychalla (Watertown WI) showed
his clipped-wing Yellow Aircraft Spitfire’s
speed range, but he was careful not to
induce a high-speed stall through the
loops. Zach is a great pilot!
Carl Bachhuber (Mayville WI) loves giant models. He built the
Lockheed Constellation Model 749 from his own plans and powered
it with four Fuji 32 gas-burning engines.
Warbirds of all eras and conflicts lined the pit area. The crosswind, paved, 800-foot
runway was ideal for models with sensitive retract systems.
Randy Jensen (Stauton MI) flew a beautiful replica of the “Big
Beautiful Doll” P-51 Mustang. It is decked out, including full
flaps and pneumatic retracts.
Another of Carl Bachhuber’s scratch-built monsters is this C-
124 Globemaster, for which he has an AMA waiver. It flies with
four Zenoah G-45 engines and spans 200 inches. Carl flew solo
demo flights only.
Eric Karl’s (Oswego IL) prototype Ziroli F9F-2B Panther was built roughly 20 years
ago. It is in beautiful shape and now scoots through the sky with a FunSonic 13.5-
pound-thrust turbine.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 55
56 MODEL AVIATION
Jon David (Zionsville IN) brought a
number of models to the event, both
fixed wing and helicopter—all electric
powered. His CMP Zero uses an E-flite
160-and-10S Li-Poly system.
Pilot amenities included a large dining
canopy that was used to store the assembled
models overnight. It was also used for the
Saturday-night Robart hog roast.
Nick Minnick (Fort Wayne IN) campaigned his Great Planes Hawk at the IWC. Under
the hood is a slightly larger power plant than recommended: a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Guy McIntire (Muncie IN) loves his Ziroli Corsair. This fiberglass-fuselage version
burns through the air with a Zenoah G-62 engine up front.
Brian and Bonnie O’Meara (Denver CO) make a fantastic team. They brought several
models that were flown at Top Gun, such as this Air World F-4 Phantom.
2008 Indiana Warbird
Campaign Sponsors
Robart Manufacturing
ZAP
First Merchants Bank
Great Planes
Horizon Hobby
Pro Mark Graphics
National Model Aviation Museum
MGA Pilots
JZ Products
Aerospace Composite Products
Micro Fasteners
Hitec
Wendell Hostetler’s Plans
Master Airscrew
RAM
Vailly Aviation
Sig Manufacturing
Bondhus
Tru-Turn
Futaba
Bob’s Aircraft Documentation
Propwash Video Productions
For more information about the event
and the Henry County Wright Flyers, visit
www.indianawarbirdcampaign.com. MA
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 56
the weekend. The piston-powered fighters were
flown exceptionally well. Of note were the
multiple parades of aircraft that were flown on
an almost hourly basis.
The IWC is a crowd pleaser. For the guests’
entertainment, the Military Vehicle
Preservation Association of Indiana had a
display, Carl Bachhuber and Paul LeTourneau
made some “Big Bird Flights,” and a few
helicopters here and there whopped the air as in
the old days.
Behind the scenes is a fine group of people
who keep everything organized and keep the
loudspeaker announcer up to speed with all the
appropriate information about the aircraft that
scorch the skies and make bombing runs.
Besides Event Director Gary Bussell, it
wouldn’t be as seamless an event without the
organization and guidance of Linda Crooks,
Connie Bussell, and Shirley Stoltz.
Those people are safety-minded. Each of the four flight stations
typically has two flags: a white one for alerting of a takeoff and a
red one (and a holler from the line boss) to announce that a model
is landing. These men and women know what is invested in those
precious models, and they would do nothing to threaten property or
attendees’ safety.
Many things set this gathering apart that should convince modeling
pilgrims to travel to the Midwest for next year’s event. I enjoyed the
flight demonstrations just as much as I enjoyed the guests.
Almost every aircraft that was taken to the flightline elicited a gasp
from the crowd. An event that welcomes the caliber of models and
modelers that participated this year is surely a sign that the Henry
County Wright Flyers’ IWC is worth its mettle. MA
Michael Ramsey
[email protected]
January 2009 57
Greg Hahn (New Castle IN) piloted his
Ziroli Beech C-45 during the twin-engine
parade. Two Fuji BT-34 engines are reliable
for keeping this general mover in the air.
Noontime demonstrations included
conflict roundups and models with equal
power plants. The four turbine-powered
aircraft at the IWC included this
gorgeous F-15 Eagle by Rich Eggleston.
Allen Whitaker (Louisville KY) finished his Ryan STM in
Mexican colors. The model was kit-bashed from a Great
Planes ARF, and it has a four-stroke engine for power.
Zack Spychalla (foreground) and his father,
Leo, coordinate their Spitfire vs. Stuka flight
routine. Mostly a game of Follow the
Leader, that air show was a treat to watch.
Rick Norris (Pendleton IN) campaigns the skies over Muncie with his 1/3-scale L-4H. This
observation aircraft flew best during the dawn hour of the event.
Leo Spychalla (Watertown WI) powers his
Ziroli Stuka with a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Jim Archer (Orlando FL) built the model.
Jack Conwell (Mooreland IN) flew his B-25 on several simulated bombing runs. The
eight brightly painted munitions were easy to find in the soft grass on-site.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:34 PM Page 57
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/01
Page Numbers: 52,53,54,55,56,57
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/01
Page Numbers: 52,53,54,55,56,57
52 MODEL AVIATION
by Michael Ramsey
Gary Bussell restored, to like-new, every element of this Army Jeep from the
frame outward. It is a replica of the vehicle he used while stationed in Vietnam.
Paul LeTourneau (Oconto WI) performs a simulated bomb run with his plans-built P-61 Black Widow. Twin DA-100 engines
turns 27 x 10 propellers. Paul uses a JR radio and JR servos.
Indiana Warbird
Campaign
The heavy metal
of people
and machines
is remembered during
Labor Day weekend
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 52
THE INTERNATIONAL Aeromodeling Center (IAC) in Muncie,
Indiana, is partially known for its National Model Aviation Museum,
which, in many of its thousands of displays, glorifies the trials and
triumphs of our hobby and sport. The IAC also hosts many model
aviation flying events, and one that serves as a great historic tribute to
full-scale aviation is the Indiana Warbird Campaign (IWC), which is in
its fifth year.
The 2008 edition of the heavy-metal event was held Labor Day
weekend: August 29-31. The Henry County Wright Flyers of Millville,
Indiana (which is roughly a half hour from Muncie), has hosted the
IWC at AMA Headquarters several times.
This club is honored to have a home flying site bathed in aviation
greatness: the Wilbur Wright Birthplace and Museum. The field is
shaded with tall trees along the pit area and features manicured grass,
and an 8th Army Air Force flight-tower replica watches over the field.
The club members fly almost every type of RC model, but they have a
strong interest in International Miniature Aircraft Association (IMAA)-
legal aircraft—particularly warbirds.
