Vintage Aero Flying Museum

Oshkosh airshow was a success!

2010-08-03T20:06:00.000-07:00

Our museum had a very successful week at Oshkosh. We had a tent with 7 cases of exhibit material as well as our three Fokker aircraft.

Here is another view of our exhibit area. Jack Kirby was kind enough to park his amazing full-scale SE-5 replica with our three Fokkers, making for an amazing collection of WW-I aircraft. Our staff received numerous accolades from the crowds regarding their appreciation for having our aircraft at the show.

Throughout the week our pilots and staff dressed up in replica uniforms to add an additional air of authenticity to the exhibits. Whenever we had staff in uniform the crowds seemed to really gather around to ask questions and take many, many pictures. Hats off to those who dressed up despite sometimes sweltering temperatures in the 90's.

Museum staff ready for Oshkosh airshow

2010-07-21T12:34:00.000-07:00

Our museum staff and many volunteers are ready for this year's AirVenture 2010 airshow at Oshkosh. Here's an article about one of our key volunteers:

He wanted an excuse to visit Oshkosh. Now he's got one.

To mothers of young children, Oshkosh is clothes. To aviation enthusiasts, also known as airplane nuts, Oshkosh, Wisconsin is the site of the "world's greatest aviation celebration", where swarms of aircraft will assemble July 26-August 1.

Ewan Tallentire, owner of Albion Repro & Graphics in Littleton, loves history and loves to draw airplanes, especially old ones. So, what better business trip could there be, than to visit the Oshkosh airshow while helping a friend and a customer educate people about World War I?

Read the whole article here: http://denver.yourhub.com/Littleton/Stories/Business-News/Story~840283.aspx

2010-07-17T20:05:00.000-07:00

We are thrilled to announce the release of our DVD covering the flight of our three WW-I Fokker fighters from Colorado to Ohio. This feature length DVD was filmed by renowned producer Art Annecharioco and edited by industry standout Russ Wiltse. Order your copy at our website.

VAFM Triplane arrives at Oshkosh early

2010-06-17T18:07:00.000-07:00

Another WW-I replica aircraft made an early arrival for AirVenture this year as a Fokker Dr. 1 landed at EAA's Pioneer Airport in Oshkosh Wednesday, June 16. The triplane is a replica of the German airplane used during WWI and owned by the Vintage Aero Flying Museum, of FT Lupton, Colorado. It will be one of five of VAFM's World War I era replicas that will participate in AirVenture this year, and joins Jack Kerbey's S.E.5a in Pioneer's Pitcairn Hangar.

2010-06-17T06:08:00.001-07:00

Our group of three Fokker WW-I replica aircraft made it to Hartford, WI yesterday. This is just a short hop from the AirVenture field. Our planes will stay at Hartford until a few days prior to the start of AirVenture 2010. I believe there is an EAA photo shoot scheduled for today or tomorrow, weather permitting. We'll have pictures from the EAA photo shoot up on our site as soon as we receive them.

Wahoo, NE to Brodhead, WI--on the way to AirVenture 2010

2010-06-15T18:24:00.000-07:00

Our planes made it through some wet weather in Iowa today (stops in Perry & Marion, IA) then broke out into better weather with the help of some tailwinds. At this point our Fokker Dr.I, Fokker D-VII and Fokker D-VIII are in Brodhead, Wisconsin.

On the way to AirVenture 2010--Oshkosh, Wisconsin!

2010-06-14T20:30:00.000-07:00

Our Fokker Dr.I triplane, D-VIII and D-VII all left Platte Valley today on the way to AirVenture 2010 (Oshkosh)! Stops included Sterling, CO, McCook NE and on to Wahoo, Nebraska for the night. Congratulations to our pilots (Mark, Bob & Andrew) on a long day of successful flying!

2010-05-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

Vintage Aero Flying Museum This past Saturday we were honored to have Captain Emily Howell Warner present an engaging talk at our museum. Captain Howell was the first female pilot for a scheduled U.S. air carrier, the first female captain and in 1986 commanded the first all-female flight crew in the U.S.. Thank you Captain Warner for an outstanding presentation!

2010-05-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

Another happy group of students visits the museum! We continue to work with local teachers, administrators and school boards to encourage educational programs and museum visits. Here's a group from last week.

Walk into history

2010-05-05T07:36:00.000-07:00

We're finished with our new museum entryway. There are many original WW-I and WW-II items on display in both cases and on the wall. As you enter you quickly become immersed in the rich history surrounding you. Please stop in if you're in the Denver area!

2010-04-27T09:03:00.000-07:00

Our website has been updated to include a series of pictures of our Fokker D-VIII in a slideshow (check out the "Planes" menu option then click on the Fokker D-VIII image). Here you see a "getting close to done" picture. Our flying D-VIII will, weather permitting, be seen flying at our Platte Valley June 12-13 fly-in and then at Oshkosh AirVenture 2010.

We also continue to add items to our new (!!) entryway at the museum. Here's one showcase that you'll see as you immerse yourself in our living history collection. Come visit to hear the fascinating story of our original collection items.

2010-04-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

Mike has been hard at work on our Spad. Above pictures show him working on the fuselage longerons to insure they have a rounded top and that they are slightly above each bulkhead. Great work Mike!

New Lozenge pattern for Fokker D-VII

2010-03-25T08:13:00.000-07:00

Many volunteers working this week on a new "lozenge" pattern for our Fokker D-VII wing. Wikipedia has a good page on this patterns' origins. Here is an excerpt, "...Lozenge-Tarnung, the lozenge camouflage^[2] made up of repeating patterns of irregularly shaped four-, five- and six-sided polygons. Because painting such a pattern was very time consuming, and the paint added considerably to the weight of the aircraft, the patterns were printed on fabric, and the fabric was then used to cover the aircraft.^[3] This pre-printed fabric was used in various forms and colors from late 1916 until the end of the war."

