Bolkow Squadron - 25th Anniversay Fly-in 14-16 August 2009, Schaffen-Diest, Belgium

Hi Dear Bölkow Gang,

I hope you are all well and looking forward to the spring of 2009 and to getting Bö wings back in the air again.

This year the “International Bölkow Squadron” is 25 Years Old! This event we must celebrate!! It was in 1985, at the PFA Rally in Cranfield that the idea for a Bölkow Squadron was founded by Stewart “Chuck” Luck and myself. John Webb was in the background but that year he was busy rebuilding BO 208 C, G-AVLO! Picture 330 (ed: below) shows the founding members at Schaffen Diest.

So my plan is that we should hold a 25th Anniversary Meeting as part of the “Old Timer” Fly In at Schaffen Diest, Belgium 14-16th August 2009. All three Bölkow types (207, 208 and 209) together with their owners and friends would be really welcome. Our Meeting will have no rules but everyone should follow the official published procedures for the Old Timer Fly In. I will talk to the Boss, Mister Guy Valvekens, to get his permission.

As you know we are not a club or anything too formal, but just a group of pilots, friends and mates with a shared enthusiasm for Bölkows. You can arrive by aeroplane, car or cycle and stay for two hours or two days! What do you think of this plan?

Picture 002 (ed: below) shows the dedicated squadron group at Popham Airfield last year. We all enjoyed German Bratwurst and beer and the hospitality of Lindsay and John Webb. Later we were treated to a wonderful evening meal by Jane and Stewart Luck in a local pub. It was also good to be able to welcome special guests Sheila and Jim Evans from New Zealand who own a Junior and a Monsun down there.

Always a turning prop!
Cheers,

Gunther