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THE SIERRA TOY SOLDIER COMPANYA family owned business located in Los Gatos, CaliforniaWE CARRY Discover the largest retail store dedicated to toy soldiers and model figures. Come visit us inALL MAJOR person for a one of a kind toy soldier experience. You can also visit our online store for theBRANDS: finest quality historical figures, military miniatures, model aircraft and toy soldiers available. Are you looking for that special set? Visit our collector’s corner for consignment items.W.BritainCollection Sierra Toy Soldier Store Los Gatos Visit Us French & Indian Wars - BM48-008 -- British www.sierratoysoldier.comKing & Country This Summer For The Finest Toy Soldier 48th Regiment of Foot Grenadiers MarchingAirfix ExperienceAuthenticModels Inter-War - IWA-004 -- SPAD XIII, 94th AERO SQUADRON, USASBuild-A-RamaBlack Hawk Hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm Sun: 12pm - 5pmCentury Wings Shop in our secure, online store: www.sierratoysoldier.comCollectorsShowcaseCorgiDepartment 56First LegionFigartiForces of ValorFrontlineGaribaldiHobby MasterHonour BoundJohn JenkinsJG MiniaturesKhaki ArmySafari LtdSt PetersburgCollectionSchleichThomas GunnStar TrekCollection 29 N. Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos, California 95030 Email: [email protected] TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 3

August/September 2016 38Issue 219 inside this editionPUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY BY: 06 EDITOR’S MESSAGE/FIGURE OF THE MONTHAshdown Inc. 08 OPENING VOLLEY68132 250th Ave. 12 READERS: FIRE BACK!Kasson, MN 55944 16 TOY SOLDIER TRIBUTE TO TROPHY & TAYLORToll-Free: 1-866-606-6587 24 SPANISH CIVIL WAR 80TH ANNIVERSARY 30 TOY TROOPS TAKE TORONTOUK OFFICE: 38 GI JOE WITH A LITTLE TWISTAshdown Ltd. 42 CENTERFOLDPO Box 2258 44 NEW METAL SHOWCASEPulborough, West Sussex 58 PLASTIC PARADEEngland, U.K. RH20 9BATel: 01903 884988 62 BMSS HOBBY SHOWCASEFax: 01903 885514 70 FIRST MIDWEST SHOW 74 BOOK REVIEWSwww.toy-soldier.com 78 PRIZE EXERCISE 82 CALENDAREDITOR:Stuart A. Hessney bringing you this [email protected] & MARKETING:Sara Vix (U.S. office)[email protected]: 1-866-606-6587Maria Fitzgerald (U.K. office)[email protected]: + 44 (0)1903 884988Mobile: + 44 (0)7730 622416DESIGN:Lauren NielsenCONTRIBUTORS:Gage Bell, Jim Clouse, Doug Dearth, Scott J.Dummitt, James H. Hillestad, A.J.Mergenthaler, Paul Newman, GrantPeterson, Deb Weissler and Leo WinstonSUBSCRIPTIONS:U.S.: usoffi[email protected].: [email protected] SUBSCRIPTION RATES:U.S.: $69.99U.K.: £58.99Canada: $116.99 CADEurope: €80.99Rest of World: $89.99(U.S. funds only)Postmaster: Send address corrections to Toy Soldier &Model Figure, Ashdown Inc., 68132 250th Ave.Kasson, MN 55944. All rights reserved. Reproductionin whole or part without the written permission of thepublisher is prohibited. All editorial contributions inthe form of articles, letters and photographs (b/w orcolour print or transparencies) are welcomed by ToySoldier but cannot be returned unless accompaniedby a stamped addressed envelope. All materialsubmitted to the magazine is accepted on the basisthat copyright in the work will be vested in thePublisher who assumes all rights world-wide, in allforms and media.In any event the publisher can accept noresponsibility for loss or damage to contributions. Stuart A. Hessney Lauren Nielsen Kelly Johnson Sara Vix Maria Fitzgerald EDITOR DESIGN DIRECTOR USA SALES UK SALES4 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE



Photo by Danielle Simmons from the editor Gus Edison Vadeboncoeur was born Sadly, Leonard John Taylor of Trophy May 29, 2016! Our hobby’s newest and Miniatures of Wales Ltd., a brand Welcome to TS&MF, the world’s No. 1 littlest collector weighed 6.73 pounds highly esteemed by collectors, died Feb. magazine for collectors of all stripes! and measured 19 inches when he made 26. The Toy Soldier Museum’s James H. his debut. Gus is pictured here with Hillestad has penned a fond tribute to This edition brings exciting news on the helmet of his proud papa Kevin, a his longtime friend Len. The article is two fronts, starting with the magazine veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He and richly illustrated with examples of Tro- you’re holding in your hands right now. my daughter, Emily, are also the parents phy’s creative and colorful output. of 2-year-old Lola Jane. While other publishers are cutting A.J. Mergenthaler marks the 80th back on their quality, we are bucking the This edition puts an exclamation anniversary of the Spanish Civil War. trends. We are making a major relaunch mark on how worldwide this wonder- Military miniatures are deployed to of already successful and longstanding ful hobby of ours is with reports about illustrate his account of the Iberian TS&MF by moving all production to far-flung events in Great Britain, the conflict, which was fought from 1936 to the United States. Iberian Peninsula, Canada and the 1939 and presaged the horrors of World United States. War II. This magazine format’s size has been changed along with improving both the For example, “Opening Volley” On the lighter side, writer Deb paper quality and binding. In addition, includes news of an exhibition staged Weissler profiles Canadian hobbyist Ga- the editorial content has been expanded by the Gibraltar Model Soldier Society reth McGorman. He arranges small sol- and TS&MF will now be available six March 8-18. The group has about 80 diers in unique, eye-catching situations, times per year. members from the Rock and neighbor- then uses a camera to create cartoons ing Spain. reflecting his wry sense of humor. The other big news comes from yours truly’s home front. I am very pleased Paul Newman reports on the British As usual, there’s lots more in store to announce that my first grandson, Model Soldier Society’s annual show in this edition, so please start turning and competitions in London April 23. the pages, enjoy and, as always, happy Canadian Scott J. Dummitt delivers collecting! coverage of the Ontario Model Soldier Society’s yearly On Parade event staged Stuart A. Hessney, editor in Toronto May 14. From America’s heartland comes Jim Clouse’s account of the inaugural Midwest Toy Soldier Show in Lafayette, Ind., April 10. figure of the month The honors go to Beau Geste of Argentina for a spectacular elephant replicating the In- dian princely state of Rewa’s contingent in the 1903 Delhi Durbar staged at the height of the British Raj. The incredibly elaborate event was organized by Viceroy Lord Curzon to ceremoni- ally celebrate British King Edward VII’s accession to the throne as Emperor of India. As a prince, he had toured India in 1875. But he didn’t attend the 1903 Durbar. Instead the monarch sent his younger brother, the Duke of Connaught, as his representative. Nearly two weeks of festivities were launched by a grand opening parade through the streets of the former mogul capital at Delhi to the Durbar grounds on plains outside the city walls. Lord and Lady Curzon, the Duke and Duch- ess of Connaught, other British dignitaries, and a host of royals representing nearly all of India’s princely states rode on 50 extravagantly decorated and painted elephants in the main procession. This panoramic gathering is the inspiration behind a long-running Beau Geste 60-mm series that is spectacular in its own right. Ana Donzino and company have researched primary sources such as photographs, films and illustrations to create their 3-D works of art. Beau Geste’s new Rewa State elephant is resplendent in gold and silver trappings. The Asian pachyderm is guided by a mahout and car- ries a howdah occupied by the prince. He is surrounded by four retainers, including a couple of mace holders. Everything is gorgeously painted in the traditional gloss style.6 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE



OPENING VOLLEY HOBBY-RELATED NEWS & NOTES FROM AROUND THE GLOBE LATEST W. BRITAIN STANDARD, STOCK CATALOG PUBLISHED Twelve days before summer officially The mailing included the began June 20, the spring 2016 edition of The Standard, the exclusive quarterly 2016 Spring & Stock journal of the W. Britain Collectors Club, arrived in my mailbox. Better late than Catalogue, which show- never! cases current inventory. It The Good Soldier LLC partnership acquired the venerable toy soldier brand also gives glimpses at up- from die-cast vehicle maker First Gear and combined it with Hudson & Allen coming releases inspired Studio in February. Reorganizing the business and moving it from Iowa to by Colonial America, the Ohio ensued. Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 “We are now settled in at our new lo- cation in Holland, Ohio, and are working and World War II. hard to get everything back on schedule,” General Manager and Creative Director The Standard features Kenneth A. Osen wrote in a letter to club members. “Moving thousands of toy and a tribute to World War model figures 500 miles east and setting up new offices took much longer than I British Army Machine predicted! Corps Pvt. Herbert U.S. club members’ copies of The Standard were mailed three weeks later Columbine. He was Saxons and Normans clash on The Standard’s cover pictures than the U.K. packets, underscoring some posthumously awarded the cover of W. Britain’s 2016 Colonial America’s Battle of of the understandable transitional chal- a Victoria Cross after Spring & Stock Catalogue. Bushy Run. lenges faced by Ken; his wife Ericka, who telling comrades, “Save works as sales and marketing manager; and Operations Manager Ted Deddens. yourselves, I’ll carry on,” just before he was and plans for the third annual W. Britain killed during a German offensive in 1918. Model Figure Symposium scheduled for Upcoming Black Watch Highlanders Aug. 5-7, 2016, in Madison, Wis. Profiles modeled after artwork by Don Troiani focus on collector John Lord Booth II spurred two different articles related to and master figure painter Dave Young- the 1763 Battle of Bushy Run during quist, members of the new ownership Pontiac’s Rebellion. On a related note, the group. lives of backwoods pioneers of the Upper Eight exclusive club figures new for Ohio Valley are examined. 2016 are showcased. In addition, the Topics also include American Civil packet brought a pleasant surprise. War period percussion rifle loading and “As a thanks to club members for be- firing, Zulu regimental shield colorations, ing patient during the transition we have included a high-quality American Civil War uniform print from Don Troiani,” Ken noted. “These can be added to your uniform reference collection or be framed to hang on the wall.” The W. Britain team is already working on the next edition of The Standard and a summer supplement catalog.Though sneak peeks will be in store, Ken is striv- ing to close up the time between an- nouncing new releases and their deliveryCartoon by Doug Dearth “to keep the new products fresh.” “Since W. Britain is now a toy soldier company owned and operated by toy soldier people, we only want to make changes that will benefit our collectors,” Ken said. —Stuart A. Hessney 8 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

