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Reckon as much as we run our mouths ‘bout ‘em, they need their own thread.
The latest from here.
World War I plane takes students back to future
By Eric Feber
The Virginian-Pilot
© January 5, 2009
In the corner of the Aviation Institute of Maintenance's tidy, spacious classroom hangar on South Military Highway, the metal skeleton of an aviation ghost is rising out of metal tubing.
The World War I bi-plane, the Nieuport 24, stands regally in the corner of this former Food Lion building on the Chesapeake campus..
It's the same frame of a slightly more streamlined version of the single-seat Nieuport 17, heavily used in the "Great War" by France, along with England's Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service, the Imperial Russian Air Service, and the U.S. Army Air Service, which used 287 of these biplanes for training schools in France.
One of France's top aces and war heroes, Charles Nungesser, who called himself the "Knight of Death," had 45 victories and the Croix de Guerre (a French/Belgium military decoration) to his credit while flying the Nieuport. His silver two-winged steed was well-known to enemy and friendly aviators with its black heart, Jolly Roger, coffin and two lit candles emblazoned on the fuselage's side.
But what's a modern aircraft mechanic training school doing building a World War I airplane,
It's a way to take its students back to the future to apply classroom theory in real life. A group of AIM students are part of a volunteer crew engaged in building from the ground up a working scale replica of a two-winged charger used by those famed and fabled "Knights of the Air."
The project's gauntlet was thrown down last year by school owner and vintage airplane collector Gerald Yagen, said Brad Groom, Chesapeake campus academic and program coordinator.
Yagen owns the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach's Pungo section. He recently received approval from the Beach City Council to expand the museum, which opened in May, to add five buildings that will include a period hanger to exhibit the World War I planes under construction at other campus sites.
"He challenged every school to come up with a replica (of a WW I plane) as a way to observe the upcoming 100th anniversary of the war and to construct living history," Groom said. "It's also a way for students to learn about the very basics of aircraft, which can be applied to modern aircraft. It's to have our students build something on their own, to build up school pride."
All of AIM's campuses - others are in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, Orlando, Indianapolis and Manassas - took up the challenge, each choosing a particular model to build. Judges will select the overall winner. The top three schools will divide $100,000 for new equipment, and all aeronautic submissions will go on permanent display at Yagen's Pungo museum.
The Chesapeake campus' Nieuport project is headed by instructor Joe Eggers, a Portsmouth resident and former AIM student.
"He loves this for the engineering challenge," Broom said about Eggers. "He oversees everything; we call him our Einstein."
Anna Brown, a Williamsburg resident, has been with the project since July.
"I've always wanted to build an antique aircraft like this from scratch," she said. "You learn things you just don't get in a classroom."
Eggers thought the project was a good way to appreciate "the craftsmanship that goes into creating a craft of this type. You get to look at all the little details you don't see in modern aircraft."
When it's completed, more than 30 students will have worked on it. Those who began it last year have graduated and moved on to aviation jobs.
The current group of about 15 will graduate in several months, having completed a 19-month, FAA-approved course that includes instruction in hydraulics, sheet metal work, rigging, assembly, safety and engine/equipment maintenance.
All team members, after completing 10 hours work, get the right to wear the official team T-shirt with Nungesser's famous "Knight of Death" design. They work on it about two hours a day Monday through Thursday.
Each keeps his or her own log book, tracking the project's progress, challenges and mistakes. Broom also maintains a progress blog on the company's Web site at www.aimschool.com.
When the project began last year, Eggers and his crew first drew up a plan of attack and gathered the necessary materials.
With the exception of the craft's Rotec R3600 nine-cylinder, 150-horsepower radial engine made in Australia, and its propeller and wheels, the plane is being made from scratch using only general diagram schematics offered by New Hampshire-based Floyd Redfern, a senior manager of Lockheed Martin Mission Services.
"We take the lessons we learned in aircraft drawing class and apply them to real life," explained Blake Barnett, a Virginia Beach resident who has been with the project since May. "These plans only give general information, there's no real step-by-step directions. We have to calculate everything."
The plane's overall cost in materials will be about $39,000 with $18,000 just for the engine. The labor cost? In the thousands of hours, calculated Groom and Eggers. So far, about 5,000 to 6,000 hours have been tallied.
Richard Wilcolt from South Norfolk is the newest team member. He enjoys the total "hands-on experience, applying classroom theory to actual situations."
The students literally construct wings, metal tubing, fuselage coverings, brake lines, landing gear assemblies, wing struts, cables, landing gear, cockpit, control board, controls and rudders. Even the clamps to hold the wing assemblies together and the wooden work tables are handmade.
"This isn't something where you can go to your local Home Depot for materials," Barnett said.
Although the entire project seemed akin to constructing a giant hobby model, Greg Lord from Virginia Beach said it's all done to real scale, and it's not as easy as it looks.
"Everything has to be precise," said Great Bridge resident Ryan Ralmen, who has been with the project for 13 months. "There's no margin for error. "
When completed at the end of this year, the plane will be ready to take to the air. It will be about 250 pounds heavier than the original, thanks to a few modern touches, such as brakes, a frame made out of metal instead of wood and additional safety features.
"We all agreed we wanted to see it fly before it goes into the museum," said Daniel Dockery, a Virginia Beach-based student.
"We've taken all safety measures; we have confidence it will fly," Barnett added. "... It's a bit of history that can fly."
Eric Feber, 222-5203, eric.feber@pilotonline.com
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Well this is a great idear Arcey :D Lot of here that loves planes.
I'd like ta see pitchers of that bi-plane, please keep us posted if the paper continues ta follow the story.
Leo
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Can’t figger why the blue hell they didn’t have a photographer. One image woodah been nice. A reporter came to the shoot Saturday ‘n he had a photographer. The photographer was there two hours before the reporter was fer Pete’s sake. Ya’d think a reporter could carry a digital hisownself.
I know where the place is. Wonder if they’d let me in there.
Anyways, we gottah place ta talk airplanes if we wanna.
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I was watching the Military channel over the weekend. They were doing a feature on the old Douglas Skyraider. They had video of the planes at the Museum at da Beach that Arcey talks about. The collection includes a restored Skyraider. They had some real good video of all the planes in the Museum.
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I LOVE those WWI planes. All, the mono-, bi- and tri-planes. They were so cool.
I just rewatched The Blue Max with George Peppard about a month ago.
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Skyraiders were referred to as Spads back in 'Nam. they actually downed a couple Migs early on.
As far as the original WW I craft, they're all fascinating to me. Took some real sand to mix it up in those............Buck 8)
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I LOVE those WWI planes. All, the mono-, bi- and tri-planes. They were so cool.
Trinity:
Ya gotta come visit Litl Rooster. There is a Flying Circus right across the street!
http://www.flyingcircusairshow.com/
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Arcey, sounds like the place in Pungo is shaping up to a be a real showplace for aviation fanatics. Pretty incredible for what used to be a crop duster field and a place to launch the planes that fly the banners over the oceanfront.
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Trinity:
Ya gotta come visit Litl Rooster. There is a Flying Circus right across the street!
http://www.flyingcircusairshow.com/
Cool!!!
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Cool!!!
I did a WWI film as an English class project there back in 1974. They had a lot of older WWI aircraft then. They also had a Mitsubishi A6M Zero. It buzzed the crowd when no one was expecting it! :o
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The movie "Fly Boys" is perty good when it comes ta the bi's that were being used early on in the war. Fer anyone who likes the WWI stuff, it's worth a watch. ;)
Leo
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I did a WWI film as an English class project there back in 1974. They had a lot of older WWI aircraft then. They also had a Mitsubishi A6M Zero. It buzzed the crowd when no one was expecting it! :o
Uh... was it intentional? ;D
The movie "Fly Boys" is perty good when it comes ta the bi's that were being used early on in the war. Fer anyone who likes the WWI stuff, it's worth a watch. ;)
Leo
Seen it. It's not too bad.
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Dr.Dub, do you still have the movie you made? Can you digitally remaster it? YouTube is waiting
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Arcey, sounds like the place in Pungo is shaping up to a be a real showplace for aviation fanatics. Pretty incredible for what used to be a crop duster field and a place to launch the planes that fly the banners over the oceanfront.
They don’t look ta be slowin’ up none, cuz.
Don’t wanna think whut the buildin’ cost. Now they’re puttin’ up more stuff. Saw they’re gettin’ grants from a few universities. Ya’d think they’d spend some ta advertise. The day I went ta look there weren’t no one there ta amount ta anythin’. Never hear nuttin’ of it unless there’s an article in the rag. Nothin’ on local TV news. The village idiot is afraid ta talk of anythin’ local durin’ ‘is show on NIS. Sad waste of radio air time.
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Arcey, sounds like the place in Pungo is shaping up to a be a real showplace for aviation fanatics. Pretty incredible for what used to be a crop duster field and a place to launch the planes that fly the banners over the oceanfront.
don't they still fly the banners there?
theirs an outfit up here who sprays and seeds with a helicopter
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We got a great Air Museum in N. Dallas called Cavanaugh's Museum of Flight. Mr. Cavanaugh made a fortune in the software business. He has used this fortune to purchase Aircraft and build a facility to maintain and display them. The collection covers replicas of WW1 aircraft, restored WW2, Korean War, and Vietnam aircraft. As fair as I know, most are flown, except maybe the WW1 planes. www.cavanaughsmuseumofflight.com
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Dr.Dub, do you still have the movie you made? Can you digitally remaster it? YouTube is waiting
There is a copy (or two) running around on Super-8 (with seperate mag track). I would have to digitize it and sync up the audio track.
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Videos of those Air Shows are almost as good as being there. I always enjoy going out to Midland,Texas in the fall to watch the annual CAF Airsho.
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Used to be a company called Arrow, in Lincoln, that made airplanes. Did some searching, made two models, one a bi-plane, they have one hanging from the ceiling at the airport. Other one, a little later model was a mono-plane, used and interesting engine:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/ford_arrow_engine.jpg)
Yep a modified ford flattie.
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There is a copy (or two) running around on Super-8 (with seperate mag track). I would have to digitize it and sync up the audio track.
Dern, yer old!! ;D
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Dern, yer old!! ;D
Yup. My character in the movie flew the Nieuport 11:
(http://www.salute.org/images/Nieuport.jpg)
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Also had one of these. Too bad it isn't at the local Flying Circus anymore:
(http://www.ukskies.co.uk/R/images/RAF%20(Royal%20Aircraft%20Factory)%20-%20SE5a.jpg)
The S.E.5a
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Trinity swoops in behind for a dog fight.
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Check these links
http://www.photovault.com/Link/Technology/Aviation/Biplanes/TABVolume01.html
http://www.aviation-history.com/fokker/dr1.html
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Trinity swoops in behind for a dog fight.
Sadly, the Red Baron always gets him.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v289/niemoller/SopwithCamel.jpg)
Great sites, 10zzzzzzzzzzzzz!
The Dr I is just so cool!
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Ontly question is, who's idear was it ta put a fat bulls eyse on each wing ???
Leo
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Don't seem like too good an idea does it, maybe they figured if it was rifles shooting at em, that it'd be better to have em aimin at the wings rather than the engine or pilot. ya notice they didn't put no bullseye under either one of them.
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SB I still want that little 25hp homebilt plane
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Don't seem like too good an idea does it, maybe they figured if it was rifles shooting at em, that it'd be better to have em aimin at the wings rather than the engine or pilot. ya notice they didn't put no bullseye under either one of them.
Good point.
Leo
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That Spad has Lafayette Escadrille markings on it.
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Seein’ the Pungo place is plannin’ on puttin’ their Corsair in the air this weekend.
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Arcey, They had a feature on the Museum a couple of weeks ago on the Military Channel. They had some good video of the planes inside the hangar.
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Still don’t understand ‘em. Ya gottah toot yer own horn. They fly the ones airworthy, damned near all of ‘em, regular ‘n the only way the folks what might wanna watch know is checkin’ their website. By the time I knew they’d acquired the B-25 it was already there, on the ground 'n in the hanger.
Ain’t my operation. They kin run it the way they want.
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I'm thinkin' about goin' over to that Museum in N. Dallas and applying to be a Volunteer. I ain't no aircraft mechanic, but I can sweep the floor and dust off the planes.
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Wanna be a consultant myself. Was it the place in Richmond where they’ve got the Blackbird sittin’ out in the weather.
Was inside lookin’ it a beautiful ole gal. Had a kitty litter pan under the motor ‘n she’s steady leakin’ oil. Asked the tour guide if she was ever gonna fly again. Said no. Suggested they drain the crankcase.
Must drink Sam Adams. Don’t make no sense.
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I'll let you know if I get hired or not. Stay away from that Sam Adams it might ruin your taste buds.
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Watched a Harrison Ford movie with Lil called Hanover Street. It boarders on "chick flick" but has some good shots of repro B-25's. Can't say how well they did with the interiors cause I never been inside one.
Leo
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Leo, Most of the B 25s used in that movie were owned by folks in England and France. There are a lot of American WW2 planes owned by folks in England , Canada, and Europe.
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Well that's just a sin.
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Leo, If ya wanna see a beautiful LADY, Look up Miss Mitchell. She is part of the CAF and is assigned to the Minnesota Wing. The original "Miss Mitchell" was in the same Bomb Group of the 12th AF that my Dad was assigned. He was in a different Squadron. His outfit was what was the Doolittle Raider outfit after it was reorganized and sent to North Africa. There are only about 35 B 25s in existence.
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Ever watch Tom Selleck in "High Road to China" ?
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Missed that one, but if ya say it's good I'll look fer it.
Leo
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Yessir, I like Tom when he has that stubbly beard. Those planes look like Dehaviland Moths.
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Probably are, TLD...............Buck 8)
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Ya know, I forgot somethin' I was tellin' buck Sunday, an old faded memory, stopped at the store Sunday for some rolls, was a little plane headed to the airport, and as I headed in Saw the Sunday Omaha World Hearald on the rack.
Back when I was young, Grandpagot it delivered to the fame by a single engine plane that came over low and tried to drop it in te pasture east of the house. Remember how hard it was to read the funnies the time it hit the metal roofed garage. ;D
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Cool, we need a new paper boy. At least ya'd know when it arrived.
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Texas Country Reporter did a story about an old fellow that was about 90 and still flew. She delivered newspapers to folks up in Alaska by air.
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At the very end of this video there is an awsome shot of a four engine blowing a dam. I paused it and tried to save it but no go. Anyone knows how ta get me the pitcher gets a beer on me.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJ2FOBxshWY&NR=1
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It's almost too complicated to explain, so I'll just give you the basics.
Go to http://www.mediaconverter.org/ and download the video to your drive in the format of you choosing. Then use a video editing software to grab the image.
On the other hand, the easiest way is to pause the video, press the print screen button. Open paintbrush and Edit/Paste. Then you can cut the rest of the junk out.
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Thanks Trin, I'm still messing with it, but sure I'll get it right sooner er later. It's a really neat picture.
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Leo
The painting is of a Avro Lancaster during the bombing of the dams in the Ruhr Valley. I couldn’t find a site with the painting shown, but this site has a slew of Dam buster paintings.
http://www.aviationartprints.com/the_dambusters.htm
PS I always thought it was a great idea to use two converging spotlights to determine the exact altitude over the water to launch the bombs.
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We had a Lancaster fly out to Midland for the CAF AirSho a few years ago. It came from Canada. Those Lancasters are big planes.
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Avro also made another impressive bomber. The Vulcan impressed the heck out of me when I saw it fly figure eights at about 500ft within the airport boundaries at Mitchell Field in Milwaukee. (Watched Thunderball last night on TV. Too).
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Don't think there's but maybe two of those still airworthy. I know one belongs to the RAF over in England, believe I have a tape of the maintanence and crew flying it. Got it at Goodwill while Susie still worked there..........Buck 8) ::)
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I got to meet an RAF crew of a Nimrod anti-sub plane that flew from Northern Scotland to Midland for the AirSho. They had the Bombay area loaded with cases of Guiness Stout. I helped em drink a few of those cases that weekend. By the way, Guiness tastes pretty good with BBQ.
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ENGLAND FOREVER
Scotland a wee bit longer
Vive la france!
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Thank you Russ. Good stuff in that link.
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Got lost on that site fer awhile. Get a kick out of those Brits, they named the dambusting "operation chastise".
Can just hear, "Don't mess with me Gerry, I'll be forced to firmly chastise you!"
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Them Brits are the original "tight a$$es".
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Funny the Brits come up. Watchin a show on National Geographic channel called "Air Emergency--Ripped from the cockpit". It's an amazing true story about somthin that happened on a Brittish Airways flight. If you get a chance to watch it, do. It all comes down to some bolts mis-sized by .200th of an inch. I'm still scratchin ma head over it.
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I doan know Leo, 2 tenths of an inch is quite a bit when it comes to bolts... ::)
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Definitly not what you would call "close tolerance".
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Sorry if I typed that wrong, they said "2 one hundreths".
Anyhow, most folks would have let the captain go an jam up an engine. That flight crew made all the right choices and everyone lived.
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Sorry if I typed that wrong, they said "2 one hundreths".
Two one hundreths = 0.02"
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Not sure if I posted this here before. This place is just up the road from me, Great place if you like the pre 1940's era planes
http://www.oldrhinebeck.org/
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Major, Thanks for the link. I like the old miltary vehicles and the Indians.
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here's a couple of the allies
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A couple of "Poor Man's F 15s".
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I wonder if those missiles are armed :o
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I'm wondering if they're chasin' Fred Flintstone in the Flintstone mobile?
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I'm wondering if they're chasin' Fred Flintstone in the Flintstone mobile?
Now that was funny.
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"Speed is enforced by Aircraft"
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"Beware of Low Flying Aircraft".
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"Speed is enforced by Aircraft"
Always wondered about those signs ??? ??? Never could figure if the enforcement was going to be strafing, bombing or NAPALM ::) ::) ;D
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Russ T, I guess that would depend on whether or not you were speeding and whether or not you were fleeing.
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Here in Nevada it would probably be an FA-18 Hornet with a couple of AGM-65s Outta' Fallon NAS (Top Gun)! :o
No matter what! ;D
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I imagine they do carpet bombing when the bars close on Saturday night :o
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"Mess with the Best, Die like the Rest".
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We got them flyin' gas stations a lot around here.
Got a freak out last Tuesday,, was headed to work 'bout 11 am, when the in-ogg-a-ration was goin' on. Was out near the airport, waitin' at the light to turn on the by-pass, sounded like one a the fillin' stations was comin' in, wasn't, White wand blue, United States of America on it. They use our runway from time to time for paractice. Lincoln has a very nice runway, is considered an aternative for the Shuttle. ;D
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The specs for it are here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lincoln_Airport_(Nebraska)
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When I worked the west side of Fort Worth, I saw one of those 747's like you saw up there land at Carswell in Fort Worth. I also saw a SR71 and the NASA 747 with a shuttle on its back land out there also.
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When I worked the west side of Fort Worth, I saw one of those 747's like you saw up there land at Carswell in Fort Worth. I also saw a SR71 and the NASA 747 with a shuttle on its back land out there also.
With Offut about 50 miles away, we get all sort of stuff in now and then. They used to practice landing with the Looking glass planes also. Had a U2 drop in on 9-11.
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When that SR71 landed, he had an SP escort to separate hangar with an armed guard in front of it.
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We saw that stuff out there all the time when Carswell was still a SAC base. It's a joint reserve base now, everybody but the Coast Guard is stationed out there.
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When that SR71 landed, he had an SP escort to separate hangar with an armed guard in front of it.
Ya sure that weren't Roo?
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I imagine they do carpet bombing when the bars close on Saturday night :o
Leo
This is Nevada!!!! :o :o The Bars never close!!!! ::) ::) ::) ;D ;D
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Leo
This is Nevada!!!! :o :o The Bars never close!!!! ::) ::) ::) ;D ;D
Mebbe the crew sign waivers an fly over the boarder. Been known ta happen.
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Speaking of Nevada, Does anyone live in Sparks?
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Speaking of Nevada, Does anyone live in Sparks?
Is Reno close enough? Sparks and Reno are so co-jioned you can't tell which one you're in. I'm in Northwest Reno.
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Lookin’ like I’m goin’ be seein’ ‘n hearin’ a l’il more of the Hornets…………
I LOVE jet noise. GO NAVY!
Navy flight training to temporarily increase next month
By Lauren King
The Virginian-Pilot
© January 28, 2009
VIRGINIA BEACH
U.S. Navy squadrons will be conducting heavier than normal day and night flight operations beginning in early February.
The operations, including Field Carrier Landing Practices, are to support future deployments and training, a news release from Oceana Naval Air Station said.
Initially these operations will be conducted at Fentress Naval Auxiliary Landing Field in Chesapeake, but when it closes for routine maintenance Feb. 22 through early April, the day and night operations will move to Oceana in Virginia Beach.
These operations are expected to continue through mid-April.
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During WW2, the school children of Sparks saved enough money to buy a B25 bomber. This plane named "The Spirit of Sparks" was assigned to my Dad's Squadron in the Med. It flew over a 100 missions and never lost a crew member. It crash landed in Italy and was scrapped.
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Is Reno close enough? Sparks and Reno are so co-jioned you can't tell which one you're in. I'm in Northwest Reno.
There's an old saying, "Reno is so close ta hell, you can see Sparks ;D
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I was out at Reno about 20 years ago on an extradition. I got woke up by sirens sometime in the early morning. They had a tornado come through while I was in the hotel and didn't even know. I coulda used a couple shots of Bushmillas to settle my nerves.
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TLD
I found this, and I’ll have to go over to the Museum (haven't been there in more than 5 years) and try to get a picture of it. Have always liked the Mitchell, so close to the Fortress in my esteem, it's hard to pick a favorite!
January 11, 2005
Spirit sparks Sparks City Council Meeting
A replica model of the "Spirit of Sparks," the Mitchell B-25 bomber manufactured by Boeing, was presented to the City of Sparks in honor of the Sparks Centennial. Doug Summers, president of the local society of International Plastic Modelers Society, and Neil Hulse, the secretary, made the presentation. Hulse assembled the model.
The model is 14 inches long, 5 inches high and has a wingspan of 16 inches. Mayor Pro Tem presented the model to Dick Dreiling, president of the Sparks Heritage Museum board of trustees. It will be displayed in the Military Exhibit at the Museum on Victorian Avenue at Pyramid Way.
History
Several thousand citizens in Sparks began raising money to purchase a bomber for the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II in June 1944. Sparks Tribune Editor Edwin C. Mulcahy brought the idea to a meeting of the Sparks Bond Campaign Planning Committee. A fund raiser rally was held at the "B" Street Park (now the south side of Victorian Square). Women's groups, church and labor organizations assisted. Tobacco heiress Doris Cromwell, made a significant contribution.
Bond sale tables were setup at the rail yard on payday with Southern Pacific officials contributing. Local merchants contributed and every church in town passed the hat. Children went door-to-door soliciting donations.
By mid-July, with prospects for reaching their goal appeared likely, city officials contacted Boeing Aircraft in Seattle to arrange for the purchase. Workers on the line at the factory christened the plane as the "Spirit of Sparks" and painted the name on the fuselage before it was sent off to Europe in July 1944.
It's traditional for bomber crews to rename a plane for luck. Because the "Spirit of Sparks" was named at the factory for the efforts of the citizens of Sparks, the crews didn't change her name and never tampered with the luck. The "Spirit of Sparks" flew 112 combat sorties and never lost a crew member. The plane took a hard landing and had to be scrapped in Italy in late 1944.
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TLD
Went over to the Sparks Museum today and found the model. Sorry the picture of the nose art on the right side didn’t show up(not sure if it was the shaky hand or the glass case), but it did say “Spirit of Sparks”.
I did have to give the docents a history of the aircraft and why it’s there!!!!! I’ll be dropping off a copy the article I posted, just to keep them up to snuff!
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Nice pics Russ. Beats the heck outta goin to a casino.
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Russ, Thanks for the pictures. For some reason after about 43 they quit painting the planes OD and left them shiny. My Dad took a lot of pictures over there. I can remember looking at them as a kid. He even had a picture of the Sprit after it crashed landed. I wish I knew what happened to those pictures. Dad and Mom are both gone now.
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I'm in the same boat with the old pictures Pop. Dad's the only one left an he has no idea what happened to the bulk of them. I know of some pictures floating around out there that are hopefully being well taken care of. Several were taken through the drivers peep hole of a tank from North Africa, to Berlin and on into Poland. Wish I had em :(
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Leo, North Africa was the first place my Dad was deployed overseas.
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Think we mentioned it bafore, but there is a strong possiblilty that your dad and my uncle ran across eachother over there. He was a B-17 tailgunner over Africa. HIs brother Nick was the tank pilot.
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My Dad's overseas deployment was North africa as well. 19th Army engineers. he was present at the Battle of Kasserine Pass. Nasty business that one. he wouldn't talk about it................Buck 8) :-\
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Ya sure that weren't Roo?
never got down there
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The 7th SPS was at Carswell.
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Take a look at this..
Unbelievable film of WWII carrier landings
Here's an interesting story of Naval Aviation (the link is at the bottom). I do not know if the story is true, but the movie is an interesting glimpse of history. "Point of interest.. about 3 minutes 20 seconds into the clip, you will see an F6F Hellcat, it's hydraulics shot away during a strafing run, pancake on the carrier deck and slew into the island. A deckhand was crushed between the aircraft and the superstructure and killed. The number on the plane is 30.
The lanky pilot sitting dazed in the cockpit is a gentleman named Andy Cowan. He is hale and hearty at 87 and lives just north of Salinas , Ca. To this day he cannot recall this accident without a tear coming to his eye.
Andy is a marvel. He has absolute total recall of those bygone days. He is regularly invited back to the Naval War College to give a power point demonstration to the young fighter jocks of today's Navy. They hang on his every word. A living link to the past... to the days when you got up close and personal to kill the enemy. No over-the-horizon missile kills...
Andy was the longest serving Navy fighter pilot in WWII. He was on his shakedown cruise off Gitmo on December 7th, 1941. The carrier Ranger made flank speed to Norfolk and the pilots were transhipped to San Francisco by train, then sped to Hawaii by ship. He saw Pearl not long after the sneak attack, and again is unable to speak of it... a horrible disaster. He immediately went aboard the Lexington and in the course of the war had 4 carriers shot out from under him as he fought in every major Pacific battle... Coral Sea , Midway, Battle of Santa Cruz, Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima ... you name it. Credited with 4.5 kills. Flew with Butch O'Hare, Cmdr Thatch (inventor of the 'Thatch Weave'), flew with high scoring ace David McCampbell... served under Admirals Nimitiz, Bull Halsey...
He has studied the Japanese side of the Pacific War and is a recognized expert on their side of it. He can reel off the names of all their capital ships and admirals and battles from memory.
Remarkable man... and still alive to tell the tale..."
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7166330178234459087
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7166330178234459087
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I have been very fortunate to meet a lot of these WW2 aviators during my time in the CAF. Tex Hill, Gabby Grabeski, Paul Tibbets, Bob Morgan, George Gay and others. These old warriors are gems of History. One of the Moose's teacher friends father was one of the original "Black Sheep" ("Shifty Shiflett") who broke Pappy Boyington's leg one time when they were wrestiling in the O club.
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One of my biggest regrets…………..
Grew up in a ‘hood that was full of WWII veterans. Mustered out, were happy ‘n stayed in Norfolk. Served in Europe, most in the Pacific. Pictures of ‘em as young men in uniform in every home. Mr. De Forge ‘n ‘Uncle’ Tommy were top drawer folks. I was closest them. All were fine people.
Never had the mind ta look ‘em in the eye ‘n thank ‘em for what they went thru for my dumb ass. Just never thought of it. I’m mighty sorry I didn’t. The opportunity is gone.
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You can read about History from a bunch of Books, but being able to talk to those guys that are a living History is better than any book. Our WW2 veterans are leaving us and the Korean War vets are not far behind.
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Tommy was a Sea Bee. Mr. De Forge had a destroyer shot all ta hell.
J. Frank Owen was a Korean vet. The personification of a policeman. Werked hard at it but I couldn’t carry ‘is jock strap. He was born with sumthin’ I never had.
He’s still with us. The nice part ‘bout it is he’d chew my ass sumthin’ royal if he knew I said any of that. Wouldn’t be the first time.
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That was an intense video Sleep. Thank you.
A mentor of my Dad's in football coaching was a guy named Fred or Frank Stroemier <sp?> He was a Corsair pilot. We used ta visit an eat dinner at his house once a year or so. I was too little ta have a clue about the man and all the things he had done. I think he may still be kickin, I'll have ta ask.
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TLD, I envy you. I would've loved to talk with Gabby Gabreski, George Gay, or Tex Hill. Read about them since I was a kid. I believe Tex is still with us, History Channel program called "Dogfights" showed him about a year or so ago.......Buck 8) ;)
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Buck, I'm sorry to say that he passsed away before Thanksgiving.
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As far as I know, Gabby is the only one out of that group that is still alive.
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Aww, man! :'(
That makes a couple that were featured on Dogfights then. I believe Robin Olds died as well...........Buck 8)
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Gen. Olds died in 2007, He had a combined total of 16 kills. He was a "triple ace". He flew in WW2, Korea, and Nam.
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Joe Foss used to joke that he was also a Japanese ace, since he crashed five Wildcats on Guadalcanal. :D
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Joe has also passed away some time ago.
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Joe is credited with 26 kills which was second only to "Pappy" Boyingon who is credited with 28. Both of them received the Congressional Medal of Honor for their efforts.
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Many moons ago I used to work flight line safety at the EAA Conventions in Oshkosh. It was a lot smaller tan it is now, and a lot of us camped by a little grove of trees on the airport. Always had a big bonfire, and everyone would sit around and swap stories. Met Pappy, Bob Hoover and Chuck Yeager there, several years in a row. Last saw Pappy, just before his death, when he was signing pictures at the Planes of Fame museum in Chino, CA.
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Russ, I was out there in Chino back about 84 on a driving trip to LA. I enjoyed seeing that Japanese flying bomb that they have out there.
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If you get the Military channel on your cable or dish, they have a program called "Great Planes". The Museum at Da Beach is featured on the two episodes that I have seen this weekend.
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Was out riding the trails at the farm yesterday n two of the planes from there flew over. It was hard to see them well but it looked like it might have been a P51 and a Corsair.
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It could be either one. They've got a Mustang, a Corsair, and a P40. That's a real nice Museum at Da Beach and I hope to visit it when I come out that way for a visit.
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That would be really interesting to me, Susie not so much. I've got to get to VA to do some research, familywise. Would make for a nice trip.....................Buck 8) ::)
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The Museum is getting a lot of free advertising thanks to the Great Planes TV program.
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The Air Circus took advantage of the good weather Saturday past. There was 3 Pitt specials out playing
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Pitts Special: Big Engine in a little plane!
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If y'all ain't seen this before yer gonna love it.
http://www.dm.af.mil/units/amarc.asp
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Bro. Sleep, I've been out there many times. They have got a great museum. Most of the aircraft are outside. It can really get hot out there in the summer. The winter is the best time to visit, not as many tourist and the weather is cooler.
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Pitts Special: Big Engine in a little plane!
bout like putting a 454 in a karma gia
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I see google has attached some avaition banners to the bottom of this thread
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Bro. Sleep, I've been out there many times. They have got a great museum. Most of the aircraft are outside. It can really get hot out there in the summer. The winter is the best time to visit, not as many tourist and the weather is cooler.
good place to kick some tires TLD?
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That whole area is graveled so you can walk around all the planes. They've got FDR's plane and Eisenhower's plane open for tours. FDR's plane has an elevator in it for his wheelchair.
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Here a fun one...
http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/air_space/4304207.html
Didn't waste ma time looking over the litaney of reader comments, I'm sure there are some real gems. My Grandad worked for Northrop directly after Big II up until he retired in the 70's. He never got ta laughin so hard when someone on TV talked about UFOs an a pitcher would come on the screen. Often times he say, "hey, I worked on that thing!"
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Betcha even money the triangular thingys too many folks are seein’ flyin’ ‘round are ours. N’er very far from an air base.
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Can you say Tonapa?
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Saw a interesting program once about all the tecnology the nazis were messin with. Said they destroyed most of it bafore we could get our hands on it, but not all of it. Had some pitchers of some realy strange aircraft looked a lot like saucers complete with nazi markings. It was on History Channel. Went on ta show that us earth bound human beans have been fiddlin with the stuff fer many years.
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Last UFO I saw was one of them fancy two sting air-o-batic kites with a light stick on it. Was at a Rec area/Lake north of Lincoln a few years ago. Lets just say I scared the guys who had it half to death when I hit them with the beam from a 6 D-Cell Mag-Lite. ;D
An old deer hunter is sneakier than a couple a half drunk guys with a kite. ;D
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Got to remember to scan the areo-plane picture in the new book Rita got me, would make a few folks poop their shorts. ;)
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Readin’ ‘bout folks messin’ with levitation devices since I was a kid…..
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Last UFO I saw was one of them fancy two sting air-o-batic kites with a light stick on it. Was at a Rec area/Lake north of Lincoln a few years ago. Lets just say I scared the guys who had it half to death when I hit them with the beam from a 6 D-Cell Mag-Lite. ;D
An old deer hunter is sneakier than a couple a half drunk guys with a kite. ;D
reminds me of when we moved up here on the mountain, people was a little different, first one I got to know real good, I asked if any body up here had ever seen a UFO, answer was, oh that'd be ole Travis, he saw one back in 84, makin a pass over the mountain with a light shinnin down, later I asked if anybody had ever seen a bigfoot up around here, answer was, well back in the early 90's ole Travis, one night when he was coon huntin, tracked one for 14 miles up along the Mulberry river, :o
needless to say, when ole Travis comes around, I kinda keep one eye on him and watch what he's sayin. ;D
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Forgot I had an aero-plane picture in Photo-bucket. Some fair in North Dakota, Aug 1911. Seems they guy had a bit of a problem with his new-fangled gas-o-line engine and it quit runnin'. ::)
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/b385r.jpg)
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Can you say Tonapa?
My wife has a friend here that is of the belief that the contrails from aircraft are some sort of chemical dispersal. ::) ::)
The Reno/Sparks area has a slew of flight paths that converge over us, and sometimes, when to upper air has just the right moisture content, the sky is totally crisscrossed with lines for hours!
Then she totally freaks! :o :o
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My wife has a friend here that is of the belief that the contrails from aircraft are some sort of chemical dispersal. ::) ::)
The Reno/Sparks area has a slew of flight paths that converge over us, and sometimes, when to upper air has just the right moisture content, the sky is totally crisscrossed with lines for hours!
Then she totally freaks! :o :o
We get the same thing out here, we're along a lot of flight paths. ;D
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I've heard that one too Russ. Even heard a minister say that that is the rain of fire the bible talks bout.
Headline: Scandelous Skywriters are Agents of Angels of Armegedon. :o
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where's the masks at :o
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That suit would be real good in an atomic blast. Just like bein a foil wrapped tater. Pass the buter an sour cream.
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That lady would really freak out if she saw the contrails from a Thousand B24s flying over enroute to the Polesti raid.
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C2C can be an interesting show. Scientist, researchers ‘n such as guests makes, fer me anyways, good listenin’. When they go to opens lines I keep the remote close. That’s when the loons ‘n dopers call in.
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Black copters and special road signs.
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:o :o
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OT, Is that Zombies or "The Zombies", It's the "Time of the Season" to "Tell Her No" that "She's Not There".
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Who's yer daddy? Is he rich like me?
We had a late night radio show that brought out all the wierdos. Topics varied from gubberment spiracies ta UFO's an big foot. It was pure comedy, cept fer ya kept remembering these folks are really out there.
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I saw Elvis in a UFO!
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Tell me what? I really wanna know.
C2C was good when Bell had it. Noory takes on too many loons. The ‘remote viewer’ who was gonna find Steve Fossett ain’t never got nothin’ right. The numerology hag. The dumb assed bitch hypin’ ‘er ghost tours tellin’ folks ya could put two Titanics in the Queen Mary. Folks hawkin’ their books. Turn it off ‘n enjoy the quiet.
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Arcey, Them wacko's just begat other wacko's.
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The Mayan calendar folks. ‘Thems was injuns, theys knows things. The werld ends December 21st 2012! Whoa is us!’
Lemme tall ya, when 2359 on 21 December ’12 comes ‘round, a minute later it’ll be 22 December ’12. Not unlike the Y2K apocalypse thing.
That crap is borin'.
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Oh gawd, Y2K. Watched a lot of people not only worry but dump money inta useless crap. Gigglin while everyone held their breath. Oh dear me, the confusers that run the world are gonna think it's 1900 an tap inta all them data bases that existed back then. Only thing that happened that night was the sky bridge at Crown Center collapsin cause too many drunk idiots were jumpin up an down in it.
Oh, an the Eagles played without Joe Walsh.
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The ‘full moon’ thing. Gives ‘em an excuse ta act like a moron………
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Arcey, that full moon stuff exists. Our clients can be real handfull during the full moon period. I've got the bruises and marks to prove it :o :-\
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Arcey, that full moon stuff exists. Our clients can be real handfull during the full moon period. I've got the bruises and marks to prove it :o :-\
Ain't always the full moon, used to go to a 10pm AA meeting, learned not to go there in the dark of the moon, some of them got a bit weird then.
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Is that when the werewolves come out?
Spent a lot of time in east Ocean View dealin’ with drunks. Ain’t buyin’ it.
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Is that when the werewolves come out?
Spent a lot of time in east Ocean View dealin’ with drunks. Ain’t buyin’ it.
These were sober drunks, a whole different critter. :)
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The full moons at the burlesque show get folks ta actin strange.
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Things do get strange on those full moon nights, It always made the shifts go faster with all that stuff goin' on.
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Things do get strange on those full moon nights, It always made the shifts go faster with all that stuff goin' on.
Never met an ER nurse that didn't believe in the power of the full moon.
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I should have said, "one I knew as a freind", most ER nurses I'm not in the mood to interview them about the full moon at the time. ;D
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They be busy!
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They be busy!
Yeah, besides that I ain't in the mood to talk when they are shoving a tube down my nose. :-X :P
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did they have to use a lip chain on ya? ta shove that tube down yer nose
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did they have to use a lip chain on ya? ta shove that tube down yer nose
Nope, they just measure from nose to belly button, mark the tube, grease it up, tilt yer head back and slide it in, then they give you a glass of water and say "drink and swallow." ;D The trick is holding the water in long enough to get the pump started, see I never get one till I can't hold anything down. ::)
BTW next time ya get sick just tell them ya want an NG tube. ;D Loads a fun. ;D
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I prefer to do the sticking them down. have done horses and cattle
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As unpleasant as that all is, nothin is more akward than gettin a catheter. Specialy when you're full. :o
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I prefer to do the sticking them down. have done horses and cattle
Well you ain't gonna get near me with no fish bowl type hose, not that I don't think you know how, I just don't like cussing at freinds, and I do 'poligize to the nurses when they get it all done. Course I usually have bad viens then from being dehydrated. Have a dozen or more tries at an IV don't make me smiley. At last they have the "one nurse, two tries rule" to protect the nurses. ;D
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As unpleasant as that all is, nothin is more akward than gettin a catheter. Specialy when you're full. :o
Only had them put in when I'm asleep and taken out while the same. But you know. ::)
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Del, ya won't be cuzz'n much I get the lip chain on ya.. ;D
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Oh yeah, those cath's are sooooooooo much fun. the one time they had to do me, i had to aswk the tech if'n I was done yet ::) :o :-\
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Anytime them nurses start poking hoses or tubes in you , it can't be a good thing.
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That's tha truth!
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LR, My Dad was mighty handy with one of those lip chains.
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LR, My Dad was mighty handy with one of those lip chains.
He taught ya real quick not to mouth back at him didn't he. ;D
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Besides that, he usually went heeled.
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Got an impressive display of gunships escorting a Chinook just at sundown last night. Appeared to be escorting some dignatary to Dulles. Two of these for escorts about 200 ft off the deck.
http://www.1000pictures.com/view.htm?caircraft/helos+f080612-f-3585m-363_1024x768.jpg+x1024+y768 (http://www.1000pictures.com/view.htm?caircraft/helos+f080612-f-3585m-363_1024x768.jpg+x1024+y768)
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Who knows ? Obama had a message on TV last night at 2000. I didn't watch it but you never know about the guberment.
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Those remind me of the old Huey Hogs with the 50 cals mounted on the sides. Plenny of differences, but similar. What are they?
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Some them pirates tangled with a Seahawk last week. Crew orderd ‘em ta stop, they didn’t. First burst of machine gun fire over the bow. Kept goin’. Second burst under ‘em. Decided they’d stop. Helo circled ‘em ‘til the Zodiacs got there.
The boardin’ party found AK-47s ‘n a grenade launcher aboard. Video caught a boardin’ ladder they’d ditched.
Last I read, they were in cages aboard a cargo ship.
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Those Helos in the picture are Sea Stallions I think.
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Yeah, CH53. Not as close to the Huey as I thought when seen in profile. The windshield arrangement is a giveaway.
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I never rode inone of them but I did ride in Hueys and Chinooks.
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I never rode inone of them but I did ride in Hueys and Chinooks.
I rode a Clysdale several times... ;D
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I wish I had a 6 Horse hitch of Clydesdales with a beer wagon to appear in parades and rodeos.
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I wish I had a 6 Horse hitch of Clydesdales with a beer wagon to appear in parades and rodeos.
First ya better go an' ask tha folks at Owens Country Sausage how much it costs to keep one...
They have/had Belgians but I figger they the closest to you.
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When I worked in Richardson, our firing range was near the Owens farm. When the wind was right, you could smell the hog crap.
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When I worked in Richardson, our firing range was near the Owens farm. When the wind was right, you could smell the hog crap.
Tha smell o' money....
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"Here comes the King the King the big number one..."
Them clydes er impressive aminals, have some at the fair every year and then a whole show with em a few months after.
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Tha smell o' money....
They say that ‘bout the pulp thing in Franklin.
Got stopped by a train in West Point one mornin’, in the Mustang, with the top down. Thought I was gonna puke.
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Had some fellers open up a pig farm in ma childhood town. A hot summer day an yer eyes watered an ya fought ta hod down yer lunch. The onliest word I can think of fer it is vile.
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that smell is money is what the lady always said that we bought the turkey farm from, I'm tellin you something, if you maintain the litter at the level it's supposed to be and cake it out between flocks, there's not enough smell to tell much, I'm sure hogs are different, but it makes a world of difference how you maintain it.
boy we've had people comin by all day long, everything from invitin us to church to goin down to a neighbor and hookin up a light in his carport, was just a loose wire in his connection, had one of them screw on caps to join wires in my pocket, so I just had to put it on and it came on. got 150 used horse shoes from one visitor, quite a variety of visitors. ;D
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got 150 used horse shoes from one visitor, quite a variety of visitors. ;D
Git out tha sand an' ah shovel,
5 pits, no waitin'! ;D
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can't grind them old hoseshoes into glue :o
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Heard throwin shoes was God's favorite sport. He likes a six pack as much as the rest of us.
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George Bush Sr. had a pit built on the White House lawn somewhere.
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I think it was over in the area that's gonna be the watermellon patch this year. :o
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next to tha break dancin' slab....
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Alrighty! Then!
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OT, yer makin it very hard not ta post that New York Post cartoon ::)
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Go for It Leo!
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It's mighty tempting.
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It's mighty tempting.
no guts.... no glory... werst I can do is take it off ;)
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And a Time-Out in the corner!
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we're not easily offended on here, ::)
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Leo's afraid he'll get banned for life...
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Keep in mind this was run in the Post.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/400http3A2F2Fdyimgcom2Fa2Fp2Fap2F20.jpg)
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Bunch a arm twisters we got around here ;D
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Leo, I've seen a lot worse than that.
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Well ya know, ya gotta be carefull these days. I PMed that ta another fella last week when the gal that got her faced ripped off was still all over the news. Sorry if it twere too built up an came in below expectation, but it sure pissed alot of folks off in NYC. But then again everything pisses them off.
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My wife has a friend here that is of the belief that the contrails from aircraft are some sort of chemical dispersal. ::) ::)
The Reno/Sparks area has a slew of flight paths that converge over us, and sometimes, when to upper air has just the right moisture content, the sky is totally crisscrossed with lines for hours!
Then she totally freaks! :o :o
My son lives in N. Las Vegas and he'll tell you those con trails are he cleanest thing left in those skies. ;D
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Got an impressive display of gunships escorting a Chinook just at sundown last night. Appeared to be escorting some dignatary to Dulles. Two of these for escorts about 200 ft off the deck.
http://www.1000pictures.com/view.htm?caircraft/helos+f080612-f-3585m-363_1024x768.jpg+x1024+y768 (http://www.1000pictures.com/view.htm?caircraft/helos+f080612-f-3585m-363_1024x768.jpg+x1024+y768)
Those aren't Chinooks.
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we're not easily offended on here, ::)
I'm not easily offended anywhere. :D
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I'm not easily offended anywhere. :D
No, but I don't mind working hard. ::) ;D ;)
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I'm not easily offended anywhere. :D
I thought you were an equal opportunity offender Forty! :o ;D
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I thought you were an equal opportunity offender Forty! :o ;D
He is, he offends anyone he can, regardless of re-lig-ion, color, gender or :race." He ain't like Arcey and only likes NASCAR. ;D
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He is, he offends anyone he can, regardless of re-lig-ion, color, gender or :race." He ain't like Arcey and only likes NASCAR. ;D
Well heres a political statement that could fit in with that book ya tolt me about. "All NASCAR drivers er leftists but lean ta the right".
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Those aren't Chinooks.
They were escorting a Chinook
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The Chinooks and the Jolly Greens are gettin' to be antiques.
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The Chinooks and the Jolly Greens are gettin' to be antiques.
He's right - those Jollys aren't Sh..hooks. And as Jolly Greens go, they're pretty Special.
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I've flown in the Jolly Greens and the Huey's but never a Chinook.....Still see a few of them Antiques around here
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Old Rheinbeck Aerodrome was mentioned back a ways. Awesome place for pre-WWII planes.
I had the pleasure of meeting the late, Great Cole Palen (the founder) back around 1974. As a side note, Charles Schulz was a BIG air fan. The whole idea of Snoopy and the Red Baron was born at/because of Rheinbeck Aerodrome.
I had the good fortune to spend an entire weekend there back then.
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SHB, The pilots that hauled us around in the Chinooks were from the 1st. Cav. A bunch of crazy people, them pilots in their Black Stetsons. This would have back in 69.
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Every now an then we see a Chinook, they look so out of place in the sky these days. They were used in construction a lot when I was a kid an folks still said "whirly-bird".
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If it has rotors on it I got inta the habit of usin’ ‘helo’. How we referred to ‘em on the radio.
We were stuck with a loon back in the day. One whut was promoted WAY beyond ‘is point of competency. E’erone has at least one of ‘em. Had an event whut we expected trouble outtah so he manages ta get ‘isownself a helo ‘n a pilot. The boy’s name was Chuck, so when he was on the ground we called ‘im ‘Ground Chuck’, in the air he wes ‘Up Chuck’.
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As Jerry Clower would say, "He has done been educated beyond his intelliegnce".
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Almost quittin’ time on my last day in IA the first time. Alone in the office, e’er’body else had left early. The idiot called ‘n told me not ta leave, he needed an IA investigator. Asked ‘im what was up ‘n he told me I was gettin’ transferred so he couldn’t tell me.
That, mi amigo, is straight up. No exaggeration.
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I know ya hate the smiley things but... ???
Sounds like one confused bird.
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Arcey, Everyday I wonder why I waited so long about leaving the "Job". It had quit being fun along time ago.
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Arcey, there's a lot a them Rocket Surgeons at the top now. THey all got Blackberrys now and according to one of my coworkers one of them top notch thinkers was talking to his Blackberry during a meeting this morning. Mind you now, he wasn't talking to somebody on his Blackberry he was talking to the device itself! :o
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"Stupid is as Stupid does".
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Funny, BO wouldn't give up his blackberry either ;D
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Funny, BO wouldn't give up his blackberry either ;D
it's been destroyed and replaced with his stim u lie check
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When are we supposed to get these stimlus checks?
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When are we supposed to get these stimlus checks?
after the banks the automakers and a list of failing large companies
you know the media didn't want to hear my bail out plan
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I think a new pilot position may be available
http://shock.military.com/Shock/videos.do?displayContent=185873&page=1
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Them Migs don't roll down the runway too well when the landing gear is up.
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The pilot got out on his own accord he did good........I guess. Might depend if they will take the damages out of his check...
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I thought the Russian military didn't get paid anymore.
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I thought the Russian military didn't get paid anymore.
from his part time job at Mickie D's
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I thought they only got room and board. All the Borsht you can eat!
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He must have been so concerned about his Borscht that he forgot the part of flight training that went something like: "Retract your wheels as soon as possible to gain airspeed; however, make sure all wheels are airborne, not just the nose wheel!"
I can't say that I had that many flight lessons (and exactly NONE in a MIG ... darn it) but he sure made a "newbie" stupid mistake there!
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I wonder If he got sent to one them Goo logs?
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Well it's one less in the sky, an that's a good thing.
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ACOR gets thiers first.
Then some goes to the efforts to get Stu Smalley elected to congress.
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ACOR gets thiers first.
Then some goes to the efforts to get Stu Smalley elected to congress.
Guess he did a lot of them daily affermations. Had fergottin all about that bit. Prolly cause it sucked like everythin else he does.
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They had the "Thunderbirds" perform before the NASCAR race at LAS VEGAS.
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From what I've seen they are just as good as the Blue Angels. I have this weekends race recorded and am looking forward to seeing the planes.
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and from the cockpit
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rBkvX181vE&feature=related
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and from the cockpit
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rBkvX181vE&feature=related
;D ;D ;D
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I have been fortunate to have been able to see the "Thuderbirds", the "Blue Angels", and the "Snow Birds" from Canada. They are all exciting to watch.