Henry County is a beautiful area, but the Wright Flyers’ field can’t
accommodate modelers who travel cross-country the way the IAC can.
It offers on-site camping with electrical hookups, and anyone with a tent
can park a sleeping bag for an even smaller fee than those with homes
on wheels. There are several hotels in the area, but camping on-site is a
popular option, because the show goes on after the 5 p.m. closing bell
rings.
To participate in the 2008 IWC, there was a $20 fee for use of the
paved crosswind runway and an additional $10 charge for the Saturdaynight
dinner with all the trimmings. This year’s catered meal, held under
clear, starlit skies, was compliments of Robart Manufacturing.
Check out the vendor list to get an idea of what was available on the
other side of the flightline. Some of the big-name companies have a
long tradition of aeromodeling, and they had talent with them that was
more than willing to support customers and demonstrate how the
products are best used.
Trailers were parked wheel to wheel in the pit area, and the pilots
were allowed to pitch their E-Z Up-type tents close by; there was no
lugging 30-pound models a football field’s length from the parking lot
to the flying area.
Pilots’ tents were so close to each other that they almost staked their
structures’ legs together. It made the shaded seating that much more
plentiful and the friendly atmosphere that much more of a healthy
bonding experience.
In many ways, this yearly tribute to the heroes of aviation is a reunion
of old friends, but in many instances the generations of modelers were
three-deep. Jack Benny tunes played through the loudspeaker
harmonized with the
roar of the engines.
At the same time,
new members of the
IMAA crowd were
welcomed and shown
the ropes.
The IWC
welcomes all military
aircraft
representations, no
matter what conflict
era they represent.
Gas-engine-powered
World War II fighters
were the most
popular; almost every
Nick Ziroli model
was at the event.
The P-47
Thunderbolt was the
most popular
warbird, with the P-
51 Mustang coming
in a distant second.
Skilled pilots made
demonstration flights
with turbine-powered
models throughout
January 2009 53
Elements surrounding the field were in character with the
military-campaign theme. The sponsors were generous this year.
Check out Sam Norris’s Deuce and a half truck in the background.
Brian Ward (Jacksonville IL) is confident with his Ziroli Skyraider. In this photo pass, the model was within
inches of the deck. The crowd stood and cheered.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 53
Photos by Jacob Ramsey, William Ramsey, and the author
54 MODEL AVIATION
Bob Patton (Saint Joseph IL) debuted his 3W-106-powered Scottish Aviation Bulldog
at this year’s Nats and flew it for fun at the IWC. It features a sliding canopy.
Mika Woodward (Indianapolis IN) demonstrated his Bell 47
helicopter at noon every day during the IWC. The G-23-powered
MASH replica looked smooth in flight.
Paul Westrich (Cincinnati OH) scratch-built his DA-150-powered
Dr.I. Spanning 130 inches, it required an AMA waiver that Paul
obtained before flying at the IWC.
Buddy Hale’s (Lexington KY) P-47 Thunderbolt screamed through the skies. His skills
as a precision Aerobatics pilot gave him a definite edge.
Dennis Crooks (Rockville IN) held onto
his Yellow Aircraft SR-71 long enough for
two turbine power systems to be
available. He flew it daily, four to five
minutes at a time.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 54
January 2009 55
Zack Spychalla (Watertown WI) showed
his clipped-wing Yellow Aircraft Spitfire’s
speed range, but he was careful not to
induce a high-speed stall through the
loops. Zach is a great pilot!
Carl Bachhuber (Mayville WI) loves giant models. He built the
Lockheed Constellation Model 749 from his own plans and powered
it with four Fuji 32 gas-burning engines.
Warbirds of all eras and conflicts lined the pit area. The crosswind, paved, 800-foot
runway was ideal for models with sensitive retract systems.
Randy Jensen (Stauton MI) flew a beautiful replica of the “Big
Beautiful Doll” P-51 Mustang. It is decked out, including full
flaps and pneumatic retracts.
Another of Carl Bachhuber’s scratch-built monsters is this C-
124 Globemaster, for which he has an AMA waiver. It flies with
four Zenoah G-45 engines and spans 200 inches. Carl flew solo
demo flights only.
Eric Karl’s (Oswego IL) prototype Ziroli F9F-2B Panther was built roughly 20 years
ago. It is in beautiful shape and now scoots through the sky with a FunSonic 13.5-
pound-thrust turbine.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 55
56 MODEL AVIATION
Jon David (Zionsville IN) brought a
number of models to the event, both
fixed wing and helicopter—all electric
powered. His CMP Zero uses an E-flite
160-and-10S Li-Poly system.
Pilot amenities included a large dining
canopy that was used to store the assembled
models overnight. It was also used for the
Saturday-night Robart hog roast.
Nick Minnick (Fort Wayne IN) campaigned his Great Planes Hawk at the IWC. Under
the hood is a slightly larger power plant than recommended: a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Guy McIntire (Muncie IN) loves his Ziroli Corsair. This fiberglass-fuselage version
burns through the air with a Zenoah G-62 engine up front.
Brian and Bonnie O’Meara (Denver CO) make a fantastic team. They brought several
models that were flown at Top Gun, such as this Air World F-4 Phantom.
2008 Indiana Warbird
Campaign Sponsors
Robart Manufacturing
ZAP
First Merchants Bank
Great Planes
Horizon Hobby
Pro Mark Graphics
National Model Aviation Museum
MGA Pilots
JZ Products
Aerospace Composite Products
Micro Fasteners
Hitec
Wendell Hostetler’s Plans
Master Airscrew
RAM
Vailly Aviation
Sig Manufacturing
Bondhus
Tru-Turn
Futaba
Bob’s Aircraft Documentation
Propwash Video Productions
For more information about the event
and the Henry County Wright Flyers, visit
www.indianawarbirdcampaign.com. MA
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 56
the weekend. The piston-powered fighters were
flown exceptionally well. Of note were the
multiple parades of aircraft that were flown on
an almost hourly basis.
The IWC is a crowd pleaser. For the guests’
entertainment, the Military Vehicle
Preservation Association of Indiana had a
display, Carl Bachhuber and Paul LeTourneau
made some “Big Bird Flights,” and a few
helicopters here and there whopped the air as in
the old days.
Behind the scenes is a fine group of people
who keep everything organized and keep the
loudspeaker announcer up to speed with all the
appropriate information about the aircraft that
scorch the skies and make bombing runs.
Besides Event Director Gary Bussell, it
wouldn’t be as seamless an event without the
organization and guidance of Linda Crooks,
Connie Bussell, and Shirley Stoltz.
Those people are safety-minded. Each of the four flight stations
typically has two flags: a white one for alerting of a takeoff and a
red one (and a holler from the line boss) to announce that a model
is landing. These men and women know what is invested in those
precious models, and they would do nothing to threaten property or
attendees’ safety.
Many things set this gathering apart that should convince modeling
pilgrims to travel to the Midwest for next year’s event. I enjoyed the
flight demonstrations just as much as I enjoyed the guests.
