The Hangar Z Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Episode 175- Guardians of the U.S. Capital: U.S. Park Police Aviation Jul 04, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

This episode was recorded on location in Washington, D.C., from the U.S. Park Police aviation hangar, as part of The Hangar Z Vertical Valor Road tour.

We felt this was a great episode to release on Independence Day, the Fourth of July, 2024, which is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America.

Jack Schonely and Brent Bundy from Vertical Valor Magazine were invited into the U.S. Park Police Aviation hangar to see firsthand the good work they are doing as they protect the U.S. capital and its surrounding areas.

We had the privilege of talking to and flying with the assistant commander of the aviation Unit, Sgt Tim Ryan, and chief pilot Sgt Ryan Evasick.

Sgt Ryan began his career with the United States Park Police in 2004. After three years as a patrol officer, he transitioned to the Aviation Unit in 2008. Sgt Ryan has held multiple roles within the unit, including rescue technician, chief rescue technician, and currently, assistant commander.

His extensive training includes qualifications as a National Registry paramedic, tactical medic, and expertise in swiftwater rescue and high and low angle technical rescue. Originally from New Hampshire, Sgt Ryan now resides in Maryland with his family.

Sgt Evasick is the chief pilot for the U.S. Park Police. With 21 years of law enforcement experience and flying for the U.S. Park Police since 2013, Sgt Evasick holds commercial helicopter, certified flight instructor (CFI), and certified flight instructor instrument (CFII) ratings. His family includes his wife, a mental health clinician for the Virginia Department of Corrections; his son, a former U.S. Marine; and two beloved grandchildren.

Look out for photos, videos, and an article by Brent Bundy highlighting the U.S. Park Police on Verticalmag.com and the Vertical YouTube page.

We're excited to dive into their experiences, insights, and the incredible work they do with the U.S. Park Police Aviation Unit. So, let's get started and welcome Sgt Tim Ryan and Sgt Ryan Evasick to the Hangar Z Podcast!

Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Collins Aerospace and Precision Aviation Group.

Episode 174- Revolutionizing Airborne Communication: Lt. Clay Lacey on the Axnes Wireless Intercom System Jul 01, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

This episode was recorded from the Vertical HeliCASTS studio at HAI Heli-Expo in March.

Co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray had the opportunity to talk with Lieutenant Clay Lacey from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) about the Axnes wireless intercom system and how it has helped Texas DPS improve communications and situational awareness during flight operations.

Lt Lacey, a distinguished member of the Texas DPS, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the podcast.

Since his special assignment to the Texas DPS Aviation Operations Division in 2000, Lt Lacey has logged thousands of hours in the air, supporting critical missions such as criminal manhunts, surveillance operations, search-and-rescue missions, vehicle and foot pursuits, and airborne use of force. His dedication and skill have not only been pivotal in the field but also in the classroom.

Lt Lacey developed the Texas DPS tactical flight officer (TFO) training program from scratch and currently serves as a TFO instructor, sharing his knowledge worldwide on behalf of the Airborne Public Safety Association and various law enforcement units.

In addition to his instructional roles, Lt Lacey plays a vital part in the procurement and specification of equipment for the Texas DPS and acts as a consultant for emergency management and preparedness planning across the United States.

During this episode, we discuss the Axnes wireless intercom system. This digital, full-mission wireless intercom system is designed to enhance secure communications and situational awareness. The Axnes system is transforming the way airborne teams operate.

Its advanced integration into aircraft radios, mission maps, and intercom systems, along with its waterproof handsets and extensive battery life, make it an indispensable tool for aviation crews.

Thank you to our sponsors, CNC Technologies, Technisonic, and Precision Aviation Group.

Episode 173- Navigating APSCON 2024 with APSA's Dan Schwarzbach and Dan Knight Jun 27, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!

In this episode, Jack Schonely and I preview APSCON 2024, happening in Houston, Texas, from July 29th to August 3rd. We are joined by the Airborne Public Safety Association's Executive Director and CEO, Dan Schwarzbach, and Training Program Manager, Dan Knight.