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I’ve had the privilege of seeing all three also,
The Tutors aren’t quite as impressive as the F-18s or F-16s, but their eight plane formations kinda make up for it!
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Fergit why they showed up at the air show one year. We saw the Thunderbirds instead of the Angels. Some sort of exchange of Military assets. The Air Force boys ain’t got a thing ta be ashamed of. Damned talented. Kindah liked seein’ the Falcons for a change.
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They've got a gentleman's agreement that both teams don't appear together.
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Ain’t sure what the deal was. Can’t seem ta recall why. They swapped stompin’ grounds for a brief period of time er sumthin’. They weren’t together. The Thunderbirds had top billin’ for the show. I had no complaint with it.
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The Moose is sorta partial to the Blue jumpsuits that the "Blue Angels" wear. She like the way they fit.
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So do a LOT of women!
;)
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SHB, I guess that's okay. I like to see Danica Patrick in her driving suit.
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SHB, I guess that's okay. I like to see Danica Patrick in her driving suit.
Right on!
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I was gonna mention that last night Pop ;D
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She don't look too bad in a bikini, lying on the hood of a Shelby AC Cobra.
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Wunner why she ain’t showin’ no skin like the other girls do on them go daddy commercials…..
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She aint filled out enough fer that yet. Jump suit's workin good fer now.
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Leo, You ain't seen her in that bikini, she's doin' alright for a little girl. She can lay on the hood of my GMC any time.
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Wunner whut it is. A trend mebbe? Them Sprint Cup girls is built like the esteemed Ms. Patrick from the waist up. No boo… Ya know.
Me, I’d rather spend an evenin’ in deep NASCAR discussions with Wendy Venturini. My health insurance is all paid up. I’d need it.
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Wendy is definitely "well armed". Them shirt buttons are under a lot of strain!
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Danica Patrick...Looks Good to me :o :o
(http://www.google.com/images?q=tbn:zkI0m_Qf2HPXtM::www.qctimes.com/blogs/wp-content/uploads/patrick.jpg)
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Yeah, I'd say so. Hadn't seen that.
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Leo, You need to check out her "layout" in the SI swimsuit issue.
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Thanks fer the tip!
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Especially the one of her in the black bikini lying on the hood of a silver AC Cobra.
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Heck, Granmma Smedlap could look decent on an AC Cobra - I mean ... who's lookin' at the girl?!
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Jeff, You are getting OLD!
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mebbe ..
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Either that or I wuz just seein' who'd believe my ... uh, story.
;)
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Is that Cobra a 289 or a 427? ;D
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Can't tell, sumpthins in the way...
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/Danica_Patrick_427_Cobra.jpg)
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I'm gonna guess a 427, but who cares! Leo, Do ya understand now why I wanted you to check out the SI "shoot".
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Yeah Pop, I kinda got yer drift.
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nice shoes !
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At my age I'd rather have the car than the girl. I could sell the car to buy more guns and ammunition.
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Well bein that the thread is about aircraft, just think about nose art. That cheesecake gave our men somethin ta fight for! Ammunition at it's finest :D
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fer God & Country
and well maybe
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Aircraft, gentlemen, aircraft. ::)
Slim
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Aircraft, gentlemen, aircraft. ::)
Slim
Glad you sed that, I wasn't gonna be as nice.
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Figger it's all Leo's fault. BTW I think that ain't a real AC Cobra but one a them fiberglass repros.
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Figger it'sall Leo's fault. BTW I think that ain't a real AC Cobra but une a them fiberglass repros.
That's AIRCRAFT?
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(http://cdn.globalaircraft.org/media/img/planes/lowres/ah-1_4.jpg)
AH-1 Cobra
Slim
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That's AIRCRAFT?
Well they go fast enough to almost fly. ;D
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Not sure, it's got a wing, is this thing an aero-plane?
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/Cars/sb.jpg)
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BEEP BEEP!
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It's a Super Bird, Del. That may well be a copy, Del, but they did put Ford logos on the fenders. Yes, I looked at the car ::) If it's a 427 SC, they must've given the owner a bundle to let her recline on that thing, especially with spikes on. Now that I think about it, it ain't an SC, no fender flares.............Buck 8)
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(http://cdn.globalaircraft.org/media/img/planes/lowres/ah-1_4.jpg)
AH-1 Cobra
Slim
Slim I knew you was a bit of a Gamer,>referring to the Mighty Ten and the Dreaded Texas Star< but didn't know you'd go that far.
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One of those things, the star would drop over from fright ::) ;D
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Slim I knew you was a bit of a Gamer,>referring to the Mighty Ten and the Dreaded Texas Star< but didn't know you'd go that far.
I can dream. ;D
Slim
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Jeez Vegas, weren't you one of em that egged me on ta post somthin I was hesitant about before? Tolt me the the worst that could happen was that you'd delete it? Hmmm. I'll go back ta bein hesitant, yer a fickle one. ;D
Slim, I guess a Cobra is still a Cobra no matter what . That is one BAD gunship.
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Leo, I think the Apache is a little more modern with more avionics and firepower.
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We had Cobras back in the late 60s.
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The Cobras have been updated over the years, just like they've done with the B-52's and the A-10's. Get more years out of the systems that way...............Buck 8)
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Hey, Little Cobra, don't cha know ya gonna shut em all down!
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Hey, Little Cobra, don't cha know ya gonna shut em all down!
::)
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AH! The Ripcords!
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Weren't Apache based on the Cobra? The evolution kinda slowed down after the Blackhawks changed everything. I aint fully up ta speed on my modern choppers, fixed wing is my thing.
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fixed wing here's one i was looking at this morning made in Buck's neighborhood
http://usaircraftcorp.com/aircraft.php
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The Cobra was built by Bell Helicopter in Hurst, Texas. The Apache is built by Boeing.
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Spring little Cobra, gettin' ready to strike! this is playing on Susie's music channel right now ;D
TLD, where abouts in my area is this manufacturer? kind of a neat/nasty looking little package there.............Buck 8) ::)
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Thanks fer the link Roo.
Last helicopter I really looked at an got to know was the Huey. Built a model of a Hog when I was young, 50 cal gatlins an a nose gun with grenade launcher. A lot of parts in that box. Wish I still had it. I got too much glue on the pilot an he kind of melted but other than that it came out nice.
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first summer camp I went to, I was a water purification specialist, it'd take us about 3 hours every morning to make all the water we'd need all day and after we got done with that we were pretty much off, The helicopters were just across the road from us and they saw we had one of the big water tanks set up for our swimming pool, they'd come over and cool off there and invite us over to ride with them, they had to log in a number of hours while they were at summer camp, so I took advantage of it, I don't know how many hours I spent riding around with em but a lot, those 2 weeks we were there, they had Huey's and I can't remember the name but the smaller 4 or 5 seat jobs, they didn't have too many specific places they had to fly so they just took us on tours of the area about 150 mile circle, it was cool. I think I enjoyed that summer camp about as much as any I ever went to.
and that's sayin a lot if you've never been to a National Guard Summer Camp. ;D
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Great memory OT.
Lil used to get to go up in Bells over Tahoe as part of the Junior Weather Watchers. Got ta talk on TV an all that. When she got burned several years ago she was PO'ed that they had to cancel her Lifeflight and go in an ambulance to the burn center cause the chopper was tied up. Cared more about flyin in one a them things again than the injury.
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Buck, The US Aircraft Corp. HQ is in Canton. The Manufacturing is done in Akron.
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I suspect right at your Airport there..Buck I don't have the trade journal here at the house, I found it in. They allready have a few in service with the troops
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http://www.nj.com/south/index.ssf/2009/03/wwii_avenger_bursts_into_flame.html
What a shame, I grew up in the 60's on Long Island, near Republic field. Got to see and hear many War birds, just the sound of those engines gets your blood boiling. Hellcats used to buzz us at the beach, they had a B-17 with a lifeboat slung under it, AT-6s were abundant, Mustangs, A-26s, TBMs, not mention many post WWII aircraft. I also lived @Griffis AFB in the late 50s, Just when the fighter jocks were getting their first true supersonic aircraft. My mom used to go balistic when they came over @ Mach+ and the boom knocked her dishes over in the hutch...LOL..The F-100 was the Sexyist Aircraft I've seen, it looked fast and deadly just sitting on the ramp. The F-102 looked more like a rocket than an aircraft but it let out a true scream when it went past, those wings didn't look large enough to support it.
60
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1860, any word on the pilot yet?
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Ya see all kindsa of military helicopters at the ocean front. Flyin’ low ‘n slow. Crews hangin’ out lookin’ it the damned near nekkid girls.
Red blooded, beef eatin’, beer drinkin', American boys!
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Yea! What Arcey said.
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Damn shame 'bout that TBM. My Pop flew them in WW twice. So did Prez. Bush Sr.
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Be nice if my youngest weren’t a part of the eye candy. But she loves ta run half nekkid on the beach ‘n she’s a grown woman makin’ decisions all ta ‘erself. I suppose folks have ta donate ta our fightin’ boys well bein’.
If that’s my part – so be it.
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Spokin' like a true Dad, Arcey.
According to the article, the pilot jumped off the plane while it was still moving after touchdown. He got burned some, but not life threatening. It's a shame about that old bird though, not many of them left. Probably got a hole in the fuel line running from the left wing tank, more than likely where it folds up. Good place for extreme chafing..............Buck 8) :-\ :(
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Yer right 4 eyed, but I bet it doesn't (didn't) get folded up much these days. Most hangars got more room than those old carrier decks and the underneath hold did!
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They always have several of the old carrier planes at the Airsho at Midland. They bring em down the flightline in front of the crowd and fold and unfold the wings. The Wild Cat, Hell Cat, Bear Cat, Corsair, Avenger, Helldiver, Dauntless, and the Hawker Sea Fury all have fold-up wings.
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Well, They got "Tora Tora Tora" on AMC right now and "Midway " comes on next.
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I've already seen 'em a bazillion times and I still watch 'em whenever they show!
Must be some kind of character flaw! ;)
;D
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I've already seen 'em a bazillion times and I still watch 'em whenever they show!
Must be some kind of character flaw! ;)
;D
I have the same affliction.
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One of the best parts of the movie "Final Countdown" is watchin' those 2 Tomcats splash the 2 meatballs. WHO AH!
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The Longest Day is one of em I can watch over and over. You rarely hear about air support during the invasion other than airborn transports. There is a brief scene in that one where you see an RAF four engine bomber wrecked on the beach and the pilot trying to radio in.
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The c 47s carried the 82nd and 101st, but they also had some of them towing Waco gliders with troops and jeeps in them. The British also had gliders.
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Yeah, but I'm perty sure that plane on the beach was a bomber. Have ta look at it again, it's a very brief scene. Now if I can only find the thing...
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Richard Burton's character is an RAF pilot that is wounded in the leg, but he is at a house and not the beach. No airplanes around him.
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It ain't one of the main actors. I'm still looking for my copy...
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The Brit's used some converted bombers to carry airborne. they went out the bottom..........Buck 8) ::)
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Probably Wellington's or Lancaster's. They got some Lockeed Loadstars and called em Hudson's.
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Now that could be. The camera almost just pans over the scene. Turns out I loaned my copy out and fergot about it. Gonna get it back and look fer the plane again this evenin.
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I've seen film somewhere of Russian's climbing out on the wing and jumping off the back. ::)
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Them Russians are a little strange anyway.
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Them Russians are a little strange anyway.
Early 1930's learnin' was what it was, the plane had a door over the wing, you got in by going up a latter and on to the wing. I can't find nuthin' on the net, but as I member it was a corrigated metal plane like a Ford or Foker, could have been either.
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A Ford Tri-motor or a Junker JU 52.
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I think the ruskie's might have made one also.
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They like to copy other folks designs and call em their own.
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Tri's had a high wing, so did the Fokker.Almost looked like the same plane. the JU-52 had a low wing. All three had three engines. the Brits could have been Wellington's or Short Sterlings. the Lanc was a LARGE four motor job with a really high load capability. 10,000 or more. Think the tall Boy or Earthquake bombs. Check out inventor Barnes Wallace on those........Buck 8) ::)
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The Russkie corrugated is a Tupolev something or other. It wasn't a "copy" of a Ford Or a Junkers. The paratroopers got out over the wing and walked out and jumped off. It was a BIG sumbitch but worked pretty well.
Try this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tupolev_TB-3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tupolev_TB-3)
Top of the line stuff ....
::)
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Very interesting!
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Go to this link to see pics of the START CARTS needed to start up the SR-71.
http://www.wvi.com/~sr71webmaster/ag330_sr.htm
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Looks like there's a couple of duece and a quarter's sittin' around somewhere without their engines.
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News rag said the Navy boys at Oceana, God bless ‘em, were gonna start werkin’ on their routines for the air show. Weather’s been bad. Real pretty taday. They started ‘bout 0730. A couple come o’er close ‘nuff I though they were gonna suck the shingles off. But that’s ok. The least I can put up with. I LOVE jet noise! It’s the thunder of liberty.
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I LOVE jet noise! It’s the thunder of liberty.
A-men!
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wwiivehicles.com
or
www.shift.sk/military/linked/tb3/tb3.html
Good info on the Tupolev TB-3 (ANT-6) with pictures of paratroopers leaving the plane. Sure was a big bitch for her day.
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News rag said the Navy boys at Oceana, God bless em, were gonna start werkin on their routines for the air show. Weathers been bad. Real pretty taday. They started bout 0730. A couple come oer close nuff I though they were gonna suck the shingles off. But thats ok. The least I can put up with. I LOVE jet noise! Its the thunder of liberty.
It is a great sound, but just not as inspiring ta me as the multi prop jobs. Them come in low and the hairs on the back a my neck stand up.
Good link 40. Tryin ta get ma daughter ta set down an watch Longest Day with me. Hopin ta identify the plane this time around.
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Arcey, I get chill bumps when I hear one of those Pratt and Whitney prop engines turn over and belch fire and smoke.
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The sound of those big radials all thundering together is unforgettable. when we do have a visit from one, I can tell it from quite aways away.......................Buck 8)
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Them WARBIRDS! Ya Gotta Luv EM!
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Yep, but Arcey did have him a point with them jets too. They's just differnt.
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Thanks Sod Buster and Forty for the links.....Looks like Sgt Holmes and I were on that flight line of the 9th at the same time. I remember that sound to this day....it was loud! I have a pretty cool photo of the "skunk" that is here at Hazy, taken from a chase plane and signed by the pilot
I never get tired of seeing the Fighter planes in the air..like Arcey sed. My favorite sound is from the four engines on a HC130
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When I worked on the west side of Fort Worth, near Carswell, I heard all kinds of planes. B-52, F-16, F-15, and C-130s.
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Aw, hell. If ya don’t appreciate them old ‘birds ya ain’t givin’ the boys whut flew ‘em the the respect they earned I’m thinkin’.
Thing is, them young asses in them Hornets is protectin’ my old ass while I sit in this chair. They can make all the noise they want, as loud as they want.. It’s music ta me…..
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Any defender of freedom... anywhere, deserves our respect.
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I never miss an opportunity to talk to those Ol' guys when I'm at an airSho. They've been there, done that, and lived to tell about it. I wish I could have Moose's friend's father that was one of the "Black Sheep". I would have really enjoyed that. He was a friend of Bill Jordan's, they served together in the Marines in WW2.
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Any defender of freedom... anywhere, deserves our respect.
AMEN!
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Hear! Hear!
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Every now again my dad will forward me somethin one of his Marine Corps League buddies sends him. This is supposedly a conversation overheard on the channel pilots tune into when flying over iranian airspace.
" Iranian Air Defense Radar: 'Unknown aircraft you are in Iranian airspace. Identify yourself.'
Aircraft: 'This is a United States aircraft. I am in Iraqi airspace.'
Air Defense Radar: 'You are in Iranian airspace. If you do not depart our airspace we will launch interceptor aircraft!'
Aircraft: 'This is a United States Marine Corps FA-18 fighter. Send 'em up, I'll wait!'
Air Defense Radar: (no response ... total silence)
Got a good laugh outta that one.
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Splash 2 BOGEYS! Roger!
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I think that's called target practice! ;D
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"Mess with the Best, Get splashed like the Rest."
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Scattered Thumbs sent the following video to me yesterday.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUlshA63QrI
Slim
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That gunner is a son of a gun.
HOw is Mister Thumbs? Been a while.
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That gunner is a son of a gun.
HOw is Mister Thumbs? Been a while.
He seems to be just fine.
Slim
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That electric Gatling gun really does the trick on them gound targets. "At General Electric, Progress Is Our Most Important Product".
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Scattered Thumbs sent the following video to me yesterday.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUlshA63QrI
Slim
Dillon Areo....I love tracers
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LR, SPOOKY!
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The tracers are fun.
Slim
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The tracers are fun.
Slim
They start grass fires though. ::)
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We usually have a couple of small grassfires at the AirSho in Midland in Oct. They simulate the bomb explosions with black powder and diesel fuel buried in the ground.
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We usually have a couple of small grassfires at the AirSho in Midland in Oct. They simulate the bomb explosions with black powder and diesel fuel buried in the ground.
Do they simulate the whistlin noise too?
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LR, SPOOKY!
Yep
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Them dillons are good for cuttin' down trees, too. they did it on MythBusters, Kari did the shooting..........Buck 8) ::) :o
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Them dillons are good for cuttin' down trees, too. they did it on MythBusters, Kari did the shooting..........Buck 8) ::) :o
Ya gotta love Kari...I seen that episode
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Kari is the ultimate guys' girlfriend.
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;D :o ;D
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Those guns are amazing, especially the ones that able to swivel behind the aircraft.
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Them dillons are good for cuttin' down trees, too. they did it on MythBusters, Kari did the shooting..........Buck 8) ::) :o
Here it is.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3TWIeGtA0A
Slim
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Looks like a fun, but expensive way to cut down trees. ;D
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That’s tellybision. Quality entertainment.
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She looks good in a dress and combat boots.
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Here's some links that have some real cool military (mostly aircraft) photos. I really like the photo of the SR-71 Fleet
http://www.tom-phillips.info/images/cool.pics.military.htm
http://www.tom-phillips.info/images/cool.pics.military.2.htm
http://www.tom-phillips.info/images/cool.pics.military.3.htm
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3283/3023200322_37dd88bb3f.jpg)
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They build that C17 transport here in the D/FW area.
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Interestin'......
http://www.coasttocoastam.com/gen/page2998.html?theme=light
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A chunk of my family worked fer Northrop in those days. Heard some stories about shipping parts out in garbage trucks.
Them were some innerestin pitchers.
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Hardly know it was the same area Arcey!
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They just part of the Movie studio in Burbank and the horse racetrack at Hollywood Park till after the War.
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Saw this on the sasswire, thought someofY'all might be interested...
http://www.collingsfoundation.org/cf_schedule-wof.htm
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They're comin ta Sacratomato. Think I just may go down. Lil would love it an I know I would. Thanks Maj.
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I just missed em, they were at the Arlington Airport on the 1st and 2nd of April.
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Saw this on the sasswire, thought someofY'all might be interested...
http://www.collingsfoundation.org/cf_schedule-wof.htm
I wouldn't want to go up in one of those. Some sore-head German (Like Trinity)might take a crack at it and get lucky.
Who am I kidding: I'd love to go up in a B-17 or B-25.
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Don't have the 900 bucks fer me an the wife ta go up, but the tour fer 24 will be worth it. My Uncle Joe was a tail gunner on a B-17 and it would be something to see.
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Yep, That 900 would be a little steep. I hope to get a ride in "Miss Mitchell" from the Minnesota Wing of the CAF. Some of the crew members are WW2 vets who served with my Dad in the Med.
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I've seen FiFi, the B-29 back in the late 80's when she stopped here a couple times. Had a stop from a Calif. based B-17 that participated in the filming of "Memphis Belle" around that time frame, too. She was still in the Belle's paint scheme. While I was still working at the Ind. Park plant, there was a B-24 in, too. Didn't get to get close enough to that one, we were doing a lot of overtime then, in early ,out late. Saw it from a distance parked on the flight line...........Buck 8) ::)
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FI FI is the only flying B29 in existence. The B 29 is the largest Bomber that can be privately owned. She is always the centerpiece at the CAF AirSho in Midland every year.
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I've been aboard the B-17 down at Planes of fame. It doesn't fly, but I walked through. The guys on those crews must have been small. I can't get my fat a...bulk around in there at all.
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hopefully you didn't try the lower ball turret, Forty. :o Talk about cramped, they liked to have jockey's in them things........Buck 8) ::)
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The crewmen were usually small, especially the turret gunners. My Dad was too tall to be a fighter pilot, so they made him a Bomber pilot.
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hopefully you didn't try the lower ball turret, Forty. :o Talk about cramped, they liked to have jockey's in them things........Buck 8) ::)
Gawd, I'm glad 40 is a ways away,, the thought of puttin' him in the ball turrent brings the name "Butter Ball" to mind. Sorry pard, I couldn't help it. ::)
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The tail gunner position needed a jockey size guy as well. Tough to get out of there if you had to bail out............Buck :o :-\
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Sailors on WW2 subs were small guys. The area on those WW2 Fleet subs was real cramped. The idea of the Duke being a sub commander was totally wrong, he was just too tall.
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I think my Uncle Joe was about my Dad's size. He had the short gene, most of us our tall. Nick, the tank pilot, was about 5'10. Perty cramped in there too. I'd really like to see the tail gunner position to get a better idea of exactly what it was like fer Joe.
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The B 17 was originally designed as a 4 engine passenger aircraft. The gunner positions were all after thoughts, including the top and bottom turret. The Boeing museum has the original prototype on display.
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TLD, you're right about those fleet subs. I've been through the Cod up in Cleveland. started down the forward torpedo loading hatch and came out the aft hatch. Wife wouldn't go in her. Them ladders are tough going in lacers...... ::) :o
www.usscod.org (http://www.usscod.org)
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I've toured 3 of those WW2 American subs, the Seawolf, the Pampanito, and the Bowfin. I also toured the U 505 which is at the Chicago Museum of Industry. My favorite sub to tour has to be the Nautilus. It is open for tour at the Submarine Museum in Groton, Connecticut. It was commissioned in 1954 as the first atomic powered Sub. There was a story about it in our Weekly Reader paper at school. I always wanted to see it and I finally got my chance. It was really neat. There really wasn't that much more room in it than the WW@ subs.
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I think my Uncle Joe was about my Dad's size. He had the short gene, most of us our tall. Nick, the tank pilot, was about 5'10. Perty cramped in there too. I'd really like to see the tail gunner position to get a better idea of exactly what it was like fer Joe.
Find a standard sized trash can, about 35 gallons, climb in and have someone put the lid on. Now, take a really deep breath.
I couldn't get to the nose or cockpit. Closest was the navigator /RO) seat. Didn't try the rear gunner's hidey-hole but looked in. Same with the belly ball turret. Even the waist gunners positions were crowded and the catwalk through the bomb bay was an experience in claustrophobia. Who'd I miss?
I was in my cousins B-25 when I was a kid...about 19 or 10 years old..., and it seemed roomier in the nose and cockpit. The bomb bay doors had been permanently secured and the bay was converted ala Winnebago with stuffed seats and an decent floor. The tail gunner's place was closed off and the waist gunner's positions sported nice view ports.
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I balieve some of em had a navagator and a radio operator seated next to each other. Camped spaces in their own right.
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The bigger bombers did, like the 17, 24, and 29.
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Thankya Pop. An I meant ta say "cramped". Time ta clean the keyboard.
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Both the B17 and the B24 carried a crew of 10, while the B29 carried a crew of 11.
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Who was the 11th man on the 29? The top gunner? Need ta get over my B-17 fettish an learn more about the rest.
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The B29 carried a radar operator that the other 2 didn't.
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Thanks again. Wanna know more about the 29, the superfortress was quite a plane.
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It was primarily used in the Pacific Theater, flown from bases built on the captured islands. It was responsible for dropping both A Bombs. It saw service in the Korean War as well.
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It was primarily used in the Pacific Theater, flown from bases built on the captured islands. It was responsible for dropping both A Bombs. It saw service in the Korean War as well.
I read they were planning to use it in Europe if things didn't end, but never had the chance.
Was the 509th composite that planned the A-bomb attacks. Knew Enola was a 29, just never studied the Pacific theater that much. Time ta crack the books.
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Got Enola Gay at Hiroshima. (If you ever visit japan you MUST see Peace Park in Hiroshima.)
Can anyone name the Nagasaki bomber?
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Box Car. I think.
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Bockscar
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TL got it.
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I got to meet Col. Tibbits at the AirSho in Midland one year.
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The 29's were our first bombers with pressurized crew areas. Also the gun turrets were remotely controlled from those observation blisters on the sides and top.............Buck 8) ::)
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Guess I went the phonetical route :-[
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That's okay, Leo, my wife is a phonetic speller too.............Buck 8) ::)
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well we can give Leo part credit, if he hadn't heard it before, he wouldn't a been able to guess that close. ;D
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Thank ya. I used ta pass tests in school by listening ta the lectures an never doin the homework.
Now that the quiz is over I looked inta it. It's an innerestin story. Nagasaki wasn't even the primary target and they hit it in a lightning storm. The pilot was worried that the electicity would set off the bomb. Talk about pucker factor.
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Kokura had been their primary target, but Nagasaki was a large industrial area and a vital part of the Japanese war machinery.
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Guess they were concerned about fuel too. Lot of anti aircraft fire comin at em. It's quite a story even compared with the Enola Gay.
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That leads to a question I
ve been wonderin' , back when they were doin' nuculer tests, did they have any duds? Also how long did you wait in case it was a hangfire? And who had to go downrange and see what was wrong?
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FDR had ordered the bombs to be built on demand...as needed. Figgure they had a lot of contingent plans. If the emporer hadn't have wised up there might not even be a Japan taday.
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Some veterans of the Baatan Death March might have wanted a couple more dropped.
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Had a fellow in our Lion's Club back home in Porter, Ok. was a survivor of the Baatan March. never heard him say a word about it, he was a good friend of my Dad's, Dad said as far as he knew he never spoke of it all his life.
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Didn't want to remember, I bet. He probably saw some horrific stuff. My Dad never talked about his experiences either, he was in North Africa and participated in the Battle of The Kasserine Pass. he was also in Sicily and Italy. those were rough, learn as you went campaigns.............Buck 8) :o :-\
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My Dad had a Deputy that was a survivor and he definitely had opinions.
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Guy I used to work with had a wife who was a Dr. over to the Vet's hospital, they also had a guy would come in, vetran of the Baatan Deth March. They also had a Dr. there also of Japanese decent. Guess after a bad incedent one time, they made sure the two did not meet up again.
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A book to read is "Flyboys". Beleive James Kasey wrote it. It has nothing ta do with the WWI movie of the same name. It's about what happened to WWII fliers in the hands of the japanese. Based on tribunal documents and interviews. I loaned it out and never got it back, but it's a very intense read, it'll send shivers down your spine when you see what all went on.
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I used to go fishin with RJ, he always seemed just fine, but we never brought up anything military related
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They beheaded several of the American pilots that were being held as prisoners before the war was over.
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They did a lot worse than that Tex.
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when I was in the 7th grade we had an English teacher, Mrs. Whorton, she had a son that was killed in WW 2 a bomber he was on got shot down.
Mrs. Whorton told us (the Class) that the day he got shot down she had a dream and saw the numbers on the plane and saw it going down. when she woke up next morning she had gone completely white headed. now I know this sounds like a good story, but I knew at least a dozen people that knew her all her life and remembered the incident including my Mom and they said it was the truth about her turning white headed over night, and the numbers she saw, she wrote down and come to find out, it was the number of the plane he had been on and it had got shot down, just when she saw it.
she told us about it 2 or 3 times during the year. it was really strange to think about.
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My Grandpa Carman was a WWI Vet, served in Siberia in that little know part of the war. The allied Army over there was commanded by a Japanese General (They were Allies in WWI) On Dec 8 1941 Dad said Grandpa got up extra early did the chores and went down to the county seat to enlist, he was near 50. They wouldn't take him because of his age and he was also needed as a farmer they said.
I've since been doing some research, there were a lot of nasty things the Japanese did in Russia during that time. I can tell you though if I'd bought a Japanese car he'd disowned me. I remember on time were were sitting on his porch after he moved to town, someone stopped at the neighbors and parked in the street. Grandpa asked me what kind of car it was, "Toyota." He then said lets go inside, I knew I smelled something that stunk.
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Leo, when Tex and I and a lot of the guys here were growing up in the 50's, there was no lack of hate for the Japs and the Germans, it had only been a few years since it had ended and most folks were very vocal about their feelings, since most familys lost at the very least one family member in the war.
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Del, I can unserstand that myself. My Dad was enroute to the Pacific on a Transport when the Japanese surrendered. I've always had strong feelings about 12-7-41. They became a lot stronger after I visited Pearl Harbor the first time. Moose had a cousin in the Marines that went down on the Arizona. I've been to Hawaii 5 or 6 times on extraditions, but only once on vacation. We found his name on the wall of the Memorial over the hull. I was a History major in college and studied Military history in ROTC in college.
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Here's the book. It's James Bradley, not Kasey.
http://www.pacificwrecks.com/reviews/flyboys.html
My father gave it to me. Some of them were canibals. Moslty high ranking officers but in some instances low level grunts too. When our officials found out, they didn't want to make it public because so many people here had lost loved ones over there. They were being sensative which is understandable. 50 years later they opened the files and the author was allowed to get his hands on them and proceeded to go on a nationwide tour interviewing both Americans and japaneese that were there.
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Leo, I'm gonna pass. It brings out strong feelings in me sorta like when I watch "The Alamo". I got my own opinions there too.
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I can remember going down to the local army surplus when we were about in the 4th or 5th grade and alll of us boys buying army helmets, actually they were helmet liners, but for a quarter you could have an almost helmet to play army with, I can remember my grandmother not liking it at all that I had bought a helmet, so much so, I was told never to let her see me wearing it and several of my friends were told the same.
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My dad was in the Pacific, he has strong feelings about the Japs still today.
As far as The Alamo goes :-X
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The Battle flag from the Alamo remains in a Museum in Mexico City. It needs to be returned to the Alamo where it belongs.
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Pardon my words but "damn straight".
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Your comments are understood Tex. The book is not fer everyone. I felt the same way when the last neighbor kid came out shirtless with a swastika carved on his chest. I showed him my uncles dog tags that I carry in my pocket and it didn't mean a damn thing ta him. He is still a friend of CJ's but not allowed in my house under any circumstances. I turned him away on a holliday and didn't feel any remorse for his lonliness. Kinda harsh, but some things...
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Well since this is an airplane thread, might as well put this here:
http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/story?id=7273710&page=1
Good thing they didn't have me in comand, I'd ordered it shot down in open country.
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Silly Canadian. Lucky he didn't get splashed.
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He's prolly up fer a cup a yer turkish cawfee right about now Del.
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There were two brothers in our town who survived Bataan. One was my 9th grade Science teacher, the other was one of my high school's football coaches.
It was never spoken of.
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That Turkish cawffee is stout this early in the morning. I think I'll stick to cowboy cawfee for right now.
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Silly Canadian. Lucky he didn't get splashed.
It's bad enough we allow them to choke up our highways with their damn land yachts, Now their trying to fly in
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Tha Times, they are a changin'!
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Thought some might enjoy this site.
http://www.acepilots.com/planes/nose_art.html
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Thank you Leo, I enjoyed that.
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De Nada. Kinda had you in mind when I put it up. There are other sites with authentic photos and I've been reading about them.
Search "WWII nose art and you'll get a ton of stuff that was documented during the war, not reproductions. Wonerous Wanda is a great one, they actually painted a hatch on the side of the plane with the girl standing in it.
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I think this should be OK to put here.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/Wonderous20Wanda_jpg.jpg)
I'm still trying to find more info on my uncles B-17, but even with his serial number it's been tough. I'd love to find a picture of him and his crew and the name of his plane. There is no one left that remembers in the family.
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Here's the site that one came off of. You can almost hear Glen Miller's Army Air corps band playin "American Patrol" when ya look through. Well, I can but I'm strange like that.
http://www.ww2planenoseart.com/Images/index.htm
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I can't see much of the plane, but I think it is a B24.
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I think you're right. There may be more pictures of the plane on that last link. The photographer on that site was mostly interested in the art.
You majored in military history Tex, any chance you could help me find more info on my Uncle? PM me if ya can.
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Leo, I hope the info will help some.
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Sure it will. I appreciate it very much.
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Keep me posted. If he was in a B17 outfit, He was part of the 8th AF, if he served in the European Theater. I'm not sure about the Pacific. The 8th was based all over England.
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He was Euro, started out in North Africa. Again, thanks.
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He would have been assigned to one of the different AFs, then a certain Bomb Group, then a certain Squadron. Dad was in the 12th AF, the 310th Bomb, and the 428 bomb squadron.
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Just makes me wonder if the two of them ever had a cup of coffee tagether or were at least in spittin distance on the ground. I'm really pursuing this as I am the self appointed family historian now.
I love this one. Lil saw it an said, "hey, that's me!" Not only is the painting great, the name says it all.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/Uninvited_jpg.jpg)
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That one is definitely a B24. They built B24's over in Fort Worth during WW2.
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Where didn't they build B-24's, TLD? ;D they built more of them than the 17's, even Henry Ford got into the act( Willow Run).......Buck( who's been to Willow Run and visited a museum called The Yankee Air Force there. they were redoing a 17G at the time and had a 24 with a bum main spar on display) 8) ::)
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Fort Worth was one of the bigger plants. They've built the B36, B58, F111, and the F16. There are probably more models built than that, but that's all I remember.
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Figgured I'd put this here...
FORT MYERS, Fla. – A passenger landed a twin-engine plane in Florida after the pilot died in flight with a total of six people on board.
Federal Aviation Administration officials say the pilot died after takeoff from an airport in Naples on Sunday. It was on autopilot and climbing toward 10,000 feet when the pilot died.
The passenger who took over is licensed for single-engine planes but isn't certified to fly the larger King Air craft.
An air traffic controller helped the passenger down by calling a friend in Connecticut who knows the King Air plane and relaying instructions. The plane landed safely at Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers.
The plane had been headed to Jackson, Miss. The names of the pilot and passengers have not been released
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They lucked out, Leo. At least someone on board had some flying experience..........Buck 8)
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Yessir. That situation could have gone bad real fast.
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Don't know if you've seen this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eADLzMOWgFo
Happened somewhere in the SE Us, don't 'member where, think it was Tues.
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That was interesting, but scary.
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Was that a liquer store or a laundry mat they pulled in to?
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Leo, They would be covered both ways, to either wash their soiled pants or calm their nerves with a little liquior.
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Sez Winter Haven, Florida.
Doan know ‘bout that’n. Rare when ya kin get a stretch ah road like that without o’er head wires, traffic lights ‘n such. No traffic ta speak of in what’s obviously a dense area ‘n no ground communication on audio. Fishy.
Someone kin fake up a one wing landin’ awhile back ‘n this’n’d be easy. If I could figger the search terms I’d run it thru snopes.
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Lil an I were sayin that too when we saw it. There were a lot of shops on that strip an it looked ta be middle of the day. Not one car on the road er pedestrian on the sidewalk. Also, that's the kind a thing that ends up on the Today show that Lil watches. No mention of it anywhere other than you tube. We also thought it strange there was no radio activity, no mayday er nothin, just cockpit conversation. Fishy says it all.
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If it was a joke, I would not want to be in small plane when they intentionally turned off the engine. That ain't funny!
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coulda been a simulator, they're very realistic these days.
Arcey mentioned Snopes, I haven't gone there in years. Gonna have ta go pokin around again.
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Anyone check the area newspaper?
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I didn't look anywhere.
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Thanks fer the update Pop.
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Here ya go...
WINTER HAVEN - The video of a small plane making a dramatic emergency landing Sunday morning on Havendale Boulevard has been viewed nearly 14,000 times on YouTube. Along with the video are posted comments from a few among the thousands of viewers that the landing somehow was planned or staged.
The 22-year-old Lakeland pilot who guided the plane down to a safe landing said that's far from the truth.
"I think it's an insult to the aviation community and an insult to me," Kyle Davis said Wednesday.
Davis was flying a SkyRanger airplane Sunday morning from Winter Haven Municipal Airport to the Sun 'n Fun Fly-in at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport when the plane's engine cut out around 10 a.m. With passenger Joe Surowiec aboard the two-seater plane, Davis tried to restart the engine but was unsuccessful.
He then made the decision to land the plane on the wide Havendale Boulevard, which had very little traffic at the time.
As a flight instructor, Davis said he trains people to deal with this kind of situation, but he relied on the training he received when he learned how to fly.
"It's a second-nature response," Davis said.
He said that when plane engines cut out, they don't just fall from the sky; they continue to glide. The checklist he ran through in his head included flying the airplane, picking a place to land and trying to restart the engine, which he did.
In glide mode, he set the plane down in the westbound lanes of Havendale Boulevard near 29th Street, N.W., and then guided the plane into the parking lot of Brooks Furniture.
"I was never scared at the time, but later on that evening I was scared," Davis said. "It was an incredible amount of luck and a tiny bit of experience. God was watching over me."
He said he chose to land on Havendale Boulevard because it was clear of cars. He said if there had been any traffic at all on the road, he would have landed in a lake.
Davis has received a lot of national media attention from the video, which was shot by Surowiec, a professional videographer using cameras pointed inside and outside the plane, but the pilot said the attention has gotten "real old, real quick."
"I'm a normal guy with a normal job," Davis said. "It's been pretty tough to do my job and do this (give interviews) at the same time."
The video can be found online at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oT58Di51wDk.
shelly.godefrin@newschief.com
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Well, Truth is stranger than fiction.
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Very good, Leo.
We knew where it was by lookin’ it the video ‘n an approximate when from Del although he missed a black ‘n white location.
Now we have whut the pilot’s side of it is accordin’ ta the news article.
We’ll never know unless we could werk more with info we’re not goin’ ta have. An interview with the passenger would be real good. Two people can keep a secret. ….. If one of ‘em’s dead.
My gut reaction. The pilot knew where he was ‘n where he was headin’. He had no problem startin’ the engine when he needed air speed. It’s bullcrap ‘n he should be charged.
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Could be, was posted on the Lab forum, I read about it on Fox on the phone. I'd say with all the hype the FAA will check it out.
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The link ya posted had a CNN logo on it……………
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The link ya posted had a CNN logo on it……………
Could be, was in a hurry and didn't look it over good, but it was also on Foxe a day or so ago, because my news home page gets Fox, MSNBC ABC, USA Today and ABC and most often just look at Fox. Be interesting cause I'm sure by law the FAA has to investigate.
The FAA really came un-gled a few years ago out west of here, rancher had a litt Cub or something like it, like a lot of them used to, never licesed it, never got his pilot's license, used a lot of them surplus ones after WWII that were cheap, checked calle on the ranch, never went up very high. Well like he always did at round-up, flew a few miles into the small town, landed on the road leadin' in and taxies up Main street, may 2-3 blocks long at most. Ran into the bar, bough 2-3 cold cases of brew and flew em back to the pasture for an after supper snack, had been doin' it for years. Somebody was in town that was not from around there, turned him in. Not sure how they found him, but he got in a bit of trouble. ::)
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Big Brother will always find out.
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Kinda thinkin if he was in real trouble he woulda ditched in the drink rather than risk hurtin people an buildins. Fairly early Sunday mornin, our streets er deserted then too. Sounds like a stunt, but I aint one ta assume.
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The main thing is that the pilot and instructor were safe and no one was injured in the landing.
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Gonna try this, didn't get a direct URL. If ya get ta the main video page look fer the one about the WWII bomber that was just pulled out of Lake Michigan.
http://cbs2chicago.com/video
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This should be better, it has the article with it.
http://cbs2chicago.com/local/aircraft.lake.michigan.2.993477.html
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Actually it is a single engine dive bomber, the SBD Dauntless. A Carrier based plane flown by Naval aviators in WW2.
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As far as I know, there is only one SBD Dauntless that is flying in existence. It belongs to the Lone Star Museum of Flight in Galveston, Texas.
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There was one restored here at the Mapps museum, but it was sold recently. Not sure where it went...........Buck 8)
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The one in Galveston came from the Nimitz Museum in Fredricksburg, Texas.
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Believe they had two of them, used one for parts, I think...........Buck 8)
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According to the MAPS website, they don't have the Dauntless anymore. It noticed that they are restoring a Martin B26. The CAF had the only flying B26 in existence till it crashed on a test hop near Midland several years ago. All on board were killed. When MAPS get the B26 done, it will be the only flying B26 .
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http://shock.military.com/Shock/videos.do?displayContent=189218&page=1
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Was that a trainer model?
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That or a mod for doing films...........Buck 8) ::)
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here's a trainer
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That is a very disturbing photo.
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Here is a recreation of a WWII dogfight between Mustangs and Messerschmidts.
http://shock.military.com/Shock/videos.do?displayContent=145206
Slim
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Leo, Are you talking about the plane they fished out of Lake Michigan?
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I believe he was referring to the Spitfire, TLD........ 8)
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As far as I know they never built a 2 seat version. A bunch of that aerial footage was from the "Battle Of Britain" movie. A cameraman could sit in the back seat and film.
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That is a very disturbing photo.
You think that's disturbing...Look what the Brit's is training in....Times is hard everywhere
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He's gonna have a heart attack pedaling hard enough to get that sucker airborne.
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The wings on that thing don't look too good. Not much lift.
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He's gonna have a heart attack pedaling hard enough to get that sucker airborne.
12000ft runway he ought get up to speed somewhere ;D
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LR, What about some JATO bottles?
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Could a had a couple this weekend, raised Holy Heck thursday, boss uncapped the two helium bottles and put them by the counter. I almost went ballistic on him (ast manager) kuckly he believes what I tell him. He got some rope and tied them to a solid shelf. He didn't realize till I told him what would happen if one got knocked over and broke a valve. 2500 psi will put them through a block wall or so I'm told. ::)
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You were tolt right. Seen an oxy bottle take out a cinder block wall by fallin over just like ya said. CO2 bottles 'll do the same if some bar back don't chain em.
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If Carl the store owner, would have seen that, Katy bar the door, he's a retired fireman. ;)
Work at a RV place one time, the shop where we painted and did major body repair was a few blocks from the main lot. Parts runner brought the oxy act torch over one time, with the cart laid down. I went back in the shop and made him unload it, put it upright and told him I would deal with it in a few hours.
he went back and told the shop foreman who called all POed. Told him why, he called Lin-Weld to ask and guess what, I was right. ::)
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Those compressed cylinders can be dangerous.
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Gasification plant and warehouse at Machinato, Okinawa, about a mile south of our quarters, caught fire right after I got there in April of '66.
Started after sundown and the fire team moved right in and started working. Then a couple of tanks got knocked over and broke the tops off of a few more, and then the party really got rolling. The fire fighters fell back and for about an hour it was the most splendiferous show you can imagine. Tanks just going wherever they wanted to.
Destroyed most of the two main buildings and a half dozen sheds and lean-tos, some trucks, etc.
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That's sorta like a petroleum tank farm goin' up.
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Thought this might be of interest:
http://journalstar.com/articles/2009/05/06/news/local/doc4a00d0858ad4f542808214.txt
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That's quite a story after all these years.
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Saw thisin the local paper. I don't think I've ever run across this '17! Sadly I can't get up to Tahoe in time to see her! :'( :'(
http://www.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=200990504053
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Saw thisin the local paper. I don't think I've ever run across this '17! Sadly I can't get up to Tahoe in time to see her! :'( :'(
http://www.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=200990504053
\
Come down to McClellan from the 29th ta the 1st. Gonna be a 17 a 25 and a P-51.
http://www.collingsfoundation.org/cf_schedule-wof.htm
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She's a G Model owned by the EAA, Experimental Aircraft Association.
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Leo, Those are the same planes that were out at the Arlington Airport back in April.
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Any of y'all go ta the Oshkosh EAA Fly-in/Airshow can stay at my place.
Slim
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Any of y'all go ta the Oshkosh EAA Fly-in/Airshow can stay at my place.
Slim
I'll be there... ::)
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Slim, I have always wanted to come up there for the EAA fly-in.
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I haven't even been able ta make it down ta LA fer a grumpy lunch bunch, thinking Oshkosh aint very likely, but the offer is appreciated.
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Worked “Flight Line Safety” at the EAA Fly In for three or four years many moons ago (I think my hair was still without grey then)! In those days we used to just camp n the grassy areas on the Southwest side of the main runway. This before the moved the museum out of Franklin WI ( Not more than ¼ miles from where I was living). Also long before the acquired “Aluminum Overcast”. The show has become so big now, I doubt I would even recognize it.
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Russ, I'm glad you got to do that. It has really become a big event.
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TL
I saw amazing growth just in the few years I was working there. The first year we had about six of Burt Rutan’s VariEzees in the tie down area. Had to help hold the nose down while the pilot got out and folded the nose gear up. By the end of my time up there we had two full rows of VairEzees and Long-EZs. Looked like a bunch of ostriches with their head stuck in the ground. :o ::) ;D
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I have an uncle, who is retired Air Force. He lives around Atlanta and has his own little plane. He flies up there every year.
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How much is your uncle got when he retired in air force.,?if there is?
_________________
Indianapolis Web Design (http://www.slingshotseo.com)
I hate SPAM for breakfast ::)
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git 'm tyed down Del....I'll "steer him"
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git 'm tyed down Del....I'll "steer him"
I throwed him inta tha slaughter house. ;D
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Thanks fellas, Gumdrop cake for supper, ya can have an extra slice, Stella Huges's recipe from "Bacon and Beans." I'm sure ya remember her from when she wrote for Western Horseman.
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Well they took awhile ta put this up but I figger it fits here.
ORLANDO, Fla. – Charles Donald Albury, co-pilot of the plane that dropped the atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan, has died after years of congestive heart failure. He was 88.
Albury died May 23 at a hospital, Family Funeral Care in Orlando confirmed.
Albury helped fly the B-29 Superfortress, nicknamed "Bockscar," that dropped the weapon on Aug. 9, 1945. He also witnessed the first atomic blast over Hiroshima, as a pilot on a support plane that measured the magnitude of the blast and levels of radioactivity.
The Hiroshima mission was led by Col. Paul Tibbets Jr. aboard the better-known "Enola Gay."
"When Tibbets dropped the bomb, we dropped our instruments and made our left turn," Albury told Time magazine four years ago. "Then this bright light hit us and the top of that mushroom cloud was the most terrifying, but also the most beautiful, thing you've ever seen in your life. Every color in the rainbow seemed to be coming out of it."
Three days later, Albury copiloted the mission over Nagasaki. Cloud cover caused problems for the mission until the bombardier found a hole in the clouds.
The 10,200-pound explosive instantly killed an estimated 40,000 people. Another 35,000 died from injuries and radiation sickness. Japan surrendered on Aug. 14.
Albury said he felt no remorse, since the attacks prevented what was certain to be a devastating loss of life in a U.S. invasion of Japan.
"My husband was a hero," Roberta Albury, his wife of 65 years, told The Miami Herald. "He saved one million people ... He sure did do a lot of praying."
Gwyneth Clarke-Bell, Albury's secretary at Eastern Airlines, where he worked for most of his career after World War II, told the Herald that Albury "felt he was doing his job, and that lives were saved on both sides."
Albury was born in 1920 at his parents' home, now the site of the Miami Police Department. He enlisted in the wartime Army before graduating from the University of Miami's engineering school. In 1943, Albury joined Tibbets' unit: the elite 509th Composite Group. They trained at White Sands, N.M., where FBI agents tailed them night and day. At the time, the participants were clueless as to the scope of what they were training to do.
After the war, he settled in Coral Gables, Fla., with his wife and flew for Eastern Airlines. He eventually co-managed Eastern's Airbus A-300 training program.
Albury told the Herald in 1982 that he deplored war but would do what he did again if someone attacked the United States.
"Everyone should be prepared to fight for liberty," he said. "Our laws give us our freedom and I think that's worth fighting for."
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Thanks fellas, Gumdrop cake for supper, ya can have an extra slice, Stella Huges's recipe from "Bacon and Beans." I'm sure ya remember her from when she wrote for Western Horseman.
They still offer the book
Thanks for the story Leo
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I throwed him inta tha slaughter house. ;D
Steak fer supper. ;D
Slim
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The CAF's B29, "FIFI" is being hangared at the Cavanaugh Flight Museum in Addison, Texas. She is undrgoing a major overhaul and they hope to have her ready for the CAF Airsho in Midland this fall. She is the only flying B29 in existence.
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Believe it's the engines they're working on..........Buck 8) ::)
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I've been thinkin' about volunteering at the Museum over at Addison. It would be sumpin' I know a little about and it sounds like fun. They've got a B25 that belongs to the Museum. Mr Cavanaugh had a computer outfit that he sold for a bunch of money. He started the Museum at the Airport in Addison. They've got a website, Cavanaugh Museum of Flight.
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http://www.cavanaughflightmuseum.com/
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Thanks Major, That's the one. They have a volunteer meeting the first Wednesday of each month, hopefully I'll be able to attend and get started.
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It sounds perfect fer ya Tex. From your posts I have read you'd be in heaven there. Hope ya get in.
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I just found out that "FIFI" is at Midland right awaiting a major overhaul before Oct. The Cavanaugh Museum houses some of the CAF's planes, so I'll be one step ahead. I might even get to hitch a ride on one of the bombers or transports when they go to Airshows. I should know in a month or so if I pass "muster". Leo, If you haven't checked out the Cavanaugh Museum website, you need to. Their B24 has been repainted in OD and renamed "Ol 927". It was formally know as "Diamond Lil".
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I've shown pics of Diamond Lil ta Lil bafore. She got a big kick outta it. Check out my avitar in the Open Range, its "The Uninvited" another great one.