TS&MF WWI DIORAMA GIVEAWAY WINNER ANNOUNCEDLucky TS&MF reader Eric Westerlund won thediorama giveaway.Congratulations to Eric Wester- British Tommies produced by W. Britain are shown in part of the frontline trench crafted bylund, the extremely lucky winner of Hudson & Allen Studio.TS&MF’s fabulous giveaway featur-ing a World War I diorama of a Brit- handles sales and marketing while Ted Ted with matt shading and highlightsish trench along the Western Front! Deddens of Tedtoys Miniatures fame so it fits right in with the diorama. came onboard as W. Britain’s manager The U.S. subscriber hails from of operations. Please stay tuned for the next edi-Hoover, Ala. His main toy soldier tion of TS&MF, when I plan to unveilcollecting interests center around the  The custom-made diorama has a a new premium figure and dioramaAmerican Civil War and World War 16-by-32-inch footprint. The battle- giveaway!II and now, as he has heartily en- worn landscape incorporates threethused, WWI too! Eric enjoys paint- trench sections, water-filled shell  ing figures and hunting for WWII holes, shattered trees and barbed —Stuart A. Hessneymemorabilia at shows and estate sales. wire scenic elements produced by W. Britain. Added details include sand- The giveaway was marched out bags, painstakingly crafted duckboardin 2014 to commemorate the 100th flooring, fire steps, a ladder, woodenanniversary of the beginning of the wall revetting, ammo boxes, tools andGreat War. The intricate diorama, discarded tin cans. The realistic trenchwhich has been showcased at hobby system faces a stretch of no-man’s-shows across North America, was land.expertly built by Hudson & AllenStudio. W. Britain is very generously This incredible diorama giveawaysupplying a dozen realistically detailed was staged in conjunction with a sub-1:32-scale metal figures painted in scriber recruitment campaign high-matt finishes to man the frontline lighted by a premium figure of WWItrench. This prize package is worth a Canadian Lt. Col. John McCrae,grand total of $1,850 U.S.! MD, the poet who wrote “In Flan- ders Fields,” specially commissioned At the time the giveaway was from Ted. As an added business, thelaunched in issue 199, Hudson & Al- lucky winner will receive a bespokelen Studio and W. Britain were sepa- McCrae figure specially painted byrate entities with the common threadbeing Ericka and Kenneth A. Osen. Gloss-painted version of the TS&MFIn early 2016, those two businesses subscription premium figurewere merged within the Good Soldier created by Ted Deddens toLLC partnership, with the Osens be- portray Lt. Col. John McCrae,ing part owners and Ken continuing the Canadian physician/poet whoto serve as W. Britain general man- penned “In Flanders Fields.”ager and creative director. Ericka now TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 9

GIBRALTAR MODEL SOLDIER SOCIETY HOSTS EXHIBITION showcases for a number of years.Their latest exhibition took place in the Gustavo Bacarisas Gallery located off the Grand Casemates Square in the center of the city of Gibraltar. The exhibition included a splendid dis- play created by collector Tyrone C. Gomez fea- turing Alymer’s 54-mm Indian Border Security Militaria and toy soldiers pay tribute to the British Royal Marines.Collector Tyrone C. Gomez’s display featuring Alymer’s Indian Force Camel Contin-Border Security Force Camel Contingent Band. gent Band resplendent Other displays at the Gibraltar in ceremonial uniform. event included a huge diorama based on the American Civil War’s BattleSpanish maker Antonio Marti Cusido The real band appears in events such of Gettysburg, a tribute to the British Royal Marines, a room diorama builtrecently got in touch with me to share as the annual Republic Day Parade. with items from the Sarum Soldiers British “Officer’s Mess 1900” series,photographs and information regarding Alymer’s Tono was inspired to create his medieval knights and a World War II German diorama built into anan exhibition staged by the Gibraltar gloss-finished band after spotting the upside-down helmet.Model Soldier Society March 8-18, original one in news coverage of U.S. An excellent diorama re-created how 300 years of British Gibraltar2016. President Barack Obama’s 2015 visit to was celebrated by awarding the Royal Navy the freedom of the city for itsThe group has about 80 members India. role in capturing the Rock in 1704. The scene depicted First Sea Lordfrom Spain and Gibraltar who have “Seeing the music band on camels Adm. Sir Alan West and local dig- nitaries reviewing the crew of HMSbeen holding regular meetings and filled me with so much enthusiasm that Grafton marching down Main Street Aug. 4, 2004. it turned into a challenge for me,”Tono   said. —Stuart A. Hessney The toy soldier company’s owner, who takes a hand in painting person- ally, noted each camel required at least 30 welding operations for adornment with metal trappings.The set is made up of an officer/director and 12 musicians split among five sets packed in Alymer’s signature handmade green boxes.TheDiorama depicting the Royal Navy’s 2004 officer is sold singly for 85 euros whilefreedom of the city parade celebrating 300 four different groups of three musiciansyears of British Gibraltar. sell for 255 euros apiece.  KING & COUNTRY U.K. DEALERSHIP EXITS HOBBY SCENEAfter some 22 years in business, King Neither the Nevilles nor Andy C. has no financial interest in the U.K.& Country U.K. was shuttered in June Neilson, K&C Ltd. cofounder and operation.”2016. creative director, were available for comment by press time. However, Andy’s online post added, “Going Mike and Sue Neville established Andy posted an announcement on forward, as one chapter closes anotherthe dealership in 1994 after discover- the Treefrog Treasures Forum June 17 opens. Any U.K. collector or retailering King & Country Ltd. toy soldiers stating that Mike had informed him wishing to purchase King & Coun-during a trip to Hong Kong. They three days earlier K&C U.K. would try products will be welcome to buybecame the brand’s exclusive U.K. cease trading immediately. directly from K&C in Hong Kong.”distributor, selling directly to collectorsand supplying other retailers from their Andy emphasized, “Although “Finally, on behalf of all of us atheadquarters in County Durham, Eng- we share the same King & Coun- K&C, we would like to wish Mike,land. Mr. and Mrs. Neville and their try name, K&C U.K. is a wholly- Sue and (their son) Tony goodfamily’s great work as ambassadors for owned, independent company health, happiness and success in theirthe hobby included promoting a hobby belonging to the Neville family and futures,” Andy wrote.show in London for a number of years. them alone. K&C Hong Kong Ltd. —Stuart A. Hessney10 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

W.Britain Conte John Jenkins Black Hawk Figarti Hornung Art King & Country and more WE BUY COLLECTIONS – PACKAGE PICKUP SERVICE AVAILABLE Showroom1/-8W0a0re-7h8o6u-s1e8: 83813o0rSvoisuitthu6stohnSlitnree:etTrSauiintesA1n0d4T,oLyiSnocoldlnie,rNs.ecbormaska 68502 1s/3c0atlheAvailable direct from us and from all good quality toy soldier stockists throughout the world.THE TINKER NEW GERMAN1914 - 1918 KRIEGSMARINE FJ ANTI TANK NEW 9TH LEGIONCANNON WITH CREW REPEL CAVALRYThomas Gunn Miniatures • 21 Deverill Road • Sutton Veny • Warminster • BA12 7BZ • UK www.tomgunn.co.uk • email: [email protected] • phone: 0044 01985 840539 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 11

FIRE BACK! Share your views by e-mailing [email protected] OFF ABOUT THE HOBBY OR MAGAZINEHOBBYIST SHARES HIS HOPES AND DREAMS STAR LETTERDear Editor: I enjoyed the TS&MF issue 205 article about the Battle of New I would alsoBe careful what you wish for. Orleans by Steve Rhea. I would have like to see more Enclosed with this letter is a copy of cut the heads off the Barzso Playsets naval figures. For example, Figarti U.S. Marines pictured and substi- Miniatures has produced some veryan article by Laura H. Lacey from the tuted War of 1812 heads by All the nice figures of World War II U.S.March 2016 issue of Military History Kings Men Toy Soldiers. It has a Navy sailors at Wake Island in 1941.magazine titled “The Man and the nice selection of American and Brit-Legend.” It profiles French Foreign ish heads of the Revolutionary War Speaking of boats, why don’tLegion veteran, legendary U.S. Ma- and War of 1812. Barzso’s recent fig- model ship manufacturers build somerine, OSS operative and movie actor ures seem larger than the ones that in 1:30-scale? They would get crosso-Col. Pierre (Peter) J. Ortiz. One photo came out 10 years ago. New Orleans ver buying from people who collectshows him in a scene from the 1950 might have been the only battle of toy soldiers as well as modelers – afilm “Rio Grande,” the final install- the Napoleonic era where both sides 2-for-1 deal. Any type of watercraftment in director John Ford’s “Cavalry had units armed with rifles: the hobbyists can put toy soldiers into orTrilogy.” Ortiz served as a technical ad- British 3rd Battalion, 95th Rifles, next to would be wonderful. There areviser and supporting actor (sometimes versus U.S. Gen. Andrew Jackson’s also a lot of paper model companiesuncredited) standing in the background riflemen. out there, so why aren’t they jumpingof a number of movies. on this? Seems like a natural. Regarding “Kit Korner,” every This reminded me of an exchange 18 months or so I would like to see I also need help. Several years agofrom Ford’s 1948 production “Fort someone come out with a complete I saw a nice set of WWII WesternApache.” list of new model figure types and Desert Italian infantry that included their makers. Fine Scale Modeler a bare-chested soldier wearing a fez Lt. Col. Owen Thursday (Henry magazine used to do this and it was and throwing a Molotov cocktail. IFonda): “When we rode up to the fort, very useful. Don’t tell me to use the should have copied down the info,we saw some Apaches.” Internet or I might scream or never but didn’t. Do you or your readers buy your magazine again! know who made it? Capt. Kirby York ( John Wayne): “Ifyou saw them, they weren’t Apaches.” John Pauly What did the U.S. Army look like West Seneca, N.Y., USAon the Plains from 1865-1890? Out-door living is tough on clothes.READER SALUTES JOE The Editor Responds: Thanks for sharing your wide-ranging musings. Yes, John, thereSHIMEK TRIBUTE is an Internet. Its existence is why no one would would expend the time, effort andDear Editor: expense of compiling a model figure kit compendium because it would be outdated faster My compliments on anothergreat edition with TS&MF issue than it could be printed. If you are uncomfortable navigating the Internet, perhaps a217. I’d like to give a fellow soldier’ssalute to retired U.S. Army Gen. friend or loved one can help you go online to visit any of the leading dealers who adver-Raymond E. Bell Jr. for the articlesharing for his remembrances of tise in TS&MF. They constantly update their Websites with all the details and photosanother gallant warrior: the late Lt.Col. E.J. “Joe” Shimek II, the crafts- any hobby hunters and gatherers like yourself could dream of, whether you’re scoutingman behind Potsdamer Zinnsol-daten and Britannia toy soldiers. out kits or trying to solve the mystery of that WWII Italian figure. Happy collecting! Retired Col. Sam W. Floca Jr. CONTACT US Temple, Texas, USA We welcome readers’ Fire Back! feedback via e-mail at stuart@ashdown. co.uk. In addition, letters can be mailed to Fire Back!, TS&MF, Ashdown Ltd., PO Box 2258, Pulborough, West Sussex, England, U.K. RH20 9BA. Letters can also be sent via fax to (507) 634-7691 or mail to Fire Back!, TS&MF, Ashdown Inc., 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN, USA 55944. All correspondence must include your full name, address and daytime telephone number in case verification is needed. Letters may be edited for length or clarity. Anonymous letters will not be considered for publication.12 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