2010-03-23T18:25:00.000-07:00

A number of people have been involved in creating a new entrance-way to our museum. Here are a few pictures to give you an idea (and to encourage those of you who can--to visit and see it in person) of the progress made to-date. We're almost done and anxious to hear your feedback. There are some very interesting exhibits in the shadow boxes and, as always, many incredible stories for you to hear during tours of the stories/background on exhibit material. Please stop in!

Practicing for June Fly-In Demonstration Flights

2010-03-18T20:57:00.000-07:00

Mark Beam and Ryan Lunde began rehearsing for this summer's fly-in on Tuesday of this week. Mark flew the SE5 and Ryan flew the Taylorcraft standing in for a Fokker. They did some formation re-familiarization and ran through several maneuvers to give them material to work with as they begin critiquing the plan for the World War I flight demo. Though the Taylorcraft would be hard pressed to be passed off as a WW-I aircraft, its speed is much like some of the replicas in the collection, so it makes a good stand-in while some of the other planes are in the maintenance shop. The weather has been excellent this week and it was a beautiful evening to be flying as well as an awful lot of fun carefully chasing each other around the sky, albeit in a choreographed fashion. They first pre-briefed several scenarios before each flight and switched rolls to gain insight into all facets of the proposed routine. When Andrew King arrives next week, they hope to do some more practicing with four planes in the air.

Ongoing D-VII & SE-5a work

2010-03-16T21:48:00.000-07:00

We continue to make progress on the engine cooling ("mailboxes") and on relacing new wheels. We have literally one of the world's best wheel lacing and wheel design experts located in Denver. Mr. Woody Witt, of Woody's Wheel Works, has significantly improved the hub/brake attachment as well as increased the side-load capacity of the SE-5 wheels by perhaps as much as 30%. Woody will be redoing wheels on most of our planes this year. Look for more information on this outstanding technician on our website.

Here you see the center section "wing" that is installed between the two wheels of our Fokker D-VII as it is being rebuilt. We'll be featuring more information on this rebuild process in future posts--stay tuned!

Aircraft maintenance

2010-02-22T11:58:00.000-08:00

We've been working on both our Fokker D-VII and our American SE5-a to get them both ready for the flying season. The Fokker D-VII is under-going extensive maintenance, including changing the engine mount and recovering the tail surfaces (see picture). We also plan to repaint the D-VII (see current red scheme picture)...email us at info@vafm.org with your paint scheme suggestions!

Our 7/8ths scale American SE-5a is currently seeing us build new "mailboxes" for engine baffling (see picture). We've put a new engine on it (a Lycoming O-235). We're hoping for flight tests sometime in March.

2010-01-13T12:27:00.000-08:00

Saturday was spent getting some "pick up" shots. With the weather being sunny and beautiful, we couldn't have asked for better!!

Russ getting the perfect head-on shot!

Russ directing Dr1 pilot, Mark.

The tail of the Dr1 was raised to get that in the air feel!

Russ and Mark tweaking the shot.

DVIII pilot, Andrew getting ready.

Making DVIII adjustments.

Getting the DVIII just right!

Russ working the camera for Andrew's head-on shot!

View a clip from the DVIII filming View a clip from the Dr1 filming

Town of Hudson, Board of Trustee's, Christmas Bash!

2009-12-12T13:36:00.000-08:00

Charlie and Mark Beam graciously donated their time arranging aircraft for the gathering!

Charlie giving a tour of the collection.

Hudon Town Hall enjoying their party!

Jack Nichols giving a tour of the WWII collection.

Nice shot of the group and the DrI, Ryan!

Short VAFM Promo Video

2009-11-11T12:43:00.000-08:00

2009-11-07T11:29:00.000-08:00

The Operation Freebird PSA that is airing currently.

More photos from the PSA for Operation Freebird!

2009-11-06T12:08:00.000-08:00

Look for this ad featuring the DVIII, DVII, and Dr1 airing up until November 21, 2009! Click on the video to the right called: PSA Operation Freebird.

A PSA featuring Andy speaking and aircraft from the museum will air starting the week of November 16, 2009. Here are more photos from the shooting of the commercial!

Ron (aka Shaggy) having a grand old time in the Dr1!

Officer AnnaMarie and Officer Larry enjoying a seat in the BT-13!

Operation Freebird PSA Filming Today

2009-11-04T12:40:00.001-08:00

The day was spent shooting a Public Service Announcement on behalf of Rocky's Auto's, the Adams County Sheriffis Department and the Vintage Aero Flying Museum to benefit Operation Freebird. As a show of appreciation to the veterans, VAFM will be flying aircraft over the venue on November 21, 2009.

An interior shot for the PSA
Officer Larry, whose responsible for the concept and fruition of O;perationFreebird, with Andy.

Andy, Sergio and Officer Larry setting up for another shot.

Andy and Sergio setting up the outside shot for the PSA.

Museum Documentary Filming

2009-10-21T12:34:00.000-07:00

Though the weather here today is cold with snow and rain, fun is being had inside! Filming on the museum contents documentary is concluding today with interesting interior footage.

Andy and Art getting a call from "Ethel" on the vintage phone!
Andy, Art and Russ readying for the archive shots.

Filming in the archives.

In the archives with a signicant piece from Eddie Rickenbacker

Andy decked out in a WWI French uniform.

Andy being filmed by Russ in a German WWI uniform next to the Dr1

The Spad Project

2009-10-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

The Spad Project has come home to be finished up! Stewart and Andy will be getting her air worthy.

Andy and Corkey unloading ......Gerry and Andy manuevering...
...and pushing... ...and finally in place! But wait a second-it's missing something...

...ah yes, the wings! Here VAFM webmaster and Moose owner Ted Waltman assists Andy.