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For a long time, "Diamond Lil" was the only flying B24 in existence. The Museum also has a Spanish version of the ME109 and the HE111 Heikel.
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They still offer the book
I know, I stock it and sell about 50 a year. ;D
Tex, I need to 'poligixe to you, was a small fly-in at the old WWII trainin' base at Harvard last Sat includin' a P-38, was about 25 miles west of Rock Creek, didn't find out till the other night when I talked to a friend about the School Kids day at RCS next May. Now I know why Doug didn't show up at RCS. ::)
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The last time I saw the CAF's P38, it's nose gear failed as it was landing and tore up the entire nose assembly.
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When I talked to Doug he thought their next one would be in two years, he's 'spossed to let me know. He thought "General Grant" would be back at RCS next year, either that or Sgt Rung of The First Newbrassky Cavalry. ;D
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It would have been fun to have the planes, but I still had fun RCS and I am planning on coming back for the 150th next year.
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A l’il PR. ‘Bout the only exposure they get……..
http://hamptonroads.com/2009/07/not-every-museum-comes-drip-pans
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Arcey, That was a good article. It sounds like a lot of expansion is planned. That Museum is on the list for places to visit when I get out to Va.
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Thought ya’d want the read.
I suppose they gottah ‘nuff in grants ‘n donations comin’ in they ain’t werried ‘bout advertizin’. The odd article in the rag is all ya ever hear ‘bout the place. Seems they’ve a good l’il collection goin’. I’d be knockin’ the hell out my own drum.
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That Museum over in Dallas is seldom heard from, only on patriotic holidays.
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Our airshow is this weekend. No bombers can land on our strip but there are usualy alot of old fighters. Lil bought the tickets taday an I'[m really looking forward to it.
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Leo, Enjoy yourself at the AirSho this weekend.
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I will and have been promised the use of a digital camera. Just might get some good shots.
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Get some good shots while you're out there. If there are any you can't ID, take a picture and I will do my best to ID it for you.
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Will do. Usualy have some innerestin foreign jobs show up.
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I'm hopin' that I get out to Midland this year for the CAF AirSho.
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If that wasn't CAF's P-38, wonder if it was the one that was resurrected after being buried in ice in Greenland since 1942? Believe she's named "Ice Queen", or something like that. Last i saw anything on her, they had attempted to finish her original flight over the ocean to England, but got grounded with a severe engine problem. Might have been as far back as two years though...............Buck ::)
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The P38 that crashed at Breckenridge at an Air show was the only flying one in existence at the time, this was in 91. "Glacier Girl" was dug out of the glacier in 92 and it took 10 years to restore her to flight status. She was restored at Middleboro Kentucky. She won the 2003 trophy for best restored aircraft at Oshkosh. The flight to England was aborted and never finished. The original owner has sold the plane and it is supposed to be in Texas somewhere. I am trying to find out where in Texas it is. As far as I know the CAF's P38 is still being repaired somewhere here in Texas.
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Watch'n Military channel yesterday featured the F100 the"Hun" Most of the interviewed part was at Arcey's little Air Museum down Norfolk way. Good story on the progression of the F100
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I remember those old camo painted F100s from RVN.
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Got photos from the air show acomin. Kinda bummed cause I didn't have a clue how ta make the camera zoom in so I missed some good shots of nose art. Got a load em inta photobucket an get em posted.
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I was gonna do one a them fancy slide show things but now figger I'l just do a few at a time.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/Copy10ofIMG_2418.jpg)
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/Copy2ofIMG_2419.jpg)
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/Copy2ofIMG_2421.jpg)
I grabbed the camera and left without knowing how ta work all the features so some things got missed. But even with these sloppy shots I'll bet Tex can ID all of em.
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Geeze this brings back memories....
My father was a 'bown shoe mustang' .... to you who aren't familiar with the terms, my Dad started out as a waist gunner for B-17s in the old Army Air Corps. But with three years of engineering under his belt before Pearl Harbor, he pegged the Officer's pre testing and flew as a pilot for the next 20+ years.
He was a maintenance officer at McGuire when I was a kid. When he had to sign off a plane on a weekend, he would bring me along, find some hapless airman and an empty C-47, stick me in the cargo hold and assign the poor airman to make sure that I didn't fall out of the cargo hatch....
I remember a C-124 'hangar queen' (i.e. in repair more than thirty days) ... I sat on my Dad's lap as he fired up the four 4360 cu in Pratt & Whitneys ... he then put my hands on the throttle with his big mits over mine, and we taxi-d the aircraft the 50 feet forward to rotate the tires off their flat spots (They would 'rot' if left for more than 30 days in one spot.
He was an instructor pilot through WWII, flying everything but primaily T-28 Texans (I still have an old photo of him in a T-28 cockpit, '50 mission crush hat' and all .... then during Korea he fought the 'gentleman's war' ... a zero dark thirty breakfast with his wife (my Mom), a flight into Korea carrying special cargo like ammo, and flew wounded back.
Then came , a stent as logistics officer in Patagonia when they built Point McMurdo in Antartica (I think I have pictrures of a C-124 landing in Antartica on skis),the Berlin Airlift, and finally rebuilding Mactan AFB during the Vietnam War.
My own time was enlisted (draft # was *2*), and have time on HH-43Bs, HC-130s, HH3s, HH53s, C-9s and C-141s.
But I still think one of the sexiest sounds in the world is a recip engine winding up ... with the smell of semi-burnt Av-Gas
and oil clouds filling the air.... like I said, all those props brought me right back....
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One of the pictures I missed gettin at the show was a 27 cylinder radial. They said they would fire it up later in the day. We left bafore they did but I can tell you that thing was HUGE. They didn't even have a prop on the shaft cause it woulda blown folks over. Sorry I missed it, ta hear that motor run with no drag on it had to beat all.
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Here's another that was there. Gonna save the real fun stuff fer the end, turrets an such.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/Copy2ofIMG_2423.jpg)
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Okay,
Here is another picture from an earlier era ... taken at Enid AAFB in 1943 and sent to my Mother....
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Leo, That last picture that you posted showing those trainers, they are the same type used by the Tora Tora Tora Boys to create their Val and Kate Replica. The T 28 was also refered to as the Trojan. A lot if them wound up as trainers for the South Vietnamese AF.
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Leo, That last picture that you posted showing those trainers, they are the same type used by the Tora Tora Tora Boys to create their Val and Kate Replica. The T 28 was also refered to as the Trojan. A lot if them wound up as trainers for the South Vietnamese AF.
the Thai Air Force also.........got a pic somes where of my dad taxi'n one the canopy open at Moody or Tyndal(sp?)
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I think the CAF may have acquired one or two of the T 28s, and a Oscar Duece Cessna.
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Okay,
Here is another picture from an earlier era ... taken at Enid AAFB in 1943 and sent to my Mother....
Great picture, pard. Is that yer father?
Slim
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Yep,
He was the oldest officer in his OTS class ... entered at 25 & 9 mo. ... I am guessing that this picture was taken when he was in his early 30s ... at Enid Army Air Force Base in Enid Oklahoma in 1943.
Here is his graduation photo ... I know he would be proud to have someone besides his family value both pictures.
He is flying with the angels now ... and never has to worry again about fuel quantities, flap setting or manifold temperatures.....
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Mighty nice pics, boys. Enjoyed lookin’.
Wish I’d taken pics of the old planes the Navy flyin’ club had. They had one painted up like a Zero. We thought it was but I guess it weren’t.
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More ta come, been busy. Glad ta have ya in the bunch here Ellis.
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Leo, We'll be watchin' for them!
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Here's a good one.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/IMG_2430.jpg)
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Couldn't resist goin with this one next. Lil was amazed amazed when she saw the gunner's station up close. You wouldn't think anyone could fit in there.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/IMG_2433.jpg)
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Is that green & yellow thing a Vultee trainer???? The last plane shown was a TBF or TBM torpedo bomber, TBF if made by Grumman and TBM if made by General Motors. Those two trainers were an AT-6( silver) and an SNJ( blue), same plane just different designations between Army and Navy.............Buck ::)
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The last plane shown was a TBF or TBM torpedo bomber, TBF if made by Grumman and TBM if made by General Motors. Those two trainers were an AT-6( silver) and an SNJ( blue), same plane just different designations between Army and Navy.............Buck ::)
Them sumbucks is HUGE for a single engine bird! Like the ADs is HUGE!!!
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I believe that at the time, they were the largest carrier based planes flown. Bush I was a pilot of one of those.........Buck ::)
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I knew this would be fun. I have fuller shot of this one but will put this up first.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/IMG_2432.jpg)
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Here's the helicopters in my cousin's hangar.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k186/SilverCreekSlim/Misc/Copter1Front.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k186/SilverCreekSlim/Misc/Copter1Back.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k186/SilverCreekSlim/Misc/Copter2Front.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k186/SilverCreekSlim/Misc/Copter2Back.jpg)
Slim
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Slim, It looks like he's got a bunch of Helos. I see what appears to be an ultra-lite parked next to the pickup camper.
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Slim, It looks like he's got a bunch of Helos. I see what appears to be an ultra-lite parked next to the pickup camper.
Here's a closer picture.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k186/SilverCreekSlim/Misc/Ultralite.jpg)
Slim
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That old truck looks interesting also.
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Slim does he need a test pilot?
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Here's an old one fer ya Pop. Wouldn't mind havin one maself.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/Copy2ofIMG_2420.jpg)
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Here's a closer picture.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k186/SilverCreekSlim/Misc/Ultralite.jpg)
Slim
I'll take that pick-up in the back, looks to be a Ford A model or B model.
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Here's an old one fer ya Pop. Wouldn't mind havin one maself.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/Copy2ofIMG_2420.jpg)
Is that a Ford or a Willys. Henry marked every part he made for the Ford jeeps with the Ford script. That way the Government could claim that bad Willys parts were his, not that Willys made bad parts, but that was the way Henry operated. ;D
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Leo, I want one with a M2 50 cal. instead of that 30 cal.
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That one was a Willys. That 30 cal was penty effective on the go. The M2 might have affected handling.
Got some more from that day, just aint got at em yet.
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Del, Ford marked his vehicles until the Gov't told him to stop, said it would be too easy for our enemies to target the factories for sabotage. The Ford marked Jeeps are a very sought after collectible, was supposed to be less than 500 made before they were told to stop
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Del, Ford marked his vehicles until the Gov't told him to stop, said it would be too easy for our enemies to target the factories for sabotage. The Ford marked Jeeps are a very sought after collectible, was supposed to be less than 500 made before they were told to stop
The Major is 100% correct. When I worked fer AMD durring the first Gulf War we made a chip fer the Patriot missile. We ended up on the top of the poo list as far as saddam was concerned.
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Del, Ford marked his vehicles until the Gov't told him to stop, said it would be too easy for our enemies to target the factories for sabotage. The Ford marked Jeeps are a very sought after collectible, was supposed to be less than 500 made before they were told to stop
OK, another story and I passed it on.
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Here's a better picture of the truck. It was his father's farm truck. I think they said it was a 31 or 32.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k186/SilverCreekSlim/Misc/Truck.jpg)
Slim does he need a test pilot?
He might. ;)
Slim
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Here's a better picture of the truck. It was his father's farm truck. I think they said it was a 31 or 32.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k186/SilverCreekSlim/Misc/Truck.jpg)
He might. ;)
Slim
1932, so it's a B. Also a 1 ton truck, not a pick-up like I thought. Could have a V8, more likely a 4 Cylinder.
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It looks like it was probably used for hauling produce to town to sell. Del, You're right about the 4 banger.
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Back to areoplanes, here's a decent shot...
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/IMG_2443.jpg)
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And for ma friends in the south...
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/IMG_2434.jpg)
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Leo, You're right about the rear gunner's area being small. I got meet President Bush's gunner at the AirSho in Midland one year. He was a small guy. The radio operator/bombadier seat is in the fuselage of the aircraft and his area is for a smaller man.
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Funny you mentioned Bush. This is one of three planes they had that he had flown.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/IMG_2441.jpg)
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As I remember, the guy's last name is Nadeau. He has written a book about his experiences with Bush. He flew with Bush on all but 2 missions, one of which Bush was shot down and the other members of the crew were lost at sea.
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As I remember, the guy's last name is Nadeau. He has written a book about his experiences with Bush. He flew with Bush on all but 2 missions, one of which Bush was shot down and the other members of the crew were lost at sea.
Yep! Now if ya wanna think back some years ago ta when he was vice president, folks were callin him a wimp. They didn't know anything about his past and it really burned my a$$ ta hear folks say that. Now a days he's sky divin at 80+ years old. Some wimp.
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He jumped with the "black Knights" at least once that I know of.
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He jumps every birthday now. He ruled with an even hand an knew just how far ta go an just when ta stop. Good man in my book.
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George SR. is in relatively good health and I hope he can continue to jump on his birthday,
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http://www.comcast.net/articles/news-national/20090719/US.Aviation.Hall/
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That article failed to mention about Jimmy's role in "Strategic Air Command" which was filmed at Carswell and Offut AFB's.
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Here's a site with some rare and interesting aircraft.
http://rareaircraf1.greyfalcon.us/UNITED%20STATES.htm
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Those are some great pictures.
My grandfather worked fer Northrop and gave me a slew of pictures of experimental planes. Some of them fit the UFO sightings to a tee. Got ta see a picture of "flying saucers" with swastikas on them an other German markings that were taken at the end of the war. I balieve the Russians ended up with that stuff. Weren't aliens that crashed in New Mexico, it were just commies.
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This one sure looks an awful like a Rutan VariEze. Bet it weighs a bit more!
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I really enjoyed seeing the pictures, Major. I especially enjoyed the photo of the B25 with the 75mm cannon in the nose. Dad's outfit had a few of them in the Med. They used them against German ships, especially the "E" Boats. Dad said that the plane would actually stop when the gun was fired.
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All them fliers were somethin else Pop. I'm still collecting stories about my Uncle Joe and his buddies. From what I got so far, those guys had ta be at least half crazy.
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They were young then, not really thinking much past the next day. You do a lot of stuff like that when you're young and in danger.
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Had NGEO on this morning, watched a program about some Austrians recovering a P-47 that had crashed in a lake in the ALPS on the last day of the war in Europe. Plane was shipped to Chino for restoration, believe it was recovered in the late '90's, give or take. They showed the hanger in Chino where it went, had a 17g out front............Buck 8)
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I'll keep an eye out fer that one. Last day of the war, what a drag. Hopefully the pilot got out an met some Swiss Miss's. Mebbe a good runnin watch ta boot, er a handy pocket knife.
Seriously, I'm gonna look that up. The P47 was one helluva machine.
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The P47G at Chino has been owned by them since the 80s. It was purchased from an Individual. The G models were built in a plant in Evansville, Indiana.
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He must have a second one now, TLD. this one when it came out of the lake still had vestiges of invasion stripes on it. Believe they took them off late in the war. Not sure which model it was, but it did have the bubble canopy, not a razorback. the pilot did survive, rescued by a pair of Austrian girls and taken to a German hospital. He was still living as of the filming, they interviewed him..................Buck 8)
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EAA Airventure starts tomorrow in Oshkosh, WI.
Slim
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He must have a second one now, TLD. this one when it came out of the lake still had vestiges of invasion stripes on it. Believe they took them off late in the war. Not sure which model it was, but it did have the bubble canopy, not a razorback. the pilot did survive, rescued by a pair of Austrian girls and taken to a German hospital. He was still living as of the filming, they interviewed him..................Buck 8)
God love him, I figgered he'd pull through an be in the hands of some young women. Don't ask me how I knew that, I just saw it in ma head. Either we live in fame er go down in flame, nothing can stop the US Air Corps.
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EAA Airventure starts tomorrow in Oshkosh, WI.
Slim
Boy I miss that place, but like EOT it's probably outgrown the sense of family it had when I was working it.
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I hope to get up to Oskosh sometime for the EAA show.
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Gonna be a 17G up at Cleveburg sometime in the next couple weeks. it's out of the Yankee museum up to Willow Run. Saw that one under restoration back in '89..............Buck 8)
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I contacted Mr. Bill Hamilton who is VP of the Planes of Fame Museum. He told me that a Planes of Fame member was technical consultant on the History channel episode. Panes of Fame has no direct involvement in the restoration. The plane was at the Chino Airport for a while but it is no longer there. It is being restored at an unknown location. It belongs to an individual owner in Chino, not related to the Panes of Fame Museum.
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Thanks, TLD. 8)
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Talk to the folks in charge of the Museums, they know for sure.
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In today's paper, they revealed that "Nine'O'Nine", "Witchcraft", and a '51C that is a two seat trainer are going to be paying a visit to our local airfield/MAPS area this weekend. This is about 13 miles from me, hope they fly over on their way in on Friday.........Buck 8)
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Nine O Nine is a B17 and Witchcraft is a B24. B24s were built several places, two of which were the Ford plant in Dearborn and Consolidated in Fort Worth.
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The Liberty Belle, a B-17, will be back in Chesapeake this weekend. Kindah wonderin’ why she ain’t at the museum in Pungo. Maybe the grass strip isn’t suitable for an airplane that large.
Don’t figger it matters. At $430.00 a ride I ain’t goin’.
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That'd be a little out of my budget.
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Definately out of mine, too, TLD. And $2200 for a half hour training flight in the two seat Mustang is WAY out of mine..........Buck 8) :o
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Owning a Warbird of any type is definitely a rich man's hobby. Jack Roush owns a P 51 and Johnny Rutherford had one over in Fort Worth at one time.
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A news flash from Langley Field, Va:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/1a35097r.jpg)
A giant of the skyways poises for flight, Langley Field, Va. The four powerful engines of a YB-17 bomber are warmed up before a takeoff.
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/1a35096r.jpg)
One of America's new warships of the air, a mighty YB-17 bomber, is pulled up at a bombardment squadron hangar, Langley Field, Va. It is all set to taxi out to a runway and take off.
Taken May of 1942 on color slide by Alferd T. Palmer, photographer for the U.S. Office of War Information
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Kewell. I like the nose gun arrangement.
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Those are some great pictures, Del. Thanks.
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Here's 3 more from that collection, Inglewood Califoria, North American testing new P-51's:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/1a35322r.jpg)
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/1a35324r.jpg)
and one with Brit markings:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/1a35398r.jpg)
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Those are P51B models with the Allison engine. They switched to the Rolls Royce Merlin engine when they built the D model. The Merlin was a better, more powerful engine.
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Had errands to run up south of the airfield today. just gettin' out of the car at Gander Mountain when i heard a sweet powerful enigine coming. it was the two seat '51C leaving for it's next stop. Could see the greenhouse type canopy when he went by...............but not for long! He was going hell-bent for election.Got finished in Gander, and while leaving the lot, over came "Nine'O'Nine! What a sweet throb those four radials made! There was only about 10 minutes between the two, so we stuck around the lot for a bit hoping "Witchcraft" would come along. Didn't happen when we thought it would. We were in the Belden Village area about ten minutes later and just before we got into the Sprint store lot, over came "Witchcraft"! Was still driving, so I didn't get as good a look at her. Not sure if the 24's and 17's had the same powerplants, but the 24 sounded somewhat different than the 17 did. Unles she wasn't climbing out like the 17 was. So, I got to at least see all three, although not as close as I would've liked to...................Buck 8) ::) :-\
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The B17 had 4 Wright 1820R engines and the B24 had 4 Pratt and Whitney R1830 engines.
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The B17 had 4 Wright 1820R engines and the B24 had 4 Pratt and Whitney R1830 engines.
Just fer fun, what was the tappet/pushrod clearance on them 1820 R's? More important, how'd ya know when they was just right? I would not be suprised at all if Tex knew this stuff.
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Leo, That's classified information, If I told you, I would have to shoot you.
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It's perty simple, no up an down play but able ta freely spin. The ignition points were set so ya could gap em with a matchbook.
Everything was designed on the KISS system.
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but you know all them things back then was KISS, you didn't have to have a feeler gauge to get a set of points to work, you just eyeballed em and they fired, most hydralic lifters, ya backed em off til they clattered, then snugged em down one round. they worked, carbruators, you adjusted by listening to em, then ya reved em up a little and adjust em a little more.
I miss some of them simple times. ;)
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Those days are long gone. Everything has to be adjusted by computers now days.
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Carb adjustments, I remember puttin ma hand on the steerin wheel and callin it good when it had the least vibration. It always seemed ta work. But of course you always made sure ta have good plugs, wires an cap bafore even messin with the thing. We cleaned the cap with a pencil eraser an it worked just fine.
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just think if ya'd a had to adjust that first Harley carb, now how big does that hole need to be in that can. ;)
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Fat lady’s daddy used ta pulled the ‘by ear’ crap. He’d botch it up. She’d be bitchin’ the thing wouldn’t run smooth past 30. I’d go ta Whitt’s, get the specs ‘n set it with a light. Fortunately he never messed with the carburetor.
Don’t think he liked it when I, at 18, asked ‘im not ta mess with it anymore.
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Yep, Especially if you are dating his little girl.
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Man I used to love to fool with that tunin, the first year of college, I loved to street race, I'd be out there in the parkin lot of the dorm, with my light and dwell meter, might even go sa far as to pull the valve covers and adjust the solid lifters, depended on how serious I thought it might be that night. Had a real high lift cam in my 396 Chevelle, that thing would just rumble through them drive in's, just lopeing through, sound like it was gonna die, then spin the tires just a little when it caught back up.
had to ride that clutch out, start at about 3000 rpm and keep feathering the gas till it caught hold. ;D still remmeber that feelin
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OT, THose things could really put you back in your seat when you hit the gas.
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just think if ya'd a had to adjust that first Harley carb, now how big does that hole need to be in that can. ;)
First Harley carb was a brass body Linkert. It was probably the best one they ever had.
As far as tuning by ear being crap... well I guess ya just got ta know. That police Guzzi I ran had a twin carb set up an ya just got the feel fer them after awhile. Del Orto's they was. Square slide throat. Had ta get em both ta open an close evenly an then play with yer mixture. But like I said, didn't screw with any of that until everything else was checked out an fit ta fight. And yes, a timing light is one handy tool that have used many times.
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ya always hear about that first Harley Carb being a tomato can, ;D
http://www.funtrivia.com/askft/Question40859.html
It sure could put ya back in yer seat, 4 speed muncie had a set of them cheater slicks mounted on some other wheels just in case. ;D was a whole lot of fun. course it was a wonder I didn't end up in Jail, but I sure enjoyed them days.
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Yeah, we had some neat toys to play with back then...........Buck ::) 8)
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and you know Buck, we always did all we did outside, no electronic games, no sitting down to watch TV. I remember a few years later the first game came along, PONG, man we thought what a game. ;D
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Gas and parts were a lot cheaper then, and we were all younger.
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Stopped doing my own tune-ups when I sold the last car with capacitive-discharge ignition, twin SU carbs, and Lucas electrics.
Just got too complicated after that.
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Stopped doing my own tune-ups when I sold the last car with capacitive-discharge ignition, twin SU carbs, and Lucas electrics.
Just got too complicated after that.
That's Lucifer electircs, Lucifer the Prince of Darkness. ;D
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The last car that I worked on of mine was a 77 Mustang 2 with the German V6. I had to buy metric wrenches and sockets to work on it.
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That Mustang had a 4 speed and the Moose hated it. You only have to mention the word Mustang and she gets mad. I was trying to buy an older model Chevrolet a few years ago. I was gonna have to pick it up out of town. She was all for it till I told her it had a 4 speed. Well, she vetoed my project.
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this seemed interesting
WWII B17 Flight Log.
http://downloads.hyperscale.com/guides/B17log.pdf
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It won't open for me OT. I really want to see it.
HELP!
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You gotta squint your left eye, stand on your right foot while holding your left foot in front of you, spin in a circle clockwise, and swing a live chicken around your head while baying at the moon. ::)
THEN you can see all sorts of things. ;D
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I don't have live chickens so I guess I'm screwed.
There is a very off chance that I might recognize a name on that log, but stranger things have happened.
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leo here's where I originally got it from, I thought you might like to go over there, some of the guys are talkin about their relatives who flew in B 17's
http://www.okshooters.com/forums/showthread.php?t=66190
you may have to sign in to get here, but it's a good safe site.
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Hey Leo, It's a B 17 outfit of the 8th AF, the 385th BG.
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Thank you! I'm waiting on my confirmation email from the site. Any lead is a good one.
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I figgured it'd be of interest to you guys that have talked about the B 17's
it was an interesting read.
hope that you can find out some good info Leo.
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In 43, things could have gone either way in the air war over Europe.
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Leo, did you get to get in and read the B-17 Log ???
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No, I just keep getting a blank page. I will try again tonight.
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No, I just keep getting a blank page. I will try again tonight.
Sent ya an email.
Slim
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I got it. Turns out I didn't have Adobe Reader installed after my last reformat. I'm a dummy sometimes.
Thank you very much for that. Just the hand written letter in the beginning was great to see. It was strange that they didn't list the whole crew. It takes a lot more than a pilot, co pilot, bombadier an navigator ta run one of those things in combat.
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Leo, I'm glad that you were able to read the B 17 log.
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Well, I sent in my application to work as a volunteer at the Cavanaugh Museum of Flight in Addison. I should know in a week or so if I make the grade. It will be something to do to get out of the house and do stuff I know a little about.
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Sounds like yer dream job. Heck, it sounds like my dream job.
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Leo, There's only one problem, No Salary! The CAF in involved in a major overhaul on "FIFI", so she may not fly in the AirSho in Midland this year. It's the same weekend as the Grand Muster in Nebraska and I had already committed to that. The B24 that used to be named "Diamond Lil" has been redone and repainted OD and renamed "Ol 927". It is supposed to be hangared at Addison. It's gonna be neat just to see what all they do have over there. It's been at least 10 years since I have toured the Museum.
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She'll always be Diamond Lil ta me. Kinda makes me sad they changed her.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/Diamond20Lil20B-2420Nose20Art-420.jpg)
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Leo, It's a shame that the Nose Art for "Diamond Lil" is lost.
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Probably not "PC" any more. Too riske'. Gotta protect the children, ya know. ::)
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There were a lot of talented artists among the ground crews and flight crews. Women were always in short supply and the guys were homesick. The Nose Art was a piece of home. The CAF has a large collection of preserved Nose Art, salvage crews cut out the Nose Art from the aircraft before the planes were destroyed. The pieces are hanging in one of hangars for visitors to view.
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If ya look, some a them were a lot more risque than ya'd think. The guys had ta put mud over certain body parts if they were headed to a particular airfield. You don't see many pictures of the nude nose art but it was there. Like Tex said, it was a piece of home, something ta remind ya what ya were fightin for and it also gave the plane a living personality like some of us do with cars and motorcycles. "Old 927" aint much of a personality.
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Leo, I did a little research on Ol 927, It is the only surviving B24A in existence. It was the 25th B24A built. She was built in May.1941 in San Diego. It never saw actual combat, serving as a transport for the AAC and Factory employees. The CAF purchased it in 69 and they painted the desert color in 71.
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Thanks fer the info Tex. I did find it inneresting that it was painted that color when most bombers over North Africa were B17's. The 25 is usualy associated with other areas of combat. I'm sure you know much more than I do, but it did strike me odd the first time I saw it.
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There were several squadron of 24's based out of Benghazi(SP?). The Snow White Squadron was the most famous of them. Participated in the Ploesti Raid. Had planes named after the 7 dwarfs, etc., IE: Grumpy, Sleepy. Part of the 15th, IIRC........Buck 8) ::)
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Leo, Actually the B17s were used in Europe and in limited duty in the Pacific. The B24s, B25s, and B26s were used in the Med area. Ol'927 is painted now like it would have been in 42. Some of the B25s in the Squadron in which Dad was is in were painted blue/gray color to blend in with the water in the Med.
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My Uncle chased Rommel in a B17 while his brother chased him in a tank. Both of them got to see the joy and wonder of North Africa before they got to Europe.
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My Dad got to see it also, unfortunately the hard way( Kasserine Pass) :-\
He got to see Sicily and parts of Italy before he got out. 19th Army engineers. Another unfortunate happening was his records burned in the 1974 fire in St. Louis :-\
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Leo, The 12th AF had 2 B17 BGs (97th, and 201 BG) as part of the 12TH Bomber Command. In aug 43, 2 more BGs were added(2nd BG, 99th BG). In Nov. 43, the B17s became part of the new 15th AF. I'm still lookin' for more info.
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Thanks.
It's real pain that fire happened before the computer age. It's a shame that it happened at all but at least the records would be out there in cyber space.
I've heard stories about the Kasserine Pass. Our guys that fought that were about as tough as they come.
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The American troops in the battle were"green" and up against the experienced Afrika Korps under Rommel. The American troops were under the command of a British General. All of this led to an unfortunate defeat for the US.
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The American commander "on scene", retreated to a bunker and wasn't reliable. The Americans were badly mauled.
That battle resulted in the eventual meeting of my parents due to the guys in Dad's unit writing letters to my Mom who was a friend of one of their unit who was killed in the action. After time the letters trailed off except for one writer.......my Dad. Once he was back stateside he stopped here on his way back to California, they clicked, and once he went back to Calif., and then mustered out in Indiana. He came here and they got married..................Buck 8)
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Everytjing happens fer a reason Buck ;)
We didn't fair too well with our first shot at Dunkirk either. More Brit command.
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Leo, Don't forget about the French Army. Dad's unit got to North Africa in Oct. 42. Their first fighter escorts were "Free French" pilots flying wore out Hurricanes. Dad called them "Old Men". Most of them had been WW1 pilots with the Lafayette Escridrille. Some had one eye, Some had just one.
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Well it all worked out in the wash. All but one of my relatives made the boat home and the bad guys were stopped before they could hurt anyone else. A lot of people were mad about Dresden but that was all done by aircraft. The Brits didn't have any V1 rockets so several crews put their butts on the line to retaliate for London. I can understand their anger, but a lot of them felt bad afterward.
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Leo, When Bombs are dropped, civilians are always killed. Colleratal Damage!
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In Japan, large civilian areas were fire bombed. This was done however, because the Japanese had war production "farmed" out to schools and civilian homes. A sort of cottage industry, only way we could get at it. Didn't make the crews feel any better about it.
Today, the Arab counties and terrorists do the same thing. hide amongst the civilians and then scream bloody murder when some of them get killed because of it..........Buck 8) ::) :-\
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It's always been that way, a certian amount of innocent folks are going to be killed during wartime.
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It's always been that way, a certian amount of innocent folks are going to be killed during wartime.
That's true. They wanted an inquest inta Dresden but once they saw what all the other side had done they let it go. They was screamin "War crime!" When all the facts came out they shut up.
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The folks in London had a right to complain about the V1 and V2 rockets that the Germans sent over.
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A couple shots from the Pilot taken at the Museum in Pungo. The folks sittin’ in the hangar were there for movie night. Ten bucks. Tour the museum then stick ‘round for the movie. Popcorn included. Bring your own lawn chair....
(http://media.hamptonroads.com/cache/files/images/blogs/26641.jpg)
(http://media.hamptonroads.com/cache/files/images/blogs/26651.jpg)
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I'd like ta go there some day. It looks like fun on movie night.
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Nice PBY and SNJ, there Arcey 8)
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A couple shots from the Pilot taken at the Museum in Pungo. The folks sittin’ in the hangar were there for movie night. Ten bucks. Tour the museum then stick ‘round for the movie. Popcorn included. Bring your own lawn chair....
(http://media.hamptonroads.com/cache/files/images/blogs/26641.jpg)
(http://media.hamptonroads.com/cache/files/images/blogs/26651.jpg)
Nice PBY and SNJ, there Arcey 8)
Right you are, Buck!
My Pappy flew ALL 3 of those planes. (Wildcats, Hellcats, Dauntlesses, Avengers and Helldivers, too) Matter of fact, he said he had the most FUN flying the PBYs. When Dad died, my (then, now ex) Father-in-Law, a stone mason, carved a beautiful PBY flying into the sunset on his stone. One of these days ... IF I remember to take the digital camera, I'll take a picture. It's pretty clear and Kenneth's artwork is very detailed - considering the size and the fact it's done on granite! When it was new you could see contrast on the rays of the sun that he did by sandblasting using different media (sand, metal shot, carbide sand, etc.) on each ray. Mother Nature has taken out those little details, however, in the last 32 years. :( :(
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That's a nice looking Stearman also. The CAF had a Catalina at one time. It crashed into Matagorda Bay during an AirSho, killing all on board. They have lost two other aircraft, the Only A20 in existence that crashed at the AirSho at Harlingen(I witnessed this one), and a Martin B26(only flying one in existence) near Midland, while testing the engines. All crew perished.
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:'(
Such a shame to lose the crews AND the planes. I hope the families are OK.
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The pilot of the A20 was from Fort Worth and about 80 years old at the time. They interviewed his son later and he said his Dad died doing what he loved to do.
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If ya gotta go ...
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If I go doing what I love most it will leave my wife psycologicaly scarred.
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Now you're bragging, Leo.
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The PBS station in Dallas just finished an hour long special about the B17s that are still flying. The CAF has two and the one in Fort Worth, makes me feel good that we have folks that are dedicated to the preservation and flying of these planes.
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I'd like to see that show. Do you recall the name of it?
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I'd love to see it, too, TLD 8)
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B17--Flying Legend
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Thank ya. Gonna see if I can find it on the net.
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If I go doing what I love most it will leave my wife psycologicaly scarred.
Yeah, I can see how having the person with the clicker dropping dead in the middle of Dancing With The Stars would have that effect on her. :o ;)
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Leo, It sounds like 40 Rod has your number!
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Now that was just plain funny. Touche'
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Leo, I hope you don't have any scars from it.
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Here's a good one.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rtt4Gt-fXx8&NR=1
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Kindah neat ta bend a l’il take a few steps then stand up with yer head ‘n shoulders in the bomb bay of a fully operational B-25J.
I love prop noise…………
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All our fire planes are retired Navy. Hearin them things fly low over the house is like music.
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course we didn't have no air base around to hear any military planes, but we had more of them single engine spray planes flyin around out there in the country than you could stir with a stick,
most of em took off from a local airport every morning, but would then land at some farmers to fill up with water and poison, my granddad had one guy he'd let land on his pasture and fill up. I was 6 and when Doyle was flyin I'd be down there when he landed, he had one of them converted PIPER CUB, when he'd land he'd kill it and start fillin it up and hop me up in the seat, he showed me what I could touch and what I couldn't, mostly I pulled, pushed and went from side to side with the control stick. thought the world of Doyle for lettin me play in his plane,
the year I turned 10, he crashed at the end of a soybean field, he came in that morning filled up and off he went, he came over the house like any other time, waved the wing at us and next thing we heard was a crash and saw some smoke. killed him instanly I guess according to the farmer that was there flaggin him.
found out through the years, it was dangerous business, saw 3 others killed in spray plane crashes, saw 3 other crashes where they walked away
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I helped pull a pilot out of a crashed AG Cat when I was still in the Panhandle, in about 71. The plane was full of fuel and chemicals. We got the pilot out without the plane catching on fire. He was pretty banged up, but alive. Those computer graphics are awesome, it looks real.
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Heres some real stuff and better music.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B69CquvLHgY&feature=related
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Leo, That's the Royal Canadian Air Force and the plane is a Lancaster. The modern picture of all the planes in front of the hangar is the Museum near the Airport at Calgary, Alberta Canada. We took a tour of it one year when we went to the Stampede rodeo.
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Saw this guy lookin in a plane
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WHODAT?!?!?!?!?!?
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That guy don't trust his own pants. ;D
Slim
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I was always told not ta do that with ma hands cause if I tripped I could break ma nose. The advise has worked so far.
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RC bought a new plane, he'll be styling to the range now, even got a sheriffs badge painted on it. ;D
right off the showroom floor to boot.
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He needs one of those leather flying caps for flying in that open cockpit.
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He's got a nice sombero, it would look like a flying saucer pilotin' the plane...Arcey in a leather helmet and a White silk scarf ....Montana get your camera
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RC bought a new plane, he'll be styling to the range now, even got a sheriffs badge painted on it. ;D
right off the showroom floor to boot.
Speed Checked By Aircraft – Ya seen the signs……..
I’d look like Snoopy. Them’s my favorite jeans. $5.40 from Good Will. Too big ‘n feel sooooo comfortable. Need the belt ta hang the Fobus on ‘n the suspenders ta keep ‘em up.
Had a great time takin’ the museum tour with Tom. Good dogs fer lunch..
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Get him some moustache wax and he'll look like one of those WW1 pilots.
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There they go takin' pictures of backsides again, Arcey. i pick up a lot of jeans at GoodWill for doin' work stuff..........Buck 8)
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Arcey flyin in aboard a Sopwith Camel would really make the match. But yeah, the wax is essential right along with scarf an skull cap. Comin in low an pingin steel with one a them old rotary guns would be a thrill.
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I'm still amazed at how they were able ta time them guns with the prop.
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Just an interupter gear system ,Leo. kinda like a cam shaft..........Buck 8)
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I looked at the design once and could picture it in slow motion, but then thinking of how fast those props twirled it seemed like there would be a high margin for error. Perty neat stuff fer back then.
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Leo
They used to put steel deflector plates on the props to keep from shootin’ holes in their own props.
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Leo
They used to put steel deflector plates on the props to keep from shootin’ holes in their own props.
Talk about shootin yerself in the foot ;D
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I’d look like Snoopy. Them’s my favorite jeans. $5.40 from Good Will. Too big ‘n feel sooooo comfortable. Need the belt ta hang the Fobus on ‘n the suspenders ta keep ‘em up.
Sounds good ta me.
Slim
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The CAF annual AirSho is at Midland this weekend. A lot of beautiful Warbirds will be on display and recreations of major air battles of WW2. I'm gonna try to get out there next year. It was the same weekend as the Muster this year. They named our group of planes, "The Ghost Squadron" and Tennessee Ernie Ford wrote a song about it. Ernie was a Col. in the CAF and a bombadier on a B29 in WW2.
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Ghost Squadron I knew about, TLD. The info on TEF, I didn't. Oh, Did you wave at my Bach? It left the D/FW area last night on it's way here ::) 8)
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Ernie was the main announcer for the activites and he provided commentary on the air battles being recreated.
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God Bless Ernie
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That "Ghost Squadron" song he wrote and recorded makes the hair on my arms stand up when I hear it.
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Nothin like a good aircraft and a song to lift up the spirit, like Into the Wild Blue Yonder. B-17's
MS
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Nothin like a good aircraft and a song to lift up the spirit, like Into the Wild Blue Yonder. B-17's
MS
"atta boy, giver the gun"
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Leo, I have joined the CAF B24/B29 Squadron. That means I get to hang out with "FIFI" and the plane formally known as "Diamond LiL".
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I envy you Pop. If I could take Lil ta see that plane in person it would be a great day.
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"FIFI" is having a complete overhaul at the HQ in Midland, Tx. The B24 is at the Addison airport, which is about an hour east of where I live.
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I live in the flightline of Fairchild AFB, it's a C-135 hang out and when those B-52's headed fer Hawaii flew over my house, well I felt so good I wanted to salute them.
It's the sound of freedom
MS
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Tex, I think we have found a brother.
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LT, did we loose one somewhere? :o
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LT, did we loose one somewhere? :o
Some of us here are just big WWII aviation buffs. You seem to fit right in.
My uncle Joe was a tailgunner on a B17 and I still have his dog tags.
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Leo, I met Montana Slick a couple of years ago on the Sass wire. He is a Masonic Brother of mine. He is a cousin of Casey Tibbs, who was a famous Bronc rider of the 50's. He knows both of Yakima Canutt's sons. Slick is an old Army DI. He trained troops down at Fort Polk in Louisana in his younger days.
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Kindah out in left field ‘n it ain’t military but someone may find it interestin’…
http://hamptonroads.com/2009/11/did-edgar-cayce-know-where-amelia-ended
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I'm sure that there will be more speculation about her disappearence since the new movie about her is playing at the movies. It has always been an interesting read for me.
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Kinda like true mysteries. Fiction, movies ‘n such do nothin’ for me. Maybe we’ll see sumthin’ real on the Earhart case before we croak.
Got tied up messin’ with the Carroll Deerin’ ‘n Mary Celeste the other e’enin’ ‘n stayed up half the night.
Lunch is done. Back ta werk. Damn. Real pretty day ta be outside.
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I hoping to get around to going to the movies to watch that new Amelia movie. If not, I guess I'll watch it on Netflix. It's noon now and Victoria hasn't fixed me anything for lunch. It looks like I may have to fend for myself.
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Did any of you in LE ever have a psycic on a case? I've been seeing that a lot of departments are starting to use them. Just curious.
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Did any of you in LE ever have a psycic on a case? I've been seeing that a lot of departments are starting to use them. Just curious.
We didn’t go lookin’ for ‘em. Occasionally one would call or come to the office onna high profile case ‘n we’d take the time to listen to ‘em. Don’t remember gettin’ anythin’ useful from ‘em tho.
When there’s a missin’ kid ya don’t poo-poo anythin’ ‘til ya check it out.
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From what I can tell 10 percent of em er either real er real lucky at guessin. The other 90 percent er full of s***. I'm prolly bein generous with those numbers. My ex wife took both my daughters ta one of em an bought inta every thing the lady said. Changed their lives an routines based on this "reading". I'd like ta slap some sense inta all four of em, but that would prolly fufill some prophecy er somethin.
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Leo, when I was Bail bonding, we had a fella named Jimmy Don Thornton run on us, my step daughter contacted a physic that she had met a few weeks earlier, my wife and step daughter got a lead that Jimmy Don had been seen in Topeka Kansas and went to check with some people that were supposed to know something,
while they were gone, the physic called, I talked to her, she said he was hiding in an area with miles and miles of growing crops and every few miles would be some tall, cylinder shaped buildings, well they were in Kansas, wheat fields streatching for miles and silo's to hold the wheat when it was harvested,
he had left when they got to where he had been seen but he had been there. so we got in touch with the physic again, this time she saw snow on the mountain tops and ski areas,
well the next week, America's Most wanted had a piece on Jimmy Don Thorton, long story short, when he saw himself on Americans Most wanted he had a minor heart attack and wound up in the Hosiptal and he was taken into custody, he was in Vail Colorado, so she was generally right about all she told us.
on another note Jimmy Don Thorton was Billy Bob Thorton's cousin.
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Thanks Bro. Tex fer the Bi-o,
Jo and Eddie Canut are both re-tired, Eddie really messed up his back in a moovie stunt, re-tired early.
Tex, I'll send you a PM as we have a new suppplier for our Cawfee mugs. Nice mugs too, I got one.
Cawffee and Goodies on me, every aviator needs a boost now and then."Jet Propulsion" :o
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Thank you Bro. Slick. I sorta thought the folks would appreciate the things I said about your Bio.
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Yer appreciated a lot Bro. Tex and thanks fer the introduction
Kinda cool this morning, thinkin maybe puttin on a pot of Cawffee in the camp fire.
Maybe Del kin give us a lesson on Dutch Oven cooking with samples eh.
Where is that Feller no how?
Catless Cawfee and fritters anyone? Apple typ that is.
What does this post have to do with Aircraft?
Everything, Aviators love home cooking and a ~~~HOT~~ cup of Cawfee. ;)
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I finally got around to joining a Squadron in the CAF after all these years. I am a member of the B24/B29 squadron now. The B29 is being overhauled at the HQ in Midland, Texas. The B24 is hangared at the Addison Airport, which is in a suburb in north Dallas.
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I finally got around to joining a Squadron in the CAF after all these years. I am a member of the B24/B29 squadron now. The B29 is being overhauled at the HQ in Midland, Texas. The B24 is hangared at the Addison Airport, which is in a suburb in north Dallas.
You lucky Lawdog, all I have is a base full of C-135's...Congratulations Pard, we gotta have more respect fer ya now, not that we didn't before.
Texas LawDawg is my Brother ya know, we have different Parents but were Brothers. :)
M. Slick
Da Law
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I envy him, too, Slick.................Buck :o
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It's a labor of love for me and a way to remember and honor my Dad who served in the Army Air Corps in WW2.
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Bro. Tex, I sure would like to see his picture again. He's my Hero.
MS
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His pictures have been misplaced since the last move. I've got em put away so good that I can't find them for now.
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His pictures have been misplaced since the last move. I've got em put away so good that I can't find them for now.
I'm in the same boat Pop. Somewhere out there are some valuable (to me) pictures an no one seems ta know where they are.
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Same here, Leo. I also have a reel to reel tape out there someplace that I'd love to have back. It has the Stage Band Comp. we went to when I was still in high school. Had our band and two others from the Columbus area. there's a dynamite solo on there by one of those Columbus groups. I remember that the whole trumpet section was using the new( then) Conn 60-B Super Connnstellation's. what a sound they had! The 60-B was one of the first super horns developed in the mid to late '60's. Those and the King Silver Flair's, and the Getzen Doc Severinsen's were the first of the super horns.
There's a 60-B on Ebay now that's almost mint, first one I've seen the last few months I've been watching. By the time the auction's done, that one's gonna go pretty high. Of all the vintage horns, that's one model I would love to get an example of...........Buck 8)
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You sure do got the bug Buck. Not ta go to far off topic but I do still have an LP of our Jr high band with pictures of all of us on the cover. It was lost for several years until my Dad found it.
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I don't have any of his AAC pictures that I can lay hands on. I've got a picture somewhere of him sitting behind his desk as Sheriff. Hopefully this winter I will unearth them.
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My Great Grandfather was on the first motorcycle squad for the Pittsburg PD. My grandmother had two pictures of him, one with just him in uniform standing by his bike and another of the whole group. He starded out as a beat cop before the bikes came. No one seems to know where those pictures ended up.
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Leo, I'm sure that Pittsburg PD has a Museum and I bet that they have probably got some pictures of the first motor cops. You had never told me about your GG grand dad being a Cop. I've been there a lot of times on extraditions, we even drove up there a couple of times during the summer.
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Yeah, he was a typical Irish cop on the east coast back in the old days. His last name was Jennings. We'd go ta visit my gramma every year and I used ta stare at those photos fer hours. Prolly where my love affair with the two wheelers got it's roots.
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Same here, Leo. I also have a reel to reel tape out there someplace that I'd love to have back. It has the Stage Band Comp. we went to when I was still in high school. Had our band and two others from the Columbus area. there's a dynamite solo on there by one of those Columbus groups. I remember that the whole trumpet section was using the new( then) Conn 60-B Super Connnstellation's. what a sound they had! The 60-B was one of the first super horns developed in the mid to late '60's. Those and the King Silver Flair's, and the Getzen Doc Severinsen's were the first of the super horns.
There's a 60-B on Ebay now that's almost mint, first one I've seen the last few months I've been watching. By the time the auction's done, that one's gonna go pretty high. Of all the vintage horns, that's one model I would love to get an example of...........Buck 8)
Now you have me wondering what my Selmer tenor sax would be worth these days. Cost me about $275.00 in 1961.
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Leo don't want no pickle, he jest wants to ride his motosickle!
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Wow, from aircraft ta Arlo Guthrie. We do know how ta shake these threads up.
40, Buck can prolly tell you what the goin rate is for just about any instrament right now. He's really tuned in on that front as of late.
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Leo, A Motosickle is a motorized bisickle. The Wright Bros. had a bisickle shop. They built the "Flyer" at their bisickle shop. See, There's ya sign!
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40, What model Selmer is it? ::) 8)
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Leo, A Motosickle is a motorized bisickle. The Wright Bros. had a bisickle shop. They built the "Flyer" at their bisickle shop. See, There's ya sign!
See, I knew we'd come full circle. Pop had the last piece of the puzzle.
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Leo, Too bad that you're not gonna be hear in the Metroplex. They're having free rides on Ol 927 at the Addison Airport tomorrow.
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FREE?? That is a rarity ma friend. They fetch steep prices for those rides at most shows. Are you going?
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I'm prolly gonna stay home, I'm havin' problems with my right lower leg being swelled. I'm leaving for East Texas next week for the first NCOWS shoot in Texas. I got it propped up today. I haven't been able to sleep in the bed because of my back, so my lower leg swells up. I'm just gettin' old.
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TLD, Have you heard anything on the '29 that the Wichita plant is restoring? saw a documentary on PBS the other night and they had the restoration crew on it..............Buck ::) ???
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As we speak, "FIFI" is undergoing a complete major overhaul at the CAF HQ in Midland, Tx. I'll see what I can find out about that other B29. "FIFI" was found at the bombing range at China Lake NAS in Californina. There was supposed to be some more B29s out there.
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IIRC, this one is a Wichita made plane. Believe they said it was being used for gunnery practice at one point as a target! I think they've had to do their own tooling to make some replacement airframe parts. Some of the original workers are doing some of it, and old aircrew too............Buck ::)
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Tail# BW 44-69972 has been undergoing a restoration at the Boeing facility in Wichita, Kansas. It has been moved to the Kansas Aviation Museum(formally the Wichita Municipal Airport, built in 1935). "Doc" is not able to be viewed by the general public a the the present time. It has been moved to Building 10, which is adjacent to the Museum. As far as I know , it is still not airworthy. The owner of the Cavanaugh Museum of Flight has donated $1.2 Million for the engine restoration of the engines on "FiFl". "FiFi" and "Ol 927 will be hangared at the Cavanaugh Museum in Addison when they are not attending airshows.
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In time Bro. Tex, in time.
Hey, got a lot done on me new leather shop taday, lookin good.
Sent R3B the Sunset rig I made, he even sleeps in em.Just glad he likes em
MS
ps, heres a bone fer my Darlin' Victoria. :-*
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Bro. Slick, Victoria thanks you for the Bone this mornin'. I 'm getting ready to take her to the park this morning for a run. They had a CAF AirShow last weekend in Houston. For the first time in over 7 years, "Texas Raiders" took wings and flew. She is the Gulf Coast wing of the CAF's B17, It is the plane that was used in the "Don't Mess With Texas" campaign a few years ago.
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Bro. Tex, we dunt get many airshows here, just the C-135's everyday.