CORONATION SET RAISES A MYSTERYDear Editor:Your TS&MF issue 217 article “Re- about five years.visiting Coronation Coach Set Trig-gered by Abdication” is very interest- I learned someing and certainly got my attention. time ago that they I also have the old Britains Coro-nation set No. 1477. However, it’s not closed shop andcollector Steve Rollason’s 75-piece1937 version as pictured. sold all of their I purchased mine at least six to soldiers to some-seven years ago from Ron Ruddellof London Bridge Collector’s Toys one in the U.K. Iat a show for $3,000. My set mustbe a later issue. I counted the pieces would have lovedand came up with 78. But I countedthe two figures inside the coach, the to have boughtcoach, horses and all of the other free-standing figures. Is there any way to that collection asdetermine when this set was manu-factured? I did notice that I only have they only carriedthree mounted officers, not four asshown in your photo. The photos I’ve high-end col- Items from the old Britains set No. 1477, including the State Coachsupplied show the set intermingled lectibles, not items carrying King George VI, are the cornerstone of collector Don Wilk-with other toy troops, but if you lookclosely you can see the pieces. geared for tourists. ens’ Coronation display. An interesting As a sidebar, I knew Canadians Patand Raghbir Dhillon, meeting them story that Raghbir told me was that tor James H. Hillestad’s article onfor the first time at their waterfrontantiques shop in Toronto, then fol- just before we met, he suffered from military mascots. As my saying goes,lowed them when it moved to KingStreet. I owned a condo in downtown a serious case of Parkinson’s disease. “If you are not careful, you can learnToronto for about 10 years and wasin that great city every other weekend He had heard that the University of something every day.”and summer vacations during thattime. I have not been in Toronto for Rochester, N.Y., was looking for vol- Don Wilkens unteers to test a newly invented pro- Radnor, Pa., USA cess that could potentially reduce the The Editor Responds: Thanks for the violent spasms of the disease. Raghbir kind words. Your Coronation of British said his condition was so bad that he King George VI set was only available had nothing to lose, so he contacted from 1937-1941 and it was uncata- them and they sent a limo to pick logued. How many pieces were included him up for the treatment. The result might vary depending on how things are was beyond belief. He was 97 percent counted as you indicated. Also, the factory cured of shaking and for the 10 years was known to be inconsistent sometimes, that I knew him he had no signs of Parkinson’s. To this day, I do not know so perhaps someone just grabbed things what the treatment was. that were the handiest when boxing your As always, great articles in issue very special and huge display set when it 217, especially my favorite contribu- was brand new.FLAGS FAN ENJOYED BANNER ARTICLEDear Editor:As a collector very interested in vexol- Flags of Charlemagne, Canton Uri and (flag by Carl Hoegermeyer; bearerogy, I was really pleased to see Curtis Charles I (from left) from the collection of by Frontline Figures); and the royalSleight’s comprehensive and beauti- John L. Worden III. standard of King Charles I circa 1640fully illustrated article on the signifi- (flag by me; figure by A Call to Arms).cance of flags through the centuries in occasion of his Coronation as the firstTS&MF issue 216.  Holy Roman Emperor (flag by myself; John L. Worden III figure by CBG Mignot); the flag of Arlington, Mass. USA I believe that his figure of Napo- Canton Uri, Switzerland, circa 1450leon kissing the 1812-style French GET WRITING!flag depicts the “Farewell at Fon-tainebleau,” a last visit to the Imperial Win a prize by sendingGuard before departing for exile on in a letter on anythingthe island of Elba. concerning the toy soldier and model figure hobby. Perhaps your readers would be Each month a special surpriseinterested in photos of a few flags gift will be awarded to the Starfrom my collection. They show the Letter writer!banner presented by the Pope toCharlemagne Dec. 25, 800, on the TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 13

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FEATUREToy Soldier TributeTo Taylor & TrophyJames H. Hillestad profiles the late Len Taylor of Trophy Miniatures, who made dreamscome true for legions of toy soldier collectorsText and Photos: James H. HillestadEditor’s Note: Leonard John Taylor, the man behind one of best brands in toy soldier hobby history, died in Wales Feb. 26, 2016. Afuneral service was held in Cardiff March 11. Len is survived by his wife, Valerie; two sons, Russell and Stuart; four grandchildren,Becky, Gwyneth, Melerie, Sophie and Joshua; and four great-grandchildren, Zak, Maya, Lara and Summer. After phoning Mrs.Taylor to convey my condolences as both a collector and as the editor of TS&MF, I decided to update and rerun this tribute to Lenand his Trophy brand originally penned by The Toy Soldier Museum’s James H. Hillestad for issue 115 in 2007.My memories of Len Taylor date back to 1984. I had recently unearthedthe toy soldiers of my boyhoodand rediscovered my delight inthem. Then, at a U.S. show inSchuetzen Park, N.J., I saw my first1:32-scale, painted metal figures madeby Len’s Trophy Miniatures of WalesLtd. Len Taylor at home in his garden, where Trophy signature nameplate produced Wow! Talk about animation, varied Trophy sprouted in the legendary potting during the 1990s. Only a half-dozen of shed. these promotional items were made andposes and excitement! provided to mostly U.K. dealers for shelf Combining a U.K. business trip ing, so to avoid summer’s heat, Len displays. The writer’s addition of British slept during the day and worked in the 24th Foot figures reflects the Welshwith a detour to Wales, I met a shed at night. Occasionally, he hosed company’s affinity for the regiment and itsginger-haired Welshman who would down the shed roof to make conditions role in the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879.become a very good friend. That more bearable.friendship with Len spanned 32 years, On their next visit, they presentedand greatly contributed to my enjoy- Like most toy soldier makers at us with a box of Welsh Glengettiement of the toy soldier hobby. the time, Len had zero inventory. As black tea, to be brewed strong enough soon as a figure was painted, dried and to stand a spoon in, and enjoyed with aHOBBY HOTHOUSE packed, it flew out the door. Fortu- generous splash of milk. Live and learn! nately, I had placed an order in advanceDuring my first visit in 1984, the Tro- of that first visit, so my trip to Penarth At that time we were having onephy manufacturing “plant” was a 12 by was not only enjoyable, but fruitful. of our open houses at The Toy Soldier25-foot potting shed at the back of the Museum and the Taylors were specialgarden behind Len’s house, located ona quiet street in Penarth outside Car- MY LITTLE CHICKADEE guests.diff. We had four Norwegian elk- Len and his lovely, gracious Sculpting, casting, painting, packing wife Valerie visited my wife Carol and hounds that had the run of two fencedand bookkeeping were all carried out I in Pennsylvania the following year. acres behind our house. With thein this extremely confined space. How- noise of cars arriving for the openever, painting sometimes spilled over to Eager to make them feel at home, house event, the dogs eagerly ran tothe kitchen table in the house. I proudly served them a cup of tea on the front door of the house. their arrival -- mint herbal tea. The A small heater in the shed took look of surprise -- or was that horror Val, being a convivial and oblig-the chill off -- though only just -- in -- on their faces as they drank it is ing person, and not knowing thatwinter. There was no air condition- memorable. the front of our house was un-16 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