Gerry giving a hand while Ted gives his back!

And the wings...

...slowly, but surely...

...make their way to their new perch.

The Spad project has been moved to VAFM's maintenance hangar. Sponsored by Nick and Nancy Rutgers, the Spad 13 is in the markings of James Norman Hall of the 103rd Aero Squadron. James Norman Hall was one of the "Valliant 38"- the first to fly with the French before the Americans entered WWI. After the war, Hall wanted to escape to a tranquil, serene place and write for travel magazines. He landed in Tahiti. He fell in love with Tahiti and a Tahitian woman. Hall made his home there, raised his family and wrote his novels. Of all of his novels, most notable is "Mutiny on the Bounty".

There are currently 3 projects in the works at the VAFM maintenance hangar:

Left to right: the Sopwith Project to be done in Bob Todd's markings, the Spad Project, James Norman Hall and the full scale Se5a to be done in Bill Lambert's markings.

Post-Production Filming Today!

2009-10-15T14:01:00.000-07:00

Dr1 Pilot Mark Holliday, Stinson L-5 Pilot today Mark Beam, Art and Russ discussing the manueversfor the air-to-air shots.
Camera ship TaylorCraft with Mark Beam and Russ Wiltse

Gerry Coe attaching a camera to the Dr1

Stinson L-5 pilot, Mark Beam, Art and Mark Holliday discussing a flight plan.

Russ Wiltse adjusting his camera

Art making sure the camera is just right on the Dr1!

Art once again, getting the angle just right!

Art says: "Today was a great, beautiful, sunny day and I was able to get a lot of pick-ups that we missed the last 3 weeks."

Filming Back at the Front!

2009-10-15T09:05:00.000-07:00

Filming of the museum collection documentary began yesterday.

Art and Andy going over last minute details.

Russ getting the camera angle just right while Gerry Coe checks lighting.

Andy on camera!

The museum documentary is about the collection's contents. Andy will be shown highlighting the cases with the respective Ace featured and will be discussing that pilot's contibution in WWI, his memorabilia, medals awarded and significant documents. The purpose of this documentary is for educational purposes.

BT-13 Getting Some Tinkering Done

2009-10-13T11:47:00.000-07:00

Ryan Lunde and Mark Beam have been working hard on the BT-13.

Beamer

Lunde

...and the BT-13.

Ryan had this to say:

"Did some wrenching on a Pratt and Whiney radial today and have a new appreciation for the men who had to maintain these engines under fire 65 years ago. We, (Mark Beam and I), inspected the BT-13's fuel system and then moved to the ignition. Even getting the special tool on the rear spark plug leads was a chore. Then we cleaned and tested all 18 plugs. It has a periodic miss in flight."

The boys are excited to take the Bt-13 up in the air....now if only the weather would cooperate!!

A Couple of Exciting Events Coming Up for VAFM

2009-10-09T09:46:00.000-07:00

A couple of exciting upcoming events for the museum are on Saturday, October 17 2009 and Saturday November 21, 2009.

On Saturday October 17, our 7/8 scale British SE5a will be flying over the park in Hudson and make a candy drop for the kids! This will happen around 4pm (weather permitting). On a special note, our SE5a was the only non-CGI (computer generated image) to actually fly in the movie, "The Aviator"!

A beautiful shot of our SE5a by Dan Simonsen

On November 21, we are joining forces with the Adams County Sheriff's Department and Rocky's Autos for OPERATION FREE BIRD! Many of the museum's aircraft will be performing fly-overs and the event itself will have several special features including:

* $10 gift cards towards the purchase of a Thanksgiving turkey
* Free presentations and sample products
* Career and life skills information
* Free food and entertainment

Andy speaking with Adams County Deputy Officer Medina, Rocky's Auto's marketing director Sergio and Ron Vigil. (AKA-Shaggy!)

The SE5a and the Triplane doing a little flying demonstration for the gang at Rocky's Autos!

Art flew the 2500 mile round trip to Ohio and back in his gorgeous Waco.
Here's the Waco back home in its Longmont hangar.

Beautiful wife, Betty, in front of the Waco.

Back at the Home Front

2009-10-07T12:30:00.000-07:00

Though the journey is complete, the story has just begun. In the posts to come, look for snippits from the documentary and post-production filming excerpts! Exciting, upcoming information on other museum and aircraft happenings will be highlighted soon, too.

The DVII getting ready for its comfortable ride home in the trailer!

The DVIII, next to the museum's SE5a, and the Dr1 out for a bit of welcomed sun!

Mark Beam and Brian Waltman spiffying up the DVIII after the journey.

Finally Home!

2009-10-06T09:42:00.001-07:00

Some beautiful photos taken by Don of the journey through Kansas on the way home.

Dr1 pilot, Mark Holliday and DVIII pilot Andrew King landed safely yesterday at Platte Valley Airport at around 3pm. It was rainy and cold, but they were home! Andy arrived just before them with the trailer housing the DVII. Art and Cliff flew into Longmont safely as well. Grounds crewman, Gerry Coe, also made it home safely in the comfortable, warm van donated to us for the trip by Berkenkotter Motors. DVII pilot, Dan Murray, his wife Linda, cinematographer Russ Wiltse and ground crewman Chuck Gardner all arrived home safe and sound in their van provided by Berkenkotter Motors this past Staurday.

Next week, laborsome editing will be done of the mass amounts of footage taken for the documentary--that should be a slap-happy time for Art and Russ!--Pictures to follow soon! Shooting is also scheduled next week for the documentary to be made on the museums' artifacts.

Finally On Our Way Home

2009-10-04T13:11:00.000-07:00

After sitting out rainy weather and without the Fokker DVII, the pilots are finally on their way home! After suffering some mechanical issues, it was decided that the DVII would not fly anymore and Andy is trailering it home. Currently in Kansas, he is due back tomorrow.

