Shep Paine Passed - What does it mean ?

Yeah "G"

    I wonder sometimes how they would do with what we had . I built a Stug 3 From Monogram , years ago .My first German Armor model . Did the weathering and all .You know what ? There wasn't any after - Market stuff then . It was dirty , nasty and mean looking . Just because I tried to make an O.O.B model that way . How ? By looking at the Box Cover and what I had in my junk drawer .

     I still build my planes that way . I think it's more enjoyable as it shapes up just the way I want it . If it isn't up to contest standards who cares ? It's mine .     T.B.

As a modeler, he had many peers. People like Verlinden come to mind.

His contribution was, through Monogram, making the average modeler like the rest of us realize that with a little time, patience and care we could take a $ 3.00 model and make it something to be proud of.

It's just lost now. How many threads start up here with "first time modeler, bought the photo etch, the resin cockpit, the custom decals, etc." and off they go.

Normally I'm leery of name-dropping in model building. I don't like phrases like, "if you're really into airplane models you're undoubtedly familiar with the work of...," or "those who know the ship model world know the work of...." Frequently I've never heard of the people in question - and in any case, there's enough of the "cult of the individual" in the rest of the world without extending it into the realm of hobbies.

But there are exceptions. In ship modeling (my personal favorite), a few people, like E. Armitage McCann, August Crabtree, Charles Davis, Norman Ough, and Donald McNarry have not only built outstanding models but exerted a long-term influence on modeling, and provided an inspiration that has endured for decades.

Mr. Paine, in my opinion, belongs in that category. I'm no expert on military miniatures, or any of the other genres in which he specialized. But I know enough about him to know he was a giant in the field - a driving force that drove modelers and manufacturers alike to make scale modeling a genuine form of art. He will indeed be missed.

On the other hand, we're lucky in the legacy he left behind. His models, his articles, and his books will continue to inspire additional generations.

I guess I'm just too young. I know of him, and have seen his work and old books from his "heyday" if you will. I was never particularly inspired by it. And I can't recall ever hearing much about him for years until the stroke and ultimate death. I can understand that older folks are disheartened about his loss. I suspect some of the stuff that actually has inspired me came from people who were inspired by him in their youths. Frankly, I don't think his stuff holds up very well to modern work.

Excellent words TB, I agree that most of us have those one or two individuals, who have taken the time to compliment us on our work or give us tips and advice to try something new.  I know I do.  To those who have helped and encouraged me, THANK YOU!!!