FEATURELen Taylor catches up on bookkeeping surrounded by toy soldiers and paints in the Jackson Buys Trophy Brandcramped quarters of his garden potting shed. Len Taylor retired with the sale of Trophy Miniatures of Wales Ltd.After outgrowing the potting shed, Trophy moved to new quarters at a British Petroleum to Ken Jackson in the autumn ofcomplex in 1985. 2006 (see TS&MF issue 100).Nile River gunboat -- the first in a series of maritime models produced by Trophy. This Trophy’s 3,000 molds wereoriginal prototype is in the writer’s collection. It has a label signed in June 1985 by maker moved from Wales to Scarborough,Len Taylor, who translated the gunboat’s name painted in Arabic on the prow to the North Yorkshire, England, whereThafir. Ken is the proprietor of the Maison Militaire toy soldier business. The range was renamed Trophy Herit- age. “I was attracted to Trophy be- cause of the wonderful animation that spans the gap between tradi- tional toy soldiers and connoisseur figures,” Ken related. --James H. Hillestad fenced, repeatedly let the dogs out to greet arriving guests. This made for a very exciting morning as we waved to the new arrivals while running through the woods chas- ing after the dogs. To add to the excitement, an errant chickadee flew into the museum. Len and I managed to get it out. He was gleeful that he got to see a chickadee. It so happens that comic film star W.C. Fields was a favorite of his, and Len always was curious as to what “my little chickadee” looked like. BREWING A BUSINESS Born in Wales in 1929, Len spent his teenage years working in a local brew- ery. Then he joined the Royal Regiment of Artillery. After a 3-year tour of duty in Ma- laya and getting discharged in 1951, he found employment in the auto trade. Twenty-some years later, the depot where Len worked closed down, so he decided to pursue a lifelong passion for military modeling and history. He began making figures commercially in 1972. It all started for Trophy in the pot- ting shed. Demand for its toy soldiers steadily grew. The business moved to new quarters in a British Petroleum complex 10 miles away in 1985. The new facility was a marked improve- ment, with four separate work areas and a “showroom” in the entrance hall. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 17

FEATURE Cloth elements of Trophy products, suchArt Imitates Life as the sails on the Arab dhow, were hand-sewn.It has been said that if you want to see who made a figure, lookclosely at its face. Trophy’s Welsh coal miner proves the pointhaving been modeled after proprietor Len Taylor. Len’s daughter-in-law, Lorna, was pany led the way with civilian figures.the office manager. His son, Stuart, Every year a special Christmas setwas the production chief. Val, who was produced. Many of these werewas in charge of the packing shop, was commissioned by The Toy Soldieralso responsible for the all-important Museum. The most popular onetea service. was Christmas 1991’s “The Will- ing Team,” inspired by a painting by Mike Norris, who would go on Victorian artist John Garland.to establish Little Legion Toy Sol-diers, was involved with training the In 1985, we drove Len, Val andpainters. Michael John was the pattern Michael John to the Annapolis Toymaker (sculptor). Soldier Show in Maryland, where they unveiled a dazzling Indian Durbar el-FULL STEAM AHEAD ephant bearing a howdah in which sat the Prince of Wales.When one reflects on the variety offigures that Trophy has released, the At the same time, the Nile Rivermind boggles. gunboat named Thafir was intro- duced. This was the first in a unique Under Len’s direction, the com-Len Taylor’s personal favorite set Producing model figure kits was Lenportrays detective Sherlock Holmes Taylor’s forte in the early 1970s until hisand Dr. Watson in a Hansom cab. glossy toy soldiers became a hit. One of the earliest kit items was this magnificent Polish winged hussar. Dapper couple ready for a night on the town during the Victorian era.18 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 19

FEATURE“The Willing Team” was the most popular Christmas set ever produced by Trophy for The Toy Soldier Museum.series of wonderful boats. All were Just to pack and ship these enor-done to the highest standard. Even the mous boats was a daunting task.cloth work was hand-sewn. But I have yet to hear of an instance where one arrived damaged. Soon to follow was an Arab dhowand then the magnificent, 39-inch Nile 50,000 FIGURES PER YEARRiver paddle steamer Victoria, com-plete with 30 figures. Unlike some makers, who believed their responsibility ended when an Next in line were American Civil item received its last brush stroke, LenWar gunboats, with the Eagle on the was determined to see every productUnion side and the Leopard making through to a collector’s display case.steam for the Confederacy. Both mod- His emphasis on quality was a hall-els were more than 36 inches long. mark of the excellence and attention to detail that Trophy came to be known The last boat in this nautical series for.was the British gunboat Lion fitted outfor the Crimean War.“Cheers to the Hunt” vignette. British Lt. Teignmouth Melvill attempts to save the Queen’s Colour of the 1st/24th from falling into the hands of the Zulus at the Battle of Isandlwana in 1879. Trophy figure of the Duke of Wellington.20 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

FEATURE Early Trophy figures of Highlanders. Note the robust drum major and the drummer boy.The Prince of Wales arrives for an Indian Durbar on a magnificentelephant. Civilian items produced by Trophy included the horse-drawn London bus with advertising for a rather well-known toy store. British officers mull strategy during a desert campaign.Trophy’s Napoleonic figures, such as the French Imperial Guard, Pairs of original Trophy figures from 1986 (at left) and updatedproved most popular with collectors, according to Len Taylor. versions from 1996 depicting the company cook and soldier home on leave. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 21

FEATUREBonnie Prince Charlie and Scottish clansmen of the 18th-century The circus comes to town for some clowning around.Jacobite Rebellion.World War I U.S. infantry on the march. British siege gun of the Boer War. The company had 18 in-house Indian Army staff car.workers and 32 home workers in 1995 Pirates celebrate a successful– the year of peak production. quest for treasure. Production rose to 50,000 fig-ures per year. Through the courseof Trophy’s history, more than 3,000different figures were produced – anawesome testimony to both the successof the toy soldier items and the hardwork of the people behind them. A worldwide network of dealerssupported the business. Trophy’s wareswere carried by vendors in the UnitedKingdom, United States, South Africa,France, Belgium, Spain, Italy andAustralia.Q&A WITH LEN TAYLORWhile preparing this article, I askedLen a few questions that might interestcollectors of Trophy products as fol-lows:Q. How did the name “Trophy Minia-tures” come about? A. That’s a fun one. Back in theearly 1970s, Mike John and I produceda small group of figures under the nameHarlech Models. Soon thereafter wewere told by an English dealer that thename Harlech was registered to him.22 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

FEATURE Many Trophy items are evidence of a wry sense of humor, including a set portraying an old salt returning home after a year at sea. He plans to surprise her with a parrot, but she has an even bigger surprise for him!Len and Val Taylor raise a toast to the legions of toy soldier collectors who made Trophyof Wales so popular by saying, “Shu my bobine! (To your good health!)!”After many cups of tea while struggling A. Well, that’s a tough one. But I guess Looking at the figure’s face, there’s nowith a new name, I looked up at the top I would have to say helping a down- doubt about who made this sandwichof my soldier cabinet where I displayed cast man who had lost his legs find a board man!a line of trophy cups that I had won at new life through toy soldiers. He wastoy soldier shows over the years. Not attracted to our figures as they offered ABOUT THE WRITERseriously, I said to Mike, “Trophy Min- him some rare pleasure.iatures -- every one a winner.”   James H. Hillestad is the  He became interested in painting proprietor of The Toy SoldierMike kissed me and that was it! them, so we provided him with cast- Museum in Cresco, Pa., USA.  ings, which we delivered and picked upQ. How do you account for the at his home -- a fair drive. He became Special edition logo figure made bysmooth and lustrous finish that so quite proficient and we helped him Trophy for The Toy Soldier Museum’sdistinguishes Trophy figures? convert a small car so that he could be 10th anniversary in 1995.  independent. We also built a ramp forA. For years we used Humbrol enam- him at the factory. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 23els. The tins were left open to let the  paint age for varying lengths of time He painted for us for 14 years. Histo satisfy stringent coverage and gloss name was Roy. When he died, thestandards. vicar at his funeral thanked us on  behalf of Roy’s family for giving him aQ. What was or is your personal fa- quality of life that he would otherwisevorite figure or set? not have had.   A. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson Q. What are you going to do now thatin a Hansom cab. you’ve retired from toy soldier making?   Q. What was most popular with col- A. Well, Val and I love to travel. Welectors? just took a cruise to St. Petersburg in  Russia. I enjoy painting landscapes inA. Napoleonics, closely followed by oils and acrylics. And, when I’m notthe Zulu War. Every time the mov- tending to my garden, I am delvingies “Zulu” or “Zulu Dawn” were shown into genealogy.on TV, the phone rang off the hook!   Let’s just say, I’m keeping busy!Q. What was your proudest achieve-ment?

FEATURESpanish Civil War 80thAnniversary MilestoneMilitary miniatures and history aficionado A.J. Mergenthaler pens a remembrance ofthe Iberian conflict that presaged WWIIText: A.J. Mergenthaler Photos: A.J. Mergenthaler, Alex Credidio & John JenkinsThe year 2016 marks the 80th German Condor Legion Messerschmitt Bf-109E fighter planes swoop down from the sky anniversary of the beginning to support Nationalist ground forces in a Battleground Art diorama featuring military of the Spanish Civil War, but miniatures by JJD. The SCW was the first time the iconic Bf 109 saw operational service.it seems like forever ago it was front (Photo by Alex Credidio)page news. This precursor of World War IIand the conflagration that ensued wasmore than just a civil war betweenliberal and conservative Spanish po-litical entities fought between July 17,1936, and April 1, 1939. It was alsoa warning of the coming Fascist andCommunist struggle that would go onfar beyond the end of WWII. The armed conflict stemmed fromopposition by a group of National-ist generals of the Spanish Republi-can Armed Forces, monarchists andconservative groups to the SecondSpanish Republic’s leftist, elected gov-ernment headed by President ManuelAzana. Gen. José Sanjuro originallyFigures of Nationalist Gens. Francisco JJD model of a Russian-built BT-5 “Betka” light tank. A battalion of these Soviet “FastFranco and Emilio Mola (from left) made Tanks” fought on the Republican side. Their 45-mm guns easily outmatched opposingby Julia. German and Italian tanks. (Photo Courtesy of John Jenkins)24 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

FEATURENationalist army private, Spanish Foreign Legion soldier and Julia figures of Republican Gens. Valentin Gonzalez, who wasMoroccan Regulare (from left) by Julia. known as “El Campesino” (The Peasant), and José Miaja (from left).spearheaded the coup conspirators, but “The armed conflict stemmed Before his death, Franco restoredhe was killed in a plane crash July 20, from opposition by a group the monarchy and made King Juan1936, while returning to Spain from of Nationalist generals of the Carlos I his successor. He led Spain’sexile in neighboring Portugal. Spanish Republican Armed transition into a parliamentary Forces, monarchists and democracy under a constitutional Sanjuro was eventually succeeded conservative groups to the monarchy.at the rebel helm by Gen. Francisco Second Spanish Republic’sFranco, who led the Nationalists to leftist, elected government MILITARY UPRISINGvictory. Fascist Franco ruled Spain as headed by President Manuela dictator for 36 years until he died at Azana.” The Spanish Civil War erupted in Julyage 82 in November 1975. 1936 with fighting in the capital cityJJD depictions of German Condor Legion pilot Hans Schmoller-Haldy and his “Mickey Mouse” Messerschmitt Bf-109E fighter. The aircraft’smarkings include the Steffel unit emblem of 3.J/88, the aviator’s personal beer mug symbol and “CP,” which is said to have stood for apilots’ drinking game club called the Order of Cardinal Puff. Hans did not score any kills in Spain. He was wounded in Russia in 1942, butsurvived WWII. (Photo Courtesy of John Jenkins) TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 25