Fergot to mention, R3B is a retired Naval Aviator, hez wanting to get on the forum as soon as he figures out how to get in.
I smell Cawfee, wheres yer mug Bro.?
MS
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Bro. Slick, I hit that Cawfee real hard today. My old Cawfee pot gave up the ghost this morning. I had 2 new spares in the pantry. I opened one of them up and got it goin'. It make purty good Cawfee. It's only a 10 cup capacity. R3B is welcome here.
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Bro. Tex, once ya get the coffee maker seasoned up it will make a better brew, specially in yer TDSC Mug
Thinking of Cawffe, I better get the ol camp fire lit up head down to the creek fer some fresh water
Nuttin like Rocky Mountian cool clear water. :)
MS
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Bro. Slick, I always use cold filtered water for my Cawfee. They had rides in our B24 yesterday, I didn't go, but I hope they had a good turn out. It was good to hear that "Texas Raiders" was airworthy again and able to perform at the Houston Air SHow.
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I would like to sit in the pilots seat, go full throttle, pull the stick back and explore the "Wild Blue Yonder".
Cant wait to head off to Texas here in a couple of weeks, I sure do love to fly. :)
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I enjoy flying too. I hope to get a ride on both the B24 and the B29 someday.
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I love flying in prop planes, the big passenger jets don't do much fer me. I had a commuter flight from Atlanta to Chattenooga and it was good old bird. I sat close to the wing and those engines put me right to sleep. After spending most of the day on the modern stuff it was a welcome treat. Delta still uses em for those short hops down south.
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I flew a lot on turbo prop commuter planes on my extradition trips to out of the way places.
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I dig the turbulance on those ligher craft. People around me are turnin green an I'm just grinnin from ear ta ear. Buisines man next ta me asks "doesn't this bother you?" an I tolt him "no sir, now we's flyin!" It's in ma blood.
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The Moose will not fly in a small plane. We flew in a small Cessna single engine one night from Amarillo to Dumas, which is about 50 miles. We were flying low above the highway and she would not look down. It has made a lasting impression on her. She doesn't mind the commerical big planes, just no little ones.
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That's too bad. To me it's like bein on one of those biig cruise ships where you can't even feel the swells as opposed to the natural motion of a small boat. But then again that makes a lot of people sick too.
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Back when I took flying lessons and fly on my own, I was in a farming area, I found out on a sunny hot day you could go over a plowed field and the thermals would push you higher as you flew over it, when you'd go over an area that was covered in grass, there wasn't any push. you'd get quite a ride at a 1000 feet , some people don't like it at all
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I do believe it's partly genetic. My uncle Joe did just fine in that tail gunner's position and you know that had to be a rocky ride! My Dad used to fly a lot too and never white knucked even in severe weather. It's all part of the ride.
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the first time I ever flew was in 1962, the local John Dealer took a bunch of farmers up to Moline, Ill. to the John Deere Tractor plant.
we flew on a 4 engine prop plane, we only flew at maybe 3000 feet (maybe) not very high, we had some old farmers on there that were in their 70's and it was the first trip on a plane. it was quite a memorable trip, there were 2 kids on the plane, me and a friend of mine, both 13 years old, they let us go up in the cockpit and see everything and sit in the co-piolit's seat. they really made an impression on us. but it made an impression on some of them farmers too. I heard some of em tell the story of how it's a wonder we made it at all up till the time they died.
but it was a fun experience.
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No pictures, unfortunately, but Aluminum Overcast was in Waco today. Got to follow it down the taxiway and take off behind that sucker.
Mmmm....B-17... ;D
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How was the prop wash, Dillo? Getting to see a piece of history like that is just the greatest feeling........Buck ::) 8)
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The B17 was the right hand of God when it came to beating the nazis. Sharing the tarmac with one must have been great.
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Back when I took flying lessons and fly on my own, I was in a farming area, I found out on a sunny hot day you could go over a plowed field and the thermals would push you higher as you flew over it, when you'd go over an area that was covered in grass, there wasn't any push. you'd get quite a ride at a 1000 feet , some people don't like it at all
The small airport I learned to fly at back in ’70 had a four lane freeway just off the approach end of the runway. You’d turn from base to final out over a farmer’s field, then cross the freeway. Depending on what was planted in the field, you’d get quite a different amount of lift off the paved surface and the field. It took a while to get used to just ride with it rather than push the nose down a dive for the runway, cause it wasn’t going to last past drainage ditch just before the end of the runway!
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Several years ago, I was sitting in the Charlotte Airport with a prisoner waiting on our flight back to DFW. I started hearing a bunch of OOHs and AHHs. I looked at the window and saw "FIFI" taxiing toward the terminal. The right side cockpit window was opened and an American and Texas flags were flying. I was unaware the she was to be in the area for an AirShow. It made me feel proud to be a member of the CAF. Now, I'm a member of the B24/B29 Squadron. I love those old planes, it always makes me feel close to my Dad.
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No wonder I kuddn't reply, fergot to log in..Wadda way ta fly ::)
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I like prop wash. Wasn't too crazy about the wake turbulence from the DC-9, but tagging along behind the Fort was great. I've also been fortunate on various occasions to share the airspace with a four-ship Mustang/Corsair/Thunderbolt formation and a B-25. Back when I was doing line service I got a chance to tour Marine One and the little orange USCG bird that followed the Presidential entourage.
The B17 was the right hand of God when it came to beating the nazis. Sharing the tarmac with one must have been great.
I kinda prefer the red-headed stepchild of the heavy bombers. Been a B-24 nut as far back as I can recall. Carried an equal share of the air war in all theaters and wound up without a tenth of the fame. Toured the CAF B-24 back when she was in a transport configuration; I'm glad to see them finally getting around to putting her back into bomber shape. Also believe Collings has one, recently repainted.
And B-25s. I love those. Especially in that two-tone camouflage they wore for the Med.
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I like prop wash. Wasn't too crazy about the wake turbulence from the DC-9, but tagging along behind the Fort was great. I've also been fortunate on various occasions to share the airspace with a four-ship Mustang/Corsair/Thunderbolt formation and a B-25. Back when I was doing line service I got a chance to tour Marine One and the little orange USCG bird that followed the Presidential entourage.
I kinda prefer the red-headed stepchild of the heavy bombers. Been a B-24 nut as far back as I can recall. Carried an equal share of the air war in all theaters and wound up without a tenth of the fame. Toured the CAF B-24 back when she was in a transport configuration; I'm glad to see them finally getting around to putting her back into bomber shape. Also believe Collings has one, recently repainted.
And B-25s. I love those. Especially in that two-tone camouflage they wore for the Med.
Ya fergot the 29. Ooh what a gal.
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One of my friends here (also one of my classroom instructors) was an air force brat. His dad got into the USAF in Korea and worked on B-29s, and the word is he hated the things. Problem was, the design exceeded the available technology. Sort of like dropping a muscle car into the 1940s.
Lot of good ideas on that bird, just far enough ahead of its time to be problematic.
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That's interesting QD cause I've heard stories from vets that flew in Europe in the 17's. They were told a new plane was coming but it never did, they were used in the pacific. Long story short, the command on the Euro front said "no thanks". They were being prudent and rightfully so.
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True. Logistically speaking, it wouldn't have been worth the trouble sending the Superfort to Europe. It would've been something to see, though.
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Another favorite, albeit a lesser-seen bird. I put together a bunch of these drawings for one of my countless projects (hence the fictional livery). I need to get back to drawing one day.
Hmm....
(http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/9343/cp3613a.jpg)
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QD, Some of the 25s in my Dad's outfit were the blue color. Axis Sally used to talk about them on the radio at night. They had some with a 75 in the nose for hunting E boats in the Med. He stated in N Africa in 42 and wound up in Northern Italy by the end of the war. 12th AF, 310 BG, 428 BS. Ol' 927 is the new name for the B24 formally known as "Diamond Lil". Ol 927 and "FiFi" the B29 are noemally hangared at the airport in Addison, Texas. "FiFi" is at the CAF HQ in Midland Texas for a major overhaul. I am now a member of the B24/B29 Squadron of the CAF.
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I've heard some about that. At last report they were working on rebuilding the engines. Not originals, but a kind of half-breed that looked like the factory engines but used more readily available parts.
I also understand there's an outfit in Kansas (I think) trying to get a second Superfort up. Pretty sure they aren't CAF, though.
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QD, I made a post about that B29 last week. I did some research on it and posted all the info I could find out about it.
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Oops. Sorry about that. I just ventured back last week, so I guess I just missed it. That's about as vigilant as I get, I guess. ;D
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QD, I noticed in your profile that you are in Waco. My beautiful wife graduated from BU. We always make an annual pilgrimage to "The Health Camp" for burgers.
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I'm here a little while longer, at least, until I can wring a commercial certificate out of TSTC. Funny you mention Health Camp, though - went there just the other day. Survived the Circle of Doom and everything and ate probably the un-healthiest burger in town. ;D
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That's the irony of it! We usually go down there about once a year. Maybe just once a year won't hurt us too bad.
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Out of curiosity, if you could own (and obviously fly) one of them, which would you choose? I think the B-17s, the B-29s and the Corsairs are beautiful planes, but the plane I'd love to own and fly would be the P-51 Mustang. I love the freedom and maneuverability of fighters - everything else feels like I'm in a bus.
Of course, one of the Fokker Dr. 1 Triplanes would be fun to have as well...
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The gull wing Corsair was one hell of a plane. The engine was so strong only a select group of military pilots could handle them. They had a Marine version that was set up to destroy just about anything in its path. I believe that was the first model I ever built as a kid, my Dad was obsessed with them.
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Hmmm...if constrained by the finances and operating restrictions of the real world, a Cessna O-2A wouldn't be unwelcome in the hangar, even if it's not a warbird in the tradition sense.
Outside that, I'd take a B-25. Preferably a glass-nose model in two-tone MTO camouflage. Though I gotta admit that a P-40B would be a very tempting option.
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QD, There are some former FAC's from the VietNam War that might disagree with you. We have an Oscar Duece in the CAF inventory. One of my wife's friends father was one of the "Black Sheep". He broke Pappy's leg in a wrestling match at the O club. I would have to say that I would have to choose between a P38, a Spitfire, or a ME109. That would be a hard choice, but I would choose the P38.
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P-47c would be a good choice for me guys. There's just something that's so muscular about it. A Hellcat wouldn't be a bad choice either................Buck ::)
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There's a couple down here. One in the black and red air force markings, another in a wholly fictional scheme that'd look at home in Rhodesia were it not for the USAF insignia (if you can puzzle that out) and one down around San Marcos in the standard gray with the late-run bubble window on the pilot's side. I talked to the pilot for a few hours at an airshow in San Antonio several years back - he'd flown that exact bird with the 20th TASS out of Da Nang, then bought it when it as surplus postwar. Beautiful restoration job. Even had the underwing ordnance and that monster radio package in the back.
As an amusing aside, the nose art was (I think) Charlie Chaser, which featured Snoopy on his doghouse making a low pass over a cartoon VC. He said that was an original piece of nose art from the war. Charles Schultz sent them to the stencils along with a letter and an autograph, all three of which this particular pilot still had in his possesion. Said those were probably worth more than the O-2 at this point.
I have several hundred pictures around here...somewhere.
And my favorite fictional character was an O-2 driver...among other things. But we're still working on that. ;D
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Well, There is supposed to be an Oscar Duece in our inventory, but I have not found it's location.
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Watched a movie last night called The Four Horsemen of the Appocolypse. It was a Glen Ford film from 1962. It wasn't really a war flick but was set in france durring the war. Me and the wife enjoyed it but the icing on the cake came at the end when they have some great footage of B 17s and B25s heading out to destroy a hidden Panzer division. There is a shot of the "aluminum sky" that is very impressive. They pretty much block out the sun.
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Glen Ford was a good actor, served in WW2. I always enjoy watching hin in Westerns.
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That's why I got it. Like I said it aint a war movie but in the few scenes they show fighting it's real. A Brittish commander is running the show but they made no mistake in showing the circled star when the 17s took off.
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When my back gets better I hope to take a more active part with the B24/B29 Squadron of the CAF. I plan on getting a digital camera and taking pictures of the planes at the Cavanaugh Museum of Flight.
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I must admit I'm always awed when they show those "aluminum sky" scenes in the WW II movies. The idea of them sending more planes out on just one raid than we had in the whole US Navy during the time I served is rather incredible.
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Those bombers carried sometimes as many as 10 in each plane. If 60 planes were shot down and the crews lost, that was 600 men gone. The shear number of crews lost was staggering.
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My Great Uncle used to tell my dad about the flack and the tracers. A plane on his wing one minute and then just a big gap in the sky the next. He and his crew made it home but a lot of their friends did not.
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They have a large granite monument to the 8th AF over in England, similar to the Wall in DC.
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And I thought a ride on a B-17 was expensive...
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_space_tourism
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No Hill for a Stepper! Leo!
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That article says the spaceship has room for "six well-heeled passengers." Do you think that means I can take my C & B '58 Remmington NMA, or do I have to buy a cartridge revolver?
After I win the lottery, of course.
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A new angle for "Space Cowboys"! Keep your firearms stowed in the overhead bins and make sure your serving trays are locked in the upright position.
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http://www.cdsg.org/forums/viewtopic.php?t=320
I usually consider 'planes just another vehicle, but here, look at these:
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Nice collection there Sir Charles.
And they said nose art was gone...this fresh from the sandbox.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg133/leotanner/cartmannoseart.jpg)
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Chalk is kinda low rent……..
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Well they did their best within regs. It aint no Vargas but at least someone took the time.
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Sir Charles,
Thank you *very* much for that link. The museum's clearly expanded since I was there (a long time ago). There are some fascinating and beautiful planes in those pictures. (although I must point out that it's obvious that the F-14 Tomcat is the most beautiful) and it was a delight to scroll through them all.
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Nice pics. I recognized a lot of them, some I didn't. Gets the memory cells sparkin'.............Buck 8) ::)
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I want the one in Pic #100 They were made for use in the Korean War. Supposely a man could carry it on his back then set it up and fly it.
I didn't see a pic of Ike's Helicopter in that group, The first Marine 1.
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http://www.cdsg.org/forums/viewtopic.php?t=320
I usually consider 'planes just another vehicle, but here, look at these:
I had no idea there were so many flying wings still in existence. There's a little one at Chino's Planes of Fame Museum that is supposedly the only one left that can be flown...supposedly!
I worked with a man 24 years ago who was helping restore it and it was alway a "month or so" from being completed. I think they announced it was done about five years ago, but I've never seen anything about it actually flying.
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They may not want to take a chance on wrecking it.
If it truly IS the "only" one in flyable condition, well ...
It takes a bit of special training to fly the Old wings. They didn't have the benefit of a flight characteristics computer to help keep it stable.
Jack Northrop would be proud.
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My Grandfather and other relatives worked for Northrop after the war. Somewhere I have a pile of scetches stored away and the wing is in there. He retired sometime in the 70's and when he died I got all sorts of things from the plant. Gonna have to dig it all out and see what's in there.
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My Grandfather and other relatives worked for Northrop after the war. Somewhere I have a pile of scetches stored away and the wing is in there. He retired sometime in the 70's and when he died I got all sorts of things from the plant. Gonna have to dig it all out and see what's in there.
By all means!
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As far as I can found out, it is the only flying wing that is flyable. The museum at Chino has had it along time before it was flyable. I saw parts of it at the museum when I visited there in 1985.
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By all means!
The things I wish I had kept better track of. So far I have come up with The patches the crews were given when asigned to a new project, some tie tacks and cuff links and some other miscellaneous stuff. I know I kept it all but the questions is where.
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The things I wish I had kept better track of. So far I have come up with The patches the crews were given when asigned to a new project, some tie tacks and cuff links and some other miscellaneous stuff. I know I kept it all but the questions is where.
I unner'stan! I have a LOT of "keepies," in my garage. There should be a sign over the door saying: "I KNOW it's here, but where?" Amazing how much can be kept in a 2.5 car gay-rage! (And there actually IS a vehicle - a non-running GEO Tracker - in there!)
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One thing I DO have (where I know it's located) is (are) 4 blown-up photos of my step-dad, Bud's B-24 and crew. I got to meet the Pilot/Captain when he came to Bud's funeral. Bud was a nose-turret gunner in a B-24G. It had a Tucker - as in automobile - turret, if I remember correctly. He was in during 1943-1945 time frame, and was on 4 raids to Ploesti ( :o ) and two to Regensburg. His bomb group was in N. Africa, then moved to Italy.
When Mother and Bud married, (1960) he REFUSED to fly ('tho he would in an emergency) and still hated the Germans so much that he and Mother decided it would "be better" if they didn't visit me in Fulda (former West Germany) when I was stationed there from '83-'90.
DEEP feelings.
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I know what you mean. My Dad had a Deputy who was a Bataan Death March survivor. Japanese weren/t real high on his list.
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As far as I can found out, it is the only flying wing that is flyable. The museum at Chino has had it along time before it was flyable. I saw parts of it at the museum when I visited there in 1985.
That's about the time I first heard about it and saw it. It's a small bird, one man if I remember right. I haven't seen it in three or four years. Had it painted that same bright yellow with black numbers. I was told that it was a bear to fly and wasn't considered practical until computers became available to handle it.
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It was unpainted and disassembled at the time.
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It was finally painted about 2002 I think.
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I subscribe to the Planes of Fame newsletter on line. I'm sorry that I don't live closer to be able to attend their events. They have some rare aircraft out there.
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Yes they do, and a surprisingly large percentage are capable of being flown.
Too bad they don't have more money. It could be very, very impressive.
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I doubt that I will ever be back out there. That was one thing that I enjoyed about my job with the Sheriff's Dept. I travelled all week long and had the opportunity to visit a lot of military and aircraft museums all over the US.
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Hi, guys. After a long and inexcusable absence I finally got back on here a short while back and discovered this thread. Being slightly interested in aircraft I find it a great read - apart from the odd anti-Britiash comment! ;) Come on now, fellas, we're on the same side. Coulda been a lot worse. It could have been the French who stood with you in the Gulf War. Then look who you'd have had to call friends!!
Although the thread is primarily aimed at WWII stuff there are several posts on the jet aircraft and I'm surprised that no-one has mentioned the Pima air museum in AZ. I spent a super half day there back in 2004 and saw some of my all-time favourite jets - the Phantom, Thunderchief and Blackbird among others. It's an awesome collection and you have free rein to wander around the field at your leisure. I doubt there were more than a couple of dozen people there when we visited so the photography is a pleasure.
Someone mentioned the USAF Thunderbirds display team and I had the distinction of seeing them in Cheyenne in 2005. They were very good, but not good enough. If you want to see a real aerobatic team try to catch the RAF Red Arrows - the best.
Finally, in reply to post #518 this is a Red Arrows pilot in training and he's not trying to take off. He's just landed and is on his way back to the de-briefing! ;D
Thanks again for a super thread, guys.
Chance
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Chance, I've been to the Pima Air museum several times over the years. The Air museum at the Smithsonian is about the only major Air Museum that I have not visited. I am a Col. in the CAF and I'm a member of their B24/B29 squadron.
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Since I didn't get to attend the CAF AirSho at Midland in Oct., I ordered the DVD. I was not disappointed. There is a lot of Video on Leo's favorite, "Sentimental Journey".
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Is there a link where I can order that?
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Leo, It's on the CAF website. Click on the gift shop and it should be in there with the hats and stuff. I think it's 19.95.
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Leo, I found another Bomber named after your better half. "Lady Lil was a B25 of the "AirApaches"(345th BG, 498th BS) in the Pacific Thearter.
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Wonder which version, TLD..............Buck ::)
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The picture I saw was a D Model. The AirApaches used several of the variations of the B25 during their time in the Pacific, uncluding the J model with the 75 mm cannon in the nose.
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Cool, now I have a picture of Diamond Lil and Lady Lil. Thank you.
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Leo, I think they have Lady Lil t-shirts for sale. I'll check and see if I can get you a web site.
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Leo, HistoricAviation.com
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Thankya Sir!
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That was a J model.
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Leo, The T-shirts are $17.95 and sizes up to 2X.
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Looked around there, TLD, but didn't see any t-shirts for 25's...........Buck ::)
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The "Lady Lil" T-shirts are in the Historic Aviation catalog that I received in the mail. It is the only B25 T-shirt they have. The sizes run from Medium to 2X. The size codes are #69462A-Medium, #69463A-Large, #69464A-X-Large, and #69465A-XX-Large. The price is $17.95.
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a friend sent this link to me, Lots of P-51 photos, some B-29 and others, warning there are some graphic photos mixed in from the fighting on Iwo Jima.
http://picasaweb.google.com/7thfighter/IwoJima?authkey=Gv1sRgCIW06db_6oth&feat=email#slideshow/5299163150448181842
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WOW! To those of us who are "plane crazy" the sight of all those wrecked and burning aircraft, PARTICULARLY P-51s, is sickening and heart-rending!
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Wow! 8) :o
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That's really a shame about the planes. I'm curious on how many injuries and or deaths occured during this tragedy.
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That was an amazing show. Thank you.
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TLD, there was a pic op on the news last night about a WW II plane that crashed, didn't hear where. Looked to be a Russian plane, red star on it. YAK?????? ::) :-\
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http://www.kold.com/Global/story.asp?S=11950319
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The plane is a Nanchang CJ-6A is a single enjine trainer built in China. The planes are being imported to the US from China.
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That was it................ 8)
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There's an outfit in Los Angeles that is importing them for resale. The pictures show them with military markings.
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Some of those Russkie trainers / stunt planes are fine aircraft and seem to be a pretty good bargain - considering.
There's a car dealer here in Indy who bought a Vultee BT 13 training plane and had it on the dealership roof as a "Looky-here" attraction. They were going to sell it to me for $500. (1971) I was psyched, 'cause I could actually afford it! It had at least one engine; I think 2. It had been converted from a 2-place trainer (original) to a single-seat which gave it sort of a cool fighter look. ...If you didn't know better, that is.
::)
Well, I started looking into expenses and re-build costs. Mom had been a stewardess with Lake Central Air Lines (what remained became US Air) and she had a good friend, Cpt. Dean Leming who had been her favorite pilot. Captain Dean had flown "the Hump" in C-47s during WW Twice. He, Dad (a former Navy fighter/dive bomber/torpedo/Air-Sear rescue pilot) and I went to inspect the plane. Dean started pointing out things that had to be modified, relaying hanger/parking fees, etc and ... well ... my dreams of becoming a $500 Warbird owner flew right out the window!
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
It's real shame to see ANY crash.
I don't know what ever happened to that plane - I never got the "N" number or I'd look it up. It prob'ly got scrapped.
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(I made my post about the surplus and even new Russkie planes, but I realize that the one mentioned is a rice-eater.)
;)
Still a shame.
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Sad to wreck a plane cuz the pilot had ta go potty.
The Fighter Factory could prolly fix it. But I doubt the museum in Pungo they’re affiliated with would want it. The thing ain’t a WW II or earlier craft. Too new.
Money is why I quit my lessons. I couldn’t afford to continue then. I can now ‘n have no desire to. The fella I started with took out a loan to finish. Saw ‘im not long ago. He ain’t flown a plane in the last twenty years.
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Funny thing...when the USAF recruiters talk to a young man these days they are innerested on how much time they spend playing video games. Some study showed that the gamers made the best pilots. I wonder if they are outfitting the new planes with Big Gulp holders and a supply of Doritos.
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Leo, You might need a relief tube also.
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The TWIN OTTER is born again;
http://www2.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/news/business/story.html?id=705ff203-fce2-4da0-8d4d-1d3f1b3483f0
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That sounds good for small commuter airlines.
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I get a Squadron email every week from the B24/B29 squadron of the CAF. I am happy to announce that "FIFI" has 2 new engines installed and the other to be installed in the next few months. She will able to fly again and return to Addison airport to the CAF maintence hangar in Midland.
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Bro. Tex, do a test run up this way so we kin check her out.
Our airport kin handle her, no problem.
General Doverylittle Slick :)
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I plan on posting pictures of "FIFI" and "Ol 927" as soon as they both get back to Addison airport.
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That's good news, TLD. Been a long time since I've seen FiFi..........Buck ;)
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I plan on being a volunteer at the Cavanaugh Museum of Flight in Addison, that's where she will be hangared. Mr. Cavanaugh donated 3 million dollars for the purchase of the 4 new engines. In return, "FIFI" will be hangared at Addison.
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I plan on posting pictures of "FIFI" and "Ol 927" as soon as they both get back to Addison airport.
You should petition to give Ol 927 her proper name back! You have the clout.
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Leo, That plane was built in 1942. It was one of the first B24s built in Calif. It is only B model B24 in existence. Mr. Cavanaugh has some deep pockets when it comes to Warbirds. I'm sure he has made some financial donations for Ol 927. I don't know if I have any clout. I'm a member of the Cavanaugh Museum and the B29/B24 squadron.
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For those of you who love SR-71s, the Flight Manual is now declassified and available online to the public.
http://www.sr-71.org/blackbird/manual/
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Little Rooster guarded the "Black Bird" when he was an SP.
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The Owner of a B 17 Pathfinder, who lived in the Metroplex passed away yesterday. "Doc" Hospers and his wife owned "Chuckie" and operated the Vintage Flight Museum at Meachum Field in north Fort Worth. Dr. Hospers was 79 years old and had served in the Army for 43 years. He and his wife were married for 50 years. Dr. Hospers held a Master Pilot's rating for B17's. He was chosen to fly the B17, "Shoo Shoo Baby" from Dover AFB to the Air Force Museum at Wright-Patterson Field in Ohio. Doc named his B17, "Chuckie" in honor of his wife beacuse that his her nickname. Doc will be sorely missed by everyone.
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I noticed on my E-mail Yahoo news that some loggers near Portland Oregon found the wreckage of a SB2-C Helldiver near the old Tallimook Naval Air Station.
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Did they find any remains so another mystery can be cleared up, or had the remains (IF the crew didn't survive) already been collected?
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SHB, There are conflicting reports on whether remains have been found or not. The CAF has the only flying SB2-C in existence.
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Not many were successful when they were new!
My Dad kinda liked 'em, 'tho. I think he liked what they could DO, not the way they flew.
2 ea. 20mms and a double cal. 30 to the rear, and 1 to 2 tons of bombs + rockets: they could put a LOT of hurt on the enemy!
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The Helldiver replaced the SBD on the Carriers. Their vertical stabilizer made them look unique.
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The Helldiver could carry a LOT of ordanance, but as a dive bomber I don't think it was as successful as the SBD's. Now the Devastator's replacement, TBF/TBM, was definately more successful. Of course they were helped by improvements in the torpedos by the time they came on line, and got shots at ships.............Buck ::) 8)
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The Story about the owner of the B17 in Fort Worth passing away hit close to home for me. I had met Dr. Hospers and his wife several years ago at a fund raiser for the Vintage Flight Museum, which they own, at Meacham Field in North Fort Worth. The B17 is the only existing Pathfinder model B17 left.
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The Helldiver replaced the SBD on the Carriers. Their vertical stabilizer made them look unique.
Yep. Dad was the pilot (his family said he was a pileit, all right: pile-it here, pile-it there ;) ) of an SBD when him and another SBD ganged up on and downed a Jap Betty bomber. They each got credit for 1/2 kill. I used to think that was pretty low, but when I visited the Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola 'bout 8-9 years ago, I found that (according to Navy records) 95% of all the pilots scored NOTHING! It made me pretty proud then to know he was in the top 5%!!! (Unfortunately, he'd been dead over 20 years by then. I STILL miss him. :'( )
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My Dad wanted to be a fighter pilot, but he was too tall, so he was a bomber pilot.
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Dad, when he joined (on his 17th birthday - he LIED!) was 6 ft and weighed 180 lbs. and already had a couple hundred hours flight time past his license. His size made it all the more believable when the recruiter asked his age! Since birth records were pretty sparse then, (he was born in his Mom/Dad's bedroom) there was no problem: his folks knew what he was doing, they just didn't know the regs and didn't find out he'd lied until his 18th B-day ... when the NAVY found out! (He was grounded for a short while 'til they got a CYA letter from his folks! Hell, he'd been in the Med for 6 months flying combat missions - then they transferred him to the Pacific Air Fleet Arm, after he was lightly wounded/recouperated.)
;D
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My Dad was an old man of 22 when he joined. He was in pilot training when WW2 started.
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I didn't know there was any kind of museum at Meachem Field. That's a pretty easy trip to make.
I'm sorry to hear the gentleman passed away.
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I don't know how long that it has been there, I've known about it for about 20 years.
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Check out their website, Vintage Flight Museum.
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Thanks. I just looked it up.
I think Steel Horse needs to come a day or two early (or stay longer) when he comes to town for the 2010 Southwest Regionals so he can join us and we can visit this museum and the Cavanaugh. I'd love to visit both museums with the two of you.
Maybe we could even squeeze in some time to visit the Civil War museum in west Ft. Worth. I've heard very good things about it.
What do you say, Jeff?
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The Civil War museum is in White Settlement near Loop 820. I have a membership to the Cavanaugh Museum. It's been a long time since I've been to thew Vintage Flight Museum.
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Thanks. I just looked it up.
I think Steel Horse needs to come a day or two early (or stay longer) when he comes to town for the 2010 Southwest Regionals so he can join us and we can visit this museum and the Cavanaugh. I'd love to visit both museums with the two of you.
Maybe we could even squeeze in some time to visit the Civil War museum in west Ft. Worth. I've heard very good things about it.
What do you say, Jeff?
Jeff says: I think that's a great idea !! Now, whether I can get the wallet to co-operate and anyone I ride with: that may be a different story!
That'd pretty much satisfy all (or nearly so) of my deep interests!
(Jeff turns and yells loudly!)
Oh, Jed! .... Have I got an idea for YOU! And it's not just MY idea!
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That sounds good to me.
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The Collings Foundation has organized its 2010 tour with a stop at the Arlington, Tx Airport on Mon., Tues., and Wed. of this week. A P51, A B17, and a B24 will be on display at the Arlington Airport, daily.
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While that would be really cool to see, I'd love to see a display of some lesser-known aircraft. P-51s (MY all-time fave), B--17 s & B-24s get most of the glory.
How 'bout that SB2C, JU 52, an SBD, and a Wellington, just for instance! Or ... (the list is enormous)
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The Collings Foundation is a private outfit and not affillated with the CAF. n The B17 is named "Nine O Nine", the B24J is named "Witchcraft" and I don't know about the P51. It is a C model and it is the only dual control P51 in existence.
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I've seen beautiful pics of that dual-control C mod! Awesome - and yes, for ONLY _____$s, you, too CAn fly a P51! (At least that's what I saw online - I assure you, if I EVER win the Lottery, I WILL spend the ca$h!!!!!!!!!!
(Oh --- you mean you actually have to BUY a lottery ticket to WIN? Shucks ... ) ::)
;) ;D
Jimmy - and any other fanciers: go here and spend LOTS of time - there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of pics; MOST are VERY high quality:
http://www.mustangsmustangs.com/p-51/p51.php (http://www.mustangsmustangs.com/p-51/p51.php) You can't believe how MANY cool pics there are! I've been HOURS there: I MAY have seen half! And it's not just P-51s!
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Re: MustangsMustangs site: As your guide to this great site, may I recommend that you start looking at the left on the home page, and click on the link named "Wallpapers."
It's a great place to start ... or the one (if you like pony cars, too) named "Mustangs X 2."
You'll see ...
One last suggestion: keep plenty of dry towels handy to wipe the drool off your keyboard and confuser's monitor screen!
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LOT's O Mustangs!
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Jeff, here's tht link to the military accdident reports I told you about.
http://www.accident-report.com/index.html
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Thanks, Glen.. Seems like ya gotta pay to see, but I was happy to NOT see Dad's name listed in the crew accident list ... 'tho it's NOT complete, by their own admission.
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No News Is Good News!
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Here's one for you, not a "Mustang" but related. ;D
I remember reading about this when they were trying to make it work.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzv4q5EEy1k
They didn't have the parachute option on the proto-type and when the wings came off they found out Pinto's could not fly.
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I'm not enthused on the idea of flying in a Pinto, given Pinto's track record.
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I found out this week that CAF has it's Dauntless flying now. That makes 3 flying now. The Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston has one, The CAF has one, and the Planes if Fame Museum in Chino, California has the third one.
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The SBD ... (and NOT the gaseous kind ;) ) Slow But Deadly.
Nearly obsolete at the BEGINNING of the war, but performed faithfully the entire war, and a little beyond. It's good to hear that another is flying. As much a fan of Mustangs, Spits, Mosquitos, -38s and all, the SBD is a COOL plane - and Dad said it was a sweetheart (in his opinion at least, don't know 'bout other's) to fly.
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That Planes of Fame Museum in Chino has the largest of Japanese warplanes in the country. They bult a second Museum that is in Arizona, near the Grand Canyon. The HellDiver replaced the Dauntless on the carriers.
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That Planes of Fame Museum in Chino has the largest of Japanese warplanes in the country. They bult a second Museum that is in Arizona, near the Grand Canyon. The HellDiver replaced the Dauntless on the carriers.
Little Jimmy, that's right ... and wrong! As is so true with the Military, it took until after the war was over to replace the SBDs totally - 'specially since the Helldivers weren't as well-thought-of, so they didn't hurry much.
As another example, the M9 Beretta "officially" replaced the 1911s in 1990. In fact, there are STILL front-line, Regular Army units that have 1911s.
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Te Dauntless debuted in 1940 and was used exclusively through 1943, along with the Curtiss SB2C Helldiver till the end of the War. The CAF has the only SB2C in existence as far as I know.
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It's the only one I've heard of - and I didn't know of it until fairly recently. I wasn't disputing what you said, just that because it wasn't as dependable as they hoped, it took until AFTER WW Twice to completely replace the SBDs ... and then the A1s replaced the Helldivers pretty quickly! The Japs would have had an even harder time of things if the A1 seried had been available in '45 (when the first flights happened, I b'lieve.)
I just read an account about the A1s that I hadn't heard before ... did you know that there are at least one and I think 2 verified MIG15 kills by A1s during Korea! Not bad for a "support" prop-powered aircraft, eh? I THINK I also heard (of a related item) that the 1st MIG kill in Korea was by an F-82 "Twin Mustang." But I don't know of any F-82s still flying, do you?
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The CAF had one that had been donated to them many years ago by the AF. The AF notified the CAF that they wanted it back and a lawsuit has insued. It has not been in flying condition for a long time. The CAF lost the suit and the plane is to be returned. I have not heard anything other than that. The plane is at HQ in Midland,Texas
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I don't think the SB2C's were as accurate a DB as the Dauntless was. Biggest problem with the SBD was it's wings didn't fold, and the load capac. wasn't as heavy as the SB2C. otherwise most of the damage done to the Japanese Navy in the early large engagements was done by the SBD's. The early torpedo planes weren't up to snuff either, plus their weapons weren't working right either. After '43, the topedo arm took more prominence................Buck ::) 8)
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The pilot of the Helldiver related a funny story about flying it back east to an Air Show. He checked in with the Air Traffic Control in that area. The Contoller asked the pilot 3 times what type of aircraft that he was flying. He told the pilot that the aircraft was not in his computer. The last time I had info on the Helldiver is that it is hangared in Graham Texas, which is a couple hours NW of Fort Worth and it is the last one in existence.
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The CAF classifies the SBD and the SB2C as Scout Bombers. The SBD is attached to the Dixie Wing of the CAF, which is Peachtree City, Georgia.
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In Navyese, Scout bomber/dive. The SB2C was referred to as son of a %^tch, 2nd class.......Buck ::)
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That Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston has some deep pockets. That SBD of theirs was hanging inside a hangar at the Nimintz Museum in Fredricksburg Texas. Lone Star paid a Million dollars for the plane and a bunch more for the restoration. They also have a Grumman F3F that they rebuilt from blueprints and partial airframes recovered from the water near San Diego NAS. It's a Bi-plane with retractable landing gear. The Museum also has a F8F Bearcat, A Spitfire, and a Corsair. All of them are flying.
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The SBD that was being restored here, ended up going somewhere's else before it was finished. Can't remember where it went, though. It was close to completion.........Buck ::)
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Those are the only 3 that I know of that are flying, the CAF one, the Planes of Fame one, and the one from the Lone Star Museum. They celebrated the 68th anniversary of the Tokyo Raid and Wright-Patterson AFB last week. Seventeen B25s took part in a formation flyover. The 5 CAF B25s took part in the celebration.
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That would be a great display/flight to see!
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Yep, That would have been a Kodak moment for sure.
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Those are the only 3 that I know of that are flying, the CAF one, the Planes of Fame one, and the one from the Lone Star Museum. They celebrated the 68th anniversary of the Tokyo Raid and Wright-Patterson AFB last week. Seventeen B25s took part in a formation flyover. The 5 CAF B25s took part in the celebration.
17 B-25s in 2010!
Wasn't that one more than the actual raid?
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Yessir, Only 16 flew on the raid, they flew of the deck of the Hornet. I would have enjoyed seeing that fly over in person at Wright-Pat. I joined the Minnesota Wing of the CAF this year because their B25, "Miss Mitchell" is marked with 12th AF markings, the same BG, but different Squadron than Dad's. Some of the crew on "Miss Mitchell" are WW2 vets that served in the 380th BS of the 12th. They were there with Dad's Squadron at the same time frame. "Miss Mitchell" is sorta special to me for that reason.
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I'll bet!
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When General Dolittle passed away, several years ago, "Miss Mitchell" was one of the B25s that did a fly over Arlington National Cemetary.
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See if this link works, some nice flying eye candy here
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=nKU0uQki5Dc[/youtube]
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Thanks Major, I have always wanted to go to Oskosh for the EAA show up there. Maybe someday before I get too old.
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thanks Major, the producer did a great job mixing this video
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A great mix of Modern Military, WW2Warbirds, and Civilian.
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17 B-25s in 2010!
Wasn't that one more than the actual raid?
The B25J on display at Pungo was never in combat. Built too late.
Her claim to fame was in civilian use making a gear-up landing in Ohio while she was carrying a cargo of snakes bound for a zoo. The snakes escaped. That’s how she got the name ‘Wild Cargo’.
She was rebuilt at the Fighter Factory in Suffolk then flown to Va. Beach last year.
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great video, Major. Thanks for posting it!
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See if this link works, some nice flying eye candy here
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=nKU0uQki5Dc[/youtube]
Just before the halfway mark, was that a Lancaster?
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Yep 8)
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The Air Museum In Calgary, Alberta Canada has a Lanc.
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Thanks Major, I have always wanted to go to Oskosh for the EAA show up there. Maybe someday before I get too old.
I live only 45 mins from there.
Slim
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You are a lucky man!
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Y'all are invited.
Slim
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What time should I arrive to not miss dinner and still see that Lanc?
;)
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What time should I arrive to not miss dinner and still see that Lanc?
;)
Probably 3 hours before. ;)
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SHB, We could always go up to Calgary, Alberta to that AIr Museum near the airport and see their Lanc.
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Chino, 15-16 May. C'mon out.
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Forty, I just purchased a Membership in the Planes of Fame Museum. I've visited the Museum about 25 years ago on a driving trip from Texas. I need to come back now that I'm retired.
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I'll put a light in the window for you.
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Just like Tom Bodett!
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Just don't step on the lawn, TLD ::) ;D
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Just don't step on the lawn, TLD ::) ;D
you wouldn't want him to go Eastwood on ya
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I would be worried about antipersonnel devices. The Germans had antipersonnel stuff that looked like donkey droppings. A GI would kick one and get his foot blown off. I hadn't heard anymore about the gopher problem he had, but you can't be too careful.
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I would be worried about antipersonnel devices. The Germans had antipersonnel stuff that looked like donkey droppings. A GI would kick one and get his foot blown off. I hadn't heard anymore about the gopher problem he had, but you can't be too careful.
What gopher problem?
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Like I said, What gopher problem?
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What gopher problem?
it's more like grass never grows there problem...LOL ;D
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Forty, I sure would like to be out at Chino for that Air Show this year. Maybe, next year.
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The fly-boys at Volk Field were playing this morn. http://www.volkfield.ang.af.mil/ It's 77 miles from here by road.
Slim
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The Price of Freedom!
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The Price of Freedom!
I don't mind the noise. It's the sound of raw power. ;D
Slim
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When I worked at WhiteSettlement PD, which is on the west side of Fort Worth. We were next to General Dynamics and Carswell AFB. All kinds of military aircraft on a daily basis.
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Dad sent this to me. Good graphics and a hell of a story.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Im086TCu3I
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Ol'666 was "Bad to the Bone"! They made a movie loosely based on the plane in 1943, "Air Force".
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I've got a big Ol' birthday cake with 75 candles on it. The original B17 prototype is 75 years old. Happy Birthday B17!
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Not bad for a clapped out old plane and a crew of screw-ups. Well done, guys.
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A beautiful airplane, then and now.
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The skies over Chino are full of planes. Got the old Northrup Flying Wing up yesterday, a whole damn flock of P-51s, a few early jets, a Zero, etc.
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Andrews AFB has been having theirs this weekend also. The weather is good and the flying circus has been busy most of the day nearby here.
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Yesterday was Armed Forces Day, might explain it. Wish I could see what 40's got going there.........Buck ::) 8)
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Planes of fame at Chino Airport (A WWII pilot training base) has a couple of weekends a year when they fly the birds that have been restored to airworthiness. This is the big one for this year dedicated to The Greatest Generation. There is Yanks Museum also at Chino. Yanks is considered by many to be the best airplane museum anywhere.
Plan on at least two weekends. One for the museums and one for watching the flying of stuff you didn't know still existed.
Maybe we can put together a GLB lunch between the weekends for you all.
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Hey, Roo.
If ya ain’t shootin’ WP c’mon down for this. Can’t go to the field myownself. Gonna find a place ta park nearby, hang a spell ‘n watch ‘em in the air.
http://www.militaryaviationmuseum.org/events_airshow.html
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If any of you are ever in northern Utah between Ogden and Layton on the I-15, stop by the Hill Field (Hill AFB) museum. It's fairly new but has some stuff that you probably won't see elsewhere.
Lots of "junk" awaiting restoration (and well worth the visit alone) as well as some fine displays both indoors and out. Nothing flying as far as I know...but I've been wrong before a time or two before.
Check it out.
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It sounds like they're gonna have a real shindig down there in Virginia. I still wanna get back out to the POF Museum.
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Got this from a Pard, It's going on Memorial day weekend in Ct.
http://www.discoverymuseum.org/
Oops, wrong link, here's the correct one...The first one has some cool stuff too
http://wingsandwheelsct.org/Wings.html
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Thanks Major. They made some Corsair's here in Grand Prairie during WW2.
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I am still amazed at the fact that these WW2 aircraft are 70 years old. It is a testiment to the loving care that these unpaid volunteers provide to keep these planes flying. "Lest We Forget".
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Indeed!
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There's a big article in this month's CAF Dispatch about our B Model P51. It's painted in the colors of the 99th Fighter Squadron. It is flowen by the son of a Tuskogee airmen. He is a Capt. with Delta Airlines.
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I got a call earlier from a shooting Pard who waned to let me know that a mutual friend of ours who was a SASS member passed away on Sat. He was 87 and flew C47's into China, India and Burma during WW2. He was also a very talented gunsmith who was always willing to help out with any kind of gun problem. If you know any WW2 Vets, thank them while you still can, we're losing more each day.His Alias was Deadly Don and he will be missed.
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My sincere thanks for his service, Maj. May he rest in a wonderful ‘n hard earned peace.
A l’il more on the weekend’s show. With a short video.
http://hamptonroads.com/2010/05/love-vintage-warplanes-grows-annual-event
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That was a great video, Arcey. I know that a good time will be had by all this weekend at Pungo.
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That'd be right up my alley, Arcey. Vintage air craft and big band music ;D ;) 8)
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The Planes of Fame Museum is going to have a F 86 demonstration on the first weekend in June. Their F 86 will be airborne as well as some former pilots from the Korean War will be there. I get emails from the POF outfit notifying us of their get togethers. I will try and pass on any info that I can about these things if any body is interested.
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Hope they get a crowd, boys. What I’ve passed along is, to the best of my knowledge, all that’s been said ‘bout it. Asked ‘bout advertisin’ back when Tom ‘n I took a tour. Told me they didn’t do any.
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They need to put out an internet newsletter about the Museum. I hope it works out for them. It costs a lot of money for fuel for those planes. The CAF has Fina on board for sponsorship for the AirSho each year.
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The place is on a two lane road. Not enough folks to mess up traffic. Lookin’ as I went by there was a crowd of folks in there. Pile of tents. Airplanes parked beside the runway. Got me a spot couple hundred yards either way of a quarter mile from the end of the runway.
Right at 1330 a P-40 busted from behind the trees, *alls-to-the-wall. She stayed straight south ‘til she was outtah sight. Scared the hell outtah my l’il Japanese truck.
A few minutes later a high wing thing lookin’ like a big Cessna went up. Sounded like it needed a big chug of Geritol.
Next one up was FANTASTIC! A white airplane with a red cowl ‘round a radial ‘n she was screamin’. Weren’t off the ground much ‘n the pilot stood ‘er up on ‘er right wing-tip, did a 180 degree turn, leveled ‘er off into a climb north bound. Still well within sight when he banked ‘er to the east headed towards the ocean front.
Thinkin’ she was the plane modified to resemble a Japanese bomber ‘n used in Tora, Tora, Tora. The maneuver was so quick I didn’t get a glimpse of a meatball. That particular plane doesn’t belong to the museum. She’s on indefinite loan in exchange for maintenance ‘n indoor storage.
Then nothing. Waited ‘bout twenty minutes. Figgered if they were gonna throw three up at a time every half or full hour I’d head on back to Kempsville.
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Was over in the industrial area right on the west edge of the Lincoln Airport the other day, ain't been over there in several years. Was a C-119 there for years with out engines used for storage. It's gone, I hope it went to a good home where it will be restored. Next time I'm in the work dept and one of the guys from LAA is there I'll have to quiz them and see what they know.
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Found this ad the other day, kinda neat old plane:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/HandleyPage.jpg)
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For several years the Tora Tora Tora boys weren't members of the CAF. They finally organized their own CAF Squadron. I never get tired of those old planes. They are really my first love. I love the sight and smell of them.
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Got an early morning air show this am. Weather it's near 70°-cloud less- wind 2 to 3mph to the SE. Got a Hot air ballon about 200' off the deck and a Briggs and Straton engine wiith a seat and a wing circling him. It's still too early for the Air Circus to get out. Just right for the private owner operators.
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Down at Ambush At Mill Creek in Norco this weekend and saw the Northrop "flying wing" sail by almost overhead. Only about 5 miles from Planes Of Fame at Chino.
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Forty, When I was at the POF museum, the flying wing was in pieces around the museum.
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They have one, a single seater I think, up and running. Has maybe a 40 or 50 foot wingspan is all. I've seen it flying a couple of times in the last few months. It's been more or less complete since the late 90's, just waiting for some stuff to be built, rebuild, repaired, tuned, etc.
Might have another one. Seems I heard they did, but won't swear to it.
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The folks out at the Planes of Fame are doing another restoration job. They have a P59 Bell Airacomet, the first US jet fighter, built in 1942. It is to be a complete job and to make airworthy again.
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There is a story about the testing of the P59s at Edwards AFB. Some P38 pilots reported that they saw a fighter plane without a propeller fly past them. They said the pilot of this strange aircraft was wearing a Gorilla mask and a Derby hat, and smoking a cigar. The testing was supposed to be top secret. They put a wooden prop on the front of the jet and threw a tarp over it when it was towed to the runway for take off.
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I've seen photos of the plane half-tarped and with the wooden props attached. Interesting.
I think the gorilla suit/derby/cigar thing is real - I've heard it from many sources. But I doubt it'd be in any official records! ;) ;D
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The group of guys at POF Museum that are working on the project have Derby's that they wear.
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;) No cee-gars or gorilla suits? ;D
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The gorilla suits are probably too warm ::) ;D
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The picture of the volunteers that I saw, they appeared to be in their 70s and 80s. They probably don't need to be smoking cigars.
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Indeed!
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Not too terribly long ago I hit the Pueblo-Weisbrod Museum. Spent two or three hours roaming the grounds and taking pictures. They had a decent number of aircraft and vehicles inside, most of them in pretty good condition though few - if any - are airworthy as far as I know. Some of their fleet's outside awaiting restoration work, including several of particular interest to me (the Flying Banana, an HC-131 in USCG colors, and a USMC C-119).
I really wanted some detail pictures of that -119, but...no dice.
Lots of good stuff otherwise, though. Most of their displays are aviation paraphernalia; uniforms, weapons, all manner of odds and ends. Also, they have a goodly amount on the B-24 Liberator in general and the Ploesti raid in particular. No actual B-24s on hand, though.
Our tour guide was a retired USAF light colonel. Schultz, I think, or something similiar.
It was a worthwhile six bucks.
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I am a member of the B29/B24 Squadron of the CAF. I received an e-mail from the HQ that the new engines on "FIFI" have been tested sucessfully and she should be airborne for the 4th of July. She will be hangared at the Cavanaugh Museum of Flight in Addison, Tx., along with the B24, "Ol 927" formally known as "Diamond Lil".
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speaking of the Skyraider...one friend while in the Navy flew Skyraiders his whole career, even with atomic bombs on the racks another friend had a completely restored Skyraider he flew in the movie " flight of the Intruder". ;D Tom
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Ah yes, the old "Spad"............. ::) 8)
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Mmm...Skyraider.
We have one that crops up now and again on the airshow circuit. Done up in USAF colors I think, but I'd have to check my pictures again to be sure.
On the matter of B-24s, I got to see the Collings tour last time it came around. They brought their B-17/B-24 pairing along with two Mustangs (one of them razorbacked) and an H-model Huey. Lots of good picture opportunities on the Liberator. Especially since I mean to build one someday.
