John Crouch
Vernon, British Columbia, Canada
Inspired by the aircrane crews based in Vernon, British Columbia, Canada, while fighting the wildfires in Kelowna in summer 2023, John built the ICM 1/35 scale Sikorsky CH-54A Tarhe. He modified the basic U.S. heavy-lift heli to replicate an Erickson Skycrane S64E water bomber. Aftermarket items included decals from Above & Below Graphics, a water tank, hoses, and bubble windows from Heli Scale Screaming Toad landing gear, and an Eduard Models instrument panel. John witnessed a Sky Crane in operation, both drawing and dispensing water during firefighting operations.