Visit to Army Air Corps Museum Middle Wallop 1st September 2004

On a beautiful September day (coincidentally the 60th Anniversary of the WW11 Airborne Crossing of the Rhine). Some 37 members gathered for the Museum visit. Upon arrival most members took lunch in the restaurant overlooking the flight line and affording a panoramic view across the rolling countryside beyond.

Following lunch we were treated to a most informative and humorous presentation about the origins and history of the Army Air Corps, from crude balloons to the present day operations with state of the art Helicopters, like the formidable Appache.

After his talk, Lt. Col. David Patterson, the Curator, escorted members through the exhibition halls, which included Horsa and Hotspur Gliders as were flown by Army Pilots at the Rhine Crossing. In addition to the interest generated by the museum exhibits we were very fortunate to enjoy the A.A.C. Helicopter flying display mounted as a tribute to the Anniversary.

Our day was made all the more enjoyable with the attendance of several of our {Mid West} members including among others Allan and Pam Gettings, Roger Dabbs and Brian Harvey to name only some. It was also a great pleasure to be joined by Keith Hertzenberg who directs the Boeing Training Operations in the UK, including Middle Wallop.

Chris Farara