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Here's a virtual tour of Evergreen's...there's some good shots of the Hugh's H4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKbQSYcHNjo&feature=related
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I got to take a tour of the Spruce Goose when it was still in Long Beach, Calif., in a dome hangar next to the Queen Mary. I have also been to the Evergreen Museum to see it again about 10 or 11 years ago. They also have a collection of WW1 fighter planes.
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I just received an e-mail from our squadron Public Information Officer that "FIFI's first flight test is scheduled for Tuesday the 29th at CAF HQ in Midland, Tx. Hopefully things will go okay.
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The flight test for "FIFI" has been postponed. The FAA folks had to reschedule their visit. I hope to get further info next week. This may mean that she may not fly on July 4th.
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Too bad - but better safe than sorry.
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They lost the only flying B26 Marauder on a test flight near Midland a few years ago and a crew of 6.
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They lost the only flying B26 Marauder on a test flight near Midland a few years ago and a crew of 6.
The Widowmaker ... or the Playtex: no visible means of support.
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The B26 Maurader had a bad rep. with it's crews. The B25 was a lot easier to fly and had a better rep. with it's crews. It was a shame to lose the Caf folks that had been working on "Caroline" to get her airworthy again.
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Indeed. :(
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The FAA has signed off on the paperwork for the CAF to make test flights for "FIFI". She missed the 4th of July this year. The AirSho at Midland this year is in Oct. Hopefully she will airborne for the show.
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Still no new info on "FIFI's" test flight dates.
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Well, It looks like the test flights won't be until August now. I'm hoping they will be completed soon and "FIFI" will fly at the AIRSHO in Oct.
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L.J., what's the main hold-up? Mechanical issues ... or the FAA? (I'd be surprised if you said the FAA) ;)
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SHB, I really don't know. The FAA told the CAF that they had to have enough crew members for the flight. I don't know anything more than that. As much as I would like to be a passenger for the flight, test flights on 60 plus years old aircraft are dangerous.
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SHB, I really don't know. The FAA told the CAF that they had to have enough crew members for the flight. I don't know anything more than that. As much as I would like to be a passenger for the flight, test flights on 60 plus years old aircraft are dangerous.
You mean like being flown by 60 plus years old pilots and crew? :o
;D ;D ;D ;D ::)
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Forty, Back in 1994, when I joined the CAF, we still had some WW2 pilots flying some of the aircraft. Nowdays, most of the pilots are in their 40s or 50s. I am really looking forward to seeing "FIFI" flying again. I am a member of the B24/B29 squadron, so I'll be able to hitch a ride in either one of them at some time.
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What a pleasant surprise to find this thread still active. I hadn't got any updates on it in several months.
TLD, do you know anything about the *new* aircraft museum that's supposed to open at Meachem Field in Ft. Worth? I remember being told of one that was already there - I think I was told of it by you but I could be off on that.
I just did a quick check and it looks like the Ft. Worth Alliance Airshow is going on the weekend of OCT. 30-31st, the same weekend as the NCOWS Southwest regional. The 31st is a Sunday and I don't know if there will still be shooting that day. It might be a great day to drive waaaaaaaay over to Ft. Worth to see some good flying.
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Kevin, It's called the Vintage Flight Museum. They have several aircraft on display, but the cornerstone of the Museum is "Chuckie", a B17 "Pathfinder". The plane is named for it's owner, "Chuckie" Hospers. Her and her husband "Doc" owned the Museum. He passed away in May of this year. They are presently working on the engines and other components that need to be repaired before the aircraft will be airworthy. The Pathfinder aircraft led the other B17s to the targets. It was equipped with a radar dome.
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That's what it was. I was thinking you'd mentioned the owner had recently died.
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They plan to fly it around FT WORTH and take it to Airshows when possible. It's an all volunteer group and they conduct tours of the museum and the planes to supplement the cost and upkeep on the planes and the Hangar.
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The Hangar is a B29 hangar and they try and keep "Chuckie" in the hangar as much as possible. The Vintage Flight Museum has a website and there are some pictures of "Chuckie". To my knowledge, this aircraft is only surviving "Pathfinder" B17. The volunteers are working on the radar dome and a planning on re installing it in the aircraft. I am planning on becoming a member of the volunteer group by the fall of this year. Retirement has been fun, but I'm getting bored. I'm not an aircraft mechanic, but I can sweep the floors with the best of them.
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T.L. and any others who might know: Aren't the 'Pathfinder' aircraft (they made all types, not just B-17s) the ones with extra guns? Seems like I read about a B17 that had 17 BMGs, one set of which were fixed in the nose right along the pilot's view (between the front bombardier's nose and the front windscreen) so he could aim and shoot just like a fighter! And ended up getting at LEAST one ME 109 or FW 190! The story has become rather famous, because this aircraft was subjected to intense attacks for a LONG time one mission, due to the fact that they had gotten so shot up that they were "easy pickin's'." I seem to have heard about this on one of the History Channel Dogfights episodes ... if I remember right, that is.
Sweep some for me, OK? If only I were closer ...
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SHB, I heard that the NCOWS Nationals are going to be at Evansville next year. If that is true, I will be there. AA has a direct flight into Evansville on a daily basis and I plan on flying up there just to visit and hang out. That Vintage Flight Museum is a small, Mom and pop deal. They totally rely on volunteers to keep it going. I am doing my last minute stuff before I leave to the Muster at Pitspitr's this coming weekend.
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Those forward mounted .50's were on a Pacific theater 17 featured on Dogfights..........Buck :-[
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TLD,
I'm still waiting for my chance to shoot with you! Even if it's just some morning or afternoon at the Alpine Range South of Ft. Worth (http://www.alpinerange.com/).
Granted, with these temperatures I haven't been out there much this summer, but when it's cooler I go about once a week. It's wonderful having all those guys (and gals) with their little plastic guns stop and watch me belch forth flame and thunder!
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Yep, that B17, named Ol 666, was the idea for a movie made in 1943, "Air Force". Kevin, I've shot cop guns a lot longer than Cowboy guns, so I'm not very good with the single actions and I still haven't shot my 2 1860 Armys.
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Those 1860's are especially what I'm talking about - I'm shooting an 1858 Remmie. I've taken all my friends/family to shoot at Alpine before I've taken 'em to matches. It's a great place to run through things without any pressure. Alpine is outdoors, so black powder is no problem.
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Kevin, I've got a bunch of irons in the fire. I'm going to the Muster in Neb. this weekend. Next weekend we will be in San Antonio for the PBR, and I will be in Kansas the first weekend in Aug. in Kansas, where they will shooting OCB's western . I really want to learn how to shoot those Army's and Alpine is doable. I've been out there in probably 30 + years.
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I've got a bunch of stuff over the next few weeks, too, including vacation. Maybe we can get together mid-August or in September. I'm using my Cap & Ball for the NCOWS Southwest Regional - maybe you'll be up to it by then, too.
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That sounds like a plan.
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I got an e-mail from our squadron PIO yesterday. "FIFI" was supposed to go on a tour, but developed engine trouble with #2. They returned to Midland for repairs. Ol 927 will finish the tour. I hope the problems will solved before the Airsho in Oct.
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Here's hoping for the best!
TL & Kevin, keep workin' toward making it to Evansville in '11. Little Jimmy, we'll get ya schooled on those single-actions one way or the other. I'm bettin' Kevin and Pancho and bunches of them other pards will happily help ya.
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Just saw an article on my home page. An SB2C Helldiver has been located and an attempt tp recover it was started today in a reservoir in the San Diego area. It had crashed on a training mission the end of May 1945 due to engine failure. Both crew members survived. picture with the article showed a very good looking canopy on the ground. probably the slider from the gunner's area. there are very few of the "Beast's" extent out of over 5,100 that were built. Plane was plauged with problems from inception and Curtis made over 90,000+ changes during the production run. It was never quite as effective as the older SDB's, even though it was faster and carried more weight...............Buck ::)
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There is only one left and it belongs to the CAF. There is an article about in this month's edition of the CAF magazine, "Dispatch".
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Little Jimmy, it sounds like there will (maybe) soon be 2! That was one of the planes my Dad flew and also crewed. He didn't fly it much.
It WAS a beast.
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They didn't get it out yesterday, too much silt, and terrible visibility. ::) :-\
Supposed to go back at it again today.............Buck ::)
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Video Here...
http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local-beat/Helldiver_Raised_from_the_Deep_San_Diego.html
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That's very cool, and I'm glad it'll be on display at the museum in Pensacola. That's where I was awarded my Navy Wings.
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Our Helldiver is a C-5 model which was the last variant of the airplane. It was in service with the Navy from 1945 to 1948, the last assignment being NAS Corpus Chrisiti, Texas. It was declared surplus in Oct. 1948. It was used by an aeronautical school for several years. It was purchased by a California museum in 1963. A CAF Col. purchased the aircraft from the museum and donated it to the CAF in 1971. The Helldiver was nicknamed the "Big Tailed Beast". Our Helldiver is attached to the West Texas Wing of the CAF. It is based at the Cactus Squadron in Graham, Texas. The current colors and markings are those of the USS Franklin, CV 13.
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The crews had another name as well, " son Of A B#$%^, 2nd class"! ::) :o
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I hope to make it out to Midland this year for the AirSho. We are supposed to have a Warbird fly-in on Sept. 4th at an airport on the SE corner of Dallas County. I hope to make that one as well.
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Found this, thought you's would like it, newsreel on the 19227 Dole races, Oakland to Hawaii.
http://www.archive.org/details/DoleAirR1927
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Delmonico, that was cool. Thanks for posting it.
Does anyone know of a good place to order a WWI leather flying helmet? I've seen things that are supposed to look like them online, but I've never seen one that looked quite right.
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The 2C is back on dry land! video clip on Fox News. does look somewhat worse for wear, though. canopy's are off, cowling is a mess, engine is partially torn from it's mounts. the wings are still intact, though............Buck 8)
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Here's some video from a San Diego local.........
www.10news.com/video/24707908/index.html (http://www.10news.com/video/24707908/index.html)
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That really is cool. I'm glad you've kept us abreast of this story.Thanks!
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One of these days i would love to get to Pensacola and go through the Naval Air museum. want to see the navy WW II era planes i've always read about for real.............Buck ::)
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It's a very cool place!
Of course you might also see if you can get to the USS Lexington in Corpus Christi Texas as well.
http://www.usslexington.com/
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One of these days i would love to get to Pensacola and go through the Naval Air museum. want to see the navy WW II era planes i've always read about for real.............Buck ::)
Buck - it's worth the trip. It's a FINE Museum ... one of the few tax-supported things worth their salt.
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I was there during the 75th Anniversary of Naval Aviation. They have a large static display on the outside of the Museum.
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There is supposed to be a Warbird flyin this Sat. in one of the suburbs of Dallas, south of I 20. I'm gonna try and sneak over there. It starts about 10 am and runs till 4 pm. I hope that there will be a good turn out of people and several Warbirds show up.
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TL, which one? I live n Arlington, which has an airport, so it could be here???
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Kevin, It's gonna be at the Lancaster Airport in Lancaster,Texas. I just got a call from one of my friends on the B29/B24 Squadron this evening. I am now one the crew members on the B24. The B24 will be featured at the fly in. I am gonna be part of the back end crew. We will fly out to Lancaster from the Cavanaugh Flight Museum on Sat. Morning. To say the least, I am extremely excited.
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Awesome, pard! I'm excited for you!
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This aircraft is the oldest flying B24 in existence. It was at Long Beach, Calif. in 1942.
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Now, I have to go to Fort Worth Tent and Awning to have me a flight suit made.
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Little Jimmy, you said this liberator is the oldest still flying ... is it the A (I think) model - with the full greenhouse nose & no turret like the Gs? Same model of the Strawberry Bitch?"
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Got a catalog of DVDs, CDS, books, etc from an outfit named Acorn (Like the President's Gestapo group) and they have all sorts of stuff involving planes, including shirts, jackets. etc. Thought some o you might like to take a look.
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I checked online and couldn't find any thing on Acorn Flight Gear (or the "president's gestapo group") but I found this:
http://www.ljmilitaria.com/
Lancaster may be a bit far to get to this weekend.
Sigh...
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Try ACORN ONLINE. I'll check yours if you'll check mine.
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That worked. They have a broader product line than I realized.
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I don't buy a lot from them, but their catalog is fodder for movies to get from Netflix.
I like their Christmas catalog. If you're a reader, watch DVDs, or just like "stuff", it's a wonderland. Should be coming out soon.
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Forty, That's what I do with my Acorn catalog. The Moose and I watch a lot of the British shows on PBS as well as the Mystery and Police shows that are on DVD. Kevin, Lancaster isn't that far. I spent the day over there and it was a blast. Our B24 A was the hit of the show. SHB, It was actually built in January of 1941. Our of our Squadron members flew with the RAF in 1941, before we entered the war. He flew fighters, mainly the P 47. He is 86 years old and gets around better than I do. I also got to met a B24 tailgunner, also 86 years old. He crawled back to the tailsection and his son took pictures of him with the machine gun. He also got around good for someone 86 years old. I love to talk to those guys, we are loosing so many of them each day. We had a Corsair, Wildcat, an A26, 3 AT6's, an R4D, and P40 show up. They also had a classic carshow for the folks more interested in cars than planes. We had walk through tours of the B24 for 5 bucks. The last time that I taked to the guys taking money, they had taken about 700 dollars. Hopefully, "FIFI" will be back from Midland this month and be ready for the the annual AirSho in Oct.
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TL, I've mentioned my Dad, the Navy pilot before, but I doubt I've mentioned my StepDad. He was USAAF in ww-twice, too. He was a nose-turret gunner on a B-24, the one with the turret made by Tucker - G-model, I think, but I may be thinking of the G-model B-17 that WAS the one with the chin turret. Bud passed a couple years back, but we had MANY interesting conversations. He flew 4 Ploesti raids. BAD stuff, there. He NEVER had a good word about Germans, and hated flying, but he sure loved that airplane! There's one (B-24) hangered in Kissimmee, FL. He was pretty excited because he visited it once when the crew was preparing to leave on a "pay-for-a-ride" tour and when they found out he'd flown many missions in one, they invited him to go for a ride for a small $200 donation. (I think the normal price was $400-$500) He politely refused the offer, but DID get back in it (for free at their invite) and looked around and went up to his position - as well as his, uh ... size would allow. ;)
He was excited about that until he died - it was one of the good things at the tail-end of a life. I was really happy for him.
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The tailgunner I met flew in the Burma Theater. His son was grinning from ear to ear, watching his Dad in the tail gunners sling. I sorta feel cheated that I didn't get to spend enough time with my Dad before he passed away. He was my Best Man at my wedding and took part im my EA Masonic Degree. I plan on being as active as possible with the 2 Aircraft of our Squadron. SHB, Ol'927 does have the birdcage nose. It was the hit of the show for sure. Rides were $450., however we needed at least 5 people to sign up. We only got 2, so no rides were given. "FIFI" will be at the Cavanaugh Museum next month. They have hangar facilities for both aircraft in the Addison Airport complex. It's really great that Mr. Cavanaugh is financially able to take on the care of these aircraft. He has an extensive private Warbird collection of his own.
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If anyone is interested, the Alliance Airshow (http://www.allianceairshow.com/) is being held the same weekend as the NCOWS Southwest Regional here in North Texas. I'm planning on going to the airshow on Sunday, Oct. 31, the day after the Regionals ends.
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Kevin, The AirSho at Alliance is always a good one. I am still trying to shake this broncitis. I did'nt feel up to making the trip to Midland last weekend for the annual CAF AirSho.
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this is a different kind of flying but thought ya'll would enjoy it. Especially the #1 spot at the end
http://biggeekdad.com/2010/06/top-10-jumps/
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In WWII the Army Air Corp had 12 bases in Nebraska.
This was recently to honor the men who died in training, made it to the Today Show:
The fella giving to tour of the air field in the WWII Air Corps uniform is a good friend of mine. Kind of funny to see him dressed that way, used to seeing him as a Union Cavalry First Seargent or when he has a beard as General Grant.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/39095182#39095182
Doug has done a lot of research on the WWII Air Corp fields in Nebraska.
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Cool! Thanks for posting the link, Glen.
Most folks don't realize how MANY places were in their area working hard during WWII to train pilots, or specialists, or manufacture goods for the war effort. A lot of the history has passed away now, and seems to be forgotten.
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Nice post, Del.
A lot of the war material plants in this area are just vacant ruins now. The E.W. Bliss plant made turrets for naval guns, my former work place made parachutes and fuses for anti-aircraft and artillery shells. Up to the mid 70's the machinery was still stored in what we called the north yard buildings............Buck 8)
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something a little more modern
http://www.comcast.net/video/virgin-s-spaceport-inaugurated/1622834982/Comcast/1621260377/
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I got a e-mail yesterday from the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth. The pathfinder B-17, "CHUCKIE" has been sold to the Virginia Flight Museum in Virginia Beach, Va. The owner of the plane passed away this summer and his wife needs the money from the sale for her retirement. It is being restored at it's hangar in Fort Worth. It is not airworthy at this time. It will stay in Fort Worth until it is deemed airworthy by the FAA. It is a rare B-17 "Pathfinder" model. It is the only one in existence, as far as I know.
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You guys treat Chucky nice, that is one heck of a find. And for something completely differnt...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMo35Acpa8M
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For your enjoyment. In the blue shaded section, (left side) see the link to a related article.
http://hamptonroads.com/2010/11/%E2%80%98daring-birdman%E2%80%99-kicked-century-naval-aviation#rfq
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great story Arcey, thanks for sharing
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I'll give Litl. Rooster a second!
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My pleasure, gentlemen.
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That was a great story Arcey. Quite a man.
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I always enjoy those old airplane stories.
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I was taught the bare-bones basics about Ely back in flight school but have never read this much detail on these events. Thank you very much for posting this!
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It was a treat for me to pass it along to y’all. The kind words are much appreciated. Thank you.
A follow up. Enjoy.
http://hamptonroads.com/2010/11/replica-centuryold-plane-marks-historic-flight
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Great story, great video Arcey. I was wonderin what the tubes were for when I watched and when I read on I thought that was pretty ingenious. Thank you for sharing.
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I got a e-mail yesterday from the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth. The pathfinder B-17, "CHUCKIE" has been sold to the Virginia Flight Museum in Virginia Beach, Va. The owner of the plane passed away this summer and his wife needs the money from the sale for her retirement. It is being restored at it's hangar in Fort Worth. It is not airworthy at this time. It will stay in Fort Worth until it is deemed airworthy by the FAA. It is a rare B-17 "Pathfinder" model. It is the only one in existence, as far as I know.
I understand from a friend of mine, Chuckie landed at our County Airport on it's trip to da beach, A few weekends back. The airport is mebbe 5 miles away. Unforntuanately I didn't see it or know it was there.
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Y’all talkin’ the Military Aviation Museum in Pungo I wonder where they’re gonna put it. When me ‘n cuzzin Tom took the tour ‘bout a year ago that place was packed as tight as one ah Wildcat Will’s BP loads.
http://www.militaryaviationmuseum.org/
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They have gotten them a rare B17. It is a "Pathfinder" model that was equipped with a radar dome to lead the bombers to their target. The owner passed away and his needed to sell the aircraft for her retirement. I am sad to lose "CHuckie", but I know it went to a good place. I feel bad that I didn't get to see it one more time before it left for Virginia. The Museum in Fort Worth still has aircraft on display, including a B25.
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I got a squadron e-mail that "FIFI" has been on a trip out to Calif. and is planning a stop in Az. on the trip back to Texas. It's good to see her back in the air again. I hope that "Chuckie" is settling in at her new home in Pungo. The Museum needed a B17 and "Chuckie" is a rare one. I hope that the radar dome is restored to make the aircraft complete.
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This is all I know.
http://www.militaryaviationmuseum.org/source/docs/PropNoise_FALL2010.pdf
Been nothin’ in the paper ‘n nothin’ on the radio. I don’t watch local, or any, TV news. That said usually when one gets it they all get it.
Gonna hate ta see the thing sittin’ out in the weather. Inside, everything is total climate controlled.
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Earlier in the week, local news showed them pulling a Corsair out of Lake Michigan, looked to be only the front half of the fuselage. anybody else see it???????? ::)
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Buck
Found this link to a story about the recovery:
http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local-beat/corsair-lake-michigan-waukegan-106904213.html
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I understand the reference, (due to the canopy) but I've never heard of the nickname "Birdcage" Corsair.
But ... I suppose there's LOTS of things I haven't heard of, come to think of it!
;)
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Probably denotes a much earlier model of it. I believe the ones that went into combat had a different style of canopy. didn't know about the F-6-F and Dauntless, though...........Buck ::)
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There's a lot going on at that museum. I wish it was closer.
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There's a lot going on at that museum. I wish it was closer.
Business ever brings ya this way, holler.
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It would be nice to visit "Chuckie" at it's new home.
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A Pard sent me this link, figured Y'all might like it...
http://www.rbogash.com/Plant%202/2Plant2.html
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I could stare at that picture all night. Heck, I just may do that.
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I read last week , where they recovered a Spitfire that had crashed in 1944 in an esturary in Normandy. The plane was shot down down the D-Day operation.The remains of the pilot were still in the cockpit.
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thanks Majer
I seen these vids about a year ago, but since it listed in the Boeing article
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rgzAnrI6Bw
Mr. Godfrey's farm was just a county north of here, a former supervisor had his first cowboy job working for him there
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The guy in the business suit was Eddie Rickenbacker(WW1 Ace).
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I got an e-mail yesterday from the flight engineer on "Chuckie". They took her up to two 45 minute flights yesterday and everything works. They plan on keeping her here in Fort Worth till Jan. and then she will be flown to the Virginia Museum. I hope you guys in Virginia get an opportunity to get to check "Chuckie" when she gets to Virginia.
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I received a e-mail fro the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth today. "Chuckie" will leave for the Virginia Museum on January 22. Good luck at your new home. I think we may get to hanger an A-26 owned by CAF.
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Hey Pop, my big Christmas present this year was a large scale model of a B-17 G. You have the option of doing half the fuselage with clear plastic to show the interior details or you can make it original. Haven't made up my mind which way I'm gonna go yet. Still gotta get the paint and more glue but it should be fun.
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Leo, the interior "funky" green for some spots might not be easy to find. ::) How big's the wing span?Brand??? 8)
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Its a Monogram with a 25 15/16" wing span. The paint schedual has 16 colors and I'm guessing the 'funky green' is the zinc chromite green. The other two greens are light green and olive drab. The thing has 175 pieces so I should be pretty busy for awhile once I get started.
Here's a question...The box shows the wing tips and the vertical stabilizer painted red. I have never seen one with those markings but then again, I haven't had many opportunities to look at one up close.
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Howdy, Leo!
Red tips were popular.
And yes, the yellow -green IS zinc-chromate. It was an anti-corrosion paint that protected the aluminum (and other) interior parts.
Call - I have a LOT of ideas for you.
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Hey Pop, my big Christmas present this year was a large scale model of a B-17 G. You have the option of doing half the fuselage with clear plastic to show the interior details or you can make it original. Haven't made up my mind which way I'm gonna go yet. Still gotta get the paint and more glue but it should be fun.
Don't be sniffing the glue. ::)
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Found this, since no one was hurt it is almost humorous: ;D
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cornfield_Bomber
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I'll give a call tamarra Jeff. I want it to look like the one my Uncle flew in. I got his dog tags so I want to do the plane right. He was in the 15th. Gonna paint that on the horizontal stabilizer in white. Thought it would be fun to get someone with talent to do some nose art on it with an airbrush er somethin.
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Cool!
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A noble quest, Leo 8)
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A noble quest, Leo 8)
And fun!
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It'll keep me away from this thing for awhile, that's for sure. Was gonna get paint taday but plans changed >:(
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Leo, Good Luck on your endeavor with the model.
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Leo, Check out the 15th AF web site. It shows the different groups of the unit.
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Leo, Check out the 15th AF web site. It shows the different groups of the unit.
Thank you Pop. If it has been under my nose this whole time I will kick myself. I gave up once told that the archives had burned in St. Louis. I will dig into that site now.
Sorry I didn't call today Jeff, I got distracted. Still plan on it though.
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Thank you Pop. If it has been under my nose this whole time I will kick myself. I gave up once told that the archives had burned in St. Louis. I will dig into that site now.
Sorry I didn't call today Jeff, I got distracted. Still plan on it though.
Not a problem, pard. I'll be back home tomorrow afternoon, so call after noon, (your time) and I should be back.
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Leo, The 15th also had B24's in addition to the 17's. The 17's, 24's, and later the 29's were considered heavy bombers. The 25's and 26's were considered medium bombers.
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The fact that they were able to get 25's off a carrier deck was amazing to learn about. Didn't need to do it after the islands were captured but I'm sure it surprised the hell out of the Japs. "How's they get here?"
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Leo, My dad was at Eglin Field in Florida while the Raiders were training to take off. Everything was hush hush. They would take a paint brush with white wash and draw lines on the runway to mark the distance it took to get the plane airborne. Dad's outfit was the reorganized Raider outfit, with Doolittle as Commanding General, after he came back. It became part of the 12th AF and the Unit was sent to North Africa. The unit stayed in the Meditteran theater until the War was over.
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I got all the paint but 2 yesterday. Store was out of zinc chromite and flat black. Substituted tan for interior tan. I'm about ready to go to work. Thank you Jeff for the tips taday.
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I got all the paint but 2 yesterday. Store was out of zinc chromite and flat black. Substituted tan for interior tan. I'm about ready to go to work. Thank you Jeff for the tips taday.
You're quite welcome- er ... Leo!~
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You're quite welcome- er ... Leo!~
er...Lil was sorry to have missed you. Sends all her best. She is as excited about building this thing as I am an that is one of the things that makes her special.
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Leo, We're gonna wanna have pictures of the finished product.
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L.J. - we talked of that. Right now it's not possible, but they're planning on acquiring one of them new-fangled picture-makin' boxes, so we MAY see it. He's got a good start on it already, what with gatherin' the supplies an' all. I can say from experience, that the 1/48 scale B-17G Model (by Monogram) is top quality, so we can look forward to good things.
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One of our B17's (Texas Raiders) is back flying again after an 8 year restoration. The State of Texas filmed a commercial for the Texas Highway Dept. on Littering. You see a lone pickup truck on a county road. The driver throws out a piece of litter. The B17 pops up behind the truck. "Don't Mess With Texas".
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Pop, that requires an innerntet hunt. Gotta see it.
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Leo
Watched the Video it is great!
This is my B-17G. I think it was from Monogram or Revel. It’s in 1/24th scale as are all the remaining models I have. It’s amazing the size difference when you put them next to each other! I had a B29 in the same scale that decided to depart from the ceiling one day. It was done up to be “Bocks Car” as I remember. Too many wee done as the “Enola Gay”. I need to get a replacement for that bird. Though my Dad was a pilot, he was a ground pounder in the Army and part of the occupation forces in Tokyo after the War.
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That looks like the one I have Russ. Mine is in 1:48. I got the rest of the paints yesterday and am ready to go. Have a guitar to rewire but I think the model will come first. I imagine a 29 would be fun to build too. Heck, I got all the paint now to last awhile.
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Leo, If you decide to do a B29, we have plenty of pictures of "FIFI" to look at.
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1/24 scale B-29! Wow! That's a BIG model! I didn't know there existed a B-29 model that big.
The biggest model I've ever seen is a Tamiya model of the Japanese battleship Yamato in 1/11 scale. They're not in production anymore and IF you find one, it'll set you back a grand or so. That model is (if memory still serves - I've been away from the model interest for about 30 years) a little over 8 feet long! I saw one (still in the box) back around 1972 for around $75 - which was like saying (to me) $2000 now - and I couldn't afford it then ... or now. I was a fairly newly married man with a new baby, and $75 bought a LOT of dinners and diapers then that were needed more than a plastic model of a Jap battlewagon!
;)
Have fun, Tom/Leo!
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I'm going to download your pic Russ and keep it for reference. Nice job!
Never got around to looking up the Texas video yesterday so I will be doing it today. and Pop, if I do take on a 29 I will take you up on the FIFI pictures.
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I HOPE I'm not repeating myself, but I saw FiFi right after she was declared "airworthy" back in the 70's or early 80's here in Indiana. The (then) Confederate (now Consolidated) Air Force brought up a bunch of planes to celebrate formation of the Great Lakes District Squadron of the CAF with their first plane, a Beechcraft bomber-trainer, if I remember. (Sorry, I don't 'member the nomenclature/number.) It was a pretty awesome sight, but I didn't get to see FiFi up close. I'd used up all my film, didn't have the ca$h to buy new, so I departed a bit early. Fifi was the closing attraction, so I took off myself - I saw her fly, but by leaving early, I beat the huge traffic jam. If I'd still had film (where were digital storage devices with room for thousands of pics THEN?) I'd have stayed and taken close-ups, but ...
GREAT memories, friends!
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I'm usually good at finding things on line but haven't found the Texas B 17 video. Anyone got a link?
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Leo, I found the video on Youtube. I typed in Don't Mess with Texas B17.
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Thanks Pop, I was over thinkin it an searched all the highway department links. For those who aint seen it here it is...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlFD0Zyl_f0
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The RO says, "Let's make an impression on 'em". Boy howdy you bet it would.
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Thanks for posting the link!
Short; sweet; & to the point!
All in all, a GREAT commercial! (I wouldn't mess with ANY state by littering, but) I've known for a LONG time: "Don't mess with Texas, Baby!"
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It is good an I figgered if no one else was gonna post it I would. Kinda bummed that you can't see the wing tips, I know a lot of them had the red paint but I was curious to see what the CAF did with this one. That is one bad a** advertisement.
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Y'all notice that the referred to the plane as being from the Texas CONFEDERATE Air Force, Good on em.
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Unfortunatly the commerical was made before the name change to the Commemmrative Air Force. Leo, "Texas Raiders" is hangared at Houston.
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Leo, Look up Texas Raiders B17 and you can see a picture. It has red wing tips and the horizontal stabilizers and the vertical stabilizer are red tipped. That ad with the B17 is my favorite commerical of all time.
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1/24 scale B-29! Wow! That's a BIG model! I didn't know there existed a B-29 model that big.
The biggest model I've ever seen is a Tamiya model of the Japanese battleship Yamato in 1/11 scale. They're not in production anymore and IF you find one, it'll set you back a grand or so. That model is (if memory still serves - I've been away from the model interest for about 30 years) a little over 8 feet long! I saw one (still in the box) back around 1972 for around $75 - which was like saying (to me) $2000 now - and I couldn't afford it then ... or now. I was a fairly newly married man with a new baby, and $75 bought a LOT of dinners and diapers then that were needed more than a plastic model of a Jap battlewagon!
;)
Have fun, Tom/Leo!
Steel Horse Bailey
I may be thinking 1/48th. It's been many a year since I built these, I just know I was keeping everythin in the same scale for reference.
My F-14 looks huge next to the P-51, and is close to approaching the B-17 in size.
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That would look pretty impressive in the rear view mirror ::) :o
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That is my all time favorite ad by the TXDOT folks. Seeing that B17 in your rearview mirror!
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Steel Horse Bailey
I may be thinking 1/48th. It's been many a year since I built these, I just know I was keeping everythin in the same scale for reference.
My F-14 looks huge next to the P-51, and is close to approaching the B-17 in size.
Ok - Prob'ly 1/48 scale. Modern fighters ARE similar in size to WWII medium bombers, and not too much smaller than the B-17 or B-24. If anyone doesn't believe, see an F-4 next to a B-17 the next time an Airshow comes to your area! There's usually an F-4 there. Still - that B-29 in 1/48 scale by Monogram is a VERY large expanse of plastic!
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I built a lot of car models as a kid. I never tried any airplanes. I don't have the patience to do the models and the diabetes makes my hands shake sometime. I am fortunate to be able to be around these WW2 airplanes as a member of the CAF.
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Ok - Prob'ly 1/48 scale. Modern fighters ARE similar in size to WWII medium bombers, and not too much smaller than the B-17 or B-24. If anyone doesn't believe, see an F-4 next to a B-17 the next time an Airshow comes to your area! There's usually an F-4 there. Still - that B-29 in 1/48 scale by Monogram is a VERY large expanse of plastic!
They didn't call it a Super Fortress for nothing. I'll look for one after the 17 is done. I'd also like to do a Lancaster.
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Nose art. But it ain't onna nose 'n it don't fly.
(http://media.hamptonroads.com/media/content/hamptonroads/2011/01/wis/data/images1/db010911-bbwisconsinart-mod.jpg)
It's in the Wisconsin. There's more in the article. Thought y'all might like ta see it.
http://hamptonroads.com/2011/01/art-guts-battleship-wisconsin
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Navy guys had just as much right ta cheese cake as any other serviceman. Thanks fer that Arcey.
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My pleasure….
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Hey Leo, Did you see my post about the red paint on "Texas Raiders"?
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Hey Leo, Did you see my post about the red paint on "Texas Raiders"?
Sorry Pop, yes I did. Shoulda thanked ya fer that. Got a nice brush set yesterday and should be able get all the details right.
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Weather permitting, "Chuckie" will start it's journey to the Virginia Air Museum next Sat.
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The weather may not be very good for "Chuckie" to head for Virginia on Sat.
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The weather may not be very good for "Chuckie" to head for Virginia on Sat.
At least there won't be any flack.
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Let's hope that there isn't any flak on Sat.
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Well, "Chuckie" is at her new home in Virginia after a 7 hour flight from Fort Worth. She arrived at the Museum late yesterday afternoon. I hope you folks in and around Virginia go pay her a visit.
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This mornin’s article…..
http://hamptonroads.com/2011/01/rare-wwii-bomber-finds-new-home-virginia-beach
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This B17 is particularly rare because it is a "Pathfinder" model which was equipped with a radar dome to the other bombers to the target. She is truly a beautiful LADY!
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That's great. I wish they would park one out here somewhere. A lot of the Pathfinders were shot down and this one is a treasure.
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Leo, As far as I know, "Chuckie" is the only surviviing "Pathfinder" aircraft.
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Way I heard it was that the nazi radar towers could could pin point those specific planes and concentrate fire on them in an attempt to cause confusion. Not the plane you would want to be on.
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"Chuckie" was escorted into the Museum by a P51 and a Spitfire. That would have been a great photo op.
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Posted this in The Historical Society, thought it would go here also:
From The Northern Great Plains collection, by Fred Hultstrand in 1911, picture b385:
(http://i704.photobucket.com/albums/ww42/1880historian/airplanes/b385r.jpg)
(http://i704.photobucket.com/albums/ww42/1880historian/airplanes/Copyofb385r.jpg)
From the picture notes:
"... and by private subscription secured the Kenworthy-McGoey aeroplane from Grand Forks, which entertained the crowds on Thursday and Friday. While Mr. McGoey's engine was acting up, as gasoline engines sometimes will, he made a very successful flight on Thursday and the following day's flight would no doubt have been fully as successful had he cleared the fair buildings in starting. As it was however, his machine caught on the stalls on the north side of the grounds, just as he was starting over the fair grounds, and coming down so suddenly his machine was badly demolished. The aeroplane fell in among the livestock and where a large number of people had been standing only a moment before, but fortunately no one was hurt not even McGoey himself. Regardless of this accident and failure to fly on the second day, the people seemed well pleased with his performance of the preceeding day, when they had an opportunity of seeing a real aeroplane in operation, and no one begrudged the money that had been spent for the attraction"--Cavalier County Republican, August 17, 1911.
A little less than 8 years after the first Wright Brothers flight, a search shows most airplanes were similar to this one. In a little over four years much advanced design planes would be engaged in mortal combat over The Western Front.
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Any landing that you can walk away from is a good landing!
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Any landing that you can walk away from is a good landing!
Looks like you could get it back in operation with some bailing wire and duck tape. ;D
Might want to check the carb, the points and the plugs. ::)
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Adjust the muffler bearing too!
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Adjust the muffler bearing too!
Don't forget the headlight fluid.
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be a good idea to have an extra bucket of prop wash too
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For some reason I have a James Taylor song in my head:
"Sweet dreams and flying machines in pieces on the ground." ::)
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I've seen Fire and I've seen Rain!
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More on the airplane:
GRAND FORKS DAILY HERALD
Grand Forks, North Dakota, Thursday, July 13, 1911
GRAND FORKS
AVIATORS ARE
SUCCESSFUL
Thomas McGoey of Grand Forks, in his Kenworthy-McGoey flying machine, made seven successful flights at the state fair gounds last evening, with about 100 enthusiastic spectators cheering the first successful flight made in a North Dakota machine by a North Dakota Man.
Word had been passed about last evening that the flight was to be attempted and at 7 o'clock, with weather conditions ideal, the machine was wheeled out into the big open space at the fair grounds and "cranked up."
Everything was in first class order, but McGeoy did not attempt to fly the first time down the field, being satified with merely "feeling her out" and getting his bearings. The second time the machine was started, however, he worked the elevator easily and the aeroplane gracefully rose to a height of about 40 feet and floated for about 100 yards. Then the local aviator see-sawed up and down and skimmed lightly over the surface, sometimes a few feet up, other times touching and then shooting to a height of 15 or 20 feet. When the end of the field was reached, the engine was stopped, the machine turned around and before the evening's practice was over seven successful flights had been made.
The Kenworthy-McGoey mahcine now seems an assured success--at least last night's flights demonstrated beyond a doubt that the experimental stage was no more. It is only a question of a week or 10 days of practice, until Aviator McGeoy will be able to successfully turn around in mid-air and make all the turnings and writhings necessary to cover a swallow-like flight--all this, of courses, provided there is no accident, but this possibility seems as remote with McGeoy as with the average aviator, since his first attempt was far beyond the usual success of a beginner.
The propeller on the local machine rotates 1200 times a minute, the engine that causes these revolutions having been especially made at Rochester, N. Y., for the aeroplane. A little incident last evening shows the terrible force the propeller cuts the air with. While going down the field on one of his flights a ruler dropped out of McGoey's pocket into the propellor. The ruler was cut into little two or three inch pieces and some of the spectators picked them up for 400 feet or more from the path of the aeroplane. As the successful ending of his first evening in the air, McGeoy turned the machine sideways in the air and landed over by the main building, where she was stored for the night. The flights in the future will be as private as possible to avoid the danger of accidents. With a large crowd at liberty on the grounds it is difficult to skim around and practice rurning, and probably many attempts will be made in the early hours of the morning or at unexpected, intervals during the day.
Immediately upon seeing the immense success of the aeroplane, F. G. Kenworthy, who is financing the venture, wired to several points where contarcts have been pending and received word that the feature would gladly be contracted for at those cities. Due to the fact that the papers have not been signed as yet, the names are not ready for publication.
Grand Forks people and North Dakotans in general will congratulate the local aviators, if their future successes are in proportion to the first evening of real North Dakota flying. The local venture has been watched by thousands with interest and the stick-to-it-iveness of the local men in the face of many reverses has been the subject of considerable favorable comment.
To Fly at Fair.
The continued success of the local airship will mean an added attrraction at the Notgh Dakota State fair, beginning July 25. The local machine will be one of the features at this great exposition and will be the first North Dakota machine ever flown before a North Dakota audience with a North Dakota aviator.
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Seems he gave up shortly after the picture was taken:
TOM M'GOEY RITES
TO BE HELD MONDAY
Funeral services for Tom McGoey, 61 hears old, pioneer resident and Grand Fork's first aviator who died Thursday, will be Monday at 9 A.M. in St. Michaels Church with Rev. William McNamee officiating. Burial will be in Calvary cemetery.
The body will lie in state at the Kasper Funeral Home from Friday evening to Saturday afternoon and at the home, 23 Fenton Avenue from Sunday afternoon until the funeral.
Active pallbearers will be John K. Ness, J. J. Donley, J. J. Daly, James Lyons Sr., A. P. Stump and WIlliam Hogan. Honorary pallbearers will be William Trearmann, John Burton, William Colson, Willliam Alexander, Martin Colton, Dr. E. P. Robertson, Dr. C. L. Wallace, F. C. Gustafsson, Elmer Urrlauf, Lew Taylor, Charles Dow, Henry Hauges, C. F. Peterson, Peter Grady, Al Dunsmore, J. U. Zorkelbach and Howard Mosley.
Mr. McGoey had been in the electrical business for 24 years, gracing Grand Forks with his presence on March 31, 1914. He was born in Toronto June 1, 1877.
For three months in 1911, Mr. McGoey flew exhibitions from North Dakota to Michigan, attracting huge crowds everywhere. He built his plane, the first one here and made his first trip at the state fair grounds July 12, 1911. That trip was a 15-minute jaunt near the Bacon farm.
With F. C. Kenworthy as his manager and Eugene Ester and Al Forsythe as mechanics, he flew before thrilled crowds at Thief River Falls, Little Falls, Sauk Center, Hillsboro, Langdon, Hibbing, Rochester, Superior and Duluth, and other cities.
He crashed twice. The first time at the fair grounds here and the second time at Calumet, Mich. in the fall of 1911. He gave up flying then.
Mr. McGoey was a member of the Elks Lodge and the Knights of Collumbus. His home was 23 Fenton Avenue.
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(http://i704.photobucket.com/albums/ww42/1880historian/airplanes/CollegePark_MD_gun_12.jpg)
The first aeroplane armed with a machine gun was a Wright Biplane flown by Lt. Thomas de Witte at College Park, Maryland on May 7, 1912. The gunner, who was armed with a Lewis gun, was Charles de Forest Chandler of the U. S. Army Signal Corps.
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That is a great picture. I'm surprised that that beast of a gun didn't lopside the plane.
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Leo, The Lewis isn't much heavier than a BAR or an M60, just bulky.
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He don't appear to be using a water can, he better not shoot it to many times.
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He don't appear to be using a water can, he better not shoot it to many times.
That was my next question.
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That was my next question.
Maybe he drank a lot of coffee first. ::) :o :P
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He don't appear to be using a water can, he better not shoot it to many times.
He didn't need a water can. The Lewis gun was air cooled. That can that looks like a water jacket is really ductwork to channel cooling air kind of like the tin shrouds on an old VW engine.
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He didn't need a water can. The Lewis gun was air cooled. That can that looks like a water jacket is really ductwork to channel cooling air kind of like the tin shrouds on an old VW engine.
Then I imagine it would do just fine in a moving aircraft.
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The WW1 planes that had rear facing gunners used the Lewis gun for added firepower.
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& the wind direction wouldn't make much difference because chamber gas is vented in such a way as to draw air through the ductwork & over the cooling fins.
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Went ta Wiki school an the article says they removed the shrouds when used on aircraft. I was also surprised to see that it was still used in the Korean War.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lewis_gun
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Those guns used the old standard 303 ammo. They used them in both World Wars and Korea.
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Those guns used the old standard 303 ammo. They used them in both World Wars and Korea.
The American made ones were also chambered in .30-06. That's the kind I want ;D
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The Lewis gun normally fired from a magazine. I don't know the round capacity (100 rnds. I think), but one of the mag's functions served to help the cooling. Every mag change helped the barrel to cool effectively enough to keep firing 'thru numerous mag changes. And - especially in the air, cooling wouldn't be much of a problem ... those old guns could probably run (shoot) all day and still put out a 300-350 RPM rate.
Like Stu, I'd LOVE to have a 30-06 version ... 'tho I'd happily buy .303 dies if all I could get was the original chambering! I always wanted a full-auto ANYTHING, but the practicalities of procuring ammo on my budget makes that a dream only. The best thing that happened to me was the Army ... it got me over the "full-auto itch!" Now, basically all I see is dollar signs streaking downrange when I see some lucky stiff firing ANY "fast" gun, from a Gatling gun, Ma Deuce, or up to the M134D (the Dillon 7.62 modified GE minigun gatling-type gun so often seen on the boob tube. Having fired over a million rounds - all paid for by my taxes (and yours too, thanks very much!) consisting of 45 ACP, 9mm Para, 7.62 NATO, & .50 BMG, I don't "itch" (much) many more.
;)
What I'd really like to have is an M3A1 "Grease Gun." They are a hoot and I could even (somewhat) afford to shoot one a couple times a year! I wouldn't mind shooting an Uzi again, either.
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SHB, Shame on you for wasting all my tax money! I don't remember if I told you about making an alarm call to an Armory full of M3's.
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Leo, The Lewis isn't much heavier than a BAR or an M60, just bulky.
Looks harder to reload
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The drum fits on top of the receiver.
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Jeff, a Thompson sub would be a good compromise. 38s are still fairly cheap (but the gun aint) so ya wouldn't feel so bad bout sprayin em.
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Jeff, a Thompson sub would be a good compromise. 38s are still fairly cheap (but the gun aint) so ya wouldn't feel so bad bout sprayin em.
So what's 38's got to do with a Thompson, most were 45 acp, a few were 38 supers which is not cheap. ;)
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Been stuck inside, had ta get out. Rode out ta Pungo.
The plane’s sittin’ out on the concrete at the main buildin’. Had I known I was gonna get that close (no plans to go in) I’d ah brought the camera. Also sittin’ out is a trimotor thingy with German markin’s. Ain’t either of ‘em gettin’ in the hangers ‘less they empty the other stuff out ‘n at that I don’t think they could close the doors. ‘N that’s if the vertical stabilizer’d fit.
But………..
Last time I was there was late June last year. Went in to the gift shop then left. Today I spied some stuff ‘bout a ¼ mile away down a freshly paved road. Weren’t no barriers so I rode back. It’s the new Fighter Factory where they rebuild stuff. I knew they wanted out of the one they have in Suffolk. There’s a small hanger ‘n a larger one off ta the side. All still under construction. May be where they plan to store the B17. Memory may be off but it seems more land’s been cleared ‘cross from the main buildin’.
Anyways, got plans ta do a ride by with Tom later in the week. Cuz, I sure hope we can go with a little time ta spend gawkin’.
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Check this out
http://marcbrecy.perso.neuf.fr/Oshkosh.html
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SHB, Shame on you for wasting all my tax money! I don't remember if I told you about making an alarm call to an Armory full of M3's.
Jimmy, I didn't WASTE any rounds or tax dollars. They made me a better shooter ('tho it'd be hard to tell THAT today) and I enjoyed shooting ALL of them.
;)
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Arcey, How did that fire at the NAS come out? They said they thought it was an empty storage building..........Buck ::) ???
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Arcey, How did that fire at the NAS come out? They said they thought it was an empty storage building..........Buck ::) ???
If it was the fire on the base from last week all I recall was it was a trash fire. Weren’t nothin’ else in the place.
Kinda like this game I’m tryin’ ta stay awake thru………. Void of substance………
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Great video Majer....The "RedBull" helicopter pilot does some amazing feats with his aircraft. The video's producer has others available on Youtube
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I got an e-mail yesterday about an aircraft restoration of a FW 190 that was shot down in Russia in 1943. An outfit in Casa Grande, Az restored the plane for a private collector. I think that this maybe the only flying FW 190 in North America, maybe the World.
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It took flight on Dec. 1, 2010. Pictures on AOPA photo gallery.
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VERY cool! And an original engine, too!
SOMEBODY has real deep pockets!
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Check this out, sounds real sweet
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h57cjPAmtF8&feature=player_embedded#[/youtube]
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He would got farther down the taxi way if he'd would pulled the chock blocks ::)
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Someone brings a Sea Fury out to the CAF AirSho once in a while. They fold up the wings on the way back from a flight. They always have several types of Naval aircraft and they always have them fold the wings up while they are taxiing back to the flight line.
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Heeeere's Chuckie! ;D
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from the group W bench
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I told you guys how beautiful she is. One picture says it all! It just goes to show what a small world this is. Who would have ever thought that a B17 that had been in Fort Worth for 30 years would wind up in a Museum in Virginia that you guys visit.
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‘Course I’m tickled to have ‘er here ‘n I agree, tiz a small world. Just that I want ‘er inside when they ain’t out joy ridin’. They got it they’re gonna fly it. In my head, I see ‘er in the new hanger with a few ‘friends’. Some scaffoldin’ beside ‘er so folks can climb up ‘n look inside.
Tex, just let yer friends know what I wrote. She couldn’t be in better hands. They gottah sense of humor too. Somewhere, they found two old, rusty dinosaur statues ‘n they stuck ‘em out front next to the sign.
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That's a gorgeous plane Pop. You don't see many pictures of the late war fuselage in stainless. I'm with Arcey, I would love to be able to give 'er a good lookin' over.
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I got a couple of e-mails from Mrs. Hospers, who is the former owner and the namesake for the aircraft. Her husband, Dr. Hospers called her that and it stuck. When he acquired the aircraft, he decided to name it after her, "Chuckie". She is really a neat lady and she really appreciated the info that I forwarded to her about "Chuckie". They are in the process of gathering up all the B17 stuff in the hangar and getting it ready to send to Virginia.
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Leo/Tom - Chuckie is polished aluminum, not stainless. SS would be waaaay too heavy.
It'a a VERY high grade of aluminum, of very high strength, then coated with an anti-corrosion solution and later polished, if not painted.
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Leo/Tom - Chuckie is polished aluminum, not stainless. SS would be waaaay too heavy.
It'a a VERY high grade of aluminum, of very high strength, then coated with an anti-corrosion solution and later polished, if not painted.
I should pay more attention when I am typing. Thank you for correcting that. ;)
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One of the CAF units disbanded and returned their assigned aircraft(an A26) back to the HQ in Midland. There is a rumor that the plane could be hangared at the Vintage Flight Museum and another CAF outfit could take over the sponsorship. That sounds interesting and there are a dedicated group of volunteers at the Museum that are anxious to start a new priject.
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I (personal opinion) think the A26 is the second coolest twin-engine plane that was used in WW-twice; the coolest being (again IMHO) the Mosquito.
My FAVORITE wasn't used, the war finished before the 2 or 3 units that were in training, but not assigned to combat status: the Grumman F7F Tigercat. There are several flying these days but they never saw combat until Korea. That F7F in fighter configuration was an awesome beast! 4 caliber 50's concentrated in the nose (like the P38, also a VERY cool twin) and 4 20 mm's in the wing roots! That's a $h.tload of destructive power, put in a machine that would go damn fast for a prop plane - over 400 knots!