I received a call from DVIII pilot, Andrew King this morning with the following report:

"Left Creve Couer at 7:30am and arrived in Booneville, MO around 9:30am. The Boonville airport had a large bank of fog that made for a spectacular and beautiful backdrop for the landing. Arrived in Gardener, KS around 10:30am with blue skies and a strong tail wind!"

Pictures to follow soon!

Vintage Aero Flying Museum Featured in Latest EAA News Online!

2009-10-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

An incredible find today by Gerry Coe is this actual 4 leaf clover!! Looks like things will be turning around now for the gang!

The pilots are still being laywayed by weather and hope to fly home in the next couple of days. Filming has been mostly completed and editing is taking precedence now. All inolved are anxious to get home. They are missing their wives and families. Because of weather, they have now been delayed 4 days.

Film footage shot so far has been extremely rewarding. This has been the main source for lifting spirits for the gang! Another source of uplift is the article done by EAA News. Please check it out through the following link:

http://www.eaa.org/news/2009/2009-10-01_dayton.asp

The gang has seen some interesting roadside attactions along the way. Here are just a few of them:

Ground support crewman Gerry Coe provided us with the these photos and updates: "Yesterday morning we visited the Model T Museum. While there, we were advised to use the men’s’ restroom at The Candle Store next door. When we did this is what we found."

"Yesterday evening a few of visited Jim Hammond, a friend of Andrew’s, and saw his planes and the wonderful work he is doing on them. He also surprised us when he opened the door to a building and showed us this carousel that he restored. It was built in the early 1900’s and all the animals were carved from wood. At least one, a chicken, dates back to 1902. What a beautiful job he did on it!"

Comfort food helps the gang cope!

Misfortune Strikes the Wright Flyer

2009-10-01T10:48:00.000-07:00

On an unfortunate note, the replica Wright Flyer, featured a few segments below, crash landed today and the pilot had to be air-lifted to the nearest hospital. Art was going to film this flight for a segment in the documentary. Our thoughts and prayers are with the pilot for a full and speedy recovery.

Russ says, "Got an early start this morning, and we're starting to hit some rough weather. A quick stop at Litchfield airport before Creve Couer. Mark allows Corey here a chance to get a feel of the Dr1.

Russ Wiltse commented Wednesday Sept 30: "The crew makes it to Kasey, Illinois for a stopover on our way to Creve Couer, MO. We're expecting some bad weather to hit us by midday tomorrow so our goal is to get to Creve Couer and hunker down for a day or so. Had a very "filling" meal at the restaurant pictured here. We should have guessed it would be satisfying since we were given the recommendation by the guy at the front desk of our motel that looked like he had had a good meal in his life before!" Hey, I want to know whose kissing Art?!

Wed, Sep 30, 2009 8:00 am Russ writes:
"The team inspects a replica of the first Wright Flyer at Huffman Prairie, known as the first airfield in the world.We had a plan to shoot a quick scene for the film here as the plane lifted off, but the weather did not cooperate so the flight was cancelled."

A little boy named Ryan thrilled that he held in his hand the same airplane as our Dr1!

Chris Patton, the director of the Champaign Aviation Museum in Urbana, Ohio, allowed us to use his museum hanger to store the planes for 2 days and shoot another interview with the pilots for the film.

A Big Thank You to the Crew Back Home

2009-09-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

As they make their journey home, Andy, Mark, Andrew, Dan, Russ and Art wish to extend a special thank you to the following people who worked so hard on the DVII, Dr1 and DVIII getting them ready for their epic flight. They worked tirelessly long hours and generously volunteered their time:

Stewart Bergner, former United Airline mechanic, next to his beautiful RV 4. Without his mechanical expertise, the planes would not have left Platte Valley!

Mark and Cindy Beam. Both are airline pilots. Here they are standing next to their beloved L-5. They both worked on all 3 aircraft; fabricating sheet metal, working on engines and painting final touches. Mark wrote about flying the DVII earlier in the blog.

Ryan Lunde, of ChampionAirPhotos.com, lent a hand as well and was our air-to-air photographer here at Platte Valley Airport. Ryan owns and flys an Aeronca Champ.

Brian Waltman, third from the left, also tirelessly donated his time. He assists his father, VAFM web site developer Ted Waltman, rebuilding Moose aircraft.

In the previous blog entry, Andrew King mentioned Jimmy Doolittle. I thought it fitting to include a photo here of my father sitting down with Gen. Doolittle.

Fun and Thrills at the Dayton Dawn Patrol Fly-In!

2009-09-27T18:55:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day Sunday turned out to be! Andrew, Dan and Mark put on a wonderful flying demonstration for the crowd. After the planes landed, children were invited to have a seat in the Fokker Dr1. The kids were thrilled!

Right after the planes landed.

A young boy delighted to sit in the Dr1!

The line of kids with their parents waiting for their chance to sit in the Triplane.

Announcer, author Steve Skinner,
Andy and Steve's son trying out the Dr1.

A delighted young lady helped into the Red Baron's plane!

Steve being filmed by co-producer, cinematographer Russ Wiltse as he tells the crowd of the 1200 mile journey these planes have made to arrive at this air field.

Another shot of the line of kids with their parents
waiting their turn in the Dr1.

The DVII, Dr1 and DVIII lined up for the crowd.

Art making his way to that perfect camera angle for that perfect shot!

Art getting that perfect shot!

Russ getting his crowd shot. Look at him in those stylish Jodhpurs-how apropos!

The Munth's. They were at the Vintage Aero Flying Museum in August. They are from Ohio. When they learned of the event, they came out to see us!

Andy with event co-creator, Chris Mirren, discussing
plans for the next WWI Rendezvous in 2011.
Mr Mirren was in the restoration division
for the USAF Museum.

