Army Aviation Heritage Foundation Gateway Chapter Holds Second Annual Fundraiser

By Carmelo Turdo

Members of the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation Gateway Chapter, based at Creve Coeur Airport, celebrated their first year with their second annual fundraising event Saturday.  The chapter has made great progress this year - establishing a hangar base, acquiring OH-58 and UH-1H aircraft, and participating in community events to increase awareness of their mission.  Next year promises to be even more active, with the establishment of flight operations and more community outreach event participation.  Below are some views of the members gathering for Saturday evening's event, including guest appearances by Mark Schuler's CJ-6A and Eric Downing's Douglas Skyraider.   

The Gateway Chapter is also working with RC Aerodyne to produce a radio-controlled Bell UH-1H Huey kit that will be factory painted to represent the chapter's aircraft.  Midwest Region RC Aerodyne factory representative Michael Johnston was there to show the company's RC helicopter models, including the first Roban 800 sized UH-1H receiving the special paint scheme.  Along with the Huey project, RC Aerodyne is preparing special paint schemes for other models, including a St. Louis County Police OH-6 helicopter and Air Evac Life Team Jet Ranger helicopter (similar to those on display).  The Aero Experience thanks Michael Johnston and RC Aerodyne for taking an interest in producing these flying models in the likeness of these great Midwest Aviation service organizations.  We will provide updates as these products complete their development.