I'm extending an invitation to those of you in the central Massachusetts area (or within driving distance). I'm sponsoring a field trip to my motor pool for my AMPS affiliate modeling club next weekend. The trip will be next Saturday, 19 July from 1000-1400 (10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. for you long haired folks).

I've been slowly getting an approximate headcount from my club, some guys are bringing their sons, we're hovering between 15-20 visitors so far. Couple of members of Armorama have already made the trek, one on a sub zero day and the other on a hot and humid day. Hot an humid is definitely preferable.

Word to the wise is to wear clothes that you don't mind getting a little greasy or dirty and dress for the weather, i.e. ball cap, sun screen, rain coat (if required). Although if it rains, I'll try to get a few of the vehicles inside for you to climb in. I ONLY have modern US Armor, don't expect WW2 or even Vietnam era equipment. Although I have some updated variants of vehicles that did see use in Vietnam like the M113A2/3, M578, M548A1, M109A4/5, etc.

Rob,

That's great! I'd like to sign on. Give me a good chance to look at the old airfield and reminisce a little too as well as to meet some of the Armorama guys.

Any chance the 1064 would be available? (With the weapon mounted? Please!?)

Sorry, this made me laugh, only time I can remember seeing civilians referred to as "long haired folks"...made my evening!!

The M1064 can be available, but not the mortar tube. That would require opening up the arms room, getting my armorer in and a couple of guys to mount it.

Not even for a former old-time Army SSG?

Any chance that these guys could be bribed with beer?

(He says half-seriously)

Rob,
I sure wish I lived closer. I would love to see old Ft. Devens again. But anyway, say hello to any Armoramaites that show up. Ya'll enjoy yourselves and be sure to post some pictures.

Rob, I plan to be there with one or two other guys from Wings & Wheels. I think my old, now essentially defunct club, got a tour up there a long time ago. See you next week.

My father and I plan to be there too. I hope it's a little warmer than that FREEZING cold day in March when we were down there last. Look forward to meeting some of the crew from Armorama, as well as getting some additional reference shots. Thanks for letting us in on this trip!!!

See ya on Saturday!!!

Rob, I live south of Boston and would love to take part in this field trip. Where exactly is Fort Devens? Is that by Ayer and Shirley?

Rob,
Consider this a big maybe for 3-4 folks from the Upper Valley Model Club.
When we get our ducks in a row, and I finish this @#$%@#$%% thesis.. I'll let you know for sure and get directions etc.

Mike in WRJ, VT

Exactly, if traveling from the Boston area, work your way to Route 2 west. Take exit 38B (Ayer/Groton, Rte 110/111) north. Incidently, this is the second exit past I-495 (if that helps you navigate).

A couple of miles north you will hit a traffic circle where there is a Wendy's, Ford dealer and McDonald's. Take the road AFTER the McDonald's (follow "H" hospital sign and Rte 2A/111). DO NOT follow the Devens sign.

This road takes you straight through downtown Ayer. Once you clear the downtown, take the first right at the Soverign Bank (stay on Rte 2A/111).

Rte 2A and Rte 111 split about a mile or so, stay on Rte 2A bearing to the left at a restaurant called Tiny's. Drive past a Victory supermarket and Loden Oil company.

As you cross a set of train tracks, take the next left through the gate. Go up the hill past the Massachusetts State Police warning signs. Park in the small lot with the yellow Jersey barriers, ignore the parking signs. Enter the main building (not the hanger) from the back side (second floor).

I was lucky enough to get a private tour on 30 June (June 30th for the 'long haired folk'). Great day for me. Many thanks again, Rob. Just a suggestion but some of my best photos were from as high up as I could get. I'll try to post some this week. I highly recommend this trip for modern US armor fans. Try and get Rob to turn the motors over for you. I wish I had.

I wish I could Justify the 500 mile drive......

Hey Rob,

Have to tip my hat off to you for this gracious invite. Wish I was not so far away (sitting here in hot, liberal and broke California) as I would love to get there for several shots of the wreckers vehicles along with the HEMMT transporters yes, I have the resin kits).

Oh, and being that I work for a major malt beverage manufacturer, I would spring for the guys from the armoury and yourself to a few cases......

Thanks for all that you do!
Dave

Most likely not. I had to pull teeth and a few trump cards to be able to stay here a third year. Used the excuse that I was away for 4 months during my command and my stepson was starting his senior year in high school (new policy to attempt to stabilize families so the child doesn't have to move to a new school during their senior year). I also moaned about doing two consecutive 2-year tours without a "long" tour (3+) in between. I will probably change command around this time next summer and move to another time zone again.

i am hoping i can make it......all of a 15 minute walk and all!!
but dependending on how i feel (had a semi major surgery last week )
i will be there to meet some fellow modelers

-jerry

Rob, thank you for your detailed directions. I am definitely planning on being there. I just need to clear my schedule with the "BOSS". :-)

OK, I'm going to go get myself refamiliarized in the Bradley, M1A1 and an M113A3. I need to go knock something over and work out some frustrations. If the weather's good, I may give some rides on Saturday.

SWEET!!! That would be super-cool!!! Thanks again for organizing this weekend Rob, it is greatly appreciated. Lookin forward to meeting some fellow modellers this weekend...I'll be the guy there with the SNHU hat, introduce yourselves.

Rob,
This is a great idea. Thanks for doing it!

Wish I was a bit closer and I would be there...long hair and all! (actually just got a hair-cut yesterday).

Jim

Can't be nearly as short as mine...I keep my hair close to the way the Smiley face keeps his. Think Bruce Willis Tears In The Sun short.


Do I need to buy some "Hi My Name Is" labels?

lol, If you want I can bring some down. I just figured it would be nice to put some faces behind the names and my hat would probably be the thing that set me apart. Let me know if you want me to grab some for Sat.

Wouldn't hurt to do so. I am very bad with names.