Andrea with Mr. Mirren. He shared that he knew Dr. James J. Parks very well and was delighted that the DVII Dr. Parks built was one of the aircraft that made the journey.

On the flight line getting ready for take-off!

At the pilot interview in Urbana, Ohio.

During the pilot interview for the documentary, each pilot was asked how they felt about the journey, what it was like to have flown the 1200 miles to the event and what was most memorable for them. Here were they're responses:

Mark Holliday, pilot of the Dr1:

"When I was first asked by Andy to make this cross-country trip, I was hesitant to commit. I remembered what it was like 10 years ago flying the Triplane from Tennessee to Colorado and how demanding that was. I was now being asked to go twice that distance! You've got to remember that I have to stop every 100 miles for fuel and oil and while in the air I have to keep completely focused. The Dr1 is not like a general aviation aircraft. The Dr1 has extra difficulties. Its tri-wing construction blocks visibility both in the air and on the ground. Its responsiveness is quick, but different and remember, this is an open cockpit airplane with a relatively small cockpit--you're not comfortable! What I think is most memorable is landing at those grass runways across middle America. It was cool to see the folks so excited! We knew at Dayton people would be excited, that's what they came to the show for. With all that being said, its been well worth it and I'm glad I decided to go."

Dan Murray, pilot of the DVII:

"I was excited to go on the trip. I'm used to flying around in my open cockpit TravelAir. But that being said, that damn Fokker DVII is a bugger to fly! It's heavy, slow to respond and not easy to maneuver. And speaking of maneuvering, you've got to remember I'm 70 years old!! Getting in and out of this large, full scale aircraft is demanding. But it has been fun and I feel a great sense of accomplishment as well. The whole trip has been memorable for me. But I must admit, being one of of 3 airplanes like these flying in formation cross country has been quite a thrill. It's also been quita a thrill pretending to have the other 2 guys in my sights!"

Andrew King, pilot of the DVIII:

"Well I have to admit, I have the easiest of the 3 planes to fly! When Andy asked me to come along on this journey, I was all for it. I've had a lot of experience making cross country journey's. It is demanding none the less. Again, it's cold, cramped--I'm 6' 3" for crying out loud! But it's also a lot of fun! I liken it to climbing a mountain; it's difficult, your muscles ache, it's tiring, but once you've accomplished it, there is a terrific amount of satisfaction. I think one of my most memorable moments was at Wright Field Flying the DVIII and thinking about how this same field is where Jimmy Doolittle did the first inverted loop. Here I am flying around at the same place he accomplished that--how cool!"

Andrew King with his beloved Pitcairn Autogiro. Isn't she a beauty!

The pilots are due to head out tomorrow, September 30, and start their trip back.

More to come as they journey home!

At Wright Field for the Airshow

2009-09-26T13:45:00.000-07:00

With filming and the need to assist the camera crew and with film editing taking precedence over everything else, extensive photos for this Blog entry are having to wait:( ---But they're coming!

On Friday, September 25th, The Dr1, DVIII and DVII made a grand entrance on to the field at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. First to arrive was Dan Murray in the DVII. The announcer was extremely knowledgeable about WWI history, but I wanted provide him with more info about this particular plane and the pilot. So I meandered my way over to the announcer and when he broke from speaking, I asked if he would like to know some more specifics. I explained that this DVII was from the group who came all the way out from Colorado. He decided it would be great if we could chat on mic about this. As he's interviewing and learning about the DVII, and that my father built it 40 years ago, he suddenly stops and says, "Is your last name Parks?" After confirming that it was, he turns to the crowd and says, "I want you folks to know that her father, Dr. James J. Parks, is responsible for the most extensive collection of WWI Ace material in the world and has preserved history for us all to learn from and enjoy to this day!" He went on to say that he, himself, had written a book on WWI balloon buster Frank Luke, Jr. and did most of his research from our archives. The book is "The Last Stand" and it is by Stephen Skinner. As Steve continued the chat, he had me speak about the DVIII and the Dr1, which were due to come in shortly. The weather was spitting and the guys in the DVIII and Dr1 had been delayed quite some time. The crowd was getting anxious. Finally, an hour later, they arrive to cheers from the crowd! They are taxied to an open area and are allowed to been seen up close and personal by the crowd. Each pilot generously answered questions and kids and adults were thrilled alike! Andy arrived as well and got with Steve.

Andy and Mark happy to have landed

Andy and Steve reminisced for a moment about the research on Frank Luke, Jr. and then Andy spoke beautifully to the crowd about our three aircraft and the 1100 mile journey they have made. Local press and TV stations were in attendance. Andrew entertaining some folks--More pictures to come!

Meanwhile, today the sun finally shone, but not until 4pm! And the event ended at 5pm! Art was spitting nails because he was so looking forward to capturing the aircraft in flight with blue skies today. "I have all the footage I need of these planes with a gray backdrop!" Tomorrow promises sunshine. Art and Russ should be happy campers.

Tonight we had a formal dinner at the Air Force Museum. For the occasion, the pilots dressed in WWI uniforms and their wives in nurses uniforms.
Andy and his wife Michelle in full regalia!

Putting on the final uniform touches!
All set to go!

At the dinner, Andrew King, Mark Holliday and Dan Murray were recognized for their historic journey!

The event was held in the museum itself and a video montage of the history of flight was shown and the Air Force band played. We sat with General Metcalf and his wife. We felt very honored!

Rainy Weather in Ohio Makes Time for Post-Production and Aircraft Repair

2009-09-24T14:17:00.000-07:00

Today I landed in Ohio to meet up with the pilots and the ground crew. Andy, Mark, Andrew, Dan, Chuck, Cliff and Gerry were all up to their elbows in plane parts today. Repairs on the DVIII's engine and repairs to the DVII's wing, (more to come tomorrow, along with pics), kept them busy right up until the evening's briefing at the Air Force Museum for the start of tomorrows airshow. Pictures courtesy of co-producer and cinematographer of the documentary, Russ Wiltse.

