Canidian Warplane Heritage Flyfest 2007

Hamilton, ON June 17, 2007

Story by Kerry J. Newstead Photography by John and Kerry J. Newstead

  It is an annual Father’s Day treat in Hamilton, Ontario to go to the airport and visit the planes. From years ago with one of the largest airshows in North America to the more intimate open house at Canadian Warplane Heritage.

  It is great to be able to walk through the museum and see and touch history. You can talk to the men and women who fly these machines. The people who helped to restore the planes are there and some love to talk your ears off about their work. Upon going outside to the ramp, you can see history as the Lancaster, or Mitchell, or Firefly or the PBY flies overhead. Their DC-3/Dak has made a re-appearance to the skies after a couple years of being on the ground. Slated next for the renewal to skies will be their Anson.

  In addition to the museum's aircraft, Mr. Ed Russell sent up his Spitfire with Rick Volker at its controls. From Gatineau, Quebec, Mr. Michael Potter flew his Corsair for the open house. Within the next year, this aircraft will change colors from its US Marines dark blue to the Atlantic grey-green and be dedicated to Lt. Gray.