FEATUREPanzer I light tank of the German Condor Legion by JJD. A total of JJD’s Condor Legion SdKfz Panzerbefehlswagen command tank122 were sent to Spain to offset Soviet armor. (Photo Courtesy of converted from a Panzer I Ausf. B. Designed purely for commandJohn Jenkins) and control, these tanks originally had a fixed superstructure and extra radio equipment, but no armament. The St. Andrews cross was commonly painted atop Nationalist tanks to avoid strafing by friendly aircraft. (Photo Courtesy of John Jenkins)Julia figures of a Portuguese volunteer, Falangist and artillery Julia miniatures representing French, American and British fightersofficer (from left) of the Nationalist forces. (from left) from International Brigades that fought for the Republican cause.Madrid, Barcelona and Seville, espe- tle-hardened troops, the balance of Republican Miliciana from Julia andcially. In its early hours, the military power rapidly turned in favor of the standard-bearer by Alymer.uprising was successfully overcome by Nationalist forces.loyal government forces in major cit-ies. However, this early containment Initially, Gen. Franco and Gen.was very short-lived. Emil Mola were the co-leaders of the insurrection. However, Mola was Adolf Hitler’s Nazi Germany killed June 3, 1937, in a plane crashquickly came to the aid of the Nation- during bad weather, leaving Franco inalists. A sealift combined with an air- complete control of the Nationalists.lift by German Junkers Ju 52 transportplanes enabled the Spanish Foreign Spain’s armed forces and CivilLegion and Muslim Regulares based Guard (national police) split to eitherin the protectorate of Morocco to the Nationalist or Republican sides.make the Mediterranean Sea crossing Falangist and Carlist factions wereto the mainland. incorporated by the Nationalist forces. The Catalan and Basque areas were The military situation radically solidly Republican throughout thechanged almost overnight. With the war.arrival of these highly trained and bat- The fighting was bitter, with little26 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

FEATURESoviet BT-5 “Betka” light tank modeled by JJD as having been captured and put into Alymer figures of Condor Legion soldiersNationalist service. (Photo Courtesy of John Jenkins) from Hitler’s Nazi Germany allied with the Nationalists.An atmospheric Battleground Art diorama depicting a Condor Legion airstrip somewherein Spain features a German fighter and airmen from JJD. (Photo by Alex Credidio) or no quarter given by either side. As a result, atrocities were committedRepublican officer, private and political commissar (from left) by Julia. regularly against military personnel and the civilian population, especially in the war’s early days. For example, the slaughter by the Nationalists in the bullring in Bada- joz of some 1,500 Republicans after the city had fallen was matched in Madrid, if not in numbers, by the storming of the Model Prison and the killing of Nationalist prisoners held there.   FOREIGN FIGHTERS Foreign involvement played a major role in the war. No doubt the aid given by Hitler and his Condor Legion in the form of aircraft, artillery, tanks, heavy machine gun units and training personnel, along with similar support from Italian Fas- cist dictator Benito Mussolini’s Corps of Volunteer Troops (CTV), were instrumental in the Nationalist victory during this so-called “Civil War.” Not to be outdone, Soviet Com- munist leader Josef Stalin sent (not without charge) aircraft, tanks, train- ers, officers and political personnel to bolster the Republicans. Volunteers from many countries also fought on the Republican side. Citizens of the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, France, Germany, Poland and others from 51 nations arrived in Spain to form TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 27

FEATURE Republican pilot and Durruti Column private by Julia.Italian CTV figures by Alymer representsome of the foreign military personnel whoserved with the Spanish Nationalists.International Brigades and fight theFascist threat. Major battles were fought through-out Spain. Weather conditions wereno deterrent. Combat in bitter cold orsweltering heat on the coasts, plains,mountains and valleys destroyed towns,cities, industry and historic structures.“The fighting was bitter, withlittle or no quarter givenby either side. As a result,atrocities were committedregularly against militarypersonnel and the civilianpopulation, especially in thewar’s early days.” Civil wars are unique in that they Republican infantry and Civil Guard officers Carliest Requetés militia soldier andpit citizens of the same country against (from left) by Julia. standard-bearer from the Republicanone another. Many Spanish families forces produced by Julia.were fractured by religious or political whittled down the Republican forces,differences. support and equipment needed to city of Guernica on a market day in overcome the Nationalists. The disas- the late afternoon of April 26, 1937.   trous defeat of its Ebro offensive sealed The sleepy town was of no real military the fate of Republican Spain, and with value. The complete destruction ofBITTER BATTLES it hope of a democratically elected Guernica with a loss of lives estimated government. at 1,650 was a deliberate terror at-Occupying Madrid was a major goal tacked aimed at testing Nazi Luftwaffeof Franco from the very start. But the Of special note was Condor Legion skills and tactics for the Second Worldcapital city held out until March 1939. pilots’ carpet bombing of the Basque War that would shortly follow.Some of the most bitter and sustainedfighting took place in and aroundMadrid’s University neighborhood,frustrating Franco no end. In the early days of the war, a majorNationalist symbolic victory took placein Toledo, where Col. José MoscardoItuarte held out in the besieged Alcazarfortress for 70 days until being relieved byFranco’s Army of Africa Sept. 27, 1936. The Battles of Teruel, Malaga,Santander, Belchite, Tarragona and Va-lencia, to mention just a few, eventually28 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

FEATUREJJD models of a Soviet Polikarpov I-16 fighter aircraft and mercenary pilot Frank Glasgow Tinker, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academywho became an ace for the Spanish Republicans. This revolutionary, speedy and diminutive design was the first operational low-wingcantilever monoplane fighter with retractable landing gear. Soviet pilots called it the “Ishak” (Donkey) while it was dubbed the “Rata”(Rat) by Nationalists and “Mosca” (Fly) by Republicans. (Photo Courtesy of John Jenkins) Technology and the means of destruction may change and become more efficient. But what doesn’t change through the ages is man’s greed, love of power and proclivity to harm his fel- low human beings. The one thing man seems to learn from history is that he doesn’t care about or learn from history.   COLLECTIBLE COMBATANTS The 54-mm figures from my collec- tion illustrating this article are all solid metal and made in Spain. My Condor Legion, Italian CTV and Republican standard-bearer figures were produced by Alymer. The remainder were made by Julia of Madrid.Republican forces are represented by a Soviet T-26 light infantry tank with a commander Also pictured are examples ofand hitchhiking infantry available separately from JJD. (Photo Courtesy of John Jenkins) authentically detailed aircraft and ar-ABOUT THE WRITER mored vehicles from a 1:30-scale Span- ish Civil War series created by JohnA.J. Mergenthaler was a co-owner of TBC Graphics, a typesetting and printing Jenkins, the namesake of his manufac-company, in New York City and Rockland County, N.Y., USA. After the business turing company John Jenkins Designswas acquired by Bowne & Co., he became vice president and sales manager ( JJD). The same maker’s collectiblesof Intergraphic Technology and Action Graphics. The retiree is a longtime toy appear in accompanying photographssoldier and model figure collector. He has also contributed articles to several of dioramas created by American Alexhobby and history-related publications through the years. In addition, he was Credidio of Battleground Art.one of the founders of the Military Historical Society. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 29

FEATUREToy Troops Take TorontoScott J. Dummitt delivers a report on the Ontario Model Soldier Society’s annual showand competition staged inside the Visitor Centre at Canada’s historic Fort YorkText: Scott J. Dummitt Photos: Scott J. Dummitt and Neil McGavockWhere could someone see It took a lot of patience and everything from an English scrambling by OMSS President Tom fox hunt to a Russian Elliot and On Parade Chairmanwinter warfare scene, a tiger hunt in Norm White, but finally everythingIndia and every schoolboy’s delight: a was worked out. And, as they say, “Thetoyshop window display? The answer show must go on!”is the Ontario Model Soldier Society’s  (OMSS) 54th Annual On Parade in TRADERS & TREASURESdowntown Toronto Saturday, May 14, Once again the Society was fortunate2016. to have W. Britain represented at the The Toy Soldier Club’s Joany Beuregard andMembers’ displays and entries in show thanks to the presence of Ericka David Gauthier assist customers.the open competition at the show and Kenneth A. Osen. They brought still approximately 200 people madetransported attendees around the several displays and prototype figures it to the event. Besides U.S.-basedglobe. While the Canadian event’s for an eager crowd to see. W. Britain, vendors came from as farvisitors and participants might not In addition, the Osens organized away as Quebec City (500 miles) andhave been from around the world, they a drawing for a W. Britain Collectors Ottawa (278 miles). From Quebeccertainly came from all over the host Club membership and an “Overrun” City came one of the larger Canadiancountry and the United States. set (ref. 20150) depicting a British retailers: Toy Soldier Club. Locally,   24th Foot ambulance under attack by Toy Soldier Toronto, which is actually Zulu warriors. The lucky winner was a Web business based in Burlington,VENUE VARIABLES On Parade’s location seemed like OMSS member Alex Monsour of Ont., made its annual appearance asa yo-yo for a few weeks. The event Guelph, Ont. did my own business, Scott J. Dum-was held inside the Fort York Visitor Ken and Ericka came armed with mitt Presents of Bailieboro, Ont.Centre in 2015. However, financial W. Britain spring 2016 catalogs to All in all there were about 20 trad-complications put that venue beyond give out. As usual, they were also ers at the show carrying all the majorthe OMSS’s means for this year. happy to answer questions and listen lines of toy soldiers and model figuresThen two weeks before the 2016 to suggestions. past and present. Whether it was ashow, instead of the event being held Problems with the roads and poor U.S. Navy band produced by Ducalwithin the fort itself like the OMSS weather kept attendance down, but Models, the old Britains Fort Henryhad done for many years,it was announced that theroad to the historic sitewould be under constructionand there was no possibleway to get into its grounds.As a result, the Fort Yorkstaff moved the show backinto the Visitor Centre.If all that wasn’t enoughconfusion, the City of To-ronto decided to shut downthe Gardiner Expressway– the main superhighway tothe fort by Lake Ontario -- Treasures unearthed at the show included an old Crescent set of GIs acquired by Jeff Duncan.for yearly cleanup.30 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