Listening to the briefingbriefing
Mark Holliday, pilot of the Dr1, and Andrea enjoy a moment of levity!

After the briefing, a lovely reception was had inside the museum.

Engine problems on the DVIII, combined with bad weather are keeping us grounded today. With the many skilled mechanics working on it, we should be up and going here shortly.

Andy, after a long and arduous flight from Tahiti, with a quick 5 hour stop in Colorado to get some clean underwear, joins the team at Red Stewart airport. But in great spirits like a kid in a candy store, he's overjoyed to be with the guys (and Linda too)!

Art on the field with camera mounted on a tripod in the rain. He makes the ultimate sacrifice to protect the camera with his shirt. Brad Pitt eat your heart out!

We were joined today by Andrew's parents, Jane and Bill King. Jane knows how to prepare for the long days at Air Shows!

The Pilots Have Landed in Dayton!

2009-09-23T09:56:00.000-07:00

Some terrific shots by Russ Wiltse, 2nd camera man, of our 3 aircraft making their final leg of the trip out~

Our ground crew support team taking a much needed break!

Benny Young's classic model T truck. The flight team did a nice job acting as a WWI German military crew, but the wardrobe crew was taking a coffee break.

Russ is given an enjoyable ride in this classic roadster by some of ourfriends in Richmond, Indiana. My T Fun!

Here is Benny Young (center) of the Model T Club of America, who generously lent us his classic model T truck for a short scene in our film.

Chris, Sara little Ryan at their grass airport in Dobbs Ohio where they have been a great host for helping us with the filming of the planes.

We found a restroom at one of our stops today decorated with the parts of an old
DC-3. Check out the size of that thing!

Andy Parks, Executive Director and President of the Vintage Aero Flying Musuem, flew out to Dayton today to meet up with the pilots. On the agenda: getting filled in on all excitement of the ttrip out and meeting with the Air Force Museum's representatives for the low down on the next 4 days!

I'm heading to Dayton tomorrow to meet up with the gang! Will be blogging from Ohio next!

-Andrea Parks, Director of the Vintage Aero Flying Musuem and Ghost Writer for the Blog:)

In New Carlisle, Ohio...Next on to Waynesville, Ohio!

2009-09-22T12:18:00.000-07:00

Though the weather has been cloudy and caused delay in travel, the filming has benefited. Amazing footage was shot at New Carlisle, Ohio.
Next stop today is Red Stewart Airfield. The Red Stewart Airfield in Waynesville, Ohio, is a family owned and operated grass field. The airport and the Stewart family are dedicated to the preservation of grass roots aviation. With its grass runways, picturesque surrounds and "old-time" look and feel of WWI, it makes an ideal place to shoot the documentary.

These next 3 photos were caputured by DVIII pilot, Andrew King, with his camera phone!

Andrew's view from the cockpit of the DVIII with the Dr1 and DVII straight ahead!

On the tarmac in New Carlisle, Ohio.

A simply beautiful shot of Producer/Director Art Annecharico's WACO. Art has been following right along side the Fokkers and shooting from the air shots all along the way. Camera's have been mounted on the WACO, as well as the Fokkers, and gyro-stabalized cameras and hand-held camera's are in use, too!

In Richmond/Centerville, Indiana, Under Fog....

2009-09-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

This just in from Russ and the gang!

Thankfully the weather has cleared enough to fly to the next destination! Lined up and ready to leave to New Carlisle airport at 12:30. The weather is cloudy and windy but good visibility.

A cloudy morning buys us some time in Centerville, Indiana to visit an incredible Model T museum. Hopefully the clouds will clear for us and we can fly out to Dayton today around noon.

The scene ended up being a photo op for the club members and crew!

2009-09-21T13:17:00.000-07:00

Maribeth Ward with the Green Castle Banner and Eric Burnsey with Dixie Chopper are seen here doing a story.

Gerry has been steadily following the aircraft from the ground and notes the weather as: 500ft ceiling with scattered clouds.

He says its been a long drive today. He heard Art directing the planes, via their headsets, in an manner and witnessed the maneuvering from the ground--COOL!

The pilots are on their way to Richmond, Indiana--Photos to follow soon!

Fokker's in Flight to Green Castle

2009-09-21T12:15:00.000-07:00

Russ's amazing shot from Art's WACO of the Fokker's in flight!

Russ says, "I'm sending this shot from the cockpit of the WACO heading to Green Castle."

Leaving Effingham and on to Green Castle

2009-09-21T10:52:00.000-07:00

2nd Camera man, Russ Wiltse's latest photos and comments:

Effingham Daily news greets us to do an interview. Kathy says, "This usually doesn't happen in our small town!"

Cliff is plotting our course for the next leg from Effingham to Green Castle, Indiana

The crew is very particular about their choice of cusine. Make sure you bring the Rolaids, Andrea!

Thanx Russ--Will do! And folks, don't forget to vote for your favorite plane! I must add that Marilyn Taylor has been so helpful contacting the cities ahead of time and giving them a "heads up" on the arrival of the planes! Thank you!

Next stop: Green Castle

Left Creve Coeur, In Effingham, On to Green Castle, Indiana

2009-09-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

The latest from Russ Wiltse and the pilots!

The planes are lined up and ready to go. Its 9 AM central time in Creve Coeur and a beautiful day.

Mike Fleming came out to see us off at Creve Coeur wearing the correct shirt!

Lining up on the runway in Creve Couer. Here we go!

Fueling up in Effingham, IL. The weather is cloudy but calm. Its about 11:30 central time. We are on our way next to Green Castle, Indiana.

Received a nice reception from the press in Effingham. Pictures to follow soon!

Most Recent Update From Creve Coeur!

