at my vendor's booth at the model contest in Houston today. A gentleman walks up and I start my sales pitch. He says that he's interested in u-boat camouflage but more importantly, he's looking for a source of display cases. He has a Type IXC that needs a display case.

Well, the mentioning of the Type IXC peaks my interest since the U-166 was a Type IXC that was sunk 40 miles off the Louisiana coast in 1942. I proceed to put on my best Louisiana historian face and then he knocks my socks off. He is Dan Warren, the man that discovered the U-166! Oh my gosh, I've met my hero! We had a nice conversation. It just goes to show you that you never know who you're going to meet at a contest!

The Past Foundation

Kenny

It was '96 or '97 If i remember correctly, it may have been earlier and my professional building business was in its infant stage when I got a call one afternoon...The gentleman had found a wrecked u-boat off the 'Jersey shore and asked if I could assist in finding plans. I steered him in the direction of the sub comittee and some other U-Boat group who's name escapes me now. Not having a home computer in those days that was as much help as I could offer. He's since made quite a name for himself-having a TV series called Deep sea Detectives-John Chatterton....
Mike T

Hi Kenny

Nice story mate. Its great to meet your heroes I believe its a very unique and special experience.

Regards

Sean

It was one of those "small world" encounters. Once in a lifetime.

Kenny

Ahoy Kenny,

That is really great to meet someone who is involved with the real thing.

Great photos and video of the boat. It is quite well preserved.....to bad
it is so deep....it would be a great dive.

If you want to model this boat, you can still find the Nichimo kit or its copy
in 1:200 scale.......great little kits.

There is also the Academy boat in 1:150 scale but the propulsion system
has to be completely rebuilt and the tower requires some work.........but
nothing that "The Gator" cannot handle.

Have a great day and happy modeling.
Joe


PS Did you receive my MO?

Later

I picked one up yesterday at the Houston show.

Kenny

You just couldn't help it, could you Kenny?
;)
Great story, btw - it's always fun when we meet some of our role models

Skipper

Hey, what can I say. Another project I have on the back burner is all the Gulf uboats in 1/400 scale. I'll use the Mirage kits.

Gator