Into The Air: Syracuse aero modelers dedicate new field
SYRACUSE – When it comes to flying radio-controlled airplanes, members of Utah’s Wasatch Aero Modelers Club know their stuff.
They should, since they’ve been operating since 1987.
Years ago a few of their founding members were flying planes in a swampy field at the west end of Gentile Road in Syracuse when a farmer saw them having fun and suggested they go to another place nearby.
One thing led to another, and today, WAM members are now the proud owners of a field they have been using years since, thanks to a few generous donors.
Pitkin Field was dedicated on Saturday, and named for Leonard Pitkin, WAM’s longtime club president who passed away in April.
Pitkin’s children recalled several memories with their dad during the ceremony, and commented on how proud he would be to have the field named after him.
A check was presented to the field owners, and a sign with “Pitkin Field” was unveiled as dozens of club members, family and RC enthusiasts cheered.
WAM member John Steiner, a retired Kaysville dentist and former violinist with the Utah Symphony says the lure of RC airplanes was hard to resist.
“You’ve got to like aviation and flying,” he said.
Steiner has been flying RC planes for 60 years, and says the hobby is more than just about flying.
“It also helps when you like the people in the group,” he said. “Many days, you just come out to the field to be with your fellow flyers.”
Pitkin Field is located just west of the Gentile/Bluff Road junction in the southwest corner of Syracuse.
The club welcomes any and all who want to see some expert flying and crazy stunts.
Club president Jeff Zemke says the club members are usually at the field on any day of the week, but especially on weekends.
For more information on the club’s upcoming events, go to wasatchaeromodelers.com.