APSCON 2024 is the annual conference for public safety aviation professionals worldwide, offering educational programs, hands-on training, networking opportunities, and the latest in technology and equipment.

Dan Schwarzbach brings 38 years of experience with the Houston Police Department, including 30 years in the Air Support Division. Since 2014, he has served as the Executive Director and CEO of the Airborne Public Safety Association.

Dan Knight began his law enforcement career in 1990, later joining the Federal Air Marshal Service and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. He now serves as the Training Program Manager for the Airborne Public Safety Association.

Tune in for insights on APSCON 2024 and the expertise of these industry leaders.

Thank you to our sponsors Robinson Helicopters, Spectrum Aeromed, and Precision Aviation Group.

Episode 172 Southern California Year Round Aerial Fire Fighting Jun 24, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!
In this episode, we talk about the ongoing battle against wildfires in Southern California, a region where the threat of wildfires persists year-round. For this conversation, we have the privilege of welcoming Desiree Horton and co-host Tony Webber to uncover the tireless efforts and evolving strategies employed by SoCal agencies to combat wildfires in a region where the fire season never truly ends.
First, we have Desiree Horton, a trailblazer in public safety aviation with over three decades of experience and more than 10,000 flight hours to her name. From her early days navigating the busy airspace of Southern California to becoming the first female pilot on an exclusive use contract for Region 5 with the U.S. Forest Service, Desiree's journey is one of perseverance and ground-breaking achievements. Currently serving as a fire/rescue pilot for the Kern County Fire Department, she continues to inspire and pave the way for women in the industry.
Joining Desiree on the podcast is Tony Webber, a seasoned helicopter pilot with a distinguished background in law enforcement and firefighting. With over 9,000 flight hours, extensive experience in mountainous terrain, and a strong dedication to safety demonstrated through his certifications and training, Tony's expertise is truly exceptional.
His decorated career with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, where he rose to the position of corporal/fire-rescue pilot, showcases his commitment to public service and his invaluable contributions to search and rescue missions.
Together, Desiree and Tony bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion for aviation to The Hangar Z Podcast, offering listeners a unique insight into the world of public safety aviation and firefighting.
This podcast recording is in conjunction with an article in the summer issue of Vertical Valor Magazine. Go to Vertical Valor online to check out the fantastic writing and content in the summer issue.
Thank you to our sponsors CNC Technologies, Metro Aviation and Bell.

Episode 171 - Phoenix Police Department Aviation Part II Jun 20, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this two-part series, co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Helene Balmir, a pilot from the Phoenix Police Department.

Born to a French-Canadian mother and a Haitian father who immigrated to New York in the 1960s, Helen grew up in Montreal, Canada. She is the youngest of three sisters.

From a young age, Helen was an avid skier, hitting the slopes before she could walk and competing in downhill skiing until she was 17. She attended a Catholic high school but took a brief detour from her academic pursuits for a few years. Despite this, her passion for sports led her to earn a scholarship for soccer and track, eventually pursuing a degree in criminal justice at a university in Missouri.

After graduating, Helen returned to Montreal for a summer before traveling to Arizona to visit her sister. Although she originally planned to continue to Hawaii, she fell in love with Phoenix and decided to stay, eventually applying to the Phoenix Police Department.

Helen's career with the Phoenix Police Department began in 2004, patrolling the busy Maryvale precinct. From 2008 to 2015, she served as a detective in the Robbery-Kidnapping-Extortion unit before joining the ATF Violent Crimes Task Force, where she worked undercover until 2018. She then returned to Maryvale patrol until 2020, when she transitioned to the Air Support Unit.

In 2021, Helen attended flight school, earning her commercial pilot's certificate by March 2022. Her extensive training includes three phases of TFO training, each lasting three months.

In addition to her professional achievements, Helen is passionate about dog sports and training, working part-time for K9 Defense, a company specializing in raising and training police and other working dogs.
Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Summit Aviation, and Precision Aviation Group.