Almost every aircraft that was taken to the flightline elicited a gasp
from the crowd. An event that welcomes the caliber of models and
modelers that participated this year is surely a sign that the Henry
County Wright Flyers’ IWC is worth its mettle. MA
Michael Ramsey
[email protected]
January 2009 57
Greg Hahn (New Castle IN) piloted his
Ziroli Beech C-45 during the twin-engine
parade. Two Fuji BT-34 engines are reliable
for keeping this general mover in the air.
Noontime demonstrations included
conflict roundups and models with equal
power plants. The four turbine-powered
aircraft at the IWC included this
gorgeous F-15 Eagle by Rich Eggleston.
Allen Whitaker (Louisville KY) finished his Ryan STM in
Mexican colors. The model was kit-bashed from a Great
Planes ARF, and it has a four-stroke engine for power.
Zack Spychalla (foreground) and his father,
Leo, coordinate their Spitfire vs. Stuka flight
routine. Mostly a game of Follow the
Leader, that air show was a treat to watch.
Rick Norris (Pendleton IN) campaigns the skies over Muncie with his 1/3-scale L-4H. This
observation aircraft flew best during the dawn hour of the event.
Leo Spychalla (Watertown WI) powers his
Ziroli Stuka with a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Jim Archer (Orlando FL) built the model.
Jack Conwell (Mooreland IN) flew his B-25 on several simulated bombing runs. The
eight brightly painted munitions were easy to find in the soft grass on-site.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:34 PM Page 57
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/01
Page Numbers: 52,53,54,55,56,57
52 MODEL AVIATION
by Michael Ramsey
Gary Bussell restored, to like-new, every element of this Army Jeep from the
frame outward. It is a replica of the vehicle he used while stationed in Vietnam.
Paul LeTourneau (Oconto WI) performs a simulated bomb run with his plans-built P-61 Black Widow. Twin DA-100 engines
turns 27 x 10 propellers. Paul uses a JR radio and JR servos.
Indiana Warbird
Campaign
The heavy metal
of people
and machines
is remembered during
Labor Day weekend
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 52
THE INTERNATIONAL Aeromodeling Center (IAC) in Muncie,
Indiana, is partially known for its National Model Aviation Museum,
which, in many of its thousands of displays, glorifies the trials and
triumphs of our hobby and sport. The IAC also hosts many model
aviation flying events, and one that serves as a great historic tribute to
full-scale aviation is the Indiana Warbird Campaign (IWC), which is in
its fifth year.
The 2008 edition of the heavy-metal event was held Labor Day
weekend: August 29-31. The Henry County Wright Flyers of Millville,
Indiana (which is roughly a half hour from Muncie), has hosted the
IWC at AMA Headquarters several times.
This club is honored to have a home flying site bathed in aviation
greatness: the Wilbur Wright Birthplace and Museum. The field is
shaded with tall trees along the pit area and features manicured grass,
and an 8th Army Air Force flight-tower replica watches over the field.
The club members fly almost every type of RC model, but they have a
strong interest in International Miniature Aircraft Association (IMAA)-
legal aircraft—particularly warbirds.
Henry County is a beautiful area, but the Wright Flyers’ field can’t
accommodate modelers who travel cross-country the way the IAC can.
It offers on-site camping with electrical hookups, and anyone with a tent
can park a sleeping bag for an even smaller fee than those with homes
on wheels. There are several hotels in the area, but camping on-site is a
popular option, because the show goes on after the 5 p.m. closing bell
rings.
To participate in the 2008 IWC, there was a $20 fee for use of the
paved crosswind runway and an additional $10 charge for the Saturdaynight
dinner with all the trimmings. This year’s catered meal, held under
clear, starlit skies, was compliments of Robart Manufacturing.
Check out the vendor list to get an idea of what was available on the
other side of the flightline. Some of the big-name companies have a
long tradition of aeromodeling, and they had talent with them that was
more than willing to support customers and demonstrate how the
products are best used.
Trailers were parked wheel to wheel in the pit area, and the pilots
were allowed to pitch their E-Z Up-type tents close by; there was no
lugging 30-pound models a football field’s length from the parking lot
to the flying area.
Pilots’ tents were so close to each other that they almost staked their
structures’ legs together. It made the shaded seating that much more
plentiful and the friendly atmosphere that much more of a healthy
bonding experience.
In many ways, this yearly tribute to the heroes of aviation is a reunion
of old friends, but in many instances the generations of modelers were
three-deep. Jack Benny tunes played through the loudspeaker
harmonized with the
roar of the engines.
At the same time,
new members of the
IMAA crowd were
welcomed and shown
the ropes.
The IWC
welcomes all military
aircraft
representations, no
matter what conflict
era they represent.
Gas-engine-powered
World War II fighters
were the most
popular; almost every
Nick Ziroli model
was at the event.
The P-47
Thunderbolt was the
most popular
warbird, with the P-
51 Mustang coming
in a distant second.
Skilled pilots made
demonstration flights
with turbine-powered
models throughout
January 2009 53
Elements surrounding the field were in character with the
military-campaign theme. The sponsors were generous this year.
Check out Sam Norris’s Deuce and a half truck in the background.
Brian Ward (Jacksonville IL) is confident with his Ziroli Skyraider. In this photo pass, the model was within
inches of the deck. The crowd stood and cheered.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 53
Photos by Jacob Ramsey, William Ramsey, and the author
54 MODEL AVIATION
Bob Patton (Saint Joseph IL) debuted his 3W-106-powered Scottish Aviation Bulldog
at this year’s Nats and flew it for fun at the IWC. It features a sliding canopy.
Mika Woodward (Indianapolis IN) demonstrated his Bell 47
helicopter at noon every day during the IWC. The G-23-powered
MASH replica looked smooth in flight.
Paul Westrich (Cincinnati OH) scratch-built his DA-150-powered
Dr.I. Spanning 130 inches, it required an AMA waiver that Paul
obtained before flying at the IWC.
Buddy Hale’s (Lexington KY) P-47 Thunderbolt screamed through the skies. His skills
as a precision Aerobatics pilot gave him a definite edge.
Dennis Crooks (Rockville IN) held onto
his Yellow Aircraft SR-71 long enough for
two turbine power systems to be
available. He flew it daily, four to five
minutes at a time.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 54
January 2009 55
Zack Spychalla (Watertown WI) showed
his clipped-wing Yellow Aircraft Spitfire’s
speed range, but he was careful not to
induce a high-speed stall through the
loops. Zach is a great pilot!
Carl Bachhuber (Mayville WI) loves giant models. He built the
Lockheed Constellation Model 749 from his own plans and powered
it with four Fuji 32 gas-burning engines.
Warbirds of all eras and conflicts lined the pit area. The crosswind, paved, 800-foot
runway was ideal for models with sensitive retract systems.
Randy Jensen (Stauton MI) flew a beautiful replica of the “Big
Beautiful Doll” P-51 Mustang. It is decked out, including full
flaps and pneumatic retracts.