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SHB, I wonder if there are any of those Tigercat's left in world to restore. The CAF needs one for the collection. I don't think we have any P-38's anymore either. That Tigercat was the first twin engine fighter that the Navy adopted, if my feeble memoery is correct.
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SHB and TL
In 3008 there were three flying Tigercats at the Reno Air Races. Alas I didn’t make it to the races that year to see them in person, here’s a link to a video of it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8O2t7D3H7Q
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Russ T, That was a great video. Yep, the CAF needs one of those Tigercat's and to get another P-38.
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I'm a little late on the draw here, but TL - there are 6 or 7 in the world at this time - but I don't know if there are any "loose" ones waiting for re-build. There are a handful here in the States and one in Duxford, England. I know how we feel about them (Wiki) but Wikipedia has them listed by owner and where they are as of recently (or) as recently as the piece was written for Wiki.
I'm sure that it'd take amazingly mucho dinero to keep one flying, let alone restoring one.
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SHB, That sounds like a project for Mr. Cavanaugh. Spent 3 million on rebuilding the engines on "FIFI". The video was cool. Did you see the video of the 3 Bearcats flying with 2 of the Hornets of the Blue Angels flying in formation?
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Yep, saw the video. And I saw others where the jets had be be at full flaps-down to get enough lift to make the "slower" flights happen!
;)
That in itself is funny since we tend to think of P 51s, Bearcats, etc. as "Hot Rods" but the jets have "issues" flying SLOW enough to make a good flight! Just a matter of perceptions, I guess! That ... and physics & the principles of lift!
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It was incredible to see the guy that was one of the first group of Blue Angels pilots. He looked great to be 90 years old. It looked like he really enjoyed climbing back into the cockpit of that Bearcat.
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I'll bet!
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Here's one to check out.
http://www.twaseniorsclub.org/twavideo/twastratoliner.html
Only 10 made and look at the leg room and amenities.
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That looks like the civilian version of the C 46. The CAF had a C 46 at one time named "China Doll". It has since been sold. I think the military called the C46 "Commando"
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Here she is getting ready to fly.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyqIw46w-70
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Leo, I don't recognize where the video was shot. It sure ain't Midland, Tx. We ain't got that many mountains in Texas.
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C-46 was a Curtiss-Wright two engine plane a bit larger than the Goony Bird. This rig is much bigger.
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That looks like the civilian version of the C 46. The CAF had a C 46 at one time named "China Doll". It has since been sold. I think the military called the C46 "Commando"
TL - it's a Boeing B 307 "Stratoliner" with 4 engines. Sort of like a DC 3 on steroids - but made by Boeing, not Douglas.
C-46 was a Curtiss-Wright two engine plane a bit larger than the Goony Bird. This rig is much bigger.
Right you are 4T!
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My nephew in AZ isn't quite 5 yet and can identify several WWII planes. I send all the videos on here to my Dad and all the little guy wants to do is watch them over and over. He can also break down, properly clean and reassemble a '72 Colt replica. My Dad keeps the ammo locked away and teaches him safety. To the kid it's the mechanics of the thing that interest him. I can't think of a more fun day for a grandfather and grandson than to look at war birds and learn bout old guns. Maybe someday he will be teachin me.
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Cool!
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OK, just for fun I thought of this tonight, yep it was on You-Tube, anyone remember this from 2003, one of the coolest TV ads I've ever seen:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXqH1q7G3BM[/youtube]
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That'e got me wanting more stuff from Generous Electric! I have never seen this, Del - thanks for posting it!
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That'e got me wanting more stuff from Generous Electric! I have never seen this, Del - thanks for posting it!
Never saw it on main stream TV, takes some brains to understand. Saw it on places like the History Channel and such, loved it when I first saw it.
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I remember that one. If ya need more brains ta get a kick out of it you is in a serious deficit situation. Thanks for posting that.
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"At General Electric, Progress Is Our Most Important Product."
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Hey SHB, I got a new set of DVD's called "Hunters of the Sky", it' about WW2 fighter pilots. They have interviews with the actual pilots, US, Brit, German, Japanese, and Russian. It's really a neat set of videos with a lot of actual combat footage.
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I remember that one. If ya need more brains ta get a kick out of it you is in a serious deficit situation. Thanks for posting that.
You mean like folks "Reality TV? ::)
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I finished watching the DVD's on the WW2 fighters. There was a piece about WW1 fighters and there was a little video of the place in upstate NY, near where the Major lives. It was shot during one of their air shows.
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I finished watching the DVD's on the WW2 fighters. There was a piece about WW1 fighters and there was a little video of the place in upstate NY, near where the Major lives. It was shot during one of their air shows.
That would have probably been Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome, founded by the late, great Cole Palen. Been there , seen both types of their shows, and had the honor of meeting Mr. Palen. An AWESOME place for any aircraft lover, but primarily pre-WWII flying. And a lot of pre-WWONE aircraft as well.
http://www.oldrhinebeck.org/
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I hadn't seen that GE ad before, either.
Slim
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OK an interesting story behind this next picture, it of a little girl waving at the Southern Cross in Brisbane Australia in 1928:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_Cross_(aircraft)
A Fokker F.VII is what the plane is.
The little girl is a friend from one of my Lab boards, the girl is his late Mum. Anyway you've heard about the flooding in Brisbane, well Garth lost the original and the copies on his computer. I thought I had it, but didn't, but several of us searched and a friend in Sydney had it and E-Mailed this small copy and will send him the large one and most of his other old pictures on a memory stick, so here it is:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/airplanes/NewImage.jpg)
And one of the plane in Brisbane from Wiki:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/airplanes/800px-StateLibQld_1_139254_Landing_the_aircraft_Southern_Cross_in_Brisbane_Queensland_ca_1928.jpg)
And as it appears today:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/airplanes/Scinside1.jpg)
I'm glad he got it back.
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They sure look different when seen in color, Del :o Much nicer, makes them seem more real. Guess we're just spoiled by color pics................Buck ::) 8)
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I got an e-mail today, making it offical that the CAF A26 will be hangared in the Hangar at Meacham field In Fort Worth. They flew it to Breckenridge, Tx for some restoration work. It should be at Fort Worth in May.
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I hadn't seen that GE ad before, either.
Slim
I had a broke down GE television in 2003 missed alot of commericals back then
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I like the new ad with the workers doing line dancing on the engine assembly line.
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I like the new ad with the workers doing line dancing on the engine assembly line.
makes me wonder who is working on the engines
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Here's one to check out.
http://www.twaseniorsclub.org/twavideo/twastratoliner.html
Only 10 made and look at the leg room and amenities.
Old Man Harrison on Pawn stars sez, them were the old days when Men wore suits to travel by air. You can board in flip flops these days. Course that's preferred so they can look for explosives between your toes. Could you imagine what a cross country flight with those amenities would cost these days.
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The flight attendants had to be qualified as a nurse in order to be hired. Folks nowdays don't do anything special in the ways of dressing up for airline travel.
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The flight attendants had to be qualified as a nurse in order to be hired. Folks nowdays don't do anything special in the ways of dressing up for airline travel.
Lots of times they don't for weddings and funerals either.
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That's true and they even wear hats with wire brims.
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That's true and they even wear hats with wire brims.
The HEATHENS!!!
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This come up on the Glenn Miller play list tanight. Didn't see the video the first time it came around.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOLOVoO3k3g
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And yes I do listen to this stuff on a regular basis. Anyone that don't like it can ask me how much I care bout their opinion.
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Leo, I saw the plane that played the "Belle" in the summer of '89 when it was on it's way back to it's home field in Chino, Calif.. Was on display at our local airfield. Still in the Belle's colors at the time, I took some 35mm pics of it. Believe I still have them buried in a box here somewheres..............Buck 8)
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I took a tour of the real "Memphis Belle" when it was on Mud Island in Memphis, Tn. It had a metal awning over the plane, but it was exposed to the weather.
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I am anxious to see what our A26 will look like after it's restoration. It is supposed to be a Korean War impression this time. It is supposed to be done in May and will be flown to Fort Worth from Breckenridge, Tx. It will hangared at the Vintage Flight Museum, which is "Chuckie's" former home.
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I will soon be offically a member of the CAF A26 Squadron.
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I'm going over to the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth tomorrow morning. I haven't been over there since "Chuckie" left. There should be a lot of empty space in the hangar. I am excited about the A26 coming here to be hangared here in May.
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Hey guys. Thought I'd post this here since the topic was airplanes.
About ten years ago I decided to build an 82% scale Curtiss P-6E Hawk biplane fighter called a S.A.C.O. Hawk. To be powered by a Chevy 383 Stroker. To make a ten year old story very short, I built a good bit of the airplane but an airline pilot in the great north west wanted it more than I did. I took the money and bought a restored 1984 Jeep CJ-7. I know.......but the airplane world just got too expensive for me. I use to taxi my dad's 1928 WACO around the airport by myself when I was 13.....ANYHOW......
Here are a few photos of it as I sold it.
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f36/CurtissHawk/100_1710.jpg)
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f36/CurtissHawk/100_0812a.jpg)
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f36/CurtissHawk/100_0813.jpg)
The REAL P-6E Hawk
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f36/CurtissHawk/P-6E-32-260.jpg)
Can't leave out the Jeep!
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f36/CurtissHawk/100_1746email.jpg)
AND A VIDEO of my friends P-6E Hawk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTtGkrEbqZU
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Hey guys. Thought I'd post this here since the topic was airplanes.
About ten years ago I decided to build an 82% scale Curtiss P-6E Hawk biplane fighter called a S.A.C.O. Hawk. To be powered by a Chevy 383 Stroker. To make a ten year old story very short, I built a good bit of the airplane but an airline pilot in the great north west wanted it more than I did. I took the money and bought a restored 1984 Jeep CJ-7. I know.......but the airplane world just got too expensive for me. I use to taxi my dad's 1928 WACO around the airport by myself when I was 13.....ANYHOW......
Here are a few photos of it as I sold it.
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f36/CurtissHawk/100_1710.jpg)
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f36/CurtissHawk/100_0812a.jpg)
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f36/CurtissHawk/100_0813.jpg)
The REAL P-6E Hawk
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f36/CurtissHawk/P-6E-32-260.jpg)
Can't leave out the Jeep!
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f36/CurtissHawk/100_1746email.jpg)
AND A VIDEO of my friends P-6E Hawk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTtGkrEbqZU
Jack, that looks really nice, I am impressed. But , you do know this is TALL TALES. WM::)
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But , you do know this is TALL TALES. WM::)
Yeah folks seldom believe what I say, and I am always accused of not reading and just posting....figured I'd live up to it and this was a good excuse! ;D
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I'd rather have the Hawk ...
;D
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Those use an inline or radial engine? Kinda hard to tell........Buck ::)
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Those use an inline or radial engine? Kinda hard to tell........Buck ::)
The original airplane used an inline Curtiss "Conqueror" (600 hp V-1570-23) engine. While building the Hawk I created and maintained a webpage for it. Before I dissolved the webpage I saved all my information. I have a vast photo collection of the original Hawks as well as information I gathered from books, yes JB I do read, and documentations. I also followed closely Ralph Rosanik and his quest to own an original. He settled for a 100% scale replica he build from scratch using some parts from an original Hawk. He died before he had the chance to fly it! Dont think it ever flew and is in the EAA museum. There is only one original Hawk and of course is in the Air Force museum. The one I posted above (#60) is the full scale replica.
The 82% scale replica I was building was powered with a Chevy 383 Stroker. The one in the video is also powered with a 383 Stroker.
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I've seen the one at Wright-Pat and the Hawk is one of (In my humble opinion) one of the top 1 or 2 cool lookin' biplanes. Of all times.
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I've seen the one at Wright-Pat and the Hawk is one of (In my humble opinion) one of the top 1 or 2 cool lookin' biplanes. Of all times.
Years ago, I think late 1960's, it use to belong to a guy in Atlanta, Ga. I have a friend, ex-WWII F6F pilot, was offered the Hawk for $10,000. He turned the Hawk down....he was there to look at a table saw for sale. That was a lot of cash back then....but he had it and wished he had purchased it!
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Thanks for sharing the photos with us. I spent about 4 hours at the Vintage flight Museum yesterday. They were giving rides on a privately owned C47 painted up as a DDay aircraft. I got to look over a privately owned B25 named "Pacific Proweler". I have agreed to help them with building security for the hangar. I got to meet several members of the VFM, as well as "Chuckie" Hosper. I will probably be spending my Saturdays over there for a while.
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Nice place to work, TLD ;D
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....there I was at 30,000 feet when all of a sudden......
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The guys that flew "Chuckie" down to Virginia in Jan. almost got frostbite beacuse the cockpit was not heated and they had to fly at over 7,000 feet of altitude. The B29 was the first bomber that was pressureized.
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Yeah, you had to be pretty hardy to fly altitude in winter skies then. No heated suits would be a real problem. i believe the WW II crews had them though.............Buck ::)
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I posted on the "Grub" thread about an airplane crash near me. I found out to day that it was a vintage Jet military trainer, Here is a link about the plane (not the one that crashed)
http://www.zibb.com/aerospace/theme/aircraft/BAC+Strikemaster
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http://channel6newsonline.com/2011/02/pilots-body-found-after-small-plane-crash-into-new-yorks-hudson-river/
PIlot’s body found after small plane crash into New York’s Hudson River
Eventually it will be here: http://www.ntsb.gov/ntsb/query.asp
Which would be here: http://www.ntsb.gov/ntsb/AccList.asp?month=2&year=2011
One of these http://www.flugzeuginfo.net/acdata_php/acdata_magister_en.php also crashed this month.
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I hate it when ANY aircraft comes down. :(
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Prayers up :'( :'(
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Those old aircraft require constant maintence, old parts break.
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Some of the folks from the Vintage Flying Museum are flying up to Lubbock to visit the Silent Wings Museum. They have a restored WW2 glider and a museum dedicated to the WW2 glider pilots. A group in Fort Worth is restoring a glider for display at the VFM. The lubbock museum has some blueprints as well as extra parts for the restoration. They will flying in the C46 "The Southern Cross", which is a privately owned aircraft that is hangared at the VFM.
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Here's an interesting site, it has a 360 degree hidef photos of a P51 Mustang cockpit,Check it out.
http://www.stclairphoto-imaging.com/360/P51-Mustang/P51_swf.html
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Here's an interesting site, it has a 360 degree hidef photos of a P51 Mustang cockpit,Check it out.
http://www.stclairphoto-imaging.com/360/P51-Mustang/P51_swf.html
Back when I use to fly the on-line flight sims, I made this video while flying "Pacific Fighters". Its almost ten minutes long. Geeesh, that was a while back too.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upzeb52AkzQ
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Was looking for something, found this, I remember when this was first on the History Channel, computer generated, but awsome, those guys sure had some guts. The fact it is on one of my favorite airplanes of all time helps.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYpiz77JwhQ&feature=related[/youtube]
Doubt very many list the Swordfish as a favorite plane.
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Their pilot's called them "Stringbags" ::) :o
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This home made job is perty neat. Those are lawn mower engines. I don't know what they was thinkin with the jet but the 29 has working landing gear and pilot ejection.
http://users.skynet.be/fa926657/files/B29.wmv
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This home made job is perty neat. Those are lawn mower engines. I don't know what they was thinkin with the jet but the 29 has working landing gear and pilot ejection.
http://users.skynet.be/fa926657/files/B29.wmv
This is Mac Hodges and is located in Americus Georgia. I have been there a few times. I also landed a Cessna 180J on that strip to pick up an ARF J-3 about 7 years ago! I logged right at 1,000 hours in the 180J flying Fire Patrol for the Forestry Commission between 2000-2005.
http://www.hodgeshobbies.com/
Google Map link
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Hodges+Hobbies,+Neil+Hodges+Road,+Andersonville,+GA&aq=0&sll=32.112095,-84.138622&sspn=0.038531,0.087891&ie=UTF8&hq=Hodges+Hobbies,&hnear=Neil+Hodges+Rd,+Andersonville,+Sumter,+Georgia+31711&ll=32.13681,-84.118023&spn=0.073406,0.175781&t=h&z=13&iwloc=A&cid=13567352240624596740
And whats left of the B-29
(http://www.morganswebworks.net/hodges/images/stories/b29-b.jpg)
and the replacement B-29
(http://www.morganswebworks.net/hodges/images/stories/dscf0187.jpg)
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Makes me wonder what the power to weight ratio is on the model compared to the real thing.
I'm betting a B-29 wouldn't be capable of those rolls, immelmanns, and loops without a wing coming off, either.
Beautiful models and very well flown.
.....and you thought CAS was pricey. ;D
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It did go into a spin for a moment. You could tell the guy was fighting like all get out to regain control. The power to weight question is a good one. Wright Cyclones are heavy no doubt but in comparison it would be neat to see some stats. In motorcycle racing a common statement was "Power to weight ratio is God".
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This home made job is perty neat. Those are lawn mower engines. I don't know what they was thinkin with the jet but the 29 has working landing gear and pilot ejection.
http://users.skynet.be/fa926657/files/B29.wmv
I think it was a pretty cool re-creation of Chuck Yeager's Mach-busting flight. (With certain "poetic license") The whole thing is pretty awesome! That guy is a darn good pilot. My Dad told me that flying a model inverted can be VERY tricky - especially if the guy is a real pilot. (Obviously, you have to move in the opposite direction, but he said - to him - actually FLYING inverted is a bit easier than flying a model inverted.) I saw him crash an 8' Piper Tri-Pacer for the exact same reason - he did what came naturally ... and flew right into the ground!
:o
He never got it rebuilt by the time he died, but a friend did, and was still flying the repaired plane 10 years later, until he got out of the RC model sport.
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Here you go, just found this, the engine that made the first flight for the Wrights:
(http://i704.photobucket.com/albums/ww42/1880historian/airplanes/00650r.jpg)
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1911 engine by the Wrights:
(http://i704.photobucket.com/albums/ww42/1880historian/airplanes/1911Wright.jpg)
(http://i704.photobucket.com/albums/ww42/1880historian/airplanes/00684r.jpg)
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I haven't got to ride in "FIFI" yet, but hopefully this spring or early summer. I am looking forward to it. The B25 over in Fort Worth is having the radios worked on, so it's out of service for a while. I plan on riding in it when I can. It will be neat to be in the same kind of aircraft that my Dad flew in WW2.
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I haven't got to ride in "FIFI" yet, but hopefully this spring or early summer. I am looking forward to it. The B25 over in Fort Worth is having the radios worked on, so it's out of service for a while. I plan on riding in it when I can. It will be neat to be in the same kind of aircraft that my Dad flew in WW2.
Ride? In the last flying B-29???!!
Little Jimmy, I'm now officially jealous of you!
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Get in line Jeff. Pop got his dream after retiring. And apparently he got mine and yours as well.
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I've been watching a 3 part feature on the Doolittle Raid. They have some video on the Raider Reunion with about 20 + B25s. I got to see a brief shot of "Pacific Prowler".
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Two of Dolittles raiders were from Lincoln.
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Two of Dolittles raiders were from Lincoln.
I thought he was already dead by then.
???
Lincoln ... sorry, bad joke
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I thought he was already dead by then.
???
Lincoln ... sorry, bad joke
They were his grand sons.
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Some one slap Jeff please. ::)
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Some one slap Jeff please. ::)
Consider me slapped ..
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As of the last reunion of the Raiders, there are 6 members left. They have a wooden case with silver cups engraved their names on them. They drink a toast to themselves and the departed members.
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I just saw the Military Channel special on these heroes. They showed 3 or 4 of the survivors that were able to come to the 2009 (I think) reunion. They told of the silver cups and the bottle the last 2 will drink from & toasty the others with. It was well worth watching.
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I would have enjoyed being there and getting to meet the surviving members. A bunch of B25s flew up there for the event. Dad's outfit was the reorganized outfit that had been the Raiders. It was neat to see all those B25s up there. I caught a glimpse of "Pacific Prowler" in the video.
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http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid34757272001?bclid=0&bctid=87804472001
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Good link Charles. You don't hear much about the 39s.
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They made a better ground attack plane than a fighter. in the Pacific, the Zeros feasted on them..... ::) :(
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http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid34757272001?bclid=0&bctid=87804472001
Thanks for posting this, Sir. Chas! While not a top-notch fighter compared to Mustangs, Spits, FW190s, etc. the P-39 was a solid performer, with many advanced features, and the Russians loved them. As did ground attack units. And I've personally admired them for a long time; they look very advanced and modernistic to me, and .... well, I often like the "underdogs" that didn't get near as much of the hoop-la that other, more swift or agile fighters did. ("hoop-la" [adj.] is a scientific word for accolades and other terms of endearment. [See: acclaim, appreciation, commendation, fuss, tributes, & gushing praises with proposals of marriage.])
::) ;)
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The museum out in Pungo has one on the Army side. It’s airworthy. The fine fella guiding Tom and me thru the place said the locals don’t like to fly it. Something about the balance with the engine placement. It has Russian markings.
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I've heard about the balance issues before. The way I heard it, when the aircraft had a full load of fuel, the balance (and center of gravity) was right, but as fuel was used in flight, it became less responsive and the balance was off. For most flights nowadays, the tanks wouldn't be totally full; only enough for whatever show or whatever flight was needed.
On the other hand, the fabulous P-51 had a similar fault, but in reverse. It had a rather large fuel tank right behind the pilot in the fuselage. When the plane was totally full of fuel, for the long escort missions, it handled terribly. However, the pilots soon learned to switch the fuel draw to that tank FIRST, so that tank was used first and the plane became much more responsive and the CG and balance was right.
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Appreciate the education, SHB. Put that way it would figure for the locals. Don’t think they take ‘em too far when they put ‘em up so I doubt they’d put a full load in ‘em.
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With the link below, you will be able pull up every airplane that was built in every country in the world and every aircraft company. Want to check out almost any airplane ever built in the world? Old, new, military, civilian?
Browse this site for a few minutes. You will be amazed at what has been done in airplane design. The amount of info available is unbelievable. Virtual Airplane Museum.
http://www.aviastar.org/index2.html
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I know what I will be doin taday. Thanks fer the link!
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The P39 had a driveshaft that ran between the prop and the engine.
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The P39 had a driveshaft that ran between the prop and the engine.
And betwixt the pilot's feet, too - didn't it? Covered, of course, but a hump on the floor.
Or not ...
;)
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Yessir. That's the plane that my Dad wanted to fly when he joined the Air Corps, but he was 6'2" and was too tall for fighters. They made him a Bomber pilot.
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Found this when I was lookin' to see if the museum had an image of their's online:
(http://www.warbirdregistry.org/p39-p63registry/images/p39gun.jpg)
I was an even 6' at 18. Don't guess I'd have fit either. Time ta time a camera lens will distort stuff but lookin' at that layout, the cockpit couldn't have been but so big. The museum has a collection of flight suits on the second level. I looked at some 'n wondered if they really made guys that small in the 40's.
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I visited the AF Museum at Wright-Patterson when I had a trip to Dayton to PU a Prisoner. It was an experience to visit there. I was in "hog heaven" up there.
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My uncle Joe was built like my Dad, small enough ta stuff inta a tail gunner position. The guys that got crammed in tanks weren't much bigger. Most of the tall guys ended up in the Marines. Six foot is (or was) a requirement to be a sea going Marine.
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You also had to smaller to be a crew member on a WW2 submarine.
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The old perforated steel planks that stuff sits on brings back memories. When I was a kid some relatives had a couple cottages in Nags Head (Carolina Outer Banks or OBX) near the Wright Memorial. Uncle Tommy was a Seabee ‘n knew the stuff well. Bought it surplus ‘n used it for driveways, walks ‘n such.
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That stuff was their instant runways during the island hopping in the Pacific.
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Marsden Matting ::) Bailing out of a '39 could be pretty hairy considering the cockpit entry/exit was a door like a car. That drive shaft between the legs is an impediment,too.
Ball turret gunners had to be basically built like jockeys, the same aas the tail gunners on 17's. After going through the Cod, I can see why crewmen had to be somewhat smaller as well.............Buck ::) :o
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I alway thought the P-39 was the A-10 of WWII. One single heavy caliber gun, lots of armor, not too fast, and a born tank killer when it first came out.
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Mister Rod, I do believe they called them Tank Killers. They weren't so good in a dog fight.
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P-39 - Went to Russia to be used in ground attacks - Russia's tank buster
P-47 - USA ground attact a/c - USA's tank buster
Stuka - Germany's ground attack - tank buster
Japan - SOL
Urnst Udet was amazed with our Curtiss Hawks (The bi-planes) He urged the Germans to purchase one for testing. It was the Curtiss Goshawk, exports were called Goshawk II. Udet used this aircraft for dive bombing tests which eventually lead to the Stuka.
(http://image03.webshots.com/3/9/24/21/15192421fbamQRabmT_fs.jpg)
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I always thought those 'Hawks were cool lookin' "modern" biplanes. (Modern = last types vs. the WWI & earlier types) They sure could "dance" around nimbly in the sky! They were a stunter's dream!
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Some Hawk II's saw action in China but the Hawk III did see action in China!
(http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/images/hawkiii_2.jpg)
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I received an e-mail from the A-26 Squadron Leader. The A-26 is stiill in Midland. They are waiting for the FAA to authorize them to fly from Midland to Breckenridge for repairs. Hopefully next weekend, they will be able to ferry the aircraft to Breckenridge.
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(http://www.cnac.org/emilscott/emil058.jpg)
Note gun barrels just inside engine cowling
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I'm sorta partial to the F3F Grumman bi-plane.
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A Hawk was responsible for sinking the Bismark. The pilot came in low and they made a good hit. The ships finished her off but that was the crippling blow.
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The way I heared it, a Swordfish did the damage what jammed the rudder of the Bismarck ‘n the Brit’s ships sank ‘er.
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The way I heared it, a Swordfish did the damage what jammed the rudder of the Bismarck ‘n the Brit’s ships sank ‘er.
Yep, it twas a Swordfish, my vote for all time cool bi-plane. The mechanical computers for the Bismark's guns were not geared to hit a plane that slow, they shot in front of them. Got add Johnny Horton's classic song:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1Ufc2hI4FM[/youtube]
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My mistake. It was a swordfish. Don't usually think of biplanes an WWII. Johnny Horton didn't even mention it in his ditty.
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Don't usually think of biplanes an WWII.
Soviets used the Polikarpov Po-2 on the Eastern Front a lot, a bi-plane, flown at night a lot by women pilots they often shut of engines and glided over German camps and bombed and strafed them, didn't do a lot of damage as such except raise heck with their moral.
http://www.flyandrive.com/nightwitches2.htm
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Seeing Russian women anytime would be a strain.
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Seeing Russian women anytime would be a strain.
I seen some perty ones but there is some kind of age limit on em. I think it is 39.
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I guess it would make a difference on how many "hard miles" they had on them.
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We're supposed to have our first A-26 squadron meeting on Sat. Morning. No news on the flying statis for it's flight from Midland to Breckenridge. I hope we have good weather for some Pane Rides to generate some income for the VFM.
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They were unable to find a pilot for the ferry flight of the A-26, so it looks like another week before it can be moved to Breckenridge.
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SUN-N-FUN, Lakeland Florida. Large storm passed by in the mid morning AM this morning. We had two airplanes on display. A brand new Maule and a used Maule. Both were damaged by high winds and blowing signs, building parts etc! One Maule suffered only a bent wing strut but the other one suffered vertical stab damage, right elevator damage and the left wing collapsed. Headed that way in the morning with a spare strut for one Maule and a trailer to haul the other one home.
http://www.avweb.com/news/snf/SunNFun2011_StormDamage_Tornado_70Trapped_204377-1.html
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Here is the Maule we went and trailered home! Its the red and white airplane.
(http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/207041_10150192389063623_192081688622_8484218_2831779_n.jpg)
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That kind of weather is got good for airplanes of any type. We had our all day CAF meeting in Fort Worth today. We noe have about 70 members in the A-26 Invader Squadron. I am on a committee to help design squadron caps and a squadron patch. I had a good time, meeting new folks. I got to talk to Chuckie today. She owns the hangar that the Squadron meets in as well as the Vintage Flight Museum. Hopefully the A26 will be flown to Breckenridge next Sunday for repairs. The plane is expected to arrive at Meacham Field in Fort Worth by the end of June.
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I did some research on the A-26 we are getting. It was a drug smuggler plane, known by DEA, as the "Gray Ghost". It landed near Amarillo with one engine gone and some Grass on board. The Sheriff's Dept was unable to find the pilot. They confiscated it and the CAF bought it from Potter Co. in about 1978. The CAF has a Lockeed Lodestar that crashed in West Texas with a load of Grass and It was purchased from a Sheriff's Dept. as well.
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As much as I hate pot I guess in some strange way it was the reason you got a couple of good planes. Funny how things work out...
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Amarillo is just one county south of my hometown, My Dad was still Sheriff in Dumas, I don't remember him saying anything about it back then.The cop in me think it's sorta funny.
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Best part of the movie "Always" (Holly Hunter & Richard Dreyfuss; a movie love story that spotlights forest fire jumpers, or "Fire Eaters." Also, a good performance by John Goodman.) was that there were a few A-26 Borate Bombers, and a PBY featured. The opening scene of the PBY skimming the water to load up before a drop, that scares the bejeezus out of a couple fishermen in a small rowboat when the PBY flies directly at them and raises up to miss them just a few feet above their heads is darn near worth the price of admission by itself! If I were one of them, I know I'd be pretty impressed!
LOVE those A-26s!!
(And PBYs, too. My Dad [Navy, WWII] said it was his favorite plane to fly. When he died, my {now EX} Father-in-Law, who carved Dad's gravestone, carved a PBY to honor Dad. It's beautiful.)
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Heard a story about a diver that went missing for days. They found him miles away in a forest that had recently burned. The authorities figure he got a free plane ride (unbeknown to the pilot). If you dive in a designated water drop you should bring a parachute.
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It wasn't the plane ride that got him, it was that sudden stop after he jumped.
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;D
LoL!
That's funny .... but has been proven to be an Internet legend, last I heard! But it makes a great story ... and certainly SOUNDS as if it could happen!
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;D
LoL!
That's funny .... but has been proven to be an Internet legend, last I heard! But it makes a great story ... and certainly SOUNDS as if it could happen!
I figured as much but it could happen. It was on a show called 1000 Ways to Die. I think 90% of their stories are BS.
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They always told us that two things fall out of the sky, IDIOTS and BIRD CRAP!
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In keepin' wit that thought:
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5261/5574532485_fba09ea2c9_b.jpg)
A contrail?
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They always told us that two things fall out of the sky, IDIOTS and BIRD CRAP!
I bet that goes over real well at an Air Born Ranger get together.
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Yessir! Non-Jumpers are refered to as LEGS!
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Yessir! Non-Jumpers are refered to as LEGS!
After the jump is over and they've shed the 'chutes, so are Paratroopers. ::)
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After the jump is over and they've shed the 'chutes, so are Paratroopers. ::)
Ask the guys that got dropped in france, a couple minutes of fallin from the sky was nothing compared to what they did on the ground. I talked to a few an they got some stories.
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The Legend of the 82nd and 101st was forged on D-day and rest of the European Campaign. Those young jumper are proud of their heritage. I have been working on ideas for our patch and caps for the Invader Squadron. I am not an artist, so I am justing writing down ideas instead on drawing stuff.
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Here ya go...
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There great Airborne Museums at Fort Bragg, N C for the 82nd and Fort Campbell, Ky for the 101st. The Corvette Museum is in nearby Bowling Green, Ky.
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Leo, On 4-21, Planes of Fame Museum in Chino will be hosting the EAA's B-17, "Aluminum Overcast". The Museum is restoring the B-17 used in the TV show "Twelve O'Clock High", "Picadilly Lilly" and they have the "Swamp Ghost" a B-17 wreckage recovered from New Guiena. It was shot down by the Japanese on it's first bombing mission.
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I'm looking into it now Pop. That is the day before my anniversary and it would be nice to make it. Lil likes the planes too. 17s are close to her heart.
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Don't know if this has been posted, but here is a video of "FIFI" on her first flight with her new engines
http://vimeo.com/17388627
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That was great Major. Thank you for posting.
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Yer Welcome... ;D
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All the engine work was done at the maintence hangar at the CAF HQ at Midland, Tx. Mr. Cavanaugh donated 3M to have the engines rebuilt in return, "FIFI" and "Ol 927"(B-24A) will be hangared at the Cavanaugh Flight Museum in Addison,Tx. "FIFI" is the only flying B-29 in existence. The B-29 is the largest Warplane that can be owned privately.
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I just read an article on Yahoo about a WW2 bomber was found upside down in 50 feet of water in the English Channel off the English coast. It is a Dornier 17 whcih carried a crew of 4. I was shot down in 1940, during the Battle Of Britain. Folks are trying to raise money to recover the aircraft. There only about 1100 of these aircraft built.
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I just read an article on Yahoo about a WW2 bomber was found upside down in 50 feet of water in the English Channel off the English coast. It is a Dornier 17 whcih carried a crew of 4. I was shot down in 1940, during the Battle Of Britain. Folks are trying to raise money to recover the aircraft. There only about 1100 of these aircraft built.
I can almost guarantee there is someone out there with enough interest and money to bring her back to shore and fix her up. At 50 feet I am surprised it took them this long to find and identify it.
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nazi plane. The RAF wants it for their museum so it will probably see day light again. They were supposed to be bombers that could out maneuver fighters. Guess they were wrong.
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The Dornier was built as a commercial airliner to get around the fact that Germany was forbid to build war planes after WW1.
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I got an e-mail last night that the A-26 completed it's flight from Midland to Breckenridge without any hitches. I am planning on getting out there to take a look at it. We have to go to Waco and bring back spare parts stored at the old squadron HQ.
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Early Saturday mornin’ it Roundup, I hadn’t put my cowboy hat on. Was still wearin’ my Corsair ball cap from Pungo. Ole fella noticed it. Turned out his momma ‘n an aunt ferried aircraft from place to place here in the USA to points of departure for overseas deployment.
Wish we’d had more time ta talk.
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Corsair was the first model I built with ma dad. His favorite war plane an a good friend/mentor of his flew it. Used ta talk about how strong the engine was an only so many guys in the USAAC had the strength ta control em.
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Breaking topic, but it's got wings so I figure it counts.
Dunno if anybody hereabouts is closet co Clayton, New Mexico, but I'm lurking in town for a couple of days before I get back to work. I was out running picking up lunch earlier when I noticed a pall of smoke north of town. Some kind of grass fire, I imagine.
Either way, I was sitting at the light when I first saw, and not but a couple of seconds later here comes a P-3 in AeroUnion colors, (which I may or may not have fueled back when I doing line service - didn't get a good enough look to catch the numbers on the tail). AeroUnion's are the birds painted up orange and white. Sort of looks like USCG colors, but not.
Anyhoo, I drove out to the edge of town and watched the fire suppression guys make their pass. Didn't stick around too long after the fact, but it was a pretty good show while it lasted.
This isn't my picture, but here's one of their birds on the ramp at TSTC, where I used to work.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3653/3353148102_0801ee84c3.jpg)
I don't care much for the P-3 in general, but I'm inclined to admit it's a pretty slick bird in those colors.
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Clayton, New Mexico isn't the end of the world, but you can see it from there. Clayton is a couple of hours north of my hometown in the Texas Panhandle. Clayton is where they hanged "BlackJack Ketchum". The old Clayton Htel has a series of photos of the hanging in it's lobby. There's a lot of ranch land up there, and I am sure the grass is dry from lack of rain.
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Oddly, I much prefer Clayton to Waco. I do just fine on the edge of the world so long as I can drift back to civilization for a hot shower and an internet connection for a couple of days. I've about decided the modern world is fine and dandy, but for the most it's a distraction.
On the subject of air-attack birds, I'll have to keep an eye open when I'm out earlier. See if any of the airtanker companies are running their Neptunes out here.
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I've spent a lot of time in Waco also. My wife graduated from BU and I have been to the Ranger Museum.
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Ah, the Ranger Museum. Or more aptly, the Museum of Sharp Things and Guns.
Probably one of the better aspects of Waco. ;D
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I can't forget "The Health Camp" cheeseburgers.
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Ah, the Ranger Museum. Or more aptly, the Museum of Sharp Things and Guns.
Probably one of the better aspects of Waco. ;D
Mr. Bell, your description (above) is SOOO cool and apropos! I'm laughing as I type this and plan to steal the phrase to use myself - if it's OK with you. (It's probably not copywrited, but it's nicer to ask - LoL!)
I've never been to that particular museum, but I want to visit NOW!
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SHB, It is a great place to visit. I've been there many times. There a a few items belonging to Rangers thatr I had the pleasure to know. There was a bunch of those men that just happen to be members of the Craft.
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Cool!
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It's about a 100 mile drive down to Waco from here. I may have to make a trip down to Waco with the CAF to bring the A-26 parts that were left when the plane was returned to Midland after the Ranger Squadron was disbanded.
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By all means, steal it. I'm think I stole it from somebody else, and I'm pretty sure they stole it first. ;D
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I've got a feeling that there won't be very many small parts to bring back.
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Well I guess I'm not keeping up with local events:
http://journalstar.com/news/local/article_80c41cc3-802c-56bd-8644-d694b210ea51.html
Sad to think this may be their last reunion.
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Del, I was going to tell you about it last week, but I forgot.
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I got an e-mail from the Vintage Flight Museum this morning saying that "FIFI" would be staying with us for awhile. The airport at Addison is having some runways repaired. She should be at our Hangar, which is actually a B-29 hangar, sometime Sunday afternoon. I will try to get over there for that. I don't know whether Ol 927 will come over too or not.
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Well, "FIFI" should be landing at the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth shortly. I over slept this morning. I will probably wait till next week to visit. They have a big Air Show at Carswell JRB today, which is near the VFM. I will try to take some pictures with my camera of FIFI, Ol 927, and anything else of interest.
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Well, "FIFI" should be landing at the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth shortly. I over slept this morning. I will probably wait till next week to visit. They have a big Air Show at Carswell JRB today, which is near the VFM. I will try to take some pictures with my camera of FIFI, Ol 927, and anything else of interest.
I hope you have a LOT of extra memory in your camera/phone, 'cause it ALL interest me and prob'ly many others!
:D
::)
;D
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OK although I didn't get to see Dolittle's guys a family friend did get to, he's a pilot in the Air Guard for one of the KC135's.
One of the B-25's:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/Local%20history/205063_10150171498006025_588481024_6917405_2823620_n.jpg)
He's the one to the left:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/Local%20history/208083_10150171496156025_588481024_6917359_4880855_n.jpg)
Guess the took them to the UNL spring game:
(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/Local%20history/208083_10150171496166025_588481024_6917361_665368_n.jpg)
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Del, That is a great picture of the B-25. That is "Show Me", a B-25 assigned to the Missouri Wing of the CAF, at St. Charles, Missouri.
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Thought y'all might be interested in this:
http://hamptonroads.com/2011/04/navy-celebrates-century-aviation-historic-paint-jobs
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Neat!!!!! ;)
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Thought y'all might be interested in this:
http://hamptonroads.com/2011/04/navy-celebrates-century-aviation-historic-paint-jobs
VERY cool! Go Navy!!! Seeing those F18s painted like #1: an F6F Hellcat and #2: an F4U Corsair is awesome! The others are cool, too!
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It's been 25 years since I visited the Naval Air Museum in Pensicola. I found out last night that our B24A will be staying in Addison. It can still take off and land over there but the B29 can't because it's too big for the runways that are still open. They put "FIFI" in the hangar last night in case the weather got bad.
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The bad weather missed Fort Worth. "FIFI" is just fine in our B-29 hangar in Fort Worth. Leo, There are some great pictures of "Sentimental Journey" is this month's CAF's magazine.
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Here ya go Pop...
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7umIJj8UBo[/youtube]
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Leo, Thanks for the music and video. That was some of Doris Day's best music. She said that song was special to her because she thought about the vets coming home from WW2 when she was singing it.
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Leo, Thanks for the music and video. That was some of Doris Day's best music. She said that song was special to her because she thought about the vets coming home from WW2 when she was singing it.
My pleasure. Me an Lil listen to that music when we play cards at night.
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Leo, My Dad had a great collection of 78s to listen to when I was a kid. I was born about a year after he got home. He had all types of music. He liked country, especially Hank Sr. and Bob Wills. He also listened to the Ink Spots, the Mills Bros., and Nat King Co;e, Guy Lombardo, The Dorseys, and especially Glenn Miller. I was so lucky to be exposed to that era of music as a kid.
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I played big band in junior high and looking into old planes I have found even more. Vera Lynn is on my playlist. She was an icon for the Brits.
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"FIFI" is supposed to be in Fort Worth at the VFM till the end of the month. I don't know if the Museum will be open on Easter Sunday. We have our Squadron Meeting tomorrow morning in Addison.
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I played Big Band music in high school as well. Some of my favorite stuff to do. i actually figured out Bobby Hacket's solo for " String Of Pearls", and used it once. Harry James was my Mom's idol and that's why I ended up playing trumpet in the first place. A couple of Harry's horns have been up for auction in the last year, king Super 20 symphony's. Went for big bucks, too..........Buck ::)
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I played Big Band music in high school as well. Some of my favorite stuff to do. i actually figured out Bobby Hacket's solo for " String Of Pearls", and used it once. Harry James was my Mom's idol and that's why I ended up playing trumpet in the first place. A couple of Harry's horns have been up for auction in the last year, king Super 20 symphony's. Went for big bucks, too..........Buck ::)
I still have a tape here of a fat Jr High kid (me) playing the solo in that song. I always wonder if buddy originally improved it or if Glenn wrote it. It's a weird one.
Show on right now about the WASPs. Those were some tough gals.
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One of the SASS shooters in Calif., Lumpy Grits I believe, his mother was a WASP ::)
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The WASP training base was near Big Spring, Tx. There are plans in the works to erect a memorial to honor the WASPS. I paid a visit to Cavanaugh's Museum of Flight this morning. There is a lot of construction being done on the runways. Ol 927 is parked at it's home in the South Hangar. I got off without my phone and camera, so no pictures. Mr Cavanaugh has an extensive collection of Aircraft from WW2, Korean War, and VietNam. If anyone is ever in Dallas, the Cavanaugh Museum at Addison and the Frontier's of Flight Museum at Love Field in Dallas.
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They are axking for volunteers to do some light sanding on the rudder and elevators on the A-26 to resurface and recover them. I'm planning on going Wed. morning and maybe next Sat. also. I ain't done much metal sanding since we got rid of the body shop in 1970.
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Prep work is the worst unless you was born ta do it.
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I got started sanding fenders when I was old enough to hold a sanding block.
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They've got "FIFI" squeezed in the hangar among 8 to 10 other aircraft, including a B-25, another A-26, an AT-6, and 2 C-47s. That B-29 is a biig plane. She looks good after the recent overhaul and refinish.
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I was talking to one of the B-29 mechanics yesterday at the hangar. They are doing maintence on the engines in preparation for leaving on an Air Show tour in a week or so. He was asking me where he could buy a Texas flag for "FIFI". I had won a 3 X 5 Texas flag as a door prize at the NCOWS Convention in March. I told him that I had one and I would donate it them because I am a Texan and a Squadron member. If anybody gets to see "FIFI" on tour this summer, you will get to see my Texas Flag.
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That is neat Pop. We just had our air show but I hope to see Fifi soon with your flag. Lil just went through a case of old family pictures and found some of her grandfather when he was on a crew at Curtis Write. Guess he worked on the Spirit of St. Louis and later became a pilot flying folks up to Alaska. His plane was sabotaged by some rail road men and he went down. The pictures she found are worth sharing, I just have to get my scanner set up.
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Leo, It is neat over at the hangar beacause I get to walk under "FIFI's fuselage every time I walk across to the restroom on the other side.
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Check out the Vintage Flight Museum web site. There's a good picture of "FIFI" and there is a photo of what our A-26 will look like when it is finished.
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I volunteered to go down to Waco in the morning to bring the spare parts for the A-26 that were left in Waco. We're taking a couple of trailers and we're gonna get a rental truck. We're gonna haul back as much stuff as we can haul back. There are supposed to be 2 spare engine down there. They will have to wait another time. I am enjoying the restoration on the A-26. It will be neat to see it fly after we get it done.
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We brought back 3 engines, 2 of which are just cores. on a trailer. We filled up the rental truck with loose parts. The other trailer had engine stands and landing gear parts. There are still parts down there, so another trip will be needed to get the rest of the stuff. We have a hangar rented at Meacham Field to store the parts in. It was a long day and I slept all night for a change.
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I'm waking up with my second cup O Cawfee this morning. We will have our monthly Squadron meeting about 10 am. I will probaly stick around for a while after the meeting. I don't know if they got the rental truck unloaded, if not, I'll help with that. We've still got another truck load of stuff down there, including a spare turret and periscope. They have a target date of July 1 for the plane to be finished in Breckenridge. The next project is for us to recover the control surfaces and get them ready for installation on the aircraft at Breckenridge.
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We un loaded the Truck after the Squadron meeting yesterday. I am a little sore in my lower back from the lifting and twisting. We are making progress on the restoration. We will make another trip to Waco next week to get the last of the spare parts. We've got about a month or so to get the control surfaces recovered and ready to be installed back on the aircraft.
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If anybody gets to see "FIFI" on tour this summer, you will get to see my Texas Flag.
I checked out her schedule and it appears she will be in Hampton Roads, VA , Andrews AFB (MD), and Farmington, NY at Republic Airfield - all in May (This month). Since I drive past Republic evert time I go to Long Island, I may have to stop by. :)
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I'm all excited now!
It looks like the Indianapolis/Mt. Comfort Airshow will be held this coming weekend (May 14 & 15) and thanks to my old buddy Dutch, I may have some tickets!
Fifi isn't scheduled to be there, but plenty of planes will be there for my inspection, including the Blue Angels and a team of F-16s called the Viper West team.
Awesome!
Even if I can't be there, my backyard is right in the flight path to the airport (about 6 miles from me as the crow flies) and there are always many planes coming & going as well as practicing routines right over my house! I'll have to get out my binos to watch the goings on this week!
This is the only thing that interests me as much (if not a wee bit more) than shootin' cowboy iron!
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Livin under a flight path is fun. We've been getting a lot of low flying large props going over lately. The sound is not a problem, it is a joy.
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I'm with you, Leo. I NEVER tire of the sound of a powerful radial crankin' overhead ... no matter the time. (Uh ... water-cooled as well, but they aren't as common and sound more like some newer craft.)
And when the Angels or T-Birds (BOTH are regulars at our show - they seem to rotate the off-years) are practicing - which they will be prob'ly Thursday & Friday, I get chills.
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Nothing gets my attention quicker than the sound of a quartet of radials! They are a rare sound here, thus they command a look see if heard...............Buck ::) ;D
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Hopefully our A-26 will be at this years AirSho in Midland. That will be a thrill for me, seeing something that I personally help restore.
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Dang. The Sunday show ... which was the ONLY day I could attend, was cancelled due to rain.
Bah humbug!
>:(
:-\
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Rode out to Pungo huntin' for a juvenile Bald Eagle. Didn't find 'im.
Was near the museum so I took the free parkin' lot tour. The first thing I didn't see was Chuckie. They've either taken her somewhere or she's in the new hanger. Double entry doors were open but all one can see is a cinder block wall.
The Junker(s) tri motor was sittin' out behind the Fighter Factory 'n a couple guys were fiddlin' with the landin' gear. There's a partial view inside that hanger ' best I could tell there were three airplanes in there. A three bladed prop was hangin' from a hoist. Saw one had the cowl off. Not much else. The third new buildin' looks like a warehouse or parts 'n supply depot. Land on both sides of the parkin' lot has been cleared 'n leveled. Neat stacks of steel beams, girders 'n such sit to the sides.
Only other new things I saw were a series of Burma Shave signs goin' in.
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I think that "Chuckie" may be down in Florida having some work done. I"ll do some checking and found out something.
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Do check if ya find the time. Guess I coulda asked at the desk but I wanted to look at the fields one more time before I went back to Kempsville. Dumb ass bird's hidin' somewhere close.
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The latest info on "Chuckie" is that she is ay New Symarna Beach Florida. for restoration and modifications.
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Bad timin'. Warbirds Over the Beach this weekend.
No complaint from me. Needs of the airplane come first 'n whenever.
Thanx, Tex.
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"Chuckie" is having a Chin and a Ball Turret added as well as a Right waist gun. The folks at New Symna are hoping to have her ready by the weekend for the Air Show.
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Got it. Thanks again.
The URL for the show:
http://www.militaryaviationmuseum.org/warbirds-over-the-beach-show-may-2011
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Arcey, You've got to get over there and see that Lanc. if you can. only two left flying out of 7300 made!........Buck ::)
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A Lanc made an appearence at Midland several years ago. I got to see it and I saw one at the Air Museum in Calgary when we went up there for the Stampede.
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Plans are to take a ride out Friday ta look for the wayward bird again. That depends on where the transmitter shows 'im ta be. They'll most likely have the gate closed but where they'll tie a big airplane down can be seen from the road.
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Well, It looks like the folks at New Symna got "Chuckie" finished and she is headed back to the Museum in Va. She should already be there by now. I hope that she gets to take part in the Air Show scheduled for the weekend.
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At the bottom of the page there's one that's been mentioned here once or 3 times
http://jsoh.org/displays.html
http://jsoh.org/performers.html
the Warrior Flight Team feature on the lower link flew over here last week while i was heading to town
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The data's been reported. The eagle was still there yestitty. What's happened is a bunch a fields flooded over awhile back. When the water went back inta Back Bay it left a fish or a thousand high 'n dry. Eatin' dead sushi don't bother their iron guts so he's found a cornucopia. He's liable ta grow old there. I'll try ta make one trip do for two tomorrow.
