WHAT WOULD YOUR DREAM VISION LOOK LIKE?

HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A TURTLE SMILE?

What an odd question! Last summer we asked: ”How did the turtle get on top of the fence post?” For those who remember, read on. For those who don’t know, click here. Here’s an example of an RAF airstrip with a “smiling turtle.”  

 RYAN FIELD, MONTANA

By now, most RAF supporters have either been to Ryan Field or seen one of the great videos telling the story of Ben and Butchie Ryan, and the many RAF projects completed there by volunteers.

The Ryans wanted to assure their vision lived on. The pilot visitor log at Ryan has been filled many times over with visitors literally from around the world. Another smiling turtle?

Almost. Let’s meet three pilots originally from South Africa.

Otto, Klaas, and Adriaan are all Carbon Cub flyers. Maybe you’ve had the pleasure of their company at a backcountry airstrip somewhere in the US. Their story about why they are pursuing their flying interests 9,907 miles from home is worthy. They explain that the flying opportunity we all enjoy does not exist there, and they consider flying to places like Ryan a privilege, not a right.  

After enjoying the Ryan RAF fire ring and other improvements brought about by volunteers’ contributions and hard work, the three realized that someone had been there before to “give the turtle a lift up so it could enjoy the magic of the place.” They were motivated to help by what they witnessed others had done.

Each flying season, volunteers fulfill the role as Ryan caretaker/host. They stay at their own expense typically for a commitment of two weeks. Recognizing the importance of this role, these three guys decided they could help “lift the turtle” by making a substantial lifetime gift to the RAF to build a sturdy host cabin, and it is now a comfortable, full-service abode nestled in the spectacular scenery with a view of the Ryan runway.

RAF supporters may have a “pet project” on their Christmas want list, and if that project aligns with the RAF mission, the gift is accepted with gratitude and thanks. Such was the case with Otto, Klaas, and Adriaan’s generous gift, along with the other host cabin supporters.

As we fly around the country to airfields the RAF supports, we quickly recognize that there are RAF supporters like these three guys from South Africa who have embraced and facilitated projects. These generous folks are “giving a turtle a lift from its limited view on the ground to so it can enjoy the magic of the place.”

If you’re looking for a smiling turtle this backcountry flying season, explore the Airfield Guide. Take time to walk around and contemplate, Just how did this place and everything you see get here? Can I help create another smiling turtle?

What would your dream vision look like?

By Steve Maus
Submitted June 10, 2025

Posted in News

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