Look Up, Augusta!

  On October 20 and 21, 2007 the “15th Annual Boshears Skyfest 2007” was held at Daniel Field in Augusta, Ga. The program says it all - “Aerobatics-Skydiving-Pyrotechnics-Airplane Rides-Wing Walking-Flying Farmer-History Tent-and a Carnival atmosphere for the kids”.

  In the history tent I meet Capt. Phil Colman, a double ace in World War II and the Korean War. During World War II Lt. Colman flew a P-40N with the 26th Squadron, 5th Fighter Group. He shot down 6 enemy aircraft to become an ace in World War II. When the Korean Conflict broke out, Capt Colman flew an F-86 with the Georgia National Guard’s 335th Fight Squadron, 4th Fighter Wing. Once again Capt. Colman scored four victories to become a double ace. It was a real honor for me to meet this man.

  Some of the top performers were Gary Ward and his MX2, Gary Rower’s Vintage Airshows great looking Stearman, Bob Essell’s Wing walking act, Charlie Kulp's Flying Farmer act, Paratainment Skydiving Club Jumps, Team RV’s formation flying, and the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation Cobra fighting with Draco the Dragonator. This was one of Charlie Kulp's last airshow at his young age of 82, it is a sad day when an icon like Charlie hangs up the J3 Cub. The airshow industry and fans like me will miss him. God speed Charlie.

  The airshow had a carnival atmosphere with a large selection of food vendors and entertainment for the kids. The usual hamburgers, hot dogs, funnel cakes, ice cream and popcorn were on hand, but this show had much more. There were Bar-B-Q pork and turkey, ribs, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, fried pies, fried pork skins, sweet tea, and fresh lemonade “good enough to slap your momma” ya’ll. There were flying baskets and hearts, blow up air toys to climb and jump on, and a monster truck for the kids to ride -- attractions for young and old alike.

  There was plenty of parking, but only one way in and out. The police and security did an outstanding job of traffic control. The airshow had a 400 foot hard deck and a very small airshow box because of its location, but that didn't seem to be a real problem. If you’re in the area next year ya’ll come and join me for a fine airshow and some great southern cooking. I’ll meet you there, ya hear.