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Sounds like a treasure trove fer 'im. Bet he is happy.
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Sounds like a treasure trove fer 'im. Bet he is happy.
... and full!
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Productive ride.
The airport had someone stoppin' folks at the gate. There were so damned many airplanes sittn' out there ain't no tellin' where one started 'n 'nother ended when ya see 'em from the road. With the sun roof open I caught the full sound of one landin', flew right o'er the station wagon. My Dad, rest 'im, would hear a motor run like that 'n say, 'She's clear as ice water!' Saw 'nother from a couple hundred yards or so couldn't a been more'n a hundred feet o'er Princess Anne Rd. That was it. Ain't well educated 'nuff ta identify either. Know 'nuff ta say both single engined fighters.
Didn't see beak, feather ner talon of the bird at the fields. Headin' back I saw a juvenile bein' harassed by a couple black birds just short of beautiful downtown Pungo. Pulled onto a shut down general store's parkin' lot 'n two showed. Looked like they were scoutin' out the strawberry fields. Saw 'em soarin' for several minutes but neither came close enough ta see if one was fitted with a transmitter. That's NC or the boy named Camellia from last year's clutch. They disappeared down Indian River Rd. I wasn't a mile from the old, original Pungo range.
I don't get ta see eagles or airborne vintage airplanes live every day so the trip was well worth it.
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Guessin it fits that ya mention the birds in the aircraft thread. They is the original aircraft.
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Hell, they're damned near as big as some experimental airplanes.........
Happier seein' 'em where they were instead of where I went lookin'. The fields are near the flight path. Downtown Pungo ain't. Don't think I could handle losin' another bird to a strike. The accident that took Momma Bird damn near killed me. Miss her grumpy old self 'n I just can't warm up to them folks raisin' up this year's clutch.
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Well, "Chuckie" is parked out there somewhere. I hope that folks enjoy the additions made to her at New Symna. They added a ball turrett and a chin.
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I went over to Cavanaugh's flight Museum yesterday for our monthly Squadron meeting for the B29/24 Squadron. Ol 927 is sitting in the hangar minus one of it's engines, so it won't be on tour for a while. Pricetag is about 60 grand to fix it. Keeping these old aircraft is expensive.
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Now Pop, you call that plane by it's given an proper name ya hear.
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Okay Leo, The airplane formally named "Diamond Lil" is in our Hangar at Cavanaugh Museum of Flight for engine repairs.
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Okay Leo, The airplane formally named "Diamond Lil" is in our Hangar at Cavanaugh Museum of Flight for engine repairs.
Thank you Sir!
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Leo, We need about 50 to 60 Gs to repair the engine on the B24. Hopefully the HQ will loan us the money.
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Parts for those engines ought to be getting pretty rare, I would think. some might even be make your own ::) :o
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Those ol radial engines are scarce but our mechanics can make parts if they can't be found. We have a large parts network among the restoration outfits. Spare parts are sometimes traded for other parts needed. We have 3 spare engine cores for the A26 we are restoring. They are worth about 20,000 dollars a piece.
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FYI
Rode out to Pungo yestitty. Enjoyed the AC in the station wagon. They Junkers has been moved to the main buildin', still outside. Chuckie's inside the Fighter Factory. 'Bout all I could see was the verticle stabilizer. Didn't get out. Didn't want someone to tell me I shouldn't be back there.
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I am glad to know that the folks at the Museum are taking good care of "Chuckie". The CAF has a JU-52 at the HQ in Midland. It is not currently assigned to any unit at the present time. I am hoping to come out to Va. ina year or two and visit the Museum.
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I called the Museum at DA Beach and purchsed a membership. I told the lady on the phone that I helped take care of "Chuckie" when she lived in Fort Worth.
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Welcome to a hunk of Pungo.
Them folks respect that airplane, no doubt. Moreover, I'd offer they respect those who designed 'er 'n built 'er. Those what restored 'er 'n the good doctor. Now it's up to them to keep 'er up 'n proud.
We got zeplin rides outta ORF this weekend. Always wondered what it's like ta ride in the Goodyear blimp. This is close. But for $375.00 for forty five minutes, I'll never know..........
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They wanted 420 bucks for a short ride on a B 17 out here. Just bein able ta climb inside an never get off the ground was a pretty penny. I unnerstand they need a way to pay for the restorations.
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4 big radials are thirsty.
'Tho I'd prob'ly never be able to afford it, I feel it'd be worth the ca$h. If only I could win the Lottery ...
Hell, if I win a Lottery I'll be right in there with rides and donations, and maybe even an ownership partner set-up!
Ahhh ... dreams!
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I think it would be worth the money as long as ya could afford it. Problem with me is I'll never win the lottery. I stopped buying tickets. WM
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The Lottery would be nice. I would probably purchase an aircraft and donate it to the CAF, I would purchase one that they do not have in their inventory.
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The Lottery would be nice. I would probably purchase an aircraft and donate it to the CAF, I would purchase one that they do not have in their inventory.
I think it would be worth the money as long as ya could afford it. Problem with me is I'll never win the lottery. I stopped buying tickets. WM
Hold on, here! You have to buy tickets to win?!!
Dang - there goes MY chances!
;)
::)
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Sorry Steel Horse, my intent was not to disilusion another poor soul. :) WM
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Work is progressing along nicely on our A-26 restoration. The plane should be finished by the end of July. I will try and post some pictures when the plane is finished and back at Fort Worth.
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Cool! Make 'em BIG!
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We've got our monthly squadron meeting on Sat., so maybe some info on the work being done at Breckenridge.
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Thank you for your courageous service to this country.
Rest in peace, sir.
http://hamptonroads.com/2011/06/john-alison-daring-wwii-ace-dies-dc-98
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A member of the original Flying Tigers. Coincidentaly, the Military Channel is running a two parter about the Tigers this week and next. First part aired last night at 9, the second will be next tuesday at 9. They have Tex Hill on there pretty exclusively. This week kinda laid the groundwork on how the Tigers got there.
Alison and Ajax Baumler made the first night intercept of bombers in China..............Buck ;)
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I got to meet Tex and his wife several years ago on a Southwest Airlines flight to Midland for the CAF AirSHO. We now have a Tex Hill Wing in the CAF. One of our friends is the daughter of one of the "Black Sheep". Her Dad was wrestling with "Pappy" and broke Pappy's leg. His name was Ed Shifflet.
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I got an e-mail this morning from the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth. "FIFI" will be returning to our Hangar for a few days for R&R after the tour. She is supposed to arrive sometime today. Leo, Ol'927 is still down for repairs at Addison on #1 engine.
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Leo, I got some more bad news. I just got an e-mail about a B-17 crashing and burning near Aurora, Illinois. The "Liberty Belle" with 7 aboard, crashed while trying to make an emergency landing due to engine problems. All 7 people got out, but the plane was a total loss.
-
I know the LB, that is very sad to hear. I Wright Cyclone is a complex engine and it's hard to imagine how many mechanics are out there that know them well enough. Just a shame.
We have had some single engine jobs flying over the last two days. One this morning was a Mustang with aluminum finish. Have to find where they are headed but haven't seen anything in the news about a show.
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They had a picture of the scene on Fox a bit ago. Whole fuesalage is gone from the wings to the tail. Glad the crew got out okay.................... :-\
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Damn...............
Glad the crew survived.
http://www.wthr.com/story/14893917/vintage-plane-crashes-in-illinois
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Leo, That Mustang may be from the Planes of Fame museum. How far are you from Chino? I am sure the owners of the "Liberty Belle" will try and find a replacement when they have enough coinage.
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Damn!
She was headed here to Indy. :'(
The old Sweetie (and the skill of the pilot/crew) STILL managed to get her boys (and maybe girls) to ground safely.
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I hope that Don and his group can aquire another B-17 somewhere and carry on the "Liberty Belle" legacy.
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I hope that Don and his group can aquire another B-17 somewhere and carry on the "Liberty Belle" legacy.
+
I hope they can continue also. Glad they at least have a chance to do so.
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I know that the Liberty Group is not finished and Don Brooks will do everything he can to aquire another B-17. Congrats to the pilot on getting the plane down and everyone walking away.
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In the end that is what counts. I am glad the men are safe.
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We even got it reported over here in the U.K. Sad end.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2003134/Vintage-B-17-Flying-Fortress-crashes-seven-people-aboard.html
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Some of those pics are better than what we've seen over here, Judge. From the first one, it appears that the initial problem was the left inboard engine. I noticed that the prop is feathered on that one, while the other three aren't ::) :'(
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Hopefully they can salvage the engines and some of the cockpit area. A replacement B-17 will be expensive if one is found to purchase.
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I can only imagine. Doesn't it cost over a thou per hour just for fuel to fly one?
Or maybe more. I wouldn't be surprised.
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I'm still marveling over the fact that everyone got out uninjured.
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The pilot made a perfect landing in the field. The problem was that the field was wet and the fire equipment could not get out there to put the fire out. The airplane could have been saved if the fire equipment could have got to the plane. They had to sit on the road and watch the plane burn.
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Kinda bugs me that the pilot didn't the same coverage as the miracle on the Hudson guy. The story wasn't even on the news here and the best information I got came from England. Just my opinion.
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He made a perfect gear down landing in that corn field. The fire folks .just couldn't get out to the plane because of the wet field. I got a e-mail that "FIFI" is spending a few days over at our hangar in Fort Worth. We should have a squadron meeting on Sat. at Addison. I'll get to see how the repairs on #1 engine on Ol'927 are going.
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He made a perfect gear down landing in that corn field. The fire folks .just couldn't get out to the plane because of the wet field. I got a e-mail that "FIFI" is spending a few days over at our hangar in Fort Worth. We should have a squadron meeting on Sat. at Addison. I'll get to see how the repairs on #1 engine on Ol'927 are going.
I'm sure Diamond Lil will be just fine as long as someone calls by her proper name. I did see the landing gear on the Belle set just right, the pilot was more than good.
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Did the engine fire bottles work? Or was it simply more than they could handle?
Or were they even filled?
Such a waste of a beautiful aircraft. Too bad about the firefighters inability to get close enough to help!!
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I think that the fire bottles put out the fire in the engine, some of the flames spread to a wing which caught the wing tank on fire. The plane could have been saved if the fire engines could have gotten to the plane.
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Leo, It has been confirmed that we will have a meeting over at Addison tomorrow. I'll check on the engine repairs on the airplane formally known as "Diamond Lil".
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Thanks, I called my wife Old 927 an it didn't go over too well. I will look forward to the status of the plane.
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Thanks, I called my wife Old 927 an it didn't go over too well. I will look forward to the status of the plane.
I unnerstan' why she might not like being called OLD anything ... women are like that!
;D
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I heard that, Brother Jeff!
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AMEN! ::)
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The point is just that I call her Lil. I'd still call her that even if she had major surgery and couldn't shoot no more. I called her Old 927 just to see what would happen. I is not smart.
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The point is just that I call her Lil. I'd still call her that even if she had major surgery and couldn't shoot no more. I called her Old 927 just to see what would happen. I is not smart.
Did she even KNOW that Old 927 is named Diamond Lil?
Flowers may help!
;)
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Did she even KNOW that Old 927 is named Diamond Lil?
Flowers may help!
;)
She knows. Heck she lives with me. That is why I give Pop a hard time when he calls her by that heathen name.
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She knows. Heck she lives with me. That is why I give Pop a hard time when he calls her by that heathen name.
Dear?
;)
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Leo, Don't get me into any of these arguments, I know nothing! That's my story and I'm sticking to it!
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Sounds ta me like he is tryin ta get ya in trouble Leo. WM
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Leo can get into trouble by his own self. He doesn't need any help.
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When I said "her" I was reffering ta the plane. No troubles on my front, I'm a hero fer defending ma good wifes name. She can't unnerstand why they would change the name of the aircraft.
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Leo, I went to Addison for the meeting yesterday and #1 engine is still being repaired. It is supposed to be ready for the 4th of July weekend. "FIFI" will be at our hangar in Fort Worth for the 4th of July weekend. The B-24 will be in Addison for that weekend. Both places will be giving tours. They will be selling rides on "FIFI" that weekend, starting on Sat. and finishing on Mon. "FIFI" had a hard landing at Farmingdale NY. and suffered some damage to the underside of the rear portion of the aircraft. The crew chiefs repaired the damage and the plane finished the east coast tour. They installed spare parts and brought the damaged parts back to be repaired at Addison. We are hoping for good attendance at both places over the 4th weekend.
-
:)
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wonder if he could pull my election banner behind him ;D That's an expensive statement
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Too early ta start the campaign. Standback 'n let the others try'n destroy one 'nother.
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Too early ta start the campaign. Standback 'n let the others try'n destroy one 'nother.
It's cheaper in the long run...,and they are pretty good at destroying each other
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+1
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You gonna go out on that bus again Roo? I convinced ma wife that was a real video an I still tease her bout it.
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fuel prices I may have to settle for a pair of Rockies and hoofing it
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Roo, You could join the CAF and become a crew member on "FIFI" or "Ol 927. You could campaign at every stop they make on their tours.
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We are planning for a big weekend over the 4th of July. "FIFI" will be at the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth all weekend for Tours and Rides. Ol'927 will be at Addison Airport at the Cavanaugh Museum Of Flight for tours and maybe rides, if they get #1 Engine installed. I plan on being at Fort Worth that weekend, helping the Squadron in some capacity.
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:o ;)
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That's the best picture of a PT 23 I've seen in years!
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Thank you SHB, I love them ol' planes and I think I like em even more after seein that one. :) WM
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The CAF has a PT-19 and a PT-22 in it's inventory.
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They're cool. I'd love to give one a try.
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Truth be known, I'd love to give ANY of 'em a try!
;D
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The sounds and smells of those old radial engines are addictive.
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To me the difference between a radial and a jet is like the difference between BP and smokiless. WM
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Great analogy, Wild Man!
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I hope we have a good turn out for our festivities over the 4th of July weekend at Addison and Fort Worth. It will be hot and I plan on staying cool. I'm packing my cooler with plenty of water. I have gotten aquanited with the crew chief of "FIFI" over last couple of months. He really appreciated my donation of the Texas flag to be displayed on the recent tour.
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I'd be there if only I could!
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SHB, I'll be thinking about you, My Brother!
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;D
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I know it will be a hot weekend over the 4th. I'm packing a lot of bottled water for the trip to Fort Worth. I hope we have a big turnout for the weekend. We've got a nice WW2 Museum at VFM and there will be at least 3 WW2 aircraft there. "FIFI" our B29, and a privately owned C47 and B25.
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this one didn't cost as much as the Bomber, but it was another perfect landing just the same.
http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Single-Engine-Plane-Lands-in-Creek-124788974.html?rr=td
How'd would you like to been fishing in row boat around them docks and see that stirrin' up a wake on you?
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If that was a fixed gear Cessna, he's lucky it didn't flip over ::) :o
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I beleive the wheels kept it from submerging any deeper
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The pilot might make some extra money this summer by pulling water skiers around.
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The prop wash would be nasty ;D
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I didn't think about that, maybe he could issue goggles with wipers.
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I went out to Walmart and bought new folding chair and a portable cooler for the weekend over at VFM. I got a straw hat to keep my bald head covered. I work from 0800 to 1400, so hopefully it won't be real hot till I get off duty.
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Have fun, L.J.!
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I'll be working with "FIFI" and her crew as well as privately owned B25 at a place called Texas Jet which is on the north end of Meacham Field.
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I spent all day today over at Meacham field in the heat. We had "FIFI", a privately owned B25(Pacific Prowler), and a SNJ on display for tours and rides. The CAF was selling hats, t-shirts, and other PX items. I had plenty of water and gaterade on hand and I got sit under a canopy to stay out of the sun. It was still hot over there though.
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Cool! Do you get a discount on rides? Seriously, how much does an SNJ ride cost? B25?
About 10 years ago, my Mother, Step-Dad, (the B24G nose-turret gunner) and my family were at an airport in Kissimmee (?) Florida to see a B24 that was "stationed" there. There were also 3 planes there available for rides: a Stearman, an AT6, and a P51. The Stearman was around $75 for 30 minutes, the AT6 was around $300/30min. and the P51 was $1500 for 20 min. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to take ANY ride.
A couple years back, there was a B24 coming in that was available for a ride, but which hadn't arrived yet, and for $300-$400 (I forget exactly) I could have ridden a B17, called "Aluminium Overcast" for a 7-10 minute flight circling Indianapolis. Didn't get to ride them, either, but I really would like to ride ANY warbird (JN4 "Jenny" and up) someday!
-
The B25 was $500, a ride in the back of "FIFI" was $595, and we didn't get a pilot for the SNJ.
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The B25 was $500, a ride in the back of "FIFI" was $595, and we didn't get a pilot for the SNJ.
I'll fly it. I don't know how but I learn fast.
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Leo, The SNJ is the Navy version of the AT-6 Texan. This plane is privately owned and he wasn't around to give rides. I really enjoyed being over there yesterday, but the heat was intense. "FIFI" was the main attraction yesterday. She will be moving back to Addison next week. The runway repairs have been finished and she can now land over there again. It was neat to have her for a while in our hangar in Fort Worth. There is still no word on when we will get our A26 at the hangar. Hopefully in a month or so.
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WoW! $595 for a ride in the ONLY B29 still flying!
They sure got a lesson in "what the market will bear" asking $1500 for the Mustang I saw! I'm thinkin' those 4 monstrous Wrights use a little bit more fuel/cost than a Merlin!!
;)
But I'd pay .. for either if I could! It'd be worth it. Or the B25. Or the SNJ/AT6. Stearman. Whichever!!!
;D
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They have "souped up" these new engines on "FIFI", so she's a "Hot Rod". She was the centerpiece of the festivities yesterday. They are back over there today as well. One day in that heat yesterday was all I could take. They had the B24 open for tours over at Addison all weekend. #! engine is off being repaired. They are having to replace #1 engine mount as well. They are checking the other 3 to see if they need to be replaced.
-
4 Cyclones use a lot of fuel. From what I have read it is one of biggest reasons folks at home were asked to cut back for the war effort. Tank deisel was cheap but they used a lot of that too.
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Leo, These new engines on "FIFI" have been "souped up". She a real "Hot Rod" now. She really made a roar when she started up. Lot's of smoke too. I was sitting about 50 yards away when they started her up. One day in the heat was all I could take with my diabetes. They had the hangar in Addison open all weekend for tours of the B24. In addition to repairing the engine, they are having to replace the engine mount and checking the other three for possible replacement as well.
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There is something going on at the air field here. My house just got buzzed by a Mustang three times. I tried to see the markings but it was movin too fast. Engine sounded sweet.
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We had a good turnout yesterday, considering it was Sunday and real hot. I'm hoping that they had good attendance on Sat. and today. I worked the VFM booth yesterday. I handed out brochures and gave tours of a SNJ(Navy version of the AT-6). I got to meet a guy from Australia who was visiting friends in Dallas and came over to see "FIFI". I also got to meet an F35 pilot and a B2 Pilot. The B2 pilot is stationed Whiteman AFB in Knobnoster MO. That is where the Reed's come from. I still have kinfolks in Johnson Co. My Great Gand parents traveled from MO to Oklahoma for the Oklahoma Land Rush in 1889.
-
Knobnoster!!
What a great name ...
;D
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I can hear it now ...
"Where ya from, Flyboy?"
"Sir, I fly B2 Spirit bombers out of Knobnoster."
"Sure ya do, Boy! Now, tell me what ya REALLY do, Son!! There ain't nosech place as Knobnoster!"
;)
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SHB, I have got a bunch of kinfolks, living and dead around there. My GG Uncle, the one that owned my real 51 Navy was killed by a jealous husband while he was plowing one day.
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I guess that "FIFI" is back over at Addison for a couple of days. She is scheduled to appear with Aaron Tippin at an Air Show in Rifle Colorado this coming weekend. We've got an Invader Squadron meeting on Sat. morning. I am anxious to hear about the progress on the restoration on the A26. We're supposed to have a vote on the squadron patch design.
-
I guess that "FIFI" is back over at Addison for a couple of days. She is scheduled to appear with Aaron Tippin at an Air Show in Rifle Colorado this coming weekend. We've got an Invader Squadron meeting on Sat. morning. I am anxious to hear about the progress on the restoration on the A26. We're supposed to have a vote on the squadron patch design.
If you would, post the patches you have in mind.
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Leo, I don't have any pictures of the patches. They are the same, just a different background color. They should add the patch to our new web page when we decide on whuch one. We are supposed to vote on the choices on Sat. The winning design should be posted in a week or so.
-
The hangar meeting will be at 10 am Sat. morning. We're losing a tenant at the hangar this week. We are supposed to help them move their parts out. We are going to need to move the planes in the hangar, now that "FIFI" has gone back to Addison. It was neat to have her at our hangar in Fort Worth. She is always welcome. From what I hear, the 4th of July weekend was a success in spite of the heat and the fact that there were several things going on over the weekend.
-
It was nice and cool in our meeting room in the hangar. The majority voted to adopt the patch with the gold background. We've located a bunch of spare parts in Alberta, Canada. They have reasonable prices and they will shipp the stuff down here. The restoration outfit had a rush job for someone else. They had to stop working on the A-26 for a couple of weeks, but they are back on schedule again. It's gonna be at least another month yet. It looks now like we won't make the AirShow at Midland this year. I know that everyone in the Squadron is anxious for the plane to get here. We got our Squadron caps today. They are bright yellow. We should be easy to spot because we're the only ones with yellow caps.
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Folks, We now have a new web-site for the Invader Squadron, thanks to a new member who happens to be a web-site designer. The new web-site is invader squadron. org. You can see some pictures of the plane when it was called "Spirit of Waco". The new webpage has the squadron patch on the homepage. I am sure we will have pictures of the plane in it's new paint scheme when it get's to our hangar.
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Noticed a post on The Wire yesterday that we've lost another Mustang. Collision at Duxford, Eng. with an A-1 Skyraider. Pilot bailed and survived, the A-1 was able to land safely with a couple feet missing from one wing........... :-\
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This is quoted from the news section of the website: Mustangs Mustangs [ http://www.mustangsmustangs.com/p-51/p51.php (http://www.mustangsmustangs.com/p-51/p51.php) ]
I'll bet it was one of these, 'tho they show nothing on the website about the accident yet:
A portion of the FAF (Friedkin Air Force) is visiting Duxford for the July 2011 Flying Legends show. The two P-51s were disassembled, crated and shipped over to the UK, then un-crated and re-assembled and will be flown in the show. As of July 1, Steve, John and Stevo Hinton had both of them on their gear and will be busy to get them 100% airworthy. Friedkin is not shy to share his warbirds as he has done this before. Duxford Legends is definitely on the bucket list.
I'm happy that both pilots are alive. As to the A1, after losing a couple feet of wing yet STILL getting back to the ground makes ya realize what a beast of an aircraft they really were. Big, strong, powerful beasts! And still going strong after half a century ... and then some! The Douglas Aircraft Co. would be proud!!! It'll take a licking and keep on ticking! Thanks, Timex
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Thank goodness that the pilots were safe. Mustangs are still out there for sale. The bombers are the scarce ones. We have been lucky to find all the parts we have needed for the A26 restoration.
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http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2013821/Nose-dive-Pilot-lands-World-War-One-Fokker-plane-propellor-gust-wind-scuppers-display.html
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There's a you tube video but the camera turns away at the impact point
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The folks over at Addison are getting "FIFI" ready for a trip up to Kansas City this week for another tour. Hopefully they will have Ol'927 ready for the Air show in Midland in October. The A26 won't be ready either.
-
Took a ride out to Pungo. Mainly to get the hell out of the house 'n enjoy the deep freeze the station wagon can turn the front seats into.
Got a few miles from the airport 'n saw one in the air. Too far away 'n too high to tell anything other than a single engined, low wing airplane. At the airport, or museum, I found Chuckie outside with a whole bunch of what looked like tourists around 'er. Front parkin' lot was about as full as I've seen it.
Went on back to the Fighter Factory 'n stopped it the circle where they're slowly puttin' stuff out for 'nother buildin'. Had concrete sewer pipe laid out 'n a back hoe diggin'. A wonderful noise was goin' on 'n I could see about half a wing from where I was. Figgered that was it 'n when they shut it down I could see the blades slowin' to a stop.
Ennyways. I got out 'n lit one. Don't smoke in the station wagon. Old fella runs a fork lift out the Fighter Factory with a bunch ah shippin' palettes on it 'n he's headed my way. Wave at 'im when he comes past. Get back in the station wagon with the cigarette filter in my left hand so's he could see I hadn't thrown it on the road. He pulls up 'side me 'n shuts it off. Here comes the 'ya know ya ain't supposed ta be back here' speech I'm thinkin'. Nope. Exchanged 'how ya doin's' 'n comments 'bout the heat. Said it was hotter inside than was was out so he volunteered to run the fork lift so's he be in 'n out 'n creatin' a breeze for hisownself all day. Had a real nice conversation. Never said a word about me bein' there.
Young family. Late twenties maybe. Kid four or five. Nuts. It's probably a quarter mile from the main terminal ta the Fighter Factory 'n they're walkin' it........... on black top.
Left there 'n rode out ta a couple places lookin' for an eagle or two. Found a juvenile soarin' o'er a field by Hell's Point golf course. Right where my youngest's sig/o took a cell phone picture of an adult perched inna dead tree last Friday. Amazin' ta watch 'em. They can stay up so long 'n never flap a wing. Just soarin' in circles 'n they don't wobble like the vultures do.
Apart from that, hit a small farm stand 'n picked up a couple cantaloupes for the fat lady. Nice firm ones. Sign said they were Carolina grown. See if she knows the difference. She ought to. I think the woman would try'n live off 'em if she thought she could get away with it.
Nice ride.
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Arcey, It was good hear that "Chuckie" is doing okay at her new home. The Moose loves those cantalopes as well. She bought a couple of nice ones at the Farmer's Market here in town last Sun. They were really good. Victoria has developed a taste for them too. I enjoy them for breakfast and with fresh vegetables.
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They flew "FIFI" up to Oshkosh for the big EAA Flyin. SHe will be the centerpiece of their Air Show. Aaron Tippin is putting on a concert up there as well. Maybe next year if Ol' 927 is going, I may try to hitch a ride with them up there. We should have great Air Show at The Lancaster Airport(south of Dallas) on the Labor Day weekend. We will also have our annual AirSho in Midland in Oct. I'm hoping that the weather will be cooler in Sept and Oct.
-
TLD
Just saw on the AOPA website that FIFI had some interesting company at the EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh on Friday. She was parted tail to tail with the latest from Boeing. The 787 Dreamliner. It’s the largest ever experimental aircraft at Oshkosh (being uncertified as yet, places it in the experimental category).
http://www.aopa.org/oshkosh/2011/news/110729boeings-dreamliner-fifi-unite.html
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I saw a picture of "FIFI" flying, surrounded by 4 P-51 Mustangs. I sure would like to go to Oskosh for the EAA Air Show sometime. It was neat to have "FIFI" at our hangar in Fort Worth this summer. Our A-26 restoration will hopefully completed by the end of August.
-
Cool!
-
They have posted several pictures of "FIFI" on the EAA website. You can see my Texas Flag in one of the telephoto shots. I hope the folks up there from Texas got some relief from the heat. They will be coming back to higher temps. than when they left.
-
Anyone going to EAA can stay at my place. Only 45 min drive.
Slim
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Slim, If I come up there, I will probably ride in one of the bombers or fly commercially. It's too far for me to drive. Thanks for the invite.
-
Ride in a bomber for me!
Today I heard a large plane fly overhead, but missed seeing it. I heard it a 2nd time and saw a B-24 at about 1500 ft passing over me to the South. Those 4 big radials are a VERY cool thing to hear! I wish 'em Godspeed wherever they go.
-
SHB, There's not too B24's still flyin'. The Collings foundation has one and the CAF has one. Our B24 has been down for repairs, so I don't know whether it made the trip to Oskosh. I'm sure that B24 you saw was coming from Oskosh.
-
Could be it circled the airport once after takeoff, then passed over again and that's how/when I saw it. The 2 passes over my house were less than 10 minutes apart. Plenty of time for a "go around."
-
I haven't gotten any news from "FIFI" since they flew up to Oshkosh. I know the crew chief and he usually e-mails me about the trips. I am not for sure how many B24's are flying these days other than the one of ours and the one that belongs to the Collings group. I need to due some research on that.
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I believe that's it ,TLD. There maybe a PB4Y out there, though ::)
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The B24 that the Collings Foundation was restored by retired employees. It is unpainted, but it has the workers name on it. I saw it a few years ago at the old Naval Air Staion in Dallas.
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Field trip ta Pungo enjoyin' the station wagon's AC 'n lookin' for eagles. They're smarter than me. They're roostin' in the shade.
Went by the museum. Had a bunch of planes out. A couple of bi-wing, dual cockpit trainers with Navy markin's on 'em 'n a Mustang (link below, that specific airplane). All three very close to the side parkin' lot.
They had several of the WWI planes back in the Fighter Factory. Reckon maybe for PMs.
In the main parkin' lot there were plates from New York (2), New Jersey, Carolina, Wisconsin, Tennessee 'n Quebec.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHTInXgQpq8
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Nice video, thanks.
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My pleasure.
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Saw in the paper today that Nine'O'Nine, Witchcraft, and the two seat Mustang are gonna be at MAPS up at the airport this weekend. $12 a head to get in though ::) :-\
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The D/FW wing of the CAF is having a one day AirShow on Sat. Sept. 3 at the Lancaster, Tx airport. The airport is southeast of Dallas east of I35E. I hope that the heat won't be too bad. I am looking forward to seeing old friends and making new ones.
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Well, "FIFI" is back at Addison for a little R&R before the Fall Air Show tours start. They are still working on the engines on Ol' 927. I don't know if she will be ready for our local show on Sept 3. We will have PX's and booths to man for the show. They also had a classic car in conjunction wirh the festivities. I am sure it will be HOT, so plenty of water is in order.
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Here's some aerobatics that you hardly ever see...
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/v/hrziTee4b2c&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3[/youtube]
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One heck of a pilot for sure! You can see where he stalled the engines for a low pass. Very nice flying.
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Leo, We are having our local "Warbirds on Parade" on Sat. from 10 to 4. I'll say hello to Ol' 927(aka Diamond Lil) for you if she's there. The last time I was at Addison, they were having to replace all four engine mounts as well as repair #1 engine. It will be fun, but hot. I am working the PX in the main hangar, so I won't get too hot or a bad sunburn.
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Well, at least they're considering your "tender" age, TLD. ::) ;D
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Yep, I go on Medicare next year.
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I still have about three to ge yet ::) :-\
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Bring a camera Pop, I would love to see her.
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Leo, You can see Ol' 927 on the B24/B29 CAF Squadron web site. We have a special member of the squadron, His name is Jack Bradshaw. Jack is 92 and he gets around better than I do. He flew with the Eagle Squadron in the Battle Of Britain, where he scored 2 and a half kills. After Pearl Harbor, he joined the AAC and flew P-51s and P-47s. He scored 2 more kills. Jack is a real piece of history.
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I would love to sit down and shoot the breeze with that man. I never got to hear my Uncles stories of the air war.
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I have been so fortunate to be able to talk with a lot of these great men, Tex Hill, Bob Morgan(Pilot of Memphis Belle), George Gay(Only survivor of Torpedo 8 in the Battle of Miday), Gabbie Grabretsky, and Paul Tibbits(Pilot of Enola Gay). It was exciting to talk them.
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http://www.rgj.com/article/20110903/EVENTS04/110903029/Small-plane-from-Burning-Man-crashes-area-passengers-walk-away?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE
Some knuckleheads from this week-end ::)
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Why am I not surprised? The only folks I know of that were not trained to land were around in 1945.
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http://www.rgj.com/article/20110903/EVENTS04/110903029/Small-plane-from-Burning-Man-crashes-area-passengers-walk-away?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE
Some knuckleheads from this week-end ::)
???
???
???
Why am I not surprised? The only folks I know of that were not trained to land were around in 1945.
???
???
???
At MY first read this DID NOT make sense..... Maybe this story should have been looked into a bit further before passing judgement..... :-\ :-\ :-\
http://www.nevadaappeal.com/article/20110811/NEWS/110819974 (http://www.nevadaappeal.com/article/20110811/NEWS/110819974)
::)
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At MY first read this DID NOT make sense..... Maybe this story should have been looked into a bit further before passing judgement..... :-\ :-\ :-\
http://www.nevadaappeal.com/article/20110811/NEWS/110819974 (http://www.nevadaappeal.com/article/20110811/NEWS/110819974)
::)
This story happened 3 wks to a month ago not even the same area
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This story happened 3 wks to a month ago not even the same area
Sure is A-LOT of small plane crashes going on in Washoe County :o :o :o :o Some have died and some have walked!
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You'd think we had a "Burmuda Triangle" here or somethin'
Sure is A-LOT of small plane crashes going on in Washoe County :o :o :o :o Some have died and some have walked!
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The Reno Air Races haven't even started yet...not for another 2 weeks 8)
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You'd think we had a "Burmuda Triangle" here or somethin'
Yep.... that's how I'm seeing it..... Guess I better drive around the Reno area and keep a look out for those UFO's shoot'n bright lights down toward the ground!... LOL
Origional story still does not make sense... I feel it's half the story...... will keep and eye out for the "Paul Harvey" of it... ;)
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The Sierra Nevada mountain range does have an usual weather pattern...There have been many experierenced pilot lose direction in the winds and the ranges claim them as you know :'(
The meteorologists don't do better than guess 'round here during the winter ::)Yep.... that's how I'm seeing it..... Guess I better drive around the Reno area and keep a look out for those UFO's shoot'n bright lights down toward the ground!... LOL
Origional story still does not make sense... I feel it's half the story...... will keep and eye out for the "Paul Harvey" of it... ;)
The RGJ "bird cage liner" is know for givin' up only 1/2 the story
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No, you have a bunch of stoned hippies. Especially right now. If that is passing judgment I apologize.
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No, you have a bunch of stoned hippies. Especially right now. If that is passing judgment I apologize.
I agree on that....The 2 crashes are about 100+ miles from each other and different "time stamps" :o ;D
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Speaking of "Stoned Hippies" and Aviation Pilot License...... ???
I'm in the "Trucking" Industry and I've heard it on many occasions that it is easier to get a license to fly planes then to drive Big Trucks.... I get UA'd and/or hair analyzed at least I'd say every other month if not more often with a Medical Exam every two years..... :-\ :-\ :-\
This is NOT the case to fly a plane?
On June 1, 2011 3 dead........ :'( :'( :'(
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Once a guy logs his training hours and gets his license he isn't required to anything but pass a written test every once in awhile. If he is flying commercially it is a different story. It's the same with motor vehicles, I don't need to get tested to drive my car but those who hold a commercial drivers license do. Same game in the air as it is on the ground.
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It was only in the 90s yesterday for our AirShow. Ol 927 did not make an appearence, but we had several fighters and a Stearman show up. A lot of reenactors on hand, especially WW2 and Viet Nam. We had a good turnout, it was a little windy, I'll take windy over HOT anytime.
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R.I.P. Jimmy Leward you were a hero in your sacrifice to spare more lives from hitting the bleachers...
Too early yet to tell how many casulites but from seeing the video there wasn't a prayer he'd survive it :'(
There are You tube videos and AP news to see for yourselves.
Jimmy will certainly be missed from every fan, Reno Air Races have been cancelled..the area is in total shock still
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Here's a little more local info from what happened...sometimes a "local spin" is good to get more news than a general view that the AP or Rueters would have...http://www.rgj.com/article/20110916/EVENTS05/110916036/Update-Three-confirmed-dead-Reno-Air-Races-crash-12-critical-condition-Renown?odyssey=mod_sectionstories
I saw the Thunderbirds buzz the city over head too late as usual with the dang camera...They are based to the south of us at USAF Nellis...
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It had been a xouple of years since they had a crash at Reno. The course is small and the planes fly too fast. It's a air race that has held for many years and there is a great fan following. The pilot did a great job to steer the plane out of harm's way as much as possible.
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We've got a WW2 reunion over at Addison this weekend. They are honoring a B-29 outfit. "FIFI" will be there for tours today and tomorrow. They will be giving rides to the veterans tomorrow. It is neat to see these guys get in the plane for the first time since the War was over.
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FYI for the 'cross-trained'
Jack Roush remembers close friend killed in Reno air race crash
The pilot killed in Friday’s crash at a Reno air race was a close friend of NASCAR car owner Jack Roush and had helped Roush through his two plane crashes.
Roush said he met Jimmy Leeward in the mid-1980s. Roush said Leeward was racing in one division of IMSA and Roush in another. As Roush worked on his car, Leeward came over and introduced himself. Roush knew of him and heard that Leeward had a P-51 airplane.
“I’ll have one of those one day,’’ Roush told Leeward.
When Roush bought his P-51 Mustang in 1994 and began flying it, Leeward joined him at Daytona and they flew together.
Their relationship grew.
Roush was severely injured in a plane crash in 2002 after hitting a wire and crashing into a Troy, Ala., lake where he was pulled out of the wreckage and water by a retired Marine trained in underwater search and rescues. Roush was flown to a Birmingham hospital. “(Leeward) was the first person outside my immediate family that I saw,’’ Roush said.
After Roush’s plane crash last year in Wisconsin that cost him the vision in one eye, it was Leeward who supported his friend. “I’ve got a trainer, a World War II aerial trainer that has two sets of controls and Jimmy was the first one to climb into the backseat of my P6 when I got back in the air,’’ Roush said. “We’ve always been that close. We’ve been very, very close.’’
Roush said he had talked to Leeward multiple times this week as Leeward competed in the events in Reno. Roush said he last talked to Leeward a day before the fatal crash that also killed at least four spectators.
“I’m doing all right,’’ Roush said of how he was handling the tragedy. “ I’m doing all right. I’m very sad.’’
Credit: http://hamptonroads.com/2011/09/jack-roush-remembers-close-friend-killed-reno-air-race-crash
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I didn't know the pilot was that old, the news is saying that he may have blacked out. I am a big aviation fan, but the idea of watching planes flying 500 mph overhead really scares me. I'll watch them on TV, but not in person.
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Thanks Arcey for your link to Jimmy's story....'tis true of his character from what I've heard from here in Reno. True gentleman and willing to help anyone, and personable to his fans. Jimmy Leeward was in "perfect health" for flyin' yesterday..... He was 74yrs old. NTSB is all over this backround investigation as reported immediately from the scene, there were 3 reps from NTSB on site. He'd been a contestant of the Reno Air Races since '75 and loved the competition. He'd planned his strategy from early week and made his adjustments. He has a Facebook page and encouraged his fans to see he was up on technology.
The crash scene was horrific as the box seats lining the tarmac from the "east" side were mostly affected. We believe Jimmy was headed "straight for the bleachers" and pulled up to compensate. "The Ghost" didn't respond and took the fateful nosedive.
There are pics that the tail was coming apart at the seams which could have been the cause. We may never know....Officalis here believe it was mechanical and so does his family.
'Tis true Reno has the most challenging race course because of the speed...500MPH for Unlimilited classes we do have the mountain ranges to also consider, and yes they are tight. I watched the races from my sisters' front porch last year as they made their heats. I live on the "other side" of the mountain now and miss alot of the action.
I am 15mi away from the airport with Peavine mountain seperating my sis and I.
We grew up in a drag boat racing family...dad only racing 155mph but in a 18' flatbottom boat...V-drive and a 496 Chev and dry stacks and dual carbs. We were "child hired" pit crew...lol
I have witnessed many a horrific crash....blown fuel being the most unpredictable without "capsules" sometimes landing on the beach and sometimes coming part over water. Hitting the water at 200mph+ you hit the cement...it isn't forgiving.
NASCAR can have the same trials... some tracks are better than others as you know... I'm an ignoramous and freely admit it.
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At the AirSho, when it was still held at Harlingen, I witnessed an Air Chase in person. The CAF's plane, an A-10 Havoc(only one in existence) crashed with a full load of fuel. It ws simulating a bomb run. The pilot, who was in his 80's had a heart attack and crashed the plane. The plane burned. The pilot was doing what he loved. No spectators were injured. We have lost 2 other aircraft with crew members lost. A PBY Catalina in Matagorda Bay and the only B-26 near Midland.
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Here's an interesting airshow,It was recorded sometime in 1945, it shows both American and German aircraft being flown. See how many you can identify... ;D
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAV6v0XKue8&feature=related[/youtube]
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Wow! Thanks for posting!
I'm just guessing, but the airfield DOES remind me of Wright Patterson A.B. near Dayton, Ohio. And if that's true, some of those planes are STILL there in the US Air Force Museum! (Of course, in 1945 it was still an Army Air Forces base - and no red stripe on the star 'n bar insignia.)
I also noticed that no-one had the cojones to tell the 4-Star (I can't remember his name) that there was ... and still is ... a No Smoking on the Flight Line rule!
And no, I wouldn't have told him, either!
::)
;D
Great airshow! I'd like to have been there!
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SHB, Did you notice the B-32 in some of the shots? Today, NONE of them exsist :-\
Could that 4-star have been Hap Arnold?.................Buck ::)
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Good Eye Buck, that's him
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I wasn't sure about Gen. Arnold. That fellow didn't look like him to me, but it could be. It would make sense. But I still am not sure.
B-32 Dragon? Yep, I saw it.
I also saw the Italian Macchi MC.202 Folgore (Thunderbolt). It was one I referred to as still there at Wright Pat. It's hanging from the ceiling in front of a great, nearly full-size painting of a bomber formation. It's an awesome sight!!
VERY interesting bit of history!!
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Freeman was a foreign evaluation field. There were a lot of low production Axis aircraft there. There's a companion site for the Freeman Field Recovery team. They're looking for burial sites in the field area in hopes of finding parts of some of these aircraft that were destroyed after eval...............Buck ::)
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4 eyed Buck - where was that Freeman Field? I asked Mr. Goofle for help but the best "Freeman" info I got back was for Drug Addiction Recovery!
:o
I doubt that's it ...
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Not sure myself. Most of it is farmland now. I'll try to dig a little deeper ::)
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SHB, It's in your area, Seymour, IND. :o ::) ;)
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In that case I'd guess it's a mall or something useful like that now.
:P
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Doesn't seem like it, SHB. One entry in their site said they had to wait for a farmer to havest his corn. So I'm guessing it's still a rural area. I'll try to get the URL for their FaceBook site up for you. ::)
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Here you go.....................www.facebook.com/pages/Freeman-Field-Recovery-Team/100776559984890 (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Freeman-Field-Recovery-Team)
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Thnx - Do I have to sign in to F/B to see the piece?
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OK - I signed in and "page not found"
I'l try by accessing the site directly. Thanks for the link, 4EB.
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Got it!
I had NO idea that something so interesting and historically important was only an hour away!
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I wish that the CAF could have aquired a B32, but the CAF wasn't around till 1957. We do have a B23 in restoration at the HQ in Midland.
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How about some footage of "FIFI"
http://www.eaavideo.org/video.aspx?v=1143348987001
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Here's some more Warbird footage from a German Airshow...
http://www.clipwings.com/clip/1182/Duxford_Flying_Legends_2011__DE_vers
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Duxford is in England/Great Britain, but the posters on the website were certainly German! The felow who produced it, Mike Vario, may be German - and it does say German in the Title - right before Duxford.
Be that as it may, it was a great 12 minutes and thanks VERY much for posting the link, Major!
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Duxford is definitely on my "Bucket List". A nice gathering of WW2 fighter planes.
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The work on the A-26 is coming along. It is still at Brecckenridge at the restoration facility and will be there for at least another month.
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A26 planes are very cool. I've always liked the movie (Forever sumthin' - I fergit the name) about the fire bombers because there were some good flying shots and the A26 was their primary borate or water bomber. It had Holly Hunter, John Goodman, & Richard Dreyfus. It also had some not-so-good shots of flying models, but that's the way it goes - they tried. I like the ones with the nose full of cal. 50s - it's a powerful package. The last ones that were used in Viet Nam with the wing tip tanks and other mods were awesome machines. I think most of the pilots who flew them really liked them, but they were getting pretty worn and started having wing-warping or breakage issues.
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SHB, "Always" was the name of the movie. There is one of those A-26s from Viet Nam in our hangar. I private outfit is restoring it. The CIA ordered all those planes destroyed, somehow this one survived.
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Aha! Weren't those done by the same folks as the Cavalier Mustangs? VERY cool!
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I am hoping that someday both A-26s in our hangar will be able to fly together. Our A-26 is still in Breckenridge being restored. It should be ready to have a check ride in a week or two. If that goes okay, it will be flown to our hangar for the finishing touches. It will be a welcome addition to the hangar.
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Our A-26 is supposed to arrive Sunday afternoon at Meacham Field in Fort Worth from the restoration facility in Breckenridge, Texas. I have not seen it in over a year. I hope she likes her new home in our hangar.
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I haven't heard any more on the A-26 arrival in Fort Worth tomorrow. I hope the weather will be nice and there is a crowd to welcome her to her new home.
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Me, too. Wish I could be there.
Now I'm off to our Jan. F&AM meeting - later, amigos ...
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SHB, I wish that you could too. I wish that I could attend your meeting as well. Tell Dave Hi for me if he's there.
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SHB, I wish that you could too. I wish that I could attend your meeting as well. Tell Dave Hi for me if he's there.
I did 'cause he was there.
;)
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More Gremin's have attack the A-26 and it didn't make it to Fort Worth yesterday. The flight to Fort Worth has been re scheduled for next weekend. Let's hope it makes it here in one piece on the weekend. SHB, I am sure that there will be a Hiram's Ranger's meeting at the Convention we can all attend together.
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#1 More Gremlins have attacked the A-26 and it didn't make it to Fort Worth yesterday. The flight to Fort Worth has been re scheduled for next weekend. Let's hope it makes it here in one piece on the weekend. #2 SHB, I am sure that there will be a Hiram's Ranger's meeting at the Convention we can all attend together.
Lil' Jimmy,
Re: comment #1) Dang hang it! As these beautiful machines get older, those dang Gremlins multiply at a furious pace! I hope it arrives in good health, too. Speaking of multiplying, did you know that - according to brilliant Mathematicians, rabbits love to multiply?
::)
Re: comment #2 Count on it! Ron "Woody" Woods and I weren't able to shoot the 2010 NCOWS National, but we were able to drive down for the Hiram's Rangers induction Friday evening. I was elated to be able to attend and become TODAY!a member of this great organization, plus being able to see many of the shooters/friends, not just my Brother Masons was a real treat! Even if my health doesn't allow me to shoot this coming year, I'll darn sure be there for a meet!
Too bad we couldn't fly there on a nice restored A26 with some extra "rider" seats! That'd be a REAL treat, wouldn't it !?!
As to keeping these machines flying safely, I realized (some time ago) how MUCH work is required to keep 'em in the air. These planes weren't manufactured to Rolls Royce standards, rather they were churned out as fast as possible - but with as much quality as possible to meet wartime demands. By that I DON'T mean to demean any of the factories and workers, rather I know that they (often women) were doing the very best possible, but they were "under the gun" so to speak. We, the folks who came later, must remember how much work had to go into these beasts, but they were essentially "throw-away" products which had to be A) better than anything the enemy had or tried to, b) GET THE CREW HOME or a close as possible, and C) they DID make them very solidly and with as much quality that they possibly could or we simply would not have SO MANY different planes STILL FLYING today! (But, as I know YOU know, it takes an Armoury full of ca$h to keep 'em in good shape!)
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The maintence crew for the A-26 will be going to Breckenridge this week to finish repairs and ready the plane for it's flight back to Fort Worth next weekend. I plan on being in attendance when she does arrive.
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Reminds me my Gramps worked for Northrop before and after the war. They gave out special pins for the guys that built craft with ZERO DEFECTS. I still have some put away along with the mechanics patches. From what I was told getting a ZD pin was a big deal.
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I'll bet it was!!
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SHB, We all need to remember that come November.
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SHB, We all need to remember that come November.
Indeed!
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The A-26 is rescheduled to arrive at Meacham Field this Sunday, if everything goes okay on the preflight. No time has been listed for the arrival.
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http://www.thefirearmsforum.com/showthread.php?t=52629
ya'll recognize the first poster in that first link?
http://www.vietnam.ttu.edu/AirAmerica/Best/AirAmerica.htm
Jeffi this is the link I shared with you earlier
just some highlights on some of the past couple months worth of chatter here
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That looks like Lawful Larry!
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... Or unLawful Rooster!
Litl Roo, old buddy, yep - I went over that one for quite a while when you messaged it to me. I really didn't realize that Air America had so many different types there then or that MANY planes at all!
I flew in a Flying Tigers Lines 747 on my trip to Saudi. If I heard right, they are somewhat "Left Over" from that whole operation. It seems that Flying Tigers got their first planes FROM the CIA back in the late 60s or early 70s.
At least that is the story I got. I've been wrong before.
Once.
Actually, I wasn't wrong, just merely mistaken.
::)
;D
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That CIA A-26 that the private group is restoring is coming along. I haven't been over to Meacham field since Christmas. I still haven't heard anymore on the arrival at Meacham field of the CAF A-26.
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Those few A-26s built (by ON-Mark? I think) are to me the ultimate version. The tip tanks for extended range, up-graded engines, the 8 -gun (Ma Deuce) nose, with 3 more M-2s inboard on each wing and more (3 I think) M-2s in the wings outboard of the engines, PLUS, 2 or 3 pods full of nastiness hanging under EACH of the wings on hardpoints! Whew!
I sure wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of a strafing run from one of THOSE!
