John Gibbons B-17 Irish Lady

No this isn’t going to be a recap of the event complete with pictures of the models, the people and the facility…but about just one of the awards presented at this event. One of the special award categories was The Veteran’s Choice Award.

This category was judged by the panel of visiting WWII Veterans who gave a presentation what it was all about to grow up prior to WWII, their first aviation experiences and their involvement in the war. Some were fighter pilots, bomber pilots and crewman or a mission supportive role but all shared something in common. Combat in Europe during WWII!

Zack Baughman mediates the Veteran's Panel discussion at ScaleVenture.

These gentleman were not following any contest rules, they judged on their own unique criteria. The judges were: (left to right) Victor Bast, William Hartshorn, John Rosenberg, William Meier, Chet Gardeski, William Bergner and John Gibbons. Their presentation was awesome and I as a Vet appreciate when those who served to protect my freedom speak, its something worth listening to.

Now imagine the surprise that a room full of men who would covet such an award as well as have the two men who flew your subject sign your model. Add to that the award signed by these judges.

Well that really was the cake, the creme frosting was that this award was won not by “one of the boys” but a  10 year old young lady.    The Veteran’s Award goes to…Carley Davis! Congratulations!

Carley beaming with pride holding her model and the award.

Carley has been baptized in scale modeling probably since birth through her father Chuck Davis who is a regular contributor and reviewer for FineScale Modeler Magazine. So through the years she has had access to a great resource and mentor. Who knows, maybe Carley will follow in her fathers footsteps.

So again Congratulations Carley on receiving a well deserved award. I can imagine the conversations in the Davis household with her siblings and parents…especially Dad who was as proud as any father could have been and still is of his daughter!

Carley…Chippy also says Great Job!

More on ScaleVenture to follow soon.