District II
New Jersey, New York, Europe
On May 21, 2022, I attended the Somerset RC Club’s 50th Anniversary Fly-In at North Branch Park in Bridgewater, New Jersey. Maintained by the Somerset County Park Commission, the flying site and the club are featured prominently on the park commission’s website. Thanks to a good relationship with the club, the county does a great job of supporting the hobby!
The Somerset event was marked by several special remembrances, a banner tow, and a flag-raising ceremony. Cadet Command Sgt. Kenneth Hiraldo and Cadet Maj. Tristen Zehr of the Franklin Township JROTC presented the colors and performed a moving ceremony that opened the festivities.
Although the day’s temperature was high, numerous small and large models powered by gas, glow, and electric flew at North Branch. It was a wonderful mix of aerobatic and Scale aircraft. The club provided free food and refreshments, which was greatly appreciated. Not to be outdone was the “ladies’ tent” that featured specialty foods.
During the day, I had the privilege of catching up with District II Associate Vice President emeritus Tom Murray, as well as District II Vice President emeritus Wes De Cou, who also served as AMA’s Western Region flying site coordinator. I also met Aaron Chen, one of Somerset’s young pilots who has passed his pilot’s test. Both Aaron and his father, Mike, are club members.
The highlight of my day was the presentation of an AMA Award of Recognition to the club for its celebration and “in recognition of a half century of outstanding club involvement and supporting model aviation as a family-oriented community activity.” Congratulations to the Somerset RC Club and here’s to another successful 50 years.
Remember, it’s not about what you fly, it’s about the friends you make!