FEATURE“Chadwick’s Toy Store” by John Hambly. Business was good for OMSS member Andy Travis and other vendors. Guard, John Jenkins Designs’ 1759 Battle of Quebec British longboat, or World War II German Fallschirmjag- ers made by King & Country Ltd., collectors could find them in the vendor area. There were some wonderful bar- gains and treasures unearthed. For instance, OMSS member Jeff Duncan found a 1950s set of Crescent GIs mint in the box. The set has eight U.S. troops, including a mortar crew with two shirtless soldiers painted in bronze for a deep tan effect. In addi- tion, a bazooka is cast separately from the GI designed to aim it. Canadian collectors were able to get their first look at Jenkins’ French andW. Britain General Manager and Creative Director Ken Osen chats with OMSS exhibitor Indian longboat fully crewed with 13Guy Elliot (from left). Royal Navy figures and 24 grenadiers of the 15th Regiment of Foot headed for Quebec’s Plains of Abraham. The whopping price of $1,700 Cdn (ap- proximately $1,278 U.S.) had many enthusiasts holding their breath, but when broken down it works out to approximately $237 for the barge and $39.50 per figure.   DETAILED DISPLAYS There were some wonderful displays, starting with Andrew Laschuk’s 1/6th-scale diorama measuring 15 feet long by 4 feet wide. His WWII tribute to Canadian and American troops featured a Sherman tank and two scratch-built Canadian Military Pattern (CMP) trucks, complete withOMSS member/trader Dennis DeRusha, On Parade Chairman Norm White and an troops riding along.unidentified attendee chat about a purchase (from left). TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 31

FEATURE“Queen’s Rangers Officer, c. 1777” by Scott Bruce Sandstorm painted a Henry V figure “Legionnaire Titus Pullo” as painted byJ. Dummitt. titled “We Band of Brothers.” Frank MacKay. Another crowd pleaser was Jim William Wyatt’s “Tiger Hunt” was a awarded the U.S. Medal of Honor.Matresky’s “The Fox Hunt” featuring fascinating little diorama of toy-style A large number of Canadians havealmost 100 riders, plus spectators and figures beating the bushes in an In- joined the U.S. military through thedogs. He had three foxes strategically dian jungle to flush out Bengal tigers. years and some have performed featsplaced in his display. Fortunately, the worthy of the highest American awardhounds and riders didn’t catch wind A unique display that will be an for valor.of them. ongoing project for years was Ian Pearson’s “Victoria Cross/Medal of Ian’s display garnered a lot of Geoff Price put together a huge Honor” presentation. He is paying interest because it includes Canadian,display of Black Watch, Grenadier tribute to British and Commonwealth British, South African, Australian andGuards and Coldstream Guards troops who have been awarded the U.S. figures. He reckons that he willfigures in his “On Parade” display Victoria Cross since its conception, be collecting pieces for years to comenamed in tribute to the OMSS show. as well as Canadians and Americans to complete this project. While not all Display of Victoria Cross and Medal of Honor recipients by Ian Pearson.32 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

Jeff Duncan’s Mexican “Viva Independence” display featured a parade past a taco truck. FEATURELance Darlow’s detailed WWI trench won Best of Show recognition.The Indian jungle “Tiger Hunt” by William Wyatt. of the figures are actually sculptures of the personalities Ian is portraying, the uniforms and time periods are accurate. Tom Elliot displayed a collection of the W. Britain “Flying Heroes” and Victoria Cross recipients produced in the past. Norm White had a large display of bagpipers and drummers representing numerous Scottish clans.   ROYALTY & PLAYSET There were several displays in honor of 2016 marking British Queen Eliza- beth II’s 90th birthday. For example, OMSS member Brian Holly came all the way from Alex- andria, Va., USA, to set up “Beating Retreat,” a massed display of House- hold Division soldiers and bands. He even remembered to have the drum majors in State Dress as the Queen was present taking the salute while riding Burmese, the horse presented to her by the Royal Canadian Mount- ed Police. Not to be outdone, OMSS Vice President Jim Qualtrough presented the “Queen’s Horse Parade” featuring mounted bands and units depicting British and Canadian cavalry and police. Guy Elliot had a wonderful display of troops from throughout the Brit- ish Empire and Commonwealth. It included the old Britains State Open Landau carrying figures of the Queen and Prince Philip as well as the State Coach designed to re-create Her Maj- esty’s Coronation in 1953. In addition, Guy had a plastic fort made by Marx in the 1950s/1960s and labeled Fort York. This playset was marketed under other names in the United States, but it was given a local name for the Canadian market. It brought back many memories as I played with my own Fort York set as a child, so we were able to reminisce about it. Other members who deserved thanks for adding to the visual appeal and interest of the show with their fine displays included Dave Norman and Gary Lenius.   TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 33

FEATUREWWII Germans populate the “Winter 1944” diorama by Lance OMSS President Tom Elliot closely inspects entries in theDarlow. connoisseur class. Part of Brian Holly’s “Beating Retreat” display.INNOVATIVE ENTRIES “The Fox Hunt” display by Jim Matresky.The competition attracted some in- Andrew Laschuk’snovative entries in both the toy soldier WWII display of 1/6th-and connoisseur figure classes. scale action figures and Lance Darlow from Trenton, Ont., vehicles.entered several pieces. His World WarI trench diorama took not only a Goldstanding, but was voted Best of Showby both the judges and general public. Qualtrough brought along a BritishRoyal Air Force band made by Phoe-nix Miniatures, a maker many hobby-ists hadn’t seen for many years. SteveRollason had an interesting display ofmedieval knights produced by severalcompanies.34 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE



FEATURE Toronto Police Ceremonial Mounted Unit, part of the “Queen’s Horse Parade” displayed by Jim Qualtrough. Don Ritchie’s display featured ated a small battle with his Seven The “On Parade” display created by Geoffbands from the Royal 22nd Regi- Years’ War figures depicting a French Price and named after the Canadian show.ment and the Canadian Guards. An artillery battery being attacked byunusual display, but a very familiar Prussian troops. ebration of the 195th anniversary ofsubject was Bryan Campbell and Joe Mexico gaining independence fromDebono’s “Blood and Fire” group- OMSS member Bruce Sundstrom Spain in 1821. Titled “Viva Inde-ing of various Salvation Army bands had some spectacular entries in the pendence,” his vignette featured morethrough the years. connoisseur category, with my fa- than 50 Mexican soldiers on parade vorite being his painting of a figure and a food truck selling tacos. Carl Mills, who works with of English King Henry V titled “We1:72-scale figures, entered a dis- Band of Brothers.” Fellow member One of the most unique com-play of Royal Canadian Air Force Frank MacKay showed off his paint- petition pieces at the show dis-personnel working on a F-86 Sabre ing skill with his ancient Roman played John Hambly’s interest injet fighter. Working in the slightly titled “Legionnaire Titus Pullo.” toy soldiers and demonstrated hislarger 28-mm scale, Jim Leatch cre- carpentry skills. He captured all col- Duncan submitted a toy figure cel- lectors’ hearts and boyhood dreams Bryan Campbell OMSS vendor/trader (foreground) Ed Tansley was selling and Joe Debono figures by Ducal and set up their other makers. Salvation Army bands.36 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

FEATURESteve Rollason shows offhis display of knights. Part of the W. Britain display brought by Ericka and Ken Osen to On Parade.with “Chadwick’s Toy Store.” It had Lance Darlow: “Red Baron,” “Mine WORTH THE TRIPtoy soldiers and mechanical toys Detectors,” “Winter 1944”  and “Cau-lined up on shelves behind a wooden tious Retreat.” The OMSS is Canada’s largest mili-window pane. Protruding from the John Hambly: “Chadwick’s Toy Store.” tary miniature society. It dates backbrick façade was a signpost holding Alex Monsour: “Australian Light to 1962, when it was first organizeda Chadwick’s sign. Horse.” as a chapter of the British Model Bruce Sundstrom: “Bergepanther Soldier Society.   1944.” Members come from all over Can-COMPETITION RESULTS   ada, with some in the United States Gold Awards and one in Great Britain. While theA list of competition awards winners Lance Darlow: “That’s Not Your Ap- show is only a one-day event, thefollows: ple,” WWII figures and WWI trench. members display diverse interests in Les Eslary: “The Afrika Korps, May the various scales and types of figuresCertificate of Merit  1942.” collected.Scott J. Dummitt: “The American Andrew Laschuk: “Rest Stop.”Revolution From Our Side.” Jim Leatch: “Battle of Rossbach.” Planning for the annual show and Jim Qualtrough: “Parade on the Tar- competition starts a year in advanceBronze Awards mac.” so it takes some very dedicatedPhil Andrews: “1st Division CAMC.” Don Ritchie: “Old Quebec.” people to make it successful. PlansJeff Duncan: “Viva Independence.” Bruce Sundstrom: “We Band of Broth- for next year’s show are already underFrank MacKay: “Legionnaire Titus ers” and “What Sorcery Is This?” way. It is well worth the trip to To-Pullo.” John Wong: “American Volunteer ronto to see what is displayed as wellCarl Mills: “400 Squadron F-86 Group.” as what is available from the vendors.Maintenance.” William Wyatt: “Tiger Hunt” and “La-Steve Rollason: “Knights in Shining dies’ Night in the Officers’ Mess.” ABOUT THE WRITERArmour.”Bruce Sundstrom: “The Pipes Are   Scott J. Dummitt retired fromPlaying” and “Vietnam 1970.” Best of Show the Royal Canadian Navy afterWilliam Wyatt: “The British Army Lance Darlow: WWI trench (selected 25 years of service. He is anCan Make Any Man Into a Soldier.” by the judges). avid collector of action figures and toy soldiers. He is alsoSilver Awards   the proprietor of the ScottPhil Andrews: “1st Canadian Para in Club’s Choice J. Dummitt Presents shop inAction.” Lance Darlow: WWI trench (based on Bailieboro, Ont., which sellsBryan Campbell and Joe Debono: attendees’ votes). items such as 1/6th-scale“Blood and Fire.” action figures, publications,   vehicles, aircraft and toy soldiers by various makers. The latter includes his own Pride of the Nation range of 54-mm figures depicting Canadian units. Scott is a past president of the Ontario Model Soldier Society. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 37