2009-09-20T18:23:00.000-07:00

From the gang: Our dinner before the last leg of our trip tomorrow. The fried onion rings were guaranteed to induce a cardiac arrest!

More from Creve Coeur

2009-09-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

Here's the group taking a tour of the Creve Coeur Historic Aircraft Musem. A great thing to do on a rainy day!

Art using his talents to get what he needs from the ground crew. Don't tell Betty!

The Pilots are in Creve Coeur!

2009-09-20T09:59:00.000-07:00

Today we got an update from ground crewman and mechanic Gerry Coe. Here are some of his experiences:)

Good morning, from Creve Coeur, MO! It’s gray and raining here today and it looks like it may last a couple more days. Good thing we pushed on instead of staying in Marshall, MO last night. The hotel here is ok. It’s been a good trip. Driving the van has been uneventful and I've listening to books on CDs to help pass the time. Of course, every time I settle back in to listen it seems that one of the radios starts squawking or someone calls on the phone. There was a good sized reception at the airport here when the planes got in last night but it was pretty much over when we drove in. Oh well. We’re going to look into a miss in the engine of the D-VII today while the film guys spend quality time with their cameras and computer.

That's all for now,

Gerry

Second Photographer, Russ Wiltse shared the following with us:

We all made it safely to Creve Coeur, MO at around 6:30 PM . A long exhausting day for all of us. But the welcoming committee was great here, complete with refreshments as you can see in Mark's hand. The ground crew witnessed a road accident of a semi flipping over just a few cars behind them and hit a traffic jam in Columbia , MO because of the end of the football game.

A restful night and courtesy with a smile from our friends at the Super 8 motel.

A good decision to take a day of rest in Creve Coeur on Sunday. We wake to rain and clouds. We're invited to a barbeque at the airport today. We'll see how that goes...

We had a close call on our way to Creve Couer. It was uncertain that the DR I, having to deal with the smaller 16 gallon gas tank, would make it completely on our last leg to Creve Couer, so it was decided that Mark, with the DRI, would stop midway on our last leg accompanied by the WACO crew at an extra stop to refuel. When we landed at the FTT airport, we got some news that made us have to leave that airport in a rush, so we weren't able to refuel. Again in the air, with Mark uncertain weather he has enough gas to make it to Creve Coeur, is trying to pilot the DRI while holding a map trying to look for another fueling airport. Other members of the team are giving him identifiers for possible landing locations. All this is happening while we are losing daylight and heading into an eastern storm. He finally decides on a small private airstrip, hoping we'll be able to borrow some gas from a nearby farmer. When we land there isn't a soul around, maybe because it's a Saturday. Just as we are about to siphon gas from the WACO into the DR I, an old man pulls up on a motorcycle, and Mark asks if he knows where we can get some gas? The man says "I think we can help ya". He opens his hanger a brings out a 5 gallon can of regular car gas, and we have enough fuel now to complete the leg to Creve Couer! Mark ends up giving the man a little money for his trouble.

Here's Linda busy guiding the ground team to the right destination using her personal GPS system.

More to come soon!

On the way to Creve Coeur!

2009-09-19T18:46:00.000-07:00

This is under the table after their lunch in Gardedner, KS. Pilots really need someone to look after them......:)

Making plans to leave Boonville, MO, Mark wonders if he'll have enough fuel to make the last 150 mile leg. He decides he'll make an extra stop with the DR I before attempting the final leg.

Gardener, Kansas!

2009-09-19T13:02:00.000-07:00

Mickie Shetterly, a flight instructor in Gardener, KS out to greet the pilots and found them a car to go to lunch!

Here the pilots are are having lunch in Gardener. The charts are out because they have decided to shoot for Creve Coeur tonight because the weather is looking bad for Sunday. They're going to try and complete 4 long legs in one day, so they can be stuck in a more desireable location should the weather go sour.

Aside from the weather coming in, it has been really smooth going thus far. Dailies were viewed last night after a scumptious dinner and later, a good nights rest was had by all!

More to come from Creve Coeur!

Day Two on the Way to Dayton!

2009-09-19T10:46:00.000-07:00

Junction City offered beautiful morning sun and terrific scenery for spectacular footage! Art was able to shoot the air craft from the ground as they flew in low formation over head.

Lewis, Bradley, & Gideon agreeting the pilots at Freeman Field in Junction city, KS

This has been a great morning for photography. This is Larry Boehme of Junction city who owns a Stinson. Also Janice his wife.

Next stop Garden City, Kansas!

More Happy Landings Pictures!

2009-09-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

Touch down in Oakley, Kansas! Photo's courtesy of Connie Dawson

Smooth flight to Russell, Kansas! Photo's courtesy of Ron Wiltse

Here's shot of Mike David with his auto gyro in Russell, Kansas. He brought it out just for t5he pilots.

Boy these babies sure love oil!

Dan had a problem with the wheel freezing up on the D VII, but the ace mechanics got it fixed, and were ready to go for tomorrow.

All is well and the day was filled with successful travel! Tomorrow it's off to Junction City, KS (3JC) 105 miles, Gardner, KS (GLD) 95 miles, and then Marshall, MO (MHL).

The Aircraft Have Embarked!

2009-09-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

The evening before departure we had a briefing and then a wonderful dinner at Marilyn Taylor's assisted/indepent living home. A great time was had by all We watched Andrew King in his latest film, "Barnstormers" and engaged in a lot of hangar flying! Photo's courtesy of Shelly Fritzler

Briefing with the gang

Gen. Titus and Art Annecharico

DVII Pilot Dan Murray, Gen. Titus and ground support crewman Chuck Garten

WWII pilot Chuck Holmes, DVIII pilot Andrew King, Champ pilot and air-to-air photographer Ryan Lunde(ChampionAirPhotos.com), ground crewman Gerry Coe and
Frontier pilot/DVII pilot Mark Beam.

