I learned of Des’ passing a little over a year ago, as we all did. Des was a tower of strength to many of us on the Forum, certainly including me. I immediately expressed condolences to the Delatorre family from my wife Sharon and me. Subsequently I remembered that, some time ago, a number of us did a "commemoration build" on the passing of Dan-San Abbott. I then decided, with all due respect to the memory of Des and to his family, to use my Albatros build as a salute to Des and what he has done for me and so many of us.
I’ve tried to stretch my modelling limits as far as I can with this build. I can assure you, however, that I had more than a few challenges with it: plywood and nail lines decals, the “cleaning out” of the radiator along with the rigging come readily to mind. All in all, though, I’m satisfied with the result. After all, Des was watching and he gave me a helping hand when required (which was often).
Of course, starting at such an early date precludes me from joining the current memorial build. Accordingly, I'll place this small thread on the “Completed Models” section, and wish all participants of the current memorial build competition the very best of good luck with their endeavours.
I hope and trust that this personal tribute will find favour among our membership. Des was our guide and mentor in any number of ways, and it is most fitting that memorials to him are respectfully offered.
Blue Skies, Des!
What though the radiance which was once so bright
Be now forever taken from our sight,
Though nothing can bring back the hour
Of splendour in the grass, of glory in the flower;
We will grieve not, rather find
Strength in what remains behind.
Many thanks to all Forumites who visited, suggested, critiqued, observed and otherwise assisted me with this very long project. I tell you true, Gentlemen, it was all most appreciated. And I would be very remiss if I did not thank Rowan Broadbent for putting up with my "gentle chivvying" about nine years ago on the subject of "Wouldn't it be great if Pheon could put out the decals in 1/32nd scale to match the then-new WNW Albatros DV so that I could build D4545/17?" Many thanks, Rowan! God Bless.
