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.

FMI: www.airventure.org