Mon, Jul 31, 2006
by ANN Correspondent John Dorcey
The warbird area of AirVenture this year could have easily been
mistaken for Italy in 1942 or England in 1941.
Re-enactors have been a part of the AirVenture experience for
the last handful of years. Their involvement has increased in both
numbers of individuals involved and equipment displayed. We spent
some time visiting with Mike Pope of Chippewa Falls, WI. Mike is
living this week as a pilot with 602 Squadron of the RAF.
The 602 Squadron was an auxiliary unit and named after the city
of Glasgow Scotland. Naming squadrons for cities was typical of
auxiliary units. Pilots in the squadron were from Poland, Canada,
the United States, and New Zealand.
Pope represents a sergeant, both officers and enlisted men
served as pilots in the RAF. The squadron flew Spitfires and had an
excellent war record. The unit was recognized for downing the first
German bomber over England and holds the second highest kill rate
of the RAF. A favorite target for the squadron was the V-1 and V-2
launch sites. There is some rumor about a Spitfire from 602 downing
a V-2 during its launch.
The 602 Squadron display included a briefing area and four Bell
tents. Two of the tents were manufactured in 1942 and are on loan
from a Canadian museum. Other gear, including flight kits, cots and
personal gear complete the display.
Pope participates in three or four events per year spending
about 20 days living as an RAF pilot. There are hazards associated
with the lifestyle including wearing a wool uniform in 90 degree
heat. Besides the expense of traveling to the various events,
re-enactors can spend serious money on uniforms, tentage, flying
gear and other equipment.
Pope (below) shared two benefits of his hobby -- he uses his
flying jacket and boots when flying his Stinson in Wisconsin's cold
winters. He also enjoys the occasional Shandis after the day's
missions are complete.
Our thanks to Mike Pope and all of the World War II
re-enactors... for making history come alive at AirVenture.
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