A pretty nice birthday party if we don't say so ourselves!
The day before the event, Scott S. was checking the weather on KXAN's
website and found a link to Jim Swifts "Out on the back porch"
episode about a guy named Ray and is 1953 Bell 47 helicopter. The
story continued about how Ray had fled Iran some 15 years ago in a daring
helicopter escape which took him across three countries and finally to
America. (but that's another story). Anyway, Scott was
interested in photo opportunities with his 1953 Korean era M38A1 and sent
Ray an email. A bit later, Ray responded and told Scott of the
"birthday party for Eagle 8, a Bell 47". Not being able to
resist a party, Scott promptly put the word out about the event on the
club email listing.
Saturday morning arrived with temperatures in the mid-60's and crisp
dry air. Scott trailered his '53 M38A1 up to the Georgetown airport
as did Danny trailering his M151A2 and M416 trailer. Glen V arrived
driving his CJ2A. Upon arrival, we met Ray and he directed us to a
spot under some trees next to the tarmac. We parked next to his 1952
M170 Frontline Ambulance he had sitting out. We were all dressed in
drag and ready for some fun.
About 11am, the people began to arrive and mill around the vehicles and
assorted helicopters that had arrived for the event. There were
tables and chairs, popcorn, sno-cones (thanks Susan) and plenty of cold
beverages (thanks Cynthia). Ray began his free rides for the kids
(again, another story...) and the band began to play some good
tunes. We now had a full fledged party going on. Then..... the
bbq fired up and hotdogs, chips etc were served. All the while, Ray
kept shuttling kids for quick rides around the airport in the beautifully
refurbished Bell 47.
About 2pm, Ray took off with two other helicopters and they made two
beautiful passes over the birthday party participants. Upon landing,
the birthday cake was cut and distributed. Danny, Scott and Glen had
a ball and so did the participants.
In fact, we hope to be invited back next year for birthday party
#51.... Thanks Ray.