The morning greeted us with sunshine and perfect weather for takeoff!! Mayor Pontius of Hudson was present along with Board of Trustee members Barb, Judy, Linnette, Tammy and Bob. Making a welcomed visit was Rocky's Auto owners Dave Rothrock and his son John Rothrock, Vice President Rodger Maxson, director of marketing Sergio Saenz and none other than Shaggy himself, Ron Vigil! Mike and Steve of Berkenkotter Motoros joined us as well and lent their support. We really have to applaud them for taking the initiative of donating 2 vans for our trip at aboslutely no cost to the foundation. There was a good showing of townsfolk and our good friends AnnaMarie and Gen. Bob Titus came and showed their support!

Our first stop was Yuma, Colorado and out to greet the aircraft was the Chance family! Photo courtesy of Russ Wiltse

Weather in Yuma was sunny, but the wind was kicking up a bit.

NEXT stop: Oakley, Kansas!

Landed at Oakley around 2:15pm. Beautiful weather for interviews with the local paper! Photo's courtesy of Russ Wiltse

Stay tuned....more to come!!!

2009-09-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

Take off is schedule for tomorrow,
September 18, 2009 at 8am!
The following photos are courtesy of Ryan Lunde
ChampionAirPhotos.com

Andrew King flew in today and has been loggging time in the DVIII. The DVII saw flight time by Dan Murray and Mark Holliday was captured in the Dr1 just yesterday!

2009-09-14T15:22:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of Ryan Lunde: ChampionAirPhotos.com

As we near embarkation, excitement is high! Thanks to our wonderful sponsors at Berkenkotter Motors and Love's Travel Stops, we have transportation and fuel for our ground crew!! In this economy, it is truly most generous of these folks to help us out.

The DVII has passed a milestone. Thanks to pilot Mark Beam, this is the most time in the air it has ever seen. When speaking with Beam about what it's like to fly this amazing machine, he shared the following remarks:

The first thing that comes to mind when asked how the Fokker D. VII flies is, “Well, it’s like flying a Mack Truck.” By that I mean, it has very heavy and stiff aileron controls, the elevator and rudder are also slow to respond to any inputs. Nothing happens fast in this aircraft except time going by as you lose yourself in sights, sounds, smells and thoughts of a bygone era. Just looking at it on the ground you think to yourself, “Wow! That’s a big airplane.” And it truly is when you compare it to any of the other Fokker, or allied full scale aircraft in our collection. It weighs quite a bit more, and has longer wings with smaller ailerons than the Fokker DR 1. When the nose is pointed toward the ground, the D. VII increases speed quickly and it is easy to see why altitude was a fighter pilots friend. Any pitch increase and the airspeed bleeds of quickly. Speed also diminishes in a level turn. With our current setup, we are reaching cruising speeds of about 90-100 mph at 2200 rpm. It is extremely stable and you can fly in level flight with hands and feet off with no attitude changes occurring unless you hit a bump. All of this sounds very discouraging about our D. VII, and like me you are probably asking yourself, How did this become the premiere fighter of WWI?”

I have been pondering the following:

*How spoiled are we by flying easy modern aircraft with modern aerodynamics?

*Our D. VII is a replica, how much has the airframe changed or been modified by more modern building techniques?

*How much has the information/stats/plans about the D. VII been lost in translation or through time?

*How would this aircraft fly if it had an original 160hp BWM or 180hp Mercedes engine versus the newer 200hp Ranger engine? The older BMW engine would add 600 lbs to the aircraft, but would also allow for a shorter nose. The BMW would also swing a 9 ft prop at a lower rpm versus the newer Ranger with a 7 ft prop at a higher rpm.

This week as I was orbiting around Platte Valley Airport, feeling out and learning the D. VII, I was thinking to myself, “This is what it must have felt like to be on an aerial patrol back in 1918. Now where is that S.E. 5 or Sopwith Camel? “ Yes, our D. VII flies like a Mack Truck, but it sure is awesome!

Mark Beam

Historic Ohio Flight!

2009-07-31T15:16:00.000-07:00

Please view the wave file explaining the Vintage Aero Flying Museum and the documentary covering the historic flight of its three Fokker aircraft!

Thank you to our generous sponsors!

Norma Joyce
___________________________

Mike Wright

_____________________________

________________________________________

Mayor Pontius
and the Board of Trustees
Town of Hudson
_____________________________

______________________________

Pamela Buckland

___________________________

Preparing for Dayton

2009-07-18T13:02:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

We are preparing for our epic flight out to Dayton, Ohio with our 3 replica Fokker aircraft! Thank goodness for the help of Mark and Cindy Beam, Stuart Bergner, Brian Waltman, Mark Holliday and Dan Murray!!

Here's what we've been doing:

The Fokker DVIII has received a new 12 volt stater. This means no more hand propping and having our shins in the way of the propeller! It will also allow us to start the engine much quicker and more safely. The DVIII also received a new tail wheel spring which will improve our ground handling of the aircraft. It also was fitted with a new, streamlined rear cabane strut and had a brake pedal mount adjustment. It was also fitted with a quick oil drain valve to allow faster oil changes. It has received a thorough cleaning and inspection and has had its wheel bearings greased.

The Fokker DVII has just had a brand new Ranger 200 engine installed. It came from Brad Ball at Aviation Air in Santa Paul, CA. The DVII also received a new tail wheel spring. To conform to more original standards, it has also been fitted with tires that are in proportion with the rest of the aircraft. A 6" oil cooler has been added as well for better cooling of the engine. It has also received a thorough cleaning and inspection and has had its wheel bearings greased.

The Fokker Dr1 has had its landing gear repaired and its air foil between the wheels has been repaired with brand new bungees installed. It has also received a thorough cleaning and inspection and has had its wheel bearings greased.