The Hobby of the 834th ASB: RC Helicopters

Passing time on Joint Base Balad, Iraq can be, at times, very lackluster. Many Soldiers acquire new hobbies to help pass their time and have some fun. One new trend seen in B Co., 834th Aviation Support Battalion is RC Helicopters. 

The remote controlled (RC) helicopters come in many varieties, ranging in motion and control features. Popular models resemble the UH-60 Blackhawk and CH-47 Chinook helicopters that the company primarily works with. Many Soldiers have purchased inexpensive Air Hog brand mini RC Helicopters that have little control, but can be very fun and are easy to maintain. Some Soldiers decided to go with a much more quality RC Helo that have full range of flight and are capable of advanced flight maneuvering. In any case, the common hobby among many Soldiers of RC helicopters has brought troops enjoyment and a sense of camaraderie.

A small RC helicopter flight course equipped with mini helicopter pads and an aerial loop to fly through was constructed by Soldiers in the hangar of the 834th ASB. The course provides experience to improve the operator’s flight skills and simply have fun when they have some free time. Not all the mini helicopters are able to navigate through the course as well as some, but it is still fun for all. It is a very sociable hobby that usually draws in many spectators.   

The hobby is shared by all ages and different occupational specialties. Helicopter pilots were able to use their flight skills when flying RC helicopters. Mechanics and pilots had the rare opportunity to “fly” together. Some of the more advanced RC helicopters use basic rotary-winged aircraft flight concepts which pilots are well educated in offering non-pilots a chance to learn and ask questions about flight. 

Whether the RC helicopter cost $15 or $150, Soldiers enjoy flying them and use them as a way to pass time in Iraq.  It is a fun hobby that anyone can partake in and enjoy. Many Soldiers just started their new hobby while some are veterans, but either way, all enjoy it and can bring it back with them to enjoy it with their friends and families back home. 

By Spec. Nolan Kohlrusch
B Co. 834th ASB Unit Public Affairs Representative
29 Mar., 2009