Hobbyists show off handiwork, raise money for a cause

Dave Bullock, a U.S. Air Force veteran, hopes to turn his love of building model ships into a nationwide charitable organization called the Lifeboats for Warriors Project.

"The concept of doing it as a charitable cause is unique to all of us," Bullock said. "I think it's just a wonderful way to say thank you for your service."

Peter van Warmerdan, 82, traveled from Florida to have a model lobster boat auctioned off to raise money.

"I like the idea of helping other people," he said.

Van Warmerdan lost his father during World War II when a Japanese torpedo sank his ship.

"I feel for these children because I went through that," he said. "He was the best father I could ever wish to have."

To remember his father, Van Warmerdan built a replica of a submarine.

"My father was actually involved with the particular boat that I made a model of," he said.

The proceeds from Saturday's event were donated to the Gary Sinese Foundation and Snowball Express.