Another of Carl Bachhuber’s scratch-built monsters is this C-
124 Globemaster, for which he has an AMA waiver. It flies with
four Zenoah G-45 engines and spans 200 inches. Carl flew solo
demo flights only.
Eric Karl’s (Oswego IL) prototype Ziroli F9F-2B Panther was built roughly 20 years
ago. It is in beautiful shape and now scoots through the sky with a FunSonic 13.5-
pound-thrust turbine.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 55
56 MODEL AVIATION
Jon David (Zionsville IN) brought a
number of models to the event, both
fixed wing and helicopter—all electric
powered. His CMP Zero uses an E-flite
160-and-10S Li-Poly system.
Pilot amenities included a large dining
canopy that was used to store the assembled
models overnight. It was also used for the
Saturday-night Robart hog roast.
Nick Minnick (Fort Wayne IN) campaigned his Great Planes Hawk at the IWC. Under
the hood is a slightly larger power plant than recommended: a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Guy McIntire (Muncie IN) loves his Ziroli Corsair. This fiberglass-fuselage version
burns through the air with a Zenoah G-62 engine up front.
Brian and Bonnie O’Meara (Denver CO) make a fantastic team. They brought several
models that were flown at Top Gun, such as this Air World F-4 Phantom.
2008 Indiana Warbird
Campaign Sponsors
Robart Manufacturing
ZAP
First Merchants Bank
Great Planes
Horizon Hobby
Pro Mark Graphics
National Model Aviation Museum
MGA Pilots
JZ Products
Aerospace Composite Products
Micro Fasteners
Hitec
Wendell Hostetler’s Plans
Master Airscrew
RAM
Vailly Aviation
Sig Manufacturing
Bondhus
Tru-Turn
Futaba
Bob’s Aircraft Documentation
Propwash Video Productions
For more information about the event
and the Henry County Wright Flyers, visit
www.indianawarbirdcampaign.com. MA
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 56
the weekend. The piston-powered fighters were
flown exceptionally well. Of note were the
multiple parades of aircraft that were flown on
an almost hourly basis.
The IWC is a crowd pleaser. For the guests’
entertainment, the Military Vehicle
Preservation Association of Indiana had a
display, Carl Bachhuber and Paul LeTourneau
made some “Big Bird Flights,” and a few
helicopters here and there whopped the air as in
the old days.
Behind the scenes is a fine group of people
who keep everything organized and keep the
loudspeaker announcer up to speed with all the
appropriate information about the aircraft that
scorch the skies and make bombing runs.
Besides Event Director Gary Bussell, it
wouldn’t be as seamless an event without the
organization and guidance of Linda Crooks,
Connie Bussell, and Shirley Stoltz.
Those people are safety-minded. Each of the four flight stations
typically has two flags: a white one for alerting of a takeoff and a
red one (and a holler from the line boss) to announce that a model
is landing. These men and women know what is invested in those
precious models, and they would do nothing to threaten property or
attendees’ safety.
Many things set this gathering apart that should convince modeling
pilgrims to travel to the Midwest for next year’s event. I enjoyed the
flight demonstrations just as much as I enjoyed the guests.
Almost every aircraft that was taken to the flightline elicited a gasp
from the crowd. An event that welcomes the caliber of models and
modelers that participated this year is surely a sign that the Henry
County Wright Flyers’ IWC is worth its mettle. MA
Michael Ramsey
[email protected]
January 2009 57
Greg Hahn (New Castle IN) piloted his
Ziroli Beech C-45 during the twin-engine
parade. Two Fuji BT-34 engines are reliable
for keeping this general mover in the air.
Noontime demonstrations included
conflict roundups and models with equal
power plants. The four turbine-powered
aircraft at the IWC included this
gorgeous F-15 Eagle by Rich Eggleston.
Allen Whitaker (Louisville KY) finished his Ryan STM in
Mexican colors. The model was kit-bashed from a Great
Planes ARF, and it has a four-stroke engine for power.
Zack Spychalla (foreground) and his father,
Leo, coordinate their Spitfire vs. Stuka flight
routine. Mostly a game of Follow the
Leader, that air show was a treat to watch.
Rick Norris (Pendleton IN) campaigns the skies over Muncie with his 1/3-scale L-4H. This
observation aircraft flew best during the dawn hour of the event.
Leo Spychalla (Watertown WI) powers his
Ziroli Stuka with a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Jim Archer (Orlando FL) built the model.
Jack Conwell (Mooreland IN) flew his B-25 on several simulated bombing runs. The
eight brightly painted munitions were easy to find in the soft grass on-site.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:34 PM Page 57
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/01
Page Numbers: 52,53,54,55,56,57
52 MODEL AVIATION
by Michael Ramsey
Gary Bussell restored, to like-new, every element of this Army Jeep from the
frame outward. It is a replica of the vehicle he used while stationed in Vietnam.
Paul LeTourneau (Oconto WI) performs a simulated bomb run with his plans-built P-61 Black Widow. Twin DA-100 engines
turns 27 x 10 propellers. Paul uses a JR radio and JR servos.
Indiana Warbird
Campaign
The heavy metal
of people
and machines
is remembered during
Labor Day weekend
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 52
THE INTERNATIONAL Aeromodeling Center (IAC) in Muncie,
Indiana, is partially known for its National Model Aviation Museum,
which, in many of its thousands of displays, glorifies the trials and
triumphs of our hobby and sport. The IAC also hosts many model
aviation flying events, and one that serves as a great historic tribute to
full-scale aviation is the Indiana Warbird Campaign (IWC), which is in
its fifth year.
The 2008 edition of the heavy-metal event was held Labor Day
weekend: August 29-31. The Henry County Wright Flyers of Millville,
Indiana (which is roughly a half hour from Muncie), has hosted the
IWC at AMA Headquarters several times.
This club is honored to have a home flying site bathed in aviation
greatness: the Wilbur Wright Birthplace and Museum. The field is
shaded with tall trees along the pit area and features manicured grass,
and an 8th Army Air Force flight-tower replica watches over the field.
The club members fly almost every type of RC model, but they have a
strong interest in International Miniature Aircraft Association (IMAA)-
legal aircraft—particularly warbirds.
Henry County is a beautiful area, but the Wright Flyers’ field can’t
accommodate modelers who travel cross-country the way the IAC can.
It offers on-site camping with electrical hookups, and anyone with a tent
can park a sleeping bag for an even smaller fee than those with homes
on wheels. There are several hotels in the area, but camping on-site is a
popular option, because the show goes on after the 5 p.m. closing bell
rings.
To participate in the 2008 IWC, there was a $20 fee for use of the
paved crosswind runway and an additional $10 charge for the Saturdaynight
dinner with all the trimmings. This year’s catered meal, held under
clear, starlit skies, was compliments of Robart Manufacturing.
Check out the vendor list to get an idea of what was available on the
other side of the flightline. Some of the big-name companies have a
long tradition of aeromodeling, and they had talent with them that was
more than willing to support customers and demonstrate how the
products are best used.