FEATUREGI Joe With a Little TwistGareth McGorman has an exceptional talent for telling stories and expressing humorwith his military miniatures and photography, according to writer Deb WeisslerText: Deb Weissler Photos: Gareth McGormanGareth McGorman adds a ances, they are soldiers nonetheless Armed with military miniatures and his tongue-in-cheek twist to the and violence and danger is what they sense of humor, Gareth McGorman enjoys age-old hobby of creating signed up for when they enlisted.” engaging in “cartooning with a camera.”dioramas and vignettes with toy This vignette depicts tiny and overawedsoldiers by injecting them with his TINY TERRORS German soldiers surrendering to him.inventive and mischievous sense ofhumor. The Toronto resident sets up his paints 1:35-scale military figures and soldiers and props in imaginative vehicles. “I sort of view what I do as car- interactions with everyday householdtooning with a camera,” Gareth smiled appliances and items. An iron, toaster, “Right now I’m working on aand said, “and with that in mind my pencil sharpener, screwdriver and Vietnam War-era U.S. Army soldierfavorite cartoonist would probably even the family cat become hugely and M113 armored personnel carrier,”be Charles Addams. He possessed a terrorizing to his little folks. he said.gift for making the absurd and themacabre relatable to a mainstream There are several figures he pur- “My parents are supportive andaudience, and most of his cartoons chased specifically for their unique perfectly willing to let me use any-were just as funny without any caption poses or possible interactions in a thing around the house as props,” Ga-at all.” scene. But before any posing is possi- ble, Gareth enjoys painting his figures Addams (1912-1988) was an first.American cartoonist best known forhis illustrations in the pages of The What began as a childhood hobbyNew Yorker magazine and for his involving wooden ship models anddarkly amusing and macabre charac- model planes has evolved into anters. Some of them became the basis adult pastime requiring meticulousfor the Addams Family. attention to details and knowledge of photography. Now Gareth builds and Instead of creatingan Addams-like worldinhabited by sociopaths,monsters and other-worldly creatures, Garethrecruits military minia-tures. He imagines histiny soldiers are living ina full-scale world facingenormous hazards. “I’ve tried to incor-porate that same sort ofmorbid absurdity as bestI can,” Gareth explained.“I’ve started insertingmyself into these photosas well and find it mostconvenient to cast myselfas the villain or tormen-tor. Whether it’s me, thecat or household appli-38 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

FEATUREreth added. “And my brother STAGING SCENEScertainly enjoys seeing hiscat Leia featured in some of When staging figures and props tomy photos.” photograph, Gareth begins with how his little people would behave in a Most of the Canadian’s daunting, full-size world.figures come from hobbyshops around Toronto. A “I might look at an object andfew are kits or aftermarket contemplate how they might interactitems modified to meet his with it or how they would operate asneeds.  a team to get something to function. I generally divide my figures into three Gareth finds that the categories: workers, those interfacingmost dynamic and versatile with various props; those in com-plastic figures are manu- bat poses, who might also double asfactured by MiniArt and workers; and those I treat as observers.Master Box, both Ukrain- There’s an old lady with a cane whoseian companies. He loves face expresses shock and an old manthe level of hand-painted dressed in a suit who is smoking acustomization he can apply cigarette. There are also a few offic-to each model, enabling him ers overseeing the work that must getto reflect a variety of person- done. The most important part of thealities and scenarios. process is determining which figures belong in each situation.” Gareth also enjoys goingto scale-model competi- Throw in a few prisoners, a pair oftions to view other people’s nude ladies, some scuba divers, a tankwork. He has always loved or personnel carrier and Gareth hasdioramas of cityscapes and the makings for a variety of quirky di-buildings while touring oramas that challenge his imagination.museums, so hobby-related The visual artist recently began stagingcompetitions offer another his figures and vehicles alongsidelevel of detail. full-size items from the pop culture of a particular era — comic books, TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 39

FEATURE40 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE







METAL REVIEWSPRODUCTS MARCH INTO THE MARKETPLACE With Editor Stuart A. HessneySHERWOOD FOREST, ECW, APACHES, WORLD WARS AND MOREBY KING & COUNTRY LTD.Reviewed by: Stuart A. HessneyAs I looked over the most recent ROUNDHEADS & ROYALISTS  ECW “King’s Lifeguardreleases from King & Country Standard” (ref. PnM058).Ltd., two thoughts sprang to mind: ECW combatants have been added“Geronimo!” and “I Like Ike!” That’s to the “Pike & Musket” series. Theybecause the Apache Indian leader and are absolutely stunning thanks to theirAmerican general are the subjects of characterizations, varied dress andfreshly minted 1:30-scale figures. applications of colors, shading and highlighting.ROBIN HOOD  Mounted Royalists armed withMedieval figures of Robin Hood’s love musketoons include the “Cavalierinterest Maid Marian (ref. RH007) Ready” (ref. PnM055) and the “Cava-and the minstrel Alan-a-Dale (ref. lier Shooting” (ref. PnM056). EachRH008) have been added to the Sher- is priced at £133.95 U.K./$119 U.S.wood Forest series. A white steed and colorful dress set apart the “Royalist Trumpeter” (ref. Inspiration for the miniature noble- PnM057; £144.95/$129).woman came from actress Olivia deHavilland, who filled the role beauti- Charles I’s forces are also beingfully in the 1938 film “The Adventures reinforced by “The King’s Life-of Robin Hood.” The troubadour is guard Standard-Bearer” (ref.based on actor Elton Hayes’ perfor- PnM058). A Parliamentarymance in the 1952 movie “The Story variant of the same figure isof Robin Hood and His Merrie Men.” dubbed “The Commonwealth Flag Bearer” (ref. PnM066). Either figure sells for $49 U.S. Either type sells for £72.95/$65. (U.K. prices are listed in this review when available at   the time of this writing). Maid Marian (ref. RH007). Alan-a-Dale ECW “Commonwealth (ref. RH008). Flag Bearer” (ref. PnM066).44 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

SWISS GUARD Renaissance-era morion helmets and colorful ceremonial uniforms of a design that has been attributed to Michelan-Apache-related sets gelo are sported by a quartet of Swissinclude “He’s Dead!”(ref. TRW091). Guards charged with protecting Roman“Geronimo” Catholic popes and Vatican City.(ref. TRW090)leads the Guardsmen with breastplates andnew groupof Apache halberds stand at either attention (ref.Indians. CE017) or at ease (ref. CE018). BodyECW “CavalierReady” with armor is not worn by a saluting corpo-musketoon(ref. PnM055). “Swiss Guard ral (ref. CE019) and a musician (ref. Musician/Trumpeter” CE020) from the Swiss Guard Band (ref. CE020). whose trumpet is hung with a ban- ner bearing the pontiff ’s coat of arms. These sell singly for $49.   APACHE INDIANS “The Real West” range has gained a half-dozen Apaches based on fierce warriors who were small in number but experts at raiding and revenge- style warfare waged against Spanish/ “Swiss Mexican encroachment beginning in Guardsman the 1600s, then American settlement at Attention” starting in the 1800s. (ref. CE017). Leading the way is a fabulous figure of the fearsome “Geronimo” (ref. TRW090; £144.95/$129), a prominent member of the Bedonkohe band of the Chiricahua Apache tribe. He is armed with both a holstered pistol and a Winchester carbine while mounted on a piebald horse. An associated set titled “He’s Dead!” (ref. TRW091; £111.95/$99) depicts an Apache plundering a fallen U.S. Cav- alry NCO’s revolver and cartridge belt. ECW “Royalist Apaches priced at £66.95/$59 apiece Trumpeter” (ref. PnM057). include “Taking Aim” prone with a rifle (ref. TRW093), “Bows and Arrows” (ref. TRW049), “Reloading” a rifle (ref. TRW092) and “Kneeling Firing” (ref. TRW095). Apache “Bows & Arrows” figure (ref. TRW094). TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 45

K&C Creates Cinematic “The Duellists Set No. 1”Napoleonic Duellists (ref. NA349) depicts movie characters Feraud versus“The Duellists” (1977), one ofAndy C. Neilson’s “all-time favorite d’Hubert (from left).movies,” has pointedly inspired a1:30-scale pair of fencing French “The attention to detail of the blue-gray uniform of the 3rd Hus-hussars. period is second-to-none in the sars and Feraud in the green dolman uniforms, the attitudes and even the and red breeches of the 7th Hussars. “Director Ridley Scott’s first changing hairstyles of the two mainfeature film is, in my opinion, one of protagonists,” Andy observed. Switching gears from toy sol-the finest and most authentic his- dier maker to film critic, Andytorical films ever made!” the King & K&C’s “The Duellists Set No. enthused, “Everything about thisCountry Ltd. cofounder and creative 1” (ref. NA349), priced at £111.95 small, intimate movie — it cost lessdirector exclaimed. U.K./$99 U.S., imagines the very first than $1 million U.S. to make — is of their clashes has begun after the exceptional. The military costumes, The movie was adapted from a temperamental and combative Feraud settings, actors, script and musicshort story by Joseph Conrad first took offense to a reprimand delivered are simply superb! Please see it andpublished in 1908. The writer’s by d’Hubert on behalf of his general. you’ll see what I mean.”inspiration came from the age of The painstakingly detailed matt figuresFrench Emperor Napoleon I and the cross swords with d’Hubert in the  true story of two of his hussar offic-ers who fought more than 30 duels --Stuart A. Hessneyduring a 20-year span beginningin 1794. The cavalrymen feuded onfoot and mounted with swords orpistols without resolving things. The movie characters are calledArmand d’Hubert and GabrielFeraud, and filled with the arro-gance and pride hussars becameknown for. They were portrayed byKeith Carradine and Harvey Keitel,respectively. Two-clean shaven sailors in white tropical dress make up the WWI Royal Navy “Oarsman Rowing Set A” (ref. GA030A).46 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

