RAF VOLUNTEERS HELP AT CHEAT RIVER ISLAND AIRFIELD, WEST VIRGINIA

West Virginia’s Cheat River Island (56WV) was the site of a May 2026 work party coordinated by RAF West Virginia Liaison Robert Miller. RAF Virginia Liaison Paul Kosubinsky and WV Ambassador Kevin Rudisill assisted, along with a dozen other volunteers. The airfield is just outside Rowlesburg, West Virginia, about 68nm SSE of Pittsburgh, and is owned by Dave and Pam Graybill.


With the help of Dave's excavator and the volunteer crew helping by hand, about 1,500 feet of brush and trees were cleared along the runway.

Volunteers also split firewood, as camping is allowed year-round with the owner’s permission. 


 The group rebuilt the platform for the airfield's zip line, which is primarily used for access when the river is too deep for crossing.


“Dave provided breakfast and a fantastic pulled pork lunch for everyone,” Miller said.

Twice per year, in May and October, the Graybills stage a fly-in, seeing anywhere between 80 and 100 airplanes. Find more about Cheat River in the Airfield Guide.


Submitted June 1, 2026

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