Trailers were parked wheel to wheel in the pit area, and the pilots
were allowed to pitch their E-Z Up-type tents close by; there was no
lugging 30-pound models a football field’s length from the parking lot
to the flying area.
Pilots’ tents were so close to each other that they almost staked their
structures’ legs together. It made the shaded seating that much more
plentiful and the friendly atmosphere that much more of a healthy
bonding experience.
In many ways, this yearly tribute to the heroes of aviation is a reunion
of old friends, but in many instances the generations of modelers were
three-deep. Jack Benny tunes played through the loudspeaker
harmonized with the
roar of the engines.
At the same time,
new members of the
IMAA crowd were
welcomed and shown
the ropes.
The IWC
welcomes all military
aircraft
representations, no
matter what conflict
era they represent.
Gas-engine-powered
World War II fighters
were the most
popular; almost every
Nick Ziroli model
was at the event.
The P-47
Thunderbolt was the
most popular
warbird, with the P-
51 Mustang coming
in a distant second.
Skilled pilots made
demonstration flights
with turbine-powered
models throughout
January 2009 53
Elements surrounding the field were in character with the
military-campaign theme. The sponsors were generous this year.
Check out Sam Norris’s Deuce and a half truck in the background.
Brian Ward (Jacksonville IL) is confident with his Ziroli Skyraider. In this photo pass, the model was within
inches of the deck. The crowd stood and cheered.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 53
Photos by Jacob Ramsey, William Ramsey, and the author
54 MODEL AVIATION
Bob Patton (Saint Joseph IL) debuted his 3W-106-powered Scottish Aviation Bulldog
at this year’s Nats and flew it for fun at the IWC. It features a sliding canopy.
Mika Woodward (Indianapolis IN) demonstrated his Bell 47
helicopter at noon every day during the IWC. The G-23-powered
MASH replica looked smooth in flight.
Paul Westrich (Cincinnati OH) scratch-built his DA-150-powered
Dr.I. Spanning 130 inches, it required an AMA waiver that Paul
obtained before flying at the IWC.
Buddy Hale’s (Lexington KY) P-47 Thunderbolt screamed through the skies. His skills
as a precision Aerobatics pilot gave him a definite edge.
Dennis Crooks (Rockville IN) held onto
his Yellow Aircraft SR-71 long enough for
two turbine power systems to be
available. He flew it daily, four to five
minutes at a time.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 54
January 2009 55
Zack Spychalla (Watertown WI) showed
his clipped-wing Yellow Aircraft Spitfire’s
speed range, but he was careful not to
induce a high-speed stall through the
loops. Zach is a great pilot!
Carl Bachhuber (Mayville WI) loves giant models. He built the
Lockheed Constellation Model 749 from his own plans and powered
it with four Fuji 32 gas-burning engines.
Warbirds of all eras and conflicts lined the pit area. The crosswind, paved, 800-foot
runway was ideal for models with sensitive retract systems.
Randy Jensen (Stauton MI) flew a beautiful replica of the “Big
Beautiful Doll” P-51 Mustang. It is decked out, including full
flaps and pneumatic retracts.
Another of Carl Bachhuber’s scratch-built monsters is this C-
124 Globemaster, for which he has an AMA waiver. It flies with
four Zenoah G-45 engines and spans 200 inches. Carl flew solo
demo flights only.
Eric Karl’s (Oswego IL) prototype Ziroli F9F-2B Panther was built roughly 20 years
ago. It is in beautiful shape and now scoots through the sky with a FunSonic 13.5-
pound-thrust turbine.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 55
56 MODEL AVIATION
Jon David (Zionsville IN) brought a
number of models to the event, both
fixed wing and helicopter—all electric
powered. His CMP Zero uses an E-flite
160-and-10S Li-Poly system.
Pilot amenities included a large dining
canopy that was used to store the assembled
models overnight. It was also used for the
Saturday-night Robart hog roast.
Nick Minnick (Fort Wayne IN) campaigned his Great Planes Hawk at the IWC. Under
the hood is a slightly larger power plant than recommended: a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Guy McIntire (Muncie IN) loves his Ziroli Corsair. This fiberglass-fuselage version
burns through the air with a Zenoah G-62 engine up front.
Brian and Bonnie O’Meara (Denver CO) make a fantastic team. They brought several
models that were flown at Top Gun, such as this Air World F-4 Phantom.
2008 Indiana Warbird
Campaign Sponsors
Robart Manufacturing
ZAP
First Merchants Bank
Great Planes
Horizon Hobby
Pro Mark Graphics
National Model Aviation Museum
MGA Pilots
JZ Products
Aerospace Composite Products
Micro Fasteners
Hitec
Wendell Hostetler’s Plans
Master Airscrew
RAM
Vailly Aviation
Sig Manufacturing
Bondhus
Tru-Turn
Futaba
Bob’s Aircraft Documentation
Propwash Video Productions
For more information about the event
and the Henry County Wright Flyers, visit
www.indianawarbirdcampaign.com. MA
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 56
the weekend. The piston-powered fighters were
flown exceptionally well. Of note were the
multiple parades of aircraft that were flown on
an almost hourly basis.
The IWC is a crowd pleaser. For the guests’
entertainment, the Military Vehicle
Preservation Association of Indiana had a
display, Carl Bachhuber and Paul LeTourneau
made some “Big Bird Flights,” and a few
helicopters here and there whopped the air as in
the old days.
Behind the scenes is a fine group of people
who keep everything organized and keep the
loudspeaker announcer up to speed with all the
appropriate information about the aircraft that
scorch the skies and make bombing runs.
Besides Event Director Gary Bussell, it
wouldn’t be as seamless an event without the
organization and guidance of Linda Crooks,
Connie Bussell, and Shirley Stoltz.
Those people are safety-minded. Each of the four flight stations
typically has two flags: a white one for alerting of a takeoff and a
red one (and a holler from the line boss) to announce that a model
is landing. These men and women know what is invested in those
precious models, and they would do nothing to threaten property or
attendees’ safety.
Many things set this gathering apart that should convince modeling
pilgrims to travel to the Midwest for next year’s event. I enjoyed the
flight demonstrations just as much as I enjoyed the guests.
Almost every aircraft that was taken to the flightline elicited a gasp
from the crowd. An event that welcomes the caliber of models and
modelers that participated this year is surely a sign that the Henry
County Wright Flyers’ IWC is worth its mettle. MA
Michael Ramsey
[email protected]
January 2009 57
Greg Hahn (New Castle IN) piloted his
Ziroli Beech C-45 during the twin-engine
parade. Two Fuji BT-34 engines are reliable
for keeping this general mover in the air.
Noontime demonstrations included
conflict roundups and models with equal
power plants. The four turbine-powered
aircraft at the IWC included this
gorgeous F-15 Eagle by Rich Eggleston.
Allen Whitaker (Louisville KY) finished his Ryan STM in
Mexican colors. The model was kit-bashed from a Great
Planes ARF, and it has a four-stroke engine for power.