  All of the aforementioned swabs would fit right into the maker’s latestWWI JACK TARS whaleboat (ref. GA034). It comes with a coxswain in white uniform and costsBritish, French and German figures are £155.95/$139.being added to K&C’s range commem-orating the Great War centenary. The rest of the WWI releases are mostly circa 1914. The manufacturer previously releasedBritish Royal Navy seamen in blue I am highly enamored with a triowinter dress as part of a series based on of mounted French cuirassiers dressedthe fateful Gallipoli Campaign. Now little differently from their Napo-comes Jack Tar variants attractively leonic Wars forbearers of a centurymodeled in tropical white dress. earlier, except mainly for khaki cloth covers over their gleaming helmets. Pairs of seated clean-shaven sail- They are posed either studying a mapors are posed either rowing (ref. (ref. FW221), holding a drawn swordGA30A) or in the up-oars position (ref. FW222) or gripping a pistol (ref.(ref. GA31A). Sets refs. GA30B and FW223). These detailed heavy cavalry-GA31B supply bearded versions of men cost £139.95/$125 apiece.each type. Any of those four sets retailsfor £83.95/$75. WWI German “Boche Prisoners” (ref. FW225). Sold singly for £50.95/$45 arestanding sailors eitherpeering through atelescope (ref. GA032)or holding a boathook(ref. GA033). A French poilu posed pointing and uniformed in either early war bright blue and red (ref. FW224) or horizon bleu (ref. FW224B) retails for £50.95/$45. The “Boche Prisoners” set (ref. FW225), priced at £95.95/$85, is made up of a German infantryman and bloodied uhlan walking to the rear (ref. FW225).  WWI RoyalNavy “SailorWith Telescope”(ref. GA032). WWI French “Pointing Poilu” in early war uniform (ref. FW224).WWI Royal Navy “SittingOarsmen Set B” with full beardsand oars up (ref. GA031B). Thewhaleboat is available separatelyand comes with a coxswain. WWI French “Cuirassier Studying Map” (ref. FW221). TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 47

Pact of Steel partners Von Ribbentrop was the only member ed. “No other commander – British “Hitler and Mussolini … of the aforementioned quartet who or American – had the skill, patience Together” (ref. LAH199) survived WWII only to be convicted and overall understanding of what was in a Mercedes-Benz 540 of war crimes and hung in 1946. required and necessary to hold the coalition together and forge a fight- convertible.   ing force that ultimately helped defeat Hitler’s armies.”PACT OF STEEL IKE & VEHICLES K&C has paid tribute to Eisen-Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy ce- WWII Gen. Dwight D. “Ike” Eisen- hower twice before in the past. Twomented the “Pact of Steel,” a military hower, the supreme allied commander of its new versions cost £52.95/$47and political alliance, May 22, 1939. of Allied forces in Europe from before apiece and are titled “EisenhowerTheir foreign ministers, Joachim von D-Day to Nazi Germany’s surrender Wearing Ike” (ref. DD284) and “D-Ribbentrop and Count Galeazzo in May 1945, is the subject of three Day Ike” (ref. DD291). The formerCiano, respectively, signed the agree- new miniature portrayals in a choice figure shows the general in thement in Berlin. of uniforms. The 34th U.S. president chocolate brown and short battledress also gets Andy’s vote. jacket style called the “Ike” that he K&C is marking that fateful day had tailored in London in 1943. Thewith a set depicting Italian dictator “Through the years it has been latter variant portrays Eisenhower inBenito Mussolini and German leader popular, in some quarters, to ques- standard U.S. Army officer uniformAdolf Hitler celebrating by riding in tion and complain about Ike’s military with a full, four-pocketed jacket hold-the latter’s Mercedes-Benz 540 con- qualities and ability. K&C firmly be- ing plans for the 1944 D-Day opera-vertible (ref. LAH199; $259). The car lieves this to be wrong!” Andy assert- tion behind his back. Both types wearcomes with a SS driver and the Axis “pink” (actually more like beige/khaki)partners’ flags. trousers. Also new is a striding figure A third version of “Ike” (ref.of Ciano (ref. LAH200; $45), who DD294) was specially produced forwas Mussolini’s dashing son-in-law. the 10th Annual Texas Toy Soldier hosted by K&C and its Kings X shop in San Antonio during 2016’s Memo- rial Day weekend. It is modeled in the olive drab uniform the general wore before and after D-Day. Production of that $47 figure was limited to only 200.  To mark the 72nd anniversary of D-Day, four basic paratrooper re- WWII U.S. “Eisenhower Wearing Ike” jacket (ref. DD284). Italy’s “Count K&C’s WWII “Texas Toy Galeazzo Ciano” “D-Day Ike” Soldier Show (ref. DD291) in Ike” (ref. DD294) (ref. LAH200). standard U.S. in olive drab officer uniform dress.48 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE with plans for Operation Overlord.

D-Day “U.S. WWII German “Sd.Paratroopers Blast Kfz250/11 Panzerbuchse 41”Injury — 82ndAirborne” (ref. (ref. WH049).DD287-1). Pacific War “U.S. Marine Corps Jeep” (ref. AF036).The WWII German “JagdPanzer Pz.Kpfw. U.S. “Sheep Pen Tent”IV L/70” (ref. WH047) comes with a (ref. AF037).commander and removable side skirts. PACIFIC WAR Imperial Japanese Navyleases come in two variants portraying ace “Lt. J.G. Tetsuzo Iwamoto”either “Screaming Eagles” from the (ref. JN018) checks his watch while101st Airborne or the “All American” holding a flight map. The real82nd Airborne in action. A crouching pilot was officially credited withTommy gunner (ref. DD286) costs 92 kills by the end of WWII, but his$49. Authentic two-figure sets priced personal diary accounted for moreat $99 are made up of a radioman andTommy gunner providing covering fire than 200.(ref. DD285), a trooper rushing to theaid of a buddy wounded by a German  mortar shell blast (ref. DD287), and aduo cautiously advancing forward (ref. Recently released Pacific War mod-DD288).  els depicting U.S. Marine Corps A German “Sd.Kfz250/11 Panz-erbuchse 41” (ref. WH049) replicates Maj. Pappy Boyington’s Black Sheep A WWII Imperiala lightly armored halftrack armed Squadron can now be complemented Japanese Armywith a 2.8-cm gun that was produced by a weathered jeep with a Marine officer with afor only about a year. The polystone wearing a campaign hat in the driver’s samurai swordand metal model in gray paint costs seat (ref. AF036; £129.95/$115) commands airfield£189.95/$169. and a “Sheep Pen Tent” (ref. AF037; guards. A German “JagdPanzer Pz.Kpfw. £139.95/$125).IV L/70” tank destroyer (ref.WH047) comes complete with a com- Collectors can re-create a Japanese is-mander, protective mesh side skirtsthat are removable and a three-color land airfield with a land-based Mitsubi-camouflage scheme for $245. Andybelieves this is the first time a toysoldier company has produced thisparticular vehicle. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 49

shi AGM Zero fighter painted green K&C’s new WWIIand black with weathering (ref. JN016; Japanese “Land-Based$239).This is K&C’s fourth Zero vari- Zero” (ref. JN016).ant and it’s a limited edition of 250.Japanese aces include the Navy’s Lt.Hiroyoshi Nishizawa (ref. JN017), Lt.J.G. Tetsuzo Iwamoto (ref. JN018)and Petty Officer Toshio Ota (ref.JN024). Each pilot costs $49.Imperial Japanese Army airfieldfigures include a chief mechanic(ref. JN019) and two different pairsof ground crewmen (refs. JN020 or Greystone version of the “Lion’s Head WallJN021). An officer with a samu- Fountain” (ref. SP081).rai sword and Nambu pistol (ref. WWI Australian Light Horse buglerJN022) and two infantrymen (ref. bronze statue on a large greystone equestrianJN023) serve as aerodrome guards. plinth (ref. SP092-GR).Single figures costs $45 and the two-figure sets $89.   Sandstone version of the “Four LionsSCENIC ITEMSMiniature town squares or parks can Town Fountain” (ref. SP072).be enhanced with several scenic itemsavailable in either “standstone” or“greystone” color finishes. They aredesigned for a wide range of historicalsettings.For example, Andy thinks the “FourLions Town Fountain” wouldn’t lookout of place in either ancient Greeceor Rome or a 20th-century Euro-pean city. It has lions’ heads spewingwater out of their mouths and costs£61.95/$55. The smaller “Lion’s HeadWall Fountain” retails for £39.95/$35.New bronze-colored “statues’ depictSoviet leader Josef Stalin on foot(ref. SP091; $25) and either FrenchEmperor Napoleon I (ref. SP089) or aWWI Australian Light Horse bugler(ref. SP092) on horseback for $49apiece. Six more are in the works, ac-cording to Andy. Foot figures are designed to stand Mountedatop the small “Square Statue Plinth,” Napoleon bronzewhich sells for £39.95/$35. The “Large statue on a large sandstoneEquestrian Statue Plinth” has battle equestrian plinth (ref. SP089SA).scars and costs £55.95/$49. Collectorscan realize some savings by buying astanding statue and small plinth pack-aged together for $55 or an equestrianpairing for $95. Bronze statue of Filled with unique figures, vehicles, Marshal Stalin onscenic items and even a whaleboat, a greystone squarethis seems like one of the most varied plinth (ref. SP091-GR).batches of releases ever marched outby K&C. n50 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE