History of the Patch

	MD-073 Montgomery Senior Squadron "The Reluctant Dragons" Version 1

"The patch or logo as it exists today was principally designed and developed by Anne Culver and Bob Hawkins, with input from a lot of club and squadron members. It should be noted at this point that the design of the current patch was done without the consent or involvement of the Board of Directors of Congressional Flying Club, the staff of Montgomery Senior Squadron (with a couple of exceptions), or the Squadron Commander (Earl Burns). Those in power who were involved were sworn to secrecy and shall remain nameless to protect their reputation if they had any to start with. We selected these co-conspirators for their ability to keep a secret, knowledge of the club, their sense of humor, but primarily for their love of a good practical joke. The entire project (the patch design and production) was done covertly and primarily for the fun of it as so many of the activities of the club are done for the fun and enjoyment of the members. Lastly, the patch was designed to reflect the Squadron and the Flying Club as it had existed for 30 plus years."

"There is considerable tongue in cheek as well as sarcasm in the patch. For example, this is supposed to be a CAP Squadron patch yet the scarf of the dragon contains the letters CFC representing the Congressional Flying Club. The dragon is red because during the 1960s Bob Hawkins wore a red jumpsuit that irritated the Maryland Wing staff to no end. At the time there was no regulation about the color of flight suits so there was little they could do. The portly appearance of the dragon reflects the somewhat sedate lifestyle of many members. The whimsical smile reflects the mutual friendship, comradeship, and occasional practical joke (for which there is a deserved reputation) shared by the members."

"In addition, the radical engine is inappropriate for the aircraft depicted and, of course, the propeller is turning the wrong way. Even the landing gear doesn’t go with the aircraft. At one point during the design period, the ubiquitous caricature of Kilroy was looking from the cockpit. If that wasn’t enough, the original draft designs had a beer mug or wine glass in one hand, and a six pack in the other. It was decided that this wouldn’t fly (pun intended) so it was changed to a wrench to depict the maintenance activities of the club while the binoculars represented our commitment and involvement in search and rescue activities."

"Needless to say, everyone had a lot of fun designing the patch and it has come to symbolize the squadron and is recognized by all of the squadrons in Maryland Wing and many squadrons and pilots in nearby areas. This recognition comes from the fact that the patch is unusual and a bit defiant, which effectively reflects the squadron and its attitude through the years. It is a fact that the more people you ask regarding the history of the patch the more diverse answers you are likely to get."

Information provided by:
Robert J Hawkins
March 1997