RAF-BRANDED HUSKY STOPS IN AT RYAN FLY-IN
The conversation was as lively as June’s dynamic weather for the June 28-30 Fly-in this year at Ryan Field near West Glacier, Montana, especially when RAF Director Tim Riley landed and parked the spectacular RAF-branded Husky in front of the barn. Matt Hoefeldt from Aviat had arranged for this special aircraft to make an appearance on its way to Oshkosh for Airventure. It will be displayed with RAF-branded Redbird Simulators, as a visual partnership between the RAF, Aviat Husky, and Redbird, that has added backcountry flying to its curriculum.
Over 100 supporters participated in the fly-in, some flying in by Husky from as far as central Florida. Attendees spread tents beneath their aircraft wings, and some enjoyed filling the four cabins on-site. Many commented on the beauty of the place, results of RAF volunteers’ efforts to continue stewardship, and maintain the amenities that have been added for campers’ comfort and enjoyment. Throughout the weekend, hospitality tasks like coffee making, garbage removal and “KP” were done seamlessly by a cadre of volunteers.
The group gathered in the barn Friday afternoon for an educational presentation by Justine Vallieres of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks on living and recreating safely in bear country. Friday night’s dinner was abundant tacos fresh from caterer Mike Lindemer’s “Lindy’s” food truck. As darkness fell over the pastoral airfield, folks gathered around the two fire rings for live acoustic music and song.
Saturday morning the coffee flowed and everyone enjoyed Lindy’s huckleberry pancakes and sausage. Several gathered in time for the forested hike around the airfield led by RAF Montana Ambassador Lynn Mareth and Supporter Berkley Hudson. Dr. Brent Blue, AME, spoke later that afternoon on Basic Med and survival techniques in the backcountry. Dinner was Lindy’s signature steak sandwiches with optional sautéed mushrooms and onions – unanimously rated “best” – followed by huckleberry ice cream sandwiches for dessert.
We appreciate everyone who made the effort to attend. Thank you all for making this fly-in another safe and wonderful get-together! As always, we appreciate your donations to help cover airfield and facilities maintenance costs.
Submitted on July 12
by Carmine Mowbray