Episode 170 - Phoenix Police Department Aviation Part I Jun 18, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this two-part series, co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Helene Balmir, a pilot from the Phoenix Police Department.

Born to a French-Canadian mother and a Haitian father who immigrated to New York in the 1960s, Helen grew up in Montreal, Canada. She is the youngest of three sisters.

In 2021, Helen attended flight school, earning her commercial pilot's certificate by March 2022. Her extensive training includes three phases of TFO training, each lasting three months.

In addition to her professional achievements, Helen is passionate about dog sports and training, working part-time for K9 Defense, a company specializing in raising and training police and other working dogs.
Thank you to our sponsors SHOTOVER, Spectrum Aeromed, and Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing.

Episode 169- York Regional Police with Andre Schabron Part II Jun 13, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this two-part series, co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Andre Schabron.

Andre is currently serving as a police helicopter pilot with the York Regional Police Department in Ontario, Canada. Andre contributes to the Air Support Unit, executing missions with precision and safety. His previous roles include supporting operations in the Arctic and remote oil-and-gas sites, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in challenging environments.

Before his aviation career, Andre served as a police officer and detective with the Zurich Cantonal Police in Switzerland, honing his investigative and leadership skills over nearly two decades. Additionally, his experience in the Swiss Armed Forces further enriched his teamwork and communication abilities.
Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Dallas Avionics and Robinson Helicopters.

Episode 168- York Regional Police with Andre Schabron Part I Jun 11, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this two-part series, co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Andre Schabron.

Andre is an accomplished helicopter pilot holding an Airline Transport Pilot certificate (ATPL) with experience across varied environments. With a professional demeanor and a proactive approach, he excels in team settings and thrives under pressure. His aviation experience encompasses flying in controlled airspaces and remote regions, including the Arctic.
Andre is currently serving as a police helicopter pilot with the York Regional Police Department in Ontario, Canada. Andre contributes to the Air Support Unit, executing missions with precision and safety. His previous roles include supporting operations in the Arctic and remote oil-and-gas sites, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in challenging environments.

Before his aviation career, Andre served as a police officer and detective with the Zurich Cantonal Police in Switzerland, honing his investigative and leadership skills over nearly two decades. Additionally, his experience in the Swiss Armed Forces further enriched his teamwork and communication abilities.
Thank you to our sponsors Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing, Summit Aviation and SHOTOVER.

Episode 167 - K9 Torque and the Huey Vets Part II Jun 06, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this two-part series, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Kris Stone, owner and handler of K9 Torque and the Huey Vets crew from EMU Inc.

In this conversation, the EMU Crew discusses their work with K9 Torque, a detection dog trained to find electronic storage devices. Torque specializes in finding flash drives and SD cards to help investigators gather evidence against child sexual predators and traffickers. Torque is also a therapy dog, providing comfort and support to veterans and children in hospitals and schools.

The EMU Crew also shares their work with Huey Vets, an organization that uses helicopters to raise awareness about the forgotten heroes of the Vietnam War.

We discuss the challenges and maintenance considerations of operating and restoring the Huey helicopter.

EMU 309 Geoff Carr, a Vietnam vet, and his team, discuss the battle damage and life expectancy of the aircraft during the Vietnam War. They also discuss the nonprofit nature of their organization and their mission to support veterans and raise awareness about PTSD.

Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Dallas Avionics and Metro Aviation.

Episode 166 - K9 Torque and the Huey Vets Part I Jun 04, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this two-part series, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Kris Stone, owner and handler of K9 Torque and the Huey Vets crew from EMU Inc.

The EMU Crew also shares their work with Huey Vets, an organization that uses helicopters to raise awareness about the forgotten heroes of the Vietnam War.

We discuss the challenges and maintenance considerations of operating and restoring the Huey helicopter.

Thank you to our Sponsors Bell, Precision Aviation Group and CNC Technologies.

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