Post by Dave Homewood on Dec 24, 2005 22:54:43 GMT 12
The latest newsletter from the No. 30 Squadron and Servicing Unit Association has some sad and disturbing news.
Wally Ingham wrote in the newsletter:
"Another matter which has come to my attention is the plight of the Grumman TBF which some ears ago was loaned to Gisborne members of the 30 Squadron and SU association by the RNZAF Museum, Christchurch following extensive negotiations (indefinate loan) with a view to having it restored to its original condition and placed on show at the Darton Field (now Gisborne Airport) in memory of the birthplace of where it all began back in 1943. Unfortunately howeverwell intentioned it was at the time, those who were involved have since passed away resulting in that once proud aircraft sitting forlornly in the back of the large hangar. With only Tom Sheahan still active but not in the best of health the time has come for some decision to be made regarding its future which I admit looks beak indeed. Perhaps some more active members could take an interest in this matter and/or make suitable arrangements for its welfare before its lost forever."
Tis is very sad to hear. I had assumed there were younger People in Gisborne taking an interest in the restoration but it seems it was only 30 Sqn veterans and now all but one are gone.
Can anyone here offer assistance to the project or perhaps offer any ideas? I think ultimately it would be the best solution if it could stay at Gisborne where it rightly should be, and be restored to its former glory. But realities are never that easy.
Any suggestions welcome. I can pass them onto Wally and the 30 Sqn veterans. Thanks.
Wally Ingham wrote in the newsletter:
"Another matter which has come to my attention is the plight of the Grumman TBF which some ears ago was loaned to Gisborne members of the 30 Squadron and SU association by the RNZAF Museum, Christchurch following extensive negotiations (indefinate loan) with a view to having it restored to its original condition and placed on show at the Darton Field (now Gisborne Airport) in memory of the birthplace of where it all began back in 1943. Unfortunately howeverwell intentioned it was at the time, those who were involved have since passed away resulting in that once proud aircraft sitting forlornly in the back of the large hangar. With only Tom Sheahan still active but not in the best of health the time has come for some decision to be made regarding its future which I admit looks beak indeed. Perhaps some more active members could take an interest in this matter and/or make suitable arrangements for its welfare before its lost forever."
Tis is very sad to hear. I had assumed there were younger People in Gisborne taking an interest in the restoration but it seems it was only 30 Sqn veterans and now all but one are gone.
Can anyone here offer assistance to the project or perhaps offer any ideas? I think ultimately it would be the best solution if it could stay at Gisborne where it rightly should be, and be restored to its former glory. But realities are never that easy.
Any suggestions welcome. I can pass them onto Wally and the 30 Sqn veterans. Thanks.