Zack Spychalla (foreground) and his father,
Leo, coordinate their Spitfire vs. Stuka flight
routine. Mostly a game of Follow the
Leader, that air show was a treat to watch.
Rick Norris (Pendleton IN) campaigns the skies over Muncie with his 1/3-scale L-4H. This
observation aircraft flew best during the dawn hour of the event.
Leo Spychalla (Watertown WI) powers his
Ziroli Stuka with a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Jim Archer (Orlando FL) built the model.
Jack Conwell (Mooreland IN) flew his B-25 on several simulated bombing runs. The
eight brightly painted munitions were easy to find in the soft grass on-site.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:34 PM Page 57
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/01
Page Numbers: 52,53,54,55,56,57
52 MODEL AVIATION
by Michael Ramsey
Gary Bussell restored, to like-new, every element of this Army Jeep from the
frame outward. It is a replica of the vehicle he used while stationed in Vietnam.
Paul LeTourneau (Oconto WI) performs a simulated bomb run with his plans-built P-61 Black Widow. Twin DA-100 engines
turns 27 x 10 propellers. Paul uses a JR radio and JR servos.
Indiana Warbird
Campaign
The heavy metal
of people
and machines
is remembered during
Labor Day weekend
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 52
THE INTERNATIONAL Aeromodeling Center (IAC) in Muncie,
Indiana, is partially known for its National Model Aviation Museum,
which, in many of its thousands of displays, glorifies the trials and
triumphs of our hobby and sport. The IAC also hosts many model
aviation flying events, and one that serves as a great historic tribute to
full-scale aviation is the Indiana Warbird Campaign (IWC), which is in
its fifth year.
The 2008 edition of the heavy-metal event was held Labor Day
weekend: August 29-31. The Henry County Wright Flyers of Millville,
Indiana (which is roughly a half hour from Muncie), has hosted the
IWC at AMA Headquarters several times.
This club is honored to have a home flying site bathed in aviation
greatness: the Wilbur Wright Birthplace and Museum. The field is
shaded with tall trees along the pit area and features manicured grass,
and an 8th Army Air Force flight-tower replica watches over the field.
The club members fly almost every type of RC model, but they have a
strong interest in International Miniature Aircraft Association (IMAA)-
legal aircraft—particularly warbirds.
Henry County is a beautiful area, but the Wright Flyers’ field can’t
accommodate modelers who travel cross-country the way the IAC can.
It offers on-site camping with electrical hookups, and anyone with a tent
can park a sleeping bag for an even smaller fee than those with homes
on wheels. There are several hotels in the area, but camping on-site is a
popular option, because the show goes on after the 5 p.m. closing bell
rings.
To participate in the 2008 IWC, there was a $20 fee for use of the
paved crosswind runway and an additional $10 charge for the Saturdaynight
dinner with all the trimmings. This year’s catered meal, held under
clear, starlit skies, was compliments of Robart Manufacturing.
Check out the vendor list to get an idea of what was available on the
other side of the flightline. Some of the big-name companies have a
long tradition of aeromodeling, and they had talent with them that was
more than willing to support customers and demonstrate how the
products are best used.
Trailers were parked wheel to wheel in the pit area, and the pilots
were allowed to pitch their E-Z Up-type tents close by; there was no
lugging 30-pound models a football field’s length from the parking lot
to the flying area.
Pilots’ tents were so close to each other that they almost staked their
structures’ legs together. It made the shaded seating that much more
plentiful and the friendly atmosphere that much more of a healthy
bonding experience.
In many ways, this yearly tribute to the heroes of aviation is a reunion
of old friends, but in many instances the generations of modelers were
three-deep. Jack Benny tunes played through the loudspeaker
harmonized with the
roar of the engines.
At the same time,
new members of the
IMAA crowd were
welcomed and shown
the ropes.
The IWC
welcomes all military
aircraft
representations, no
matter what conflict
era they represent.
Gas-engine-powered
World War II fighters
were the most
popular; almost every
Nick Ziroli model
was at the event.
The P-47
Thunderbolt was the
most popular
warbird, with the P-
51 Mustang coming
in a distant second.
Skilled pilots made
demonstration flights
with turbine-powered
models throughout
January 2009 53
Elements surrounding the field were in character with the
military-campaign theme. The sponsors were generous this year.
Check out Sam Norris’s Deuce and a half truck in the background.
Brian Ward (Jacksonville IL) is confident with his Ziroli Skyraider. In this photo pass, the model was within
inches of the deck. The crowd stood and cheered.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 53
Photos by Jacob Ramsey, William Ramsey, and the author
54 MODEL AVIATION
Bob Patton (Saint Joseph IL) debuted his 3W-106-powered Scottish Aviation Bulldog
at this year’s Nats and flew it for fun at the IWC. It features a sliding canopy.
Mika Woodward (Indianapolis IN) demonstrated his Bell 47
helicopter at noon every day during the IWC. The G-23-powered
MASH replica looked smooth in flight.
Paul Westrich (Cincinnati OH) scratch-built his DA-150-powered
Dr.I. Spanning 130 inches, it required an AMA waiver that Paul
obtained before flying at the IWC.
Buddy Hale’s (Lexington KY) P-47 Thunderbolt screamed through the skies. His skills
as a precision Aerobatics pilot gave him a definite edge.
Dennis Crooks (Rockville IN) held onto
his Yellow Aircraft SR-71 long enough for
two turbine power systems to be
available. He flew it daily, four to five
minutes at a time.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 54
January 2009 55
Zack Spychalla (Watertown WI) showed
his clipped-wing Yellow Aircraft Spitfire’s
speed range, but he was careful not to
induce a high-speed stall through the
loops. Zach is a great pilot!
Carl Bachhuber (Mayville WI) loves giant models. He built the
Lockheed Constellation Model 749 from his own plans and powered
it with four Fuji 32 gas-burning engines.
Warbirds of all eras and conflicts lined the pit area. The crosswind, paved, 800-foot
runway was ideal for models with sensitive retract systems.
Randy Jensen (Stauton MI) flew a beautiful replica of the “Big
Beautiful Doll” P-51 Mustang. It is decked out, including full
flaps and pneumatic retracts.
Another of Carl Bachhuber’s scratch-built monsters is this C-
124 Globemaster, for which he has an AMA waiver. It flies with
four Zenoah G-45 engines and spans 200 inches. Carl flew solo
demo flights only.
Eric Karl’s (Oswego IL) prototype Ziroli F9F-2B Panther was built roughly 20 years
ago. It is in beautiful shape and now scoots through the sky with a FunSonic 13.5-
pound-thrust turbine.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 55
56 MODEL AVIATION
Jon David (Zionsville IN) brought a
number of models to the event, both
fixed wing and helicopter—all electric
powered. His CMP Zero uses an E-flite
160-and-10S Li-Poly system.
Pilot amenities included a large dining
canopy that was used to store the assembled
models overnight. It was also used for the
Saturday-night Robart hog roast.
