Black Hills scale modeler's contest slated for April 14

  • Published
  • By Airman Hrair H. Palyan
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Scale model enthusiasts are invited to display their creations April 14 during a contest hosted by the Black Hills Scale Modelers Club at the Air and Space Museum.

The event is the BHSMC's 24th annual model contest. The theme this year is "Fabulous 50s" and the contest will include various types of models, including cars, ships, tanks and aircraft.

"Anyone with an interest in scale models is more than welcome to come and check us out," said Gregory Hansel, Air Force Financial Service Center civilian permanent duty travel and VIP processing branch chief.

Tech. Sgt. Carlos Sanchez, 28th Maintenance Squadron aerospace ground equipment craftsman, who's been showcasing his work at BHSM since 2001, started putting together his own scale models at 12 years old.

"When I was younger, one of my friends showed me a helicopter he put together," said Sanchez. "From that point on, I knew I would eventually make my own models."

Sanchez, along with other Ellsworth Airmen, and locals from Box Elder and Rapid City plan to compete with their finished products in hope of taking home the 1st place trophy.

"Scale modelers learn problem solving, increase their hand and eye coordination, all while building something others can admire," said Hansel. "The main reason to participate is to spend time with people who have the same interests, and of course bringing home the trophy is fun too."

Sanchez added that there's a sense of achievement when he finally finishes his 'baby.' He said all the hard work and dedication he puts into his work is worth it at the end, even if he doesn't win the competition.

Registration for the contest is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the day of the event. There will be demonstrations on airbrushing and stripping paint in the early afternoon.