Brownie Troop 595 Tours NJ Aviation Hall of Fame On March 10, 2007, Hasbrouck Heights Brownie Troop 595 toured the NJ Aviation Hall of Fame located at Teterboro Airport. The tour was led by the Museum Director, Shea Oakley, whose informative talk was highlighted with unique stories and anecdotes about NJ aviation. The tour began with a 9-minute film about New Jersey aviation history which was introduced by the Museum’s founder Pat Reilly. The Brownies then entered “The Great Room” where they saw various piston and jet engines. Next, Mr. Oakley explained about balloon flight. Each scout got into the balloon basket. This is the same type basket that was used in the movie, “The Wizard of Oz.” The Brownies saw the world’s first hovercraft. It was built in NJ during the 1950’s by a Navy Lieutenant. The ladies went upstairs to the mezzanine where Mr. Oakley, using “The Little Cut Up,” explained how airplanes maneuver in the sky with elevators, ailerons, etc. Each scout had a chance to sit in the plane and use the controls. The “Little Cut Up” was scrapped airplane parts that were assembled by the Teterboro School of Aeronautics. The plane is non-airworthy and used for exhibit. They had a chance to see many models, including Newark Airport. Also, there was a military jet “ejection seat,” that they sat in. In another room the ladies saw exhibits on women in aviation. The tour then went into “the back yard” where everyone, including parents, entered the 1950’s Martin 202A which was first used by TWA, then Allegheny Airlines. This aircraft has been on exhibit since the mid-1980’s. Next, Mr. Oakley explained all about helicopters, using a Cobra Gunship. The scouts had a chance to explore the various outside displays. About 6,000 visitors tour the Aviation Hall of Fame annually. The AHOF offers tours for schools, seniors and civic groups. They also offer “Dare-to Fly,” which is a comprehensive four-hour event designed for groups 8 to 15 years old. This popular program introduces basic aerodynamic theory and is an opportunity to design and build balsa wood gliders and hold a flight competition. In addition, the AHOF holds Open Cockpit Day where all aircraft cockpits are open to visitors. The next Open Cockpit Day is scheduled for April 7, 2007. The Aviation Hall of Fame also hosts the Annual Hall of Fame Dinner. (See details on page 17 for the 34th dinner to be held at The Fiesta on May 23, 2007.) In cooperation with the Port Authority, the AHOF sponsors the Wings & Wheels Expo. The next Expo is scheduled for September 15 -16, 2007. (See The Gazette September 2006 issue). The Museum continually collects and restores aviation artifacts with connections to New Jersey. For more information about the AHOF call 201-288-6344. ###

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