Nick Minnick (Fort Wayne IN) campaigned his Great Planes Hawk at the IWC. Under
the hood is a slightly larger power plant than recommended: a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Guy McIntire (Muncie IN) loves his Ziroli Corsair. This fiberglass-fuselage version
burns through the air with a Zenoah G-62 engine up front.
Brian and Bonnie O’Meara (Denver CO) make a fantastic team. They brought several
models that were flown at Top Gun, such as this Air World F-4 Phantom.
2008 Indiana Warbird
Campaign Sponsors
Robart Manufacturing
ZAP
First Merchants Bank
Great Planes
Horizon Hobby
Pro Mark Graphics
National Model Aviation Museum
MGA Pilots
JZ Products
Aerospace Composite Products
Micro Fasteners
Hitec
Wendell Hostetler’s Plans
Master Airscrew
RAM
Vailly Aviation
Sig Manufacturing
Bondhus
Tru-Turn
Futaba
Bob’s Aircraft Documentation
Propwash Video Productions
For more information about the event
and the Henry County Wright Flyers, visit
www.indianawarbirdcampaign.com. MA
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 56
the weekend. The piston-powered fighters were
flown exceptionally well. Of note were the
multiple parades of aircraft that were flown on
an almost hourly basis.
The IWC is a crowd pleaser. For the guests’
entertainment, the Military Vehicle
Preservation Association of Indiana had a
display, Carl Bachhuber and Paul LeTourneau
made some “Big Bird Flights,” and a few
helicopters here and there whopped the air as in
the old days.
Behind the scenes is a fine group of people
who keep everything organized and keep the
loudspeaker announcer up to speed with all the
appropriate information about the aircraft that
scorch the skies and make bombing runs.
Besides Event Director Gary Bussell, it
wouldn’t be as seamless an event without the
organization and guidance of Linda Crooks,
Connie Bussell, and Shirley Stoltz.
Those people are safety-minded. Each of the four flight stations
typically has two flags: a white one for alerting of a takeoff and a
red one (and a holler from the line boss) to announce that a model
is landing. These men and women know what is invested in those
precious models, and they would do nothing to threaten property or
attendees’ safety.
Many things set this gathering apart that should convince modeling
pilgrims to travel to the Midwest for next year’s event. I enjoyed the
flight demonstrations just as much as I enjoyed the guests.
Almost every aircraft that was taken to the flightline elicited a gasp
from the crowd. An event that welcomes the caliber of models and
modelers that participated this year is surely a sign that the Henry
County Wright Flyers’ IWC is worth its mettle. MA
Michael Ramsey
[email protected]
January 2009 57
Greg Hahn (New Castle IN) piloted his
Ziroli Beech C-45 during the twin-engine
parade. Two Fuji BT-34 engines are reliable
for keeping this general mover in the air.
Noontime demonstrations included
conflict roundups and models with equal
power plants. The four turbine-powered
aircraft at the IWC included this
gorgeous F-15 Eagle by Rich Eggleston.
Allen Whitaker (Louisville KY) finished his Ryan STM in
Mexican colors. The model was kit-bashed from a Great
Planes ARF, and it has a four-stroke engine for power.
Zack Spychalla (foreground) and his father,
Leo, coordinate their Spitfire vs. Stuka flight
routine. Mostly a game of Follow the
Leader, that air show was a treat to watch.
Rick Norris (Pendleton IN) campaigns the skies over Muncie with his 1/3-scale L-4H. This
observation aircraft flew best during the dawn hour of the event.
Leo Spychalla (Watertown WI) powers his
Ziroli Stuka with a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Jim Archer (Orlando FL) built the model.
Jack Conwell (Mooreland IN) flew his B-25 on several simulated bombing runs. The
eight brightly painted munitions were easy to find in the soft grass on-site.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:34 PM Page 57
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/01
Page Numbers: 52,53,54,55,56,57
52 MODEL AVIATION
by Michael Ramsey
Gary Bussell restored, to like-new, every element of this Army Jeep from the
frame outward. It is a replica of the vehicle he used while stationed in Vietnam.
Paul LeTourneau (Oconto WI) performs a simulated bomb run with his plans-built P-61 Black Widow. Twin DA-100 engines
turns 27 x 10 propellers. Paul uses a JR radio and JR servos.
Indiana Warbird
Campaign
The heavy metal
of people
and machines
is remembered during
Labor Day weekend
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 52
THE INTERNATIONAL Aeromodeling Center (IAC) in Muncie,
Indiana, is partially known for its National Model Aviation Museum,
which, in many of its thousands of displays, glorifies the trials and
triumphs of our hobby and sport. The IAC also hosts many model
aviation flying events, and one that serves as a great historic tribute to
full-scale aviation is the Indiana Warbird Campaign (IWC), which is in
its fifth year.
The 2008 edition of the heavy-metal event was held Labor Day
weekend: August 29-31. The Henry County Wright Flyers of Millville,
Indiana (which is roughly a half hour from Muncie), has hosted the
IWC at AMA Headquarters several times.
This club is honored to have a home flying site bathed in aviation
greatness: the Wilbur Wright Birthplace and Museum. The field is
shaded with tall trees along the pit area and features manicured grass,
and an 8th Army Air Force flight-tower replica watches over the field.
The club members fly almost every type of RC model, but they have a
strong interest in International Miniature Aircraft Association (IMAA)-
legal aircraft—particularly warbirds.
Henry County is a beautiful area, but the Wright Flyers’ field can’t
accommodate modelers who travel cross-country the way the IAC can.
It offers on-site camping with electrical hookups, and anyone with a tent
can park a sleeping bag for an even smaller fee than those with homes
on wheels. There are several hotels in the area, but camping on-site is a
popular option, because the show goes on after the 5 p.m. closing bell
rings.
To participate in the 2008 IWC, there was a $20 fee for use of the
paved crosswind runway and an additional $10 charge for the Saturdaynight
dinner with all the trimmings. This year’s catered meal, held under
clear, starlit skies, was compliments of Robart Manufacturing.
Check out the vendor list to get an idea of what was available on the
other side of the flightline. Some of the big-name companies have a
long tradition of aeromodeling, and they had talent with them that was
more than willing to support customers and demonstrate how the
products are best used.
Trailers were parked wheel to wheel in the pit area, and the pilots
were allowed to pitch their E-Z Up-type tents close by; there was no
lugging 30-pound models a football field’s length from the parking lot
to the flying area.
Pilots’ tents were so close to each other that they almost staked their
structures’ legs together. It made the shaded seating that much more
plentiful and the friendly atmosphere that much more of a healthy
bonding experience.
In many ways, this yearly tribute to the heroes of aviation is a reunion
of old friends, but in many instances the generations of modelers were
three-deep. Jack Benny tunes played through the loudspeaker
harmonized with the
roar of the engines.
At the same time,
new members of the
IMAA crowd were
welcomed and shown
the ropes.
The IWC
welcomes all military
aircraft
representations, no
matter what conflict
era they represent.
