This fascinating
philatelic artifact tells the story of a "Ballonpost" flight
conducted on September 1, 1996, to benefit children suffering from cystic
fibrosis. The event, titled "Ballonstart zum Sommerfest der an
Mukoviszidose erkrankten Kinder," combined community spirit with the
unique tradition of aerophilately. Despite a minor delay noted by a green stamp
indicating the launch was "postponed due to bad weather," the balloon
"Albuch" successfully took flight from Heuchlingen.
The document is a
treasure trove for collectors, featuring striking markings that authenticate
its journey. Notable highlights include the blue circular seal of the
Bürgermeisteramt Heuchlingen and a red diamond-shaped Bordstempel (on-board
stamp) for the balloon "Albuch" (D-OAEG). It also carries a "Par
Ballon Monte" cachet and a purple "Luftpost" stamp, marking its
status as official air mail.
Piloted by Hans-Jürgen Stäudle, whose hand-signed signature authenticates the flight, the balloon covered 28 km before landing at Hohlenstein. This specific card, numbered 0272, was addressed to Rolf Groner and bears an 80-pfennig German stamp commemorating the Halberstadt Cathedral.