Gas-engine-powered
World War II fighters
were the most
popular; almost every
Nick Ziroli model
was at the event.
The P-47
Thunderbolt was the
most popular
warbird, with the P-
51 Mustang coming
in a distant second.
Skilled pilots made
demonstration flights
with turbine-powered
models throughout
January 2009 53
Elements surrounding the field were in character with the
military-campaign theme. The sponsors were generous this year.
Check out Sam Norris’s Deuce and a half truck in the background.
Brian Ward (Jacksonville IL) is confident with his Ziroli Skyraider. In this photo pass, the model was within
inches of the deck. The crowd stood and cheered.
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:32 PM Page 53
Photos by Jacob Ramsey, William Ramsey, and the author
54 MODEL AVIATION
Bob Patton (Saint Joseph IL) debuted his 3W-106-powered Scottish Aviation Bulldog
at this year’s Nats and flew it for fun at the IWC. It features a sliding canopy.
Mika Woodward (Indianapolis IN) demonstrated his Bell 47
helicopter at noon every day during the IWC. The G-23-powered
MASH replica looked smooth in flight.
Paul Westrich (Cincinnati OH) scratch-built his DA-150-powered
Dr.I. Spanning 130 inches, it required an AMA waiver that Paul
obtained before flying at the IWC.
Buddy Hale’s (Lexington KY) P-47 Thunderbolt screamed through the skies. His skills
as a precision Aerobatics pilot gave him a definite edge.
Dennis Crooks (Rockville IN) held onto
his Yellow Aircraft SR-71 long enough for
two turbine power systems to be
available. He flew it daily, four to five
minutes at a time.
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January 2009 55
Zack Spychalla (Watertown WI) showed
his clipped-wing Yellow Aircraft Spitfire’s
speed range, but he was careful not to
induce a high-speed stall through the
loops. Zach is a great pilot!
Carl Bachhuber (Mayville WI) loves giant models. He built the
Lockheed Constellation Model 749 from his own plans and powered
it with four Fuji 32 gas-burning engines.
Warbirds of all eras and conflicts lined the pit area. The crosswind, paved, 800-foot
runway was ideal for models with sensitive retract systems.
Randy Jensen (Stauton MI) flew a beautiful replica of the “Big
Beautiful Doll” P-51 Mustang. It is decked out, including full
flaps and pneumatic retracts.
Another of Carl Bachhuber’s scratch-built monsters is this C-
124 Globemaster, for which he has an AMA waiver. It flies with
four Zenoah G-45 engines and spans 200 inches. Carl flew solo
demo flights only.
Eric Karl’s (Oswego IL) prototype Ziroli F9F-2B Panther was built roughly 20 years
ago. It is in beautiful shape and now scoots through the sky with a FunSonic 13.5-
pound-thrust turbine.
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56 MODEL AVIATION
Jon David (Zionsville IN) brought a
number of models to the event, both
fixed wing and helicopter—all electric
powered. His CMP Zero uses an E-flite
160-and-10S Li-Poly system.
Pilot amenities included a large dining
canopy that was used to store the assembled
models overnight. It was also used for the
Saturday-night Robart hog roast.
Nick Minnick (Fort Wayne IN) campaigned his Great Planes Hawk at the IWC. Under
the hood is a slightly larger power plant than recommended: a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Guy McIntire (Muncie IN) loves his Ziroli Corsair. This fiberglass-fuselage version
burns through the air with a Zenoah G-62 engine up front.
Brian and Bonnie O’Meara (Denver CO) make a fantastic team. They brought several
models that were flown at Top Gun, such as this Air World F-4 Phantom.
2008 Indiana Warbird
Campaign Sponsors
Robart Manufacturing
ZAP
First Merchants Bank
Great Planes
Horizon Hobby
Pro Mark Graphics
National Model Aviation Museum
MGA Pilots
JZ Products
Aerospace Composite Products
Micro Fasteners
Hitec
Wendell Hostetler’s Plans
Master Airscrew
RAM
Vailly Aviation
Sig Manufacturing
Bondhus
Tru-Turn
Futaba
Bob’s Aircraft Documentation
Propwash Video Productions
For more information about the event
and the Henry County Wright Flyers, visit
www.indianawarbirdcampaign.com. MA
01sig2.QXD 11/21/08 3:33 PM Page 56
the weekend. The piston-powered fighters were
flown exceptionally well. Of note were the
multiple parades of aircraft that were flown on
an almost hourly basis.
The IWC is a crowd pleaser. For the guests’
entertainment, the Military Vehicle
Preservation Association of Indiana had a
display, Carl Bachhuber and Paul LeTourneau
made some “Big Bird Flights,” and a few
helicopters here and there whopped the air as in
the old days.
Behind the scenes is a fine group of people
who keep everything organized and keep the
loudspeaker announcer up to speed with all the
appropriate information about the aircraft that
scorch the skies and make bombing runs.
Besides Event Director Gary Bussell, it
wouldn’t be as seamless an event without the
organization and guidance of Linda Crooks,
Connie Bussell, and Shirley Stoltz.
Those people are safety-minded. Each of the four flight stations
typically has two flags: a white one for alerting of a takeoff and a
red one (and a holler from the line boss) to announce that a model
is landing. These men and women know what is invested in those
precious models, and they would do nothing to threaten property or
attendees’ safety.
Many things set this gathering apart that should convince modeling
pilgrims to travel to the Midwest for next year’s event. I enjoyed the
flight demonstrations just as much as I enjoyed the guests.
Almost every aircraft that was taken to the flightline elicited a gasp
from the crowd. An event that welcomes the caliber of models and
modelers that participated this year is surely a sign that the Henry
County Wright Flyers’ IWC is worth its mettle. MA
Michael Ramsey
[email protected]
January 2009 57
Greg Hahn (New Castle IN) piloted his
Ziroli Beech C-45 during the twin-engine
parade. Two Fuji BT-34 engines are reliable
for keeping this general mover in the air.
Noontime demonstrations included
conflict roundups and models with equal
power plants. The four turbine-powered
aircraft at the IWC included this
gorgeous F-15 Eagle by Rich Eggleston.
Allen Whitaker (Louisville KY) finished his Ryan STM in
Mexican colors. The model was kit-bashed from a Great
Planes ARF, and it has a four-stroke engine for power.
Zack Spychalla (foreground) and his father,
Leo, coordinate their Spitfire vs. Stuka flight
routine. Mostly a game of Follow the
Leader, that air show was a treat to watch.
Rick Norris (Pendleton IN) campaigns the skies over Muncie with his 1/3-scale L-4H. This
observation aircraft flew best during the dawn hour of the event.
Leo Spychalla (Watertown WI) powers his
Ziroli Stuka with a Zenoah G-62 engine.
Jim Archer (Orlando FL) built the model.
Jack Conwell (Mooreland IN) flew his B-25 on several simulated bombing runs. The
eight brightly painted munitions were easy to find in the soft grass on-site.
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