And speaking of wingloads of nastiness, Litl Rooster, those Tweets could sure pack a wallop, too! The Air Force Museum in Dayton, Ohio has an A37 on display that has all the bells & whistles, and hangy-down goodies on it, plus the wing tip-tanks like you posted about. That is one cool plane! Did you ever manage to wrangle a ride? Cessna sure made/makes a good product! Most folks don't realize that the company that makes the rather common, high-wing private planes that are so commonly seen in the skies over America and elsewhere also made #1) a military jet trainer, and #2) that they modified those "cute, little pocket-sized" jet trainers into a pretty successful small, bad-a$$ed attack jet that could strafe, drop bombs and/or napalm, or shoot a high-performance jet out of the sky using Sidewinders! That's a lot of muscle rolled up and put into a tiny package!
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I will try and get a picture of both of the A-26s as soon as I can. The weather should be in the high 50s or low 60s for tomorrow. The temp. got up to 50 for a high today.
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The A-26 made it to Fort Worth sometime after 3 pm this afternoon. I wasn't able to go over to greet it today. I plan on going to visit the Museum this week and check it out. I have not seen it in several years.
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Be great if the folks in Dayton 'n Kitty Hawk could get tagether 'n work somethin' out. I'd give to a fund but that's kinda selfish. I'm about an hour 'n a half away from the memorial. Pass by it every time I shoot ECSASS.
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/02/wright-brothers-ohio-bike-shop-may-be-demolished
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That would be preferable to just destroying it ::)
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I would like for the Smithsonian Museum to aquire the property and preserve it for everyone to see enjoy a historic part of aviation history.
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I'm being a pessimist, I know, but it'll never happen. Americans are forgetting more and more History, and caring less & less.
If that weren't true, we wouldn't have the political problems we do. Most folks don't give a rat's a .. - uh, patootie about anything except what they can grab for themselves.
History be damned. Honesty and right be damned. Gimme freebies.
Yeh - the eternal optimist (Me) is sadly losing his good feelings.
And not enough folks want to pay the kind of money involved to keep some "old property" in good shape just because the guys who owned it pioneered flight ... which most can't afford to do!
Or not ....
I wish I was wrong.
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True enough SHB.
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Most who know me have no doubt I'm an admirer of old ships. Washington, BB-56, broken up in '61. West Virginia, BB-48, broken up in '59. Both are legendary having unique, true stories of triumph in the Pacific, WWII. Both gone forever and few know of their rich history.
For the record, I'd like to see the shop preserved where it stands. Like Buck, taking it away and reassembling it in Kitty Hawk would be preferable to razing and hauling it away in dump trucks to a landfill somewhere. In my post, I did want it clear my thoughts on relocation are a bit less than objective.
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... Or unLawful Rooster!
Litl Roo, old buddy, yep - I went over that one for quite a while when you messaged it to me. I really didn't realize that Air America had so many different types there then or that MANY planes at all!
I flew in a Flying Tigers Lines 747 on my trip to Saudi. If I heard right, they are somewhat "Left Over" from that whole operation. It seems that Flying Tigers got their first planes FROM the CIA back in the late 60s or early 70s.
At least that is the story I got. I've been wrong before.
I rode a Flying Tiger 707 back in 1968 from SeaTac to Can Rahn. Didn't know they were still around.
Once.
Actually, I wasn't wrong, just merely mistaken.
::)
;D
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Another scrapped that sticks in my craw was the carrier Enterprise..... :-\ >:(
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Unfortunately we can't saved them all. The CAF ran into that problem with no being able to save a lot of surplus WW2 aircraft.
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The Wright's shop hit the local news tonight on Fox. Let's hope the national picks it up ::)
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The word's out. According to the AP one of the Wrights' shops was moved to a Ford museum in Michigan. Perhaps what's left of this one will be salvaged.
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I've see that one, Arcey. It's at the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit. Might be the one they did most of their airplane work in. Hope the national news outlets keep this one up front. Kitty Hawk would be a nice place for it ::)
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The Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan has all types of historical items, not just Ford items and not just automotive items. I spent about 4 hours in there and I know I didn't see it all. It's sorta like Ford's answer to the Smithsonian. It is worth seeing if your're around Dearborn, which is Ford's headquarters.
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I've taken a "virtual" tour of the Henry Ford Museum, and it IS cool. I hope to actually visit it someday. I spent a few weeks in Warren, MI courtesy of the Army. Warren is where the main (then) tank plant was. (Now the M1 series of tanks is made in Lima, OH, but that's another story.)
During that TDY duty to the tank plant, I had high hopes of visiting Ford's museum, but we never had enough time to go there. (TDY in MILSPEAK = Temporary Duty, iffn ya care to know and don't already)
;)
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It looked as if they were cleaning and/or rearranging things on the Navy side.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0007.jpg)
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0012.jpg)
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0011.jpg)
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0010.jpg)
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0011B.jpg)
They may have Chuckie in the back. They won't let you back there without an escort now. I could see the new hangar going up though.
The camera's a recent acquisition for Eagle season. It's small enough to put in my shirt pocket and cheap enough I can leave it in the glove box without worrying about it. Susie told me to use hers. It's much nicer, bigger and a bunch more expensive. If I break it I'll never hear the end of it.
The photo of the Skyraider and Corsair side by side has been severely cropped with the software that came with the camera. I don't think the quality suffered too badly. The Corsair alone is getting grainy on this monitor.
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Arcey, You take great pictures, My friend. I really enjoyed seeing them. They've got some planes at the Museum that the CAF doesn't have. You are fortunate to have such a fine facility so close to you.
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When Tom and I went through we were told several of them were on loan in exchange for maintenance and storage. I guess that brings in good stuff.
I'm happy you liked images. Thought about you when I shot them. Thanks.
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We have a logt of work ahead on the A-26 assigned to us. Hopefully it will be finished by summertime, so we can charge for rides.
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Arcey, GREAT pics! Thanks for posting!!!!!
On my 22" confuser monitor, I was just seeing a little "grain," but not bad at all - at least it didn't detract like pictures SOME post. (NO - I'm NOT referring to anyone here ...) All-in-all; OUT-frikken-standing! I LOVE the early, 3 blade prop Corsairs. The PBY is a classic and theirs is painted up real pretty! (Considering it ain't a particularly "pretty" airplane, that is!)
Of course ... I love 'em ALL! That Dragon is super!
Lil' Jimmy, I'd sure wait in line for a ride in that A-26! I could die happy, then!
PS - Do I need to use more exclamation marks? !!! :o ::)
;)
:D
;D
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It's going to be too cold around here this weekend to do much work outside on the A-26. The weather folks are forcasting some snow for us on Sunday.
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Thanks, SHB. That's the first time I've had something worth playing with the camera over. The airplanes usually aren't outside except for the Junkers trimotor. The thing can be seen in a couple shots in the background. Yellow cowlings on the engines and the yellow wing tip behind the Corsair.
I'm tickled Tex and yourself enjoyed the experiment.
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I developed a love for Warbirds as a kid. My Dad was in the Army Air Corps during WW2. He was going through pilot training when Pearl Harbor was attacked. I have been able to visit most of the Military Aircraft museums in the US. I have been a member of the CAF for almost 20 years. I hope I can visit the Museum near Arcey's place and the Smithsonian Air Museum some day.
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Tex, I've only been to a few. The Smith' and Wright-Patt are both awesome. The Deutscher Museum in Munich (Germany) has a great aviation department, too.
Arcey, you mentioned the Junkers JU-52 tri-motor, or as it was often referred to: Tante Ju (The "J" is pronounced like a "Y") - Which translates to "Aunt Ju" (pronounced You.) During one of my many trips to the main airport in Frankfort, (Rhein Main Flughafen) Germany I heard a different engine sound and looked up to see a beautiful white JU-52 with a red cross on its tail coming in over my head. The red cross on white is the fleet colors for SwissAir, and they were having some kind of Anniversary in Germany. It was cool to see the old bird coming in ... and then I spied another one further back in the pattern! I was doubly excited!
*
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Until I saw a third JU-52! All were painted the same and they were coming in one after another after another! It was awesome! I've seen a couple more flying since then, but to see three in a row, just doesn't happen to everyone every day!!!
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Nice pics, Arcey. I'll have to put that one on my bucket list.......... ::) ;)
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The Ju 52 was built originally as a civilian passenger aircraft because of the restrictions put upon Germany at the end of WW1. It was utilized by the military as a transport for supplies as well as troops. The CAF had a Ju 52 at one time. It was attached to the Arizona Wing at Thunderbird Field.
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Definitely call me if you decide to go there, Buck. An escort helps. It's not in the middle of nowhere but it's on the edge.
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. It's not in the middle of nowhere but it's on the edge.
Buck that's no joke...
Great pic's Arcey
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Arcey's new camera takes great pictures of Warbirds, I bet it will take great pictures of eagles.
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Prolly said it bafore, but the Corsair was my Dad's favorite and the first model we built tagether way back when. He taught me the difference tween the Navy ones and the Marine ones at an early age. His football coach flew one in the war and said the engine was so powerful that only certain pilots could handle it and they had to be tested first for upper body strength.
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That engine & prop combination put out LOTS of torque!
If I remember kee-recktly, the powerplant & prop were the same as the B-29. 2,800 + HP
The F4U didn't get certified for carrier duty right away. It took the late-war carriers to be able to handle the Hot Rod F4U series! I think the Marines had them in quantity before most of the Airdales did - the 1st Navy Corsairs were only OKed for the few Naval land bases. And they were pretty much side-by-side with the Marine F4Us. I think it was not until mid-to-late '44 that the carriers routinely had them. One of the primary problems was take-off speed, and the British catapults were adapted for American use primarily so the Navy could use Corsairs. My Dad was part of their testing (the cats), but he never flew an F4U ... he said he got to taxi one once, but never got certified to fly them.
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The Corsair was built by Vought aviation in Grand Prairie, Tx. They also built the Crusader. Vought merged with Lockeed. They still have offices and a plant in in Grand Prairie. It is one of the biggest employers in GP.
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Hope I get some eagle shots. Right now I'd settle for seeing an egg on the webcam. The nest was a big empty last night.
Ran into a guy yesterday afternoon. He told me he was at the museum a couple weeks ago and they had Chuckie in the Fighter Factory.
When I ride out next I'm going to try to get some shots of the Junkers.
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I believe the problem with the F4U was the landing gear for the navy. Believe they had to make some changes/beef it up. Maybe deck clearance for the prop. They really didn't appear on carriers until late '44, or early '45 ::)
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Carrier landings were hard on the landing gears of the carrier based aircraft. The Corsair was superior to anything the Japs had faced, except maybe the Hellcat. I've got a coffeetable book of prints of Warbirds in action. One of these prints shows 4 Corsairs of the famous "Black Sheep" squadron chasing Zeros across the sky. One of these Corsair's has "Martha" painted on the nose. Ed "Shifty" Shefflet's wife was named Martha. I feel like this print is Ed's Corsair. I had the pleasure of knowing Martha. Her daughter, Evelyn, is a friend of the Moose. I never got to meet Ed and I bought the book after Martha had passed away. I am satisifed that the plane in the print is Ed's. Ed was a HS and College wrestler and he broke "Pappy" Boyington's leg one night in the O club. Ed retired as a full Colonel in the Marines. Evelyn told me that a frequent visitor to her house as a child was another Of Ed's Marine Corps buddies. She knew him as "Tex". I later found at that "Tex" was in fact Bill Jordan. Martha gave me an autographed copy of "No Second Place Winner". I never got to meet Bill and Evelyn never knew how famous Bill was.
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Gentlemen,
Got a long-range notice from a friend today that from March 19-21 (Monday-Wednesday) there will be a B-24 and a P-51 camped out at TSTC Airport in Waco. No word yet on which organization owns the aircraft, but I intend to be out there at least one of those days getting pictures.
Might be worth a look if you're in the neighborhood with some time to kill.
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That sounds like it might be "Ol 927" of the B29/B24 Squadron of the CAF and the p-51 may be "Gunfighter" also of the CAF. They tour together. I am a member of the B29/B24 Squadron and have been a member of the CAF for almost 20 years. "Ol 927 is the oldest B24 in existence and the only B model left. It was built in January, 1941.
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I think I have an answer to Arcey's question "Where's Chuckie"? "Chuckie is at the Fighter Factory for it's annual check. It has all it's panels removed for inspection, lubrication, and repairs if necessary. They will spend over a 1,000 hours on "Chuckie" before she is ready for its test flight in the spring. The #3 engine is being replaced after it was overhauled, which has taken over 5 months. The FF is open to the public and it's admission is included in the cost of visiting the Museum.
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Thought that was it after talking to Jim.
I have to respect the sign they put up and stay away from the back, from the Fighter Factory. They put a gate up at the entrance last year just before the “Warbirds Over The Beach” event. It's always open unless they have something scheduled. I can go in now. I've been to the gift shop a couple times without paying admission. I wouldn't want the management to close the gate and put a volunteer in a shack charging people to drive to the parking lot. That's where I was when I took the shots last week. Many times when I stop in I'm in the area looking for birds or hitting the farm stands.
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I get a newsletter from the Museum each month because of my Museum membership.
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Acres of strawberries are starting to look pretty in Pungo. No signs on the farm stands with opening dates. Didn't see the first Eagle.
The Junkers
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0018.jpg)
The tail
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0015.jpg)
Don't know what these are................
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0019.jpg)
Accidental discharge
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0017.jpg)
The parts depot/warehouse, Fighter Factory and the new hangar going up
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0016.jpg)
Their Go-Fer mobile
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0020.jpg)
The guard shack (mini bunker?) has been added since I was there last. Looks like it's made of concrete
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0022.jpg)
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Some more nice aircraft pictures that you posted for us. They are much appreciated.
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That balloon ir a really waded up Hellcat, Arcey. The Red Star plane is maybe a Yak or another whose name I can't remember ::)
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I’ll keep posting the things as long as they don’t get boring to y’all. There’s usually something outside. Spring’s coming and I’m ready for some fresh vegetables. I’ll take many rides out that way during the summer.
Buck, that’s it. As soon as I read it I remembered it. That’s what got me out there in the first place. They don’t advertise their presence. I figured it was an old building in Creeds so I went looking for it.
http://hamptonroads.com/2008/07/small-plane-crashes-princess-anne-road-virginia-beach
The article is on par for the paper. It says the name of the pilot wasn’t released. Bring up the pictures and one is the pilot, by name, walking around the thing.
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nnnnn
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It's a Yak 3 (Yakovlev) fighter and it was VERY capable. Next to it is a P-40 and an FW 190. (Focke Wulf) The FW 190 was perhaps the best all-around plane the Nazis had in quantity.
Great photos, Arcey! Thanks for posting them!
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After my previous post, I read the newspaper piece. It appears that the accident happened to the one in your picture, Arcey. I'm glad the pilot was OK, and that the plane (and airport) suffered little damage to speak of.
The Wiki piece on the Yak 3 and other Yak fighters is pretty good and gives a good, 'tho short history of this outstanding plane. It is interesting (and perhaps ironic) that one of the few reported problems with the Yak 3 design was with the pneumatic landing gear mechanism, unlike most of the American & British planes that used hydraulic systems. They all fail once in a while. And this is what happened to the plane in the paper's article.
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I get a newsletter from the museum every month. They are supposed to have a former Luftwaffe pilot speak at the museum this month. He become a Luftwaffe pilot at the ripe old age of 17.
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Towards the end, they were really scraping the bottom of the barrel personel-wise ::)
Still wondering about that Hellcat looking thing in that one photo, Arcey. Ballon or wreck? ::)
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Buck, the thing with a 31 on it in the picture with the Dodge Neon station wagon?
That's a fiberglass dolphin. The things used to dot the ocean front like Norfolk's infamous mermaids did downtown. Someone stuck a prop on its nose, added a vertical stabilizer and painted it warbird style.
If that's it, sorry. I misunderstood the question the first time by.
(http://www.adolphinspromise.com/images/284929-R1-07-8_altered.jpg)
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They need to get a more PC vehicle, maybe a VW THING or a 5 Quarter Weapons Carrier. Yep, them fiberglass Flippers are unique yard art.
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That's probably it, Arcey. The paint job fooled me into thinking it was a plane/type object ::) :o ;)
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I could see that it was a Dolphin, but I've never seen a Dolphin decked out like an F6F Hellcat!
;D
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Last week the Moose and I had the pleasure of attending a program at one of our branch libraries. The speaker was Claude Platte, a 91 year old WW2 veteran. Mr Platte was a flight instructor for the Tuskogee Airmen Experiment. He trained over 200 Afro-American pilots for the Army Air Corps. It was very entertaining and I am glad that we had an opportunity to attend and did.
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Neat, TLD ;)
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There was a good turnout and it was standing room only.
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Apr. 17th to the 20th, reunion of Doolittle's Raiders. All 5 of the remaining vets out of the 200+ will be there ;)
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All the fliable B-25s assemble near the reunion location and have a flyover. They made silver cups with each of the Raiders names on them. They have a special bottle on Cognac that they pour in the Attending Raiders cups and they drink a special toast to all the Raiders, living or dead. The CAF's B-25s are always in attendance.
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Rest in peace, Lt. Morehead. Thank you for your service, sir.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/20/us/james-morehead-world-war-ii-flying-ace-dies-at-95.html
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Arcey, Thank you for the info Mr Morehead. Another great Heroic Aviator has passed on. A greatful Nation thanks you for your Service.
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Indeed. God bless.
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I just got an E-mail from the Vintage Flight Museum that we are getting a new aircraft that will be on static display at the Museum. It will be arriving on a truck from Davis-Monthan AFB in Arizona. It is the Navy version of the B-66. I built a B-66 model as a kid. I am anxious to see this new addition to our fleet of aircraft.
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So Did I, TLD. One of the first ones I ever did ::)
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Oooh! B66 is a little rare, I b'lieve! Cool!
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IIRC, It was a Monogram kit ::)
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IIRC, It was a Monogram kit ::)
And/or Airfix. I remembered wrong, anyway. (I looked it up right after you had posted.) It was a USAF version of an A3 SkyWarrior. Often used in Viet Nam ... and a VERY elegant, pretty design.
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SHB, The Aircraft is a Douglas EA-3B SkyWarrior, Bu.No. 146453. I don't have any timetable on it's arrival in Fort Worth. I will try and take pictures.
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I'll be wearing my "I Love Prop Noise" tee tomorrow. The Corsair cap is getting a little nasty looking. Picked up a Mustang cap.
They didn't have anything but the Junkers sitting outside. I did remember the dolphin though........
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0028.jpg)
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That's one mean looking dolphin, Arcey ::)
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Arcey, Is that your Station Wagon in the background? If so, It's a nice ride. We're expecting a new plane at the VFM in the future. It is a Douglas EA-3B Skywarrior Bu. No. 146453. It is being transported by truck from Davis-Monthan AFB in Arizona. No timetable as yet on an arrival date. It will be static display only.
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I don't imagine it would be very good for a barrel roll.
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We discussed it a bit earlier, but this allows us to see much more detail. I thought it was painted as a Hellcat, but now I see it's actually an F4U-Dolphaire. Or maybe an F4U-Corphin.
::)
;D
It's a cool yard ornament, that's fer sure!
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Thinking Buck’s right – mean looking. Whatever it is, Dolcat or Hellphin, I’ll bet it’s a dive bomber………………
That’s my station wagon, Tex. Thanks. Enjoy the Skywarrior.
Not clear on what won’t do a barrel roll. The EA-3B, the F4U or the station wagon.
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Look at the bent wing and the vertical stabilizer - definitely an F4U- Dolphaire. Not MADE to be a dive bomber, but when used as one it performed great at it.
Of course, seeing the 3 bladed prop, it's an early version, and maybe one of the Goodyear-made FG1 or F4U-1 early model of the Dolphaire.
It was the first swimming mammal that could exceed 400 MPH in a level ... swim.
Ok, I'm done now. Time to get back to serious aircraft and some more great plane pics from Arcey and others!
;)
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SHB, I would like one of those Dolphins in my back yard. The one that looks like a Corsair. One of Colleen's girlfriends Dad was one of the "Black Sheep" (ED Shiflett). He retired as a full Colonel in the USMC. He died of Cancer before I got to meet him. He was a PM, 32nd Degree Red Hat, and a Shriner. He was a wrestler in HS and College. He broke one of Pappy's legs during a scuffle in the "O" club. I wish I could have met him. I know he had some stories to tell.
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I jusrt received an e-mail from a friend notifying me of another aircraft crash. On April 4, 2012, we lost a great pilot. Howard Pardue, age 77 was killed when his F8F Bearcat crashed on take off from Breckenridge,Tx airport. Howard was a great pilot. He was a particpant at the CAF AirSho at Midland. He flew the Bearcat in the Reno Air Races. He was a great friend of the CAF and Warbird pilots. Howard had a collection of Warbirds that he hangared at the Breckenridge Airport. Howard will be missed.
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Dang. We lost another great person and an awesome plane.
God Bless.
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Prayers are up for him TLD the reports were in from his Reno Air Race participation in his beloved Bearcat...
Sad week-end to lose another great pilot... Our races are ON this year much to the glee of the pilots and fans...The Gallopin' Ghost would have wanted the show to go on :)
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Howard will be missed. He was a fixture at the Reno Air Races as well as the AirSho at Midland. I don't know if he was a member of the CAF. He was a qualified carrier pilot and he flew a Wildcat or a Hellcat off the deck of the Lexington before it was decommissioned. This was for a WW2 mini-series(Winds of War). I never got to meet him, but I was able to be around him at the AirSho at Midland.
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The funeral for Howard Pardue will be at 2 PM at the First Christian Church in Breckenridge, Tx. The crash is under investigation and results are forth coming next week. Good Bye Howard. I know you died, doing what you loved to do. Semper FI !
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Leo, You will be happy to know that the B29/B24 Squadron is changing the B-24's name back to "Diamond Lil" in the near future.
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No luck at all with the Pungo farm stands. Strawberries look ready to go. Oh well.
This one's prop was still spinning when I drove up. You can see the pilot's legs. About a pretty little thing. I understand some visitors fly in.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/041712-1.jpg)
Chuckie wasn't exactly in the Fighter Factory. Showing the new turrets. Camera has a hell of a zoom.................
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/041712-3.jpg)
The "new" hangar is period from Germany. They bought it, had it disassembled and numbered the parts. Shipped them here for reassembly. They have a three story control tower they found in England they haven't started on.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/041712-6.jpg)
A Messerschmidt me 108 waiting for some TLC.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/041712-7.jpg)
It's hard to tell without a point of reference but the thing isn't much bigger than a hiccup...
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/041712-8.jpg)
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Did any of Y'all see this,it mightcould be one of the most important finds ever...
http://newsfeed.time.com/2012/04/17/buried-treasure-world-war-ii-spitfires-to-be-unearthed-in-burma/?hpt=hp_t2
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Altho' I've seen 108s used as "fighters" in movies I'm pretty sure it started life as a civilian plane that was also to be a courier plane or training by the military. NOT a tactical aircraft at all. It'd be a nice light plane for Generals, business men, families, etc. To be used much like ... say, a Beechcraft Bonanza; more seating, faster, more of the "executive" look.
Thanks for the great pics, R.C.!
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Got an' echo on the good pics Arcey..
Hope those "Spitfires" find their way home. Know a man from Burma, he and his family couldn't take the military oppression and now are full citizens in the USA.
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I am wondering if those Spitfires will be for sale when they arrive in England. That could make for some serious bidding from collectors.
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I know this ain't a warbird, but just the same it flew in to Dulles this week and is being moved to it's retirement home as I type this . I reviewed the Security cameras at work and one of the Low flyby's with escorts was real close to the building. In the video that builidng is visiable at 8 minutes or so in. Lot's of folks headed to the roof tops for the event, and traffic outside of Dulles was a mess. Our security cams had this quality of footage, but I was not permitted to download and reuse it.
[youtube]http://youtu.be/jyoMwKcWjko[/youtube]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyoMwKcWjko
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Warbird or not, it's cool! And the two together is more!
(I don't think this thread is limited to Warbirds ONLY, anyhoo!)
Thanks fer postin', Roo!
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The Transporter aircraft is an old AA 747. Moose's cousin used to work security for NASA. He rode on the 747 when it was hauling a shuttle. He showed us some pictures he took on a trip from Edwards to the Cape. I wish I had some of them. He retired from NASA and went to work for Wackenhut after they took over the security for NASA. He and his wife have both passed away, but it was neat to hear some of his stories. He started out at White Sands in the 50s.
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We're gonna have some airborne reenactors at the CAF hangar in Lancaster, Tx tomorrow morning. They are going to jump out of our R4D(Navy version of DC-3/C-47). It should be interesting. I am planning on attending our Wing meeting tomorrow, so I'm going early to watch the jump.
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Cool!
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We've got a private outfit restoring 2 C-47s at the hangar in Fort Worth. One of those C-47s was a backup plane for D-Day Invasion. They belong to a private party. He is spending some big bucks in the restoration.
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We rode out to the farmer's stand across the road from the museum. This is the best I could get from Princess Anne Road. There were a couple in the air but so far off it would have been a waste of time to take a shot.
Warbirds Over The Beach.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0053.jpg)
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Field of Dreams.
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Thank you for the picture, Arcey. I am in Love!
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While we were in Fort Worth yesterday, we went by the hanger to check on the CAF's A-26. They had it on the flight line, doing some engine work. The private outfit had it's C-47 in the hangar doing some engine work as well. It was great to the A-26, almost ready to be airborne again. The sun was too bright to take any pictures.
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My Trucking Adventures today, in Aurora CO, I came across this...... Maybe you folks be interested ..... or not...
About five acres of fuselages.... cockpits.... etc....
"US ARMY" on the side... between the triangular window & danger sign..
(http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx10/yeti76620/AirplaneBoneYard007.jpg)
(http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx10/yeti76620/AirplaneBoneYard005.jpg)
(http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx10/yeti76620/AirplaneBoneYard004.jpg)
(http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx10/yeti76620/AirplaneBoneYard001.jpg)
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Haven't seen one of THOSE for a while. Probably a staff or courier plane. The Army doesn't have many fixed-wing planes, but there are some. I tried to get into flight training for that, once upon a time. My ears were already "shot" (literally - gunfire deterioration) so I couldn't pass the entrance flight physical. If I'd already been in, my deteriorated hearing wouldn't have mattered, but since I was applying for Warrant Officer Flight Training, I couldn't get in.
Rats!
:-\
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We've got a Squadron meeting this weekend and it will be good to see our A-26 again. It will be hot in the Hangar. The Planes will be moved out to the flight line for maintence.
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(http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx10/yeti76620/AirplaneBoneYard004.jpg)
That piece of metal would make a nice Decoration in a "Man Cave"
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LOL...... Li'l Roo ...... that piece of Metal is A MAN CAVE!..... That place had six er seven,,,,maybe more,,,, of those ol' Army planes sit'n together make'n a Fort of Man Caves.... put the tips back on with the guns then the fort would be well armed too!
Wonder if those tips where lay'n 'round someplace there?
I know NOTHING 'bout those fly'n machines but they are really COOL!
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I don't think that whole fuselage would fit in the doublewide. Somebody creative with a Sawzall could cut the nose panel off though, and have something to hang on the wall. Hanging next to the picture of Gus McCrae and Danica ;D
looks like the propeller warning is no longer needed.
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;)
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We have a collection of "Nose Art" in our main maintence hangar in Midland, Tx(HQ of CAF). Some one took a cutting torch on the fuselage of WW2 bombers that were to be crushed and cut out the nose art. The collection is known to us as "The Girls". They are on display for everyone to see who visits our Museum in Midland. They are hanging on the walls of the hangar.
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Take some pictures of it for us Tex. There was really good stuff back in the day.
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I don't think that whole fuselage would fit in the doublewide. Somebody creative with a Sawzall could cut the nose panel off though, and have something to hang on the wall. Hanging next to the picture of Gus McCrae and Danica ;D
looks like the propeller warning is no longer needed.
Dbl-wide huh......... Creative sawzall'n could make way for a fuselage addition AND have the portraits in proper position with careful plan'n...... ;)
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yep that and two rolls of duct tape
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yep that and two rolls of duct tape
Do ya suppose that the duct tape would have to be FAA approved in case of a 'nater gets it all airborne .... ??? ??? ???
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My duct tape is rated up to 200 mph, but has not been NASCAR approved.
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might need the NASA approved rolls
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Roo, There are 34 pieces of Nose Art at the Museum. They are refered to as "The Girls" They need constant care to preserve the paint. I'll take some pictures the next time that I am out there.
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She and I rode out to the farm stands. Culpepper Farms is across from the museum. I kinda, sorta had to check. The last few trips out have been a bust. Not today.
The Junkers isn't there. First time in a long time it hasn't been at its spot. They've pulled 'Chuckie' up front. The ole boy at the prop of the airplane with the yellow cowl was doing his best to get it to fire. It never did. Beneath the B-17's right wing, the one with Nazi markings was moving.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0071.jpg)
He's still working on it in this shot. Two guys had strapped into the airplane to the extreme left.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0070.jpg)
This is the one in the first shot.under the B-17's wing. He's headed to the end of the runway. I looked at the flag - the wind's right. And, about the time he pointed the nose into the wind, the camera's battery quit. I've been wondering when it was going. Everything I've posted, and a bunch more I haven't, were taken on the first charge.
I never did hear or see them try to start the green one. Less than a minute after I took this shot they climbed out.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0072.jpg)
There was another, smaller airplane with Nazi markings that followed this one into the air. Damned if they don't look awfully slow after watching the Hornets at Oceana. They're just a touch quieter too.
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Quieter ... but still handsome!
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The plane with the German markings that I see is possibly a Storch, an observation aircraft.
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Fiesler Storch. This type is what Skorzeny used to get Mussolini out of the prison castle he was being held in. the blue plane in some of those pics is an SBD Dauntless dive bomber. The one that wouldn't start looks like a WW I type judging from the engine I can see parts of ::)
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The blue bi-plane looks like a repro Spad, The yellow bi-plane is a Stearman. The blue plane is a trainer and not a Dauntless, no rear machine gun and the back seat is facing forward. It could be an AT-6?
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I don't see a blue Spad repro, but I do see a Fokker D-7 I think. (Next to the Stearman) It has the same cowl that was on the DR1 Triplane and carried over (the shape) on the outstanding D-7.
Since the trainer is painted in Navy colors, it would be an SNJ-5. Of course, it could be an AT6 "Texan" (Advanced Trainer) simply painted in the very pretty Navy colors. They are nearly identical products. The Brits called them "Harvards" and the Aussies called their version (a CA16, which was the predecessor to the AT6) the "Wirraway."
Great planes!
I'd LOVE to take a flight in that Storch, too. Any of them, for that matter!
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SHB, I went on the Museum's website and they have a list of their aircraft and a picture of each of them. It is listed as the Military Air Museum of Virginia Beach.
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Cool!
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Lucky day here. The P51s are practicing the missing man formation over my house. I missed the roll off but when I saw the fourth come in behind the others I realized what was up.
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A beautiful sight!
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The Mustangs are great fighter planes, they didn't reach their potential until the Rolls-Royce Merlin engines were intalled.
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I hoped they would make another pass but they seemed to have it down, it was better than any fireworks display.
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Something different....... in my neck of the woods an airshow at and above 10,000 ft over sea level...
http://mtntownviews.com/2012/07/02/breckenridge-4th-of-july-brings-first-ever-airshow/
A Thin-Air Show... :D :D :D :D :D
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Something different....... in my neck of the woods an airshow at and above 10,000 ft over sea level...
http://mtntownviews.com/2012/07/02/breckenridge-4th-of-july-brings-first-ever-airshow/
A Thin-Air Show... :D :D :D :D :D
Good one!
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I am sure the folks up there enjoyed the acrobatics performed by the two bi-planes, using the smoke.
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Got the details on the local air show this Saturday an if I can get my Grandson for the day he's going to get a real treat based on what I've been seeing on the practice runs. Nothin but fire spotters this mornin but we need them.
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My wife and I are thinking about going to this air show,Looks interesting
http://www.greatnewenglandairshow.com/
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Major, I hope you get to attend the airshow. I don't know if any of the CAF aircraft are scheduled to appear. If I find out any info, I'll let you know.
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Not much info but this is ours.
http://www.visitplacer.com/air-show-thunder-in-the-sky.aspx
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Leo, That looks like a lot of fun on a Saturday morning. I love the smell of flapjacks in the morning and eating a big stack of them.
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They've got a big shindig at Meacham Field this weekend. Lots of Warbirds on display, period correct military vehicles on display, and lots of reenactors in uniforms. I'll be there for awhile, but I know it will be hot on the tarmack. Lots of liquids to be drank to keep hydrated.
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They've got a big shindig at Meacham Field this weekend. Lots of Warbirds on display, period correct military vehicles on display, and lots of reenactors in uniforms. I'll be there for awhile, but I know it will be hot on the tarmack. Lots of liquids to be drank to keep hydrated.
Right you are, Lil' Bro. Jimmy! The tarmac can get to smokin' in the sun.
Enjoy some of the sights for me too, OK? I'm visiting Mother & Sister in Oregon and ALL of us wish we could go around we could go to a good Air Show or even a museum 'cause this is the side of my family that is HIGHLY motivated and interested in aircraft related to WWII - my Mother operated a Link Trainer during the War to teach Phase 1 Flight Training. After she & my Father, the Navy pilot, separated she married Bud, who was a B-24G nose-turret gunner. We all like the sights, sounds, & smells of a flight line or a museum display or air show!
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SHB, I made a command decision not to go over there today when I found out the high for today is 108. This diabetes really saps me in the heat. It's just too hot.
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Totally understandable. Don't do anything that makes simple breathing a chore - at least if you can help it!
Last week in Indy it got to a high of 105. And it was only around 65% relative humid-idity. 108 sounds downright unpleasant!
;)
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I have not received any e-mails from the Vintage Flight Museum concerning the open-house at Meacham Field on Sat. I hope it was successful and they had a good turnout. It was just too hot for me to be outside for any length of time.
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If y'all haven't already, take a look at the Google home page.
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Arcey, If that plane was painted White, It would look sorta like the plane that Will Rogers and Wiley Post died in about 1931.
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I got an e-mail from the B-29/B-24 squadron. "FIFI" is up at OSHKOSH for the EAA fly in. If you folks have the time, drop by and see the only flying B-29 in existence. I donated the Texas flag that she is flying.
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Some of the EAA planes are flying over the house.
Slim
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Some of the EAA planes are flying over the house.
Slim
CoOL!
It IS about that time of year. Oshkosh is on my Bucket List.
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I wish that I had the money to travel around with the CAF aircraft. I can only do it locally.
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CoOL!
It IS about that time of year. Oshkosh is on my Bucket List.
You are very welcome to stay here.
My parents went to EAA on Friday. They had a good time after the sticker shock wore off. $41 per person. :o It was Veteran's day so Dad got $10 off. They said Fifi was there.
Slim
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Slim, "FIFI" is always a featured aircraft at Oskosh because it is the only flying B-29 in existence. I get daily e-mails from the squadron because I am a member of the B-29/B-24 squadron. I am hoping to go up there with the squadron next year.
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You are very welcome to stay here.
My parents went to EAA on Friday. They had a good time after the sticker shock wore off. $41 per person. :o It was Veteran's day so Dad got $10 off. They said Fifi was there.
Slim
Thanks, pard!
Slim, "FIFI" is always a featured aircraft at Oskosh because it is the only flying B-29 in existence. I get daily e-mails from the squadron because I am a member of the B-29/B-24 squadron. I am hoping to go up there with the squadron next year.
I didn't know what (besides being the last/ONLY B-29) Fifi was famous for. Fifi (perhaps the actual plane or the named bird) was the Commander's aircraft that was the 1st B-29 to fly onto either the newly captured airfield on Iwo or the Marianas when the B-29s first flew onto their Pacific island homes before beginning the massive bombing campaign against Japan that culminated with Hiroshima & Nagasaki.
I saw a film clip of Fifi landing on one of the Military specials. It was (if I remember) on the show about B-29s as part of the series titled "Great Planes."
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They have a special guest with them up there. They have the pilot that flew "FIFI" out of China Lake in 1971, when she was first aquired by the CAF.
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First time I saw her was in the mid '80's when she visited here ::)
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Several years ago, I was sitting in Charlotte Airport with a prisoner, waiting to return to D/FW. I noticed "FIFI" come in on final approach. They landed and taxied past our terminal. The Texas flag and the CAF flags were sticking out the cockpit windows. It made me proud to be a Col. in the CAF.
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[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obcrX9K66Dw&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
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I first saw Fifi at an old Confederate Air Force show in 1976. The Great Lakes Branch of the CAF had finally acquired a flyable warbird, one of the old C-45s, which is a Twin Beech (IF I remember right) used as a spotter and a twin engine trainer, as well as a liaison aircraft. The whole rest of the CAF flew up here to Indiana to celebrate, AND to celebrate the Bi-Centennial. Fifi was the star of the show. I didn't get to go very close to her, but I was right under the end of the runway when she took off and circled several times. I had to leave so I wasn't able to see her land but it was a glorious sight. If I remember, it was one of the 1st fly-ins she'd attended after getting certified for flight and display.
What a magnificent aircraft!
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SHB, That sounds about right on the dates. I've been a member since 90. It was neat to have her over at Meacham while the runways at Addison were being repaired. Our hangar at Meacham is a B-29 model, and "FIFI" fit in there like a glove.
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Cool! Perhaps it is Destiny!
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SHB, I've got some video of "FIFI" when she was over at Meacham. I shot it on my I-Phone and it's not too good. I'll show it to you the next time I see you.
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Great! I want a ride.
Of course I'd happily ride in a Stearman or a PT19, for that matter. Or a Mustang, of course! I don't know how, but I'd go on a crash diet if I had the opportunity to ride one of the "Hot Rods" just so I could fit in the seat! But they are a pretty expensive 20 minutes - about $150/min. if I've heard right!
Mebbe when I win the Lottery .......
or not ::)
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SHB, Most of the rides start out at ab out $500. and go up. They are going to price the rides in the A-26 at 500, when it's ready to fly. We have three pilots in training. I didn't know, but the A-26 was the first aircraft to drop bombs in Korea, and the last aircraft to drop bombs in Korea. Next year they are going to have flybys with a B-1 at the airshows that we attend.
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Was catching up on my back log of Popular Mechanics and came across an article in the Feb 2012 issue about the new B 52. Turns out the old technology fit the bill to carry nukes with some upgrades. If ya can get yer hands on a copy it's an innerestin read.
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Leo, The BUFF or B-52 has been around since 58 and will be in the Air Force fleet for several years to come.
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Our squadron adujant has an original Cessna 02 that she is restoring. She got it at Davis-Monthan a few years ago. It needs a new engine right now. She has it hangared at the Grand Prairie airport. I'm going over tomorrow to look it over and help her do some things on it. She has done quite a bit of research on it and has talked to 27 former FACs that have flown it at one time or another.
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I got a phone call this morning from the lady that owns the 02 Cessna. She was sick and didn't make it. I had a good breakfast at the airport cafe, so the day wasn't a total wash. We may not make 100 today. Moose is at school getting her room ready for the new year. Victoria is napping on the cool tile. I hope we get some rain this weekend.
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Those O-2 Bird Dogs look like fun.
A P-51 would be MORE fun, but I might be able to afford a ride in an O-2, whereas I can barely afford to DREAM about a ride in one of the "hot" planes, including $500 A-26s. Which I'd love to ride in, too for that matter. The A-26 is the #4 coolest twin in my book: Mosquito, P-38, F-7F, A-26. Not necessarily in that order. But there are a lot of cool twins I'd love to fly. Heck, I'd be thrilled for a check-ride in a Twin Beech, just to name one.
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SHB, I hope to get a better look at Karen's plane next week. It's a real Warbird, just not from WW2. I will try and get some pictures of it on my I-Phone.
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Great! I assume you're meaning her O-2, right? They began manufacture of them in 1967. Around 532 were made for the Military (I don't know how many Cessna 337 SkyMasters were made tho'; it is the civilian version of the O-2.) I've always thought highly of them. It was pretty "hot" for a Cessna and was capable of 200 mph. (That speed figure doesn't count the "Tweety-Bird" Cessna jets also used in 'Nam or the new biz-jets. Only the prop planes.)
How is her plane painted? Camo or gray? (I THINK most were gray, but not all of them were.) Either way, they're a genuine Viet Nam era Warbird, not just a 337 "dolled up" to look like one.
I look forward to the pictures.
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This thing is just weird.
http://support.theveteranssite.com/?p=1489
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SHB, She told me that the plane is black. It is the AF version and she got the plane from Davis-Monthan AFB. I haven't got to see the plane yet. I hope to see it next week and take a few pictures of it. She was telling me that the ones used in "Bat 21" were actually civilian models. Her plane does have a bunch of history behind it.
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Cool!
The black ones are uncommon. There were a very small number of O-2s that were used to drop leaflets and which had loudspeakers mounted on them. They flew Psyops missions. (Psyops = Psychological warfare) Perhaps hers was one of them as they might have been painted black. If so, she truly has a very "special" bird. Doesn't really matter, it just makes it even more interesting!
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SHB, I just happen to have a black flight suit and a black ball cap. I'd rather fire target marker rockets than dropping leaflets.
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You betcha!
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This is the way I remember them. http://www.warbirdalley.com/o2.htm
There was one several years ago flying around Mt. Weather Va. I am not sure if it was assigned there Military or DHS or a private owned one. Never got close enough for a ID
texas is that your special ops flight suit?
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On the wat to the range this morning
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This is the way I remember them. http://www.warbirdalley.com/o2.htm
There was one several years ago flying around Mt. Weather Va. I am not sure if it was assigned there Military or DHS or a private owned one. Never got close enough for a ID
texas is that your special ops flight suit?
I enjoy read'n ya folks here and I restate that I'm aircraft ignorant; however, ya'll ogling over this Cessna,,,,, Li'l Roo's
War Bird site revealed a craft that I think would be the Cat's Arse in this class of airplane..... Rockwell OV-10 Bronco
Again, what do I know here would fill a thimble... ;D
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SHB, I guess my black flight suit will be my spec-op flight suit. I really wanted a tiger stripe one, but I have yet to find one in Big Boy size.
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The OV-10 Bronco replaced the 02 Cessna in the Air Force TOE.
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Yeti we had a the Bronco's at Ubon when I was stationed there. An O2 would come in there now and again. I don't think any were assigned there. That was many years ago now. Watching the military channel yesterday got to see some of the Wolf Pack the 8th TFW, from them days. I was just a kid out of high school then.
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Roo, That was a LONG time ago!
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More years than I thought I'd survive. I'd known I was going to live this long I'd took better care of myself. ;D
'bout a year ago I got in one of those trip down memory lane moods. Found a link to my squadron over there. Military Channel can get addicting sometimes they show a lot Viet Nam era stuff. You guys here talking old birds many I have been around in the military and older ones at the Air Shows. Yes it's been many years now. I see young people returning form the Military on a daily basis, many of my fellow employees are either active duty or vets. They are just babies just like I was when I returned. thought I knew everything back then. Didn't know squat..Still don't and at this age doubt if I can be taught. I am having a helluva a good time being a dumb ass though.
http://8thsps.multiply.com/
btw Mr Nixon made us swear we were never in Laos
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We've got a fly-in scheduled for the 1st of Sept. in Lancaster, Tx. A few CAF planes will be there along with a car show.
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btw Mr Nixon made us swear we were never in Laos
An old neighbor of mine got shot down over either Laos or Cambodia. Said they all had to sign a waver before the mission. Guess it took awhile for anyone to come get him out.
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An old neighbor of mine got shot down over either Laos or Cambodia. Said they all had to sign a waver before the mission. Guess it took awhile for anyone to come get him out.
Normal less than an hour, on less it was a hot zone. That was part of the duties of the O2 and OV10 other light aircraft
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Normal less than an hour, on less it was a hot zone. That was part of the duties of the O2 and OV10 other light aircraft
He was a door gunner in a Huey.
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Big kononies
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Gunna see these guys in about 3 weeks...
http://www.airrace.org/index.php...sould be a listing of who's flyin' in what classes
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Gunna see these guys in about 3 weeks...
http://www.airrace.org/index.php...sould be a listing of who's flyin' in what classes
My neck would get sore real fast trying to watch them. When I was a kid they had those kind of races in the Cleveland area. Mebbe 4I'd Buck knows if they still do
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Big kononies
His biggest fear while he was hiding was that command woud send an airstrike to get rid of the chopper. He got rescued by a patrol and back to the right side of the boarder.
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My neck would get sore real fast trying to watch them. When I was a kid they had those kind of races in the Cleveland area. Mebbe 4I'd Buck knows if they still do
Yes, that would happen to most spectators on the racecourse. Alot of us locals park along the road or can watch from thier own porches (my sister's place), I am seperated by a mountain range but within a few miles....I have the best view for the Balloon races. Still cool to see all the "air candy" pass above
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lR, They still have an Air Show over the Labor Day Weekend, but no races. ::)
67 and dark now, supposed to get into the low 50's tonight :o
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The racing has diminshed significantly over the years..we all know why sadly
We had a real battle here in Reno to bring them back...
Nice cool off just right for a good nite's sleep
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Making the rounds?
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/08/photos-b17-flying-fortress-out-spin
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We will have small air show over Labor Day weekend in Lancaster, Tx. I'll be over there on Sat., It starts about 10 am and lasts till after 4 pm. We will have a vintage car show also. I don't know how many Warbirds will be there. I hope it isn't too hot.
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I fell in love with the Broncos when I was in 'Nam.
Wouldn't it be great to own one and use it to fly to your high school reunion...and other places? Talk about one-upmanship. ;D
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Uh oh...this ain't good...
http://www.mynews4.com/news/local/story/NTSB-Air-Races-Reno/lfhRQOYvyEaeClWVrs6aaQ.cspx
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I fell in love with the Broncos when I was in 'Nam.
Wouldn't it be great to own one and use it to fly to your high school reunion...and other places? Talk about one-upmanship. ;D
Forty I knew there was a reason I liked you
I think they are considered STOL
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I am hoping that the CAF gets access to a Bronco someday. We have a small collection of Vietnam era aircraft at the CAF HQ in Midland, Tx.
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I think they are considered STOL
That would be perfect for his reunion. He could use the football field.
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Take down the goal posts at the open end of the field, though ::) :o :D
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They only need a short distance to take off and land.
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On my trips this year I realized something, I need to stop at a bunch of the small town airports and take pictures of the entrance, do you realize how many F-86 are sitting on poles at those?
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On my trips this year I realized something, I need to stop at a bunch of the small town airports and take pictures of the entrance, do you realize how many F-86 are sitting on poles at those?
I remember one in front of a VFW and also a school
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I'll volunteer MY yard to put an F-86 ... or ANY airplane on a pole ... any time any towns want to "modernize" their courthouse square by getting rid of a display craft. Heck, in one of the little towns not far from Indianapolis (Greencastle) they have a V-1 "Buzz Bomb" on the town square. Not many of those ANYwhere!
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1e/13_Greencastle_V-1.JPG
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They were made there? Make a hell of a cool lawn ornament. Better than a Jockey or Gnome or the the claymores I am using.
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You thinking about Alliance H.S., lR? They're the "Aviators". Know they've got a plane out front, but not sure which model now ::) ???
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They might also I think it was in some country school yard. I just remember my Dad stopping to look at it. Then us kids climbing up to look in the cockpit.
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Alliance is on the east side of our county, lR. IIRC, there was an Aviation High School somewhere in the Cleveburg area as well. Think the one in Alliance was an F-84 or an A-8 Crusader( A-7?). Not even sure if it's still there ::) ???
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At one time, Altus Oklahoma had a B-47 parked on their Main St. in the downtown area. There was an A-26 parked in front of the El Reno, Oklahoma VFW.
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I wonder where they are now.
I've always admired the looks of the B-47. It LOOKS faster than it ever really was. Looks like what happened if the engineers scaled up a sleek fighter and added a bomb bay. I also like the Jimmy Stewart movie where he's flying a B-47 - Strategic Air Command - which he did in real life. It has some good flying shots and more flying than the typical Hollyweird offerings, but not a great plot. They (back then [1955], especially) had to load the story down with some romantic junk. June Allyson is his "worrying" wife in this one. She's pretty easy on the eyes after all ...
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A lot of the flying stuff was stock footage from SAC. You can reconize Offut in some of them, look for the Missourie River. ;)
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They used Offutt and Carswell(Fort Worth) for the AF shots. I worked near Carswell at White Settlement PD before I went to work at Tarrant County. The movie was made about 53 and they had some B-36 shots as well.
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Follow up on the Memphis Belle. WWII vet takes a ride. Includes an interview.
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/08/wwii-vet-takes-flight-over-memory-lane
At the top of the page, click on the big, blue PilotOnline.com. That’ll take you to the front page. Scroll down a bit and off to the right you’ll see a related video. It should have been linked in the article but this is the “Pile It.” The staff ain’t real swift.
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Last year, over Labor Day, we have our annual Air Show in Lancaster, Texas. I was helping give walk-through tours of our B-24. A guy brought his father for a peel at the Bomber. His father was a tailgunner. His father, age 87, crawled through to the tailgunner position, where he flew. It was a pleasure to see this WW2 veteran, reliving his time as a crewman on a B-24.
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I'll volunteer MY yard to put an F-86 ... or ANY airplane on a pole ... any time any towns want to "modernize" their courthouse square by getting rid of a display craft. Heck, in one of the little towns not far from Indianapolis (Greencastle) they have a V-1 "Buzz Bomb" on the town square. Not many of those ANYwhere!
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1e/13_Greencastle_V-1.JPG
I swear the next day on Military Channel, one of the shows had a segment featuring the V1
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Those German rockets were so far advanced that the techology surpassed anthing the Allies had at that time.
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Arcey good story from the "Pile it" I'd would love a flight in the MB but the airfare is not listed on Travelocity. So it may have to wait till my Powerball retirement kicks in.
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Roo, If the Vintage Flight Museum still had "Chuckie", maybe I could have gotten you a discounted rate.
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Saw in the paper today that MAPS is holding a dedication ceremony this weekend for a Martin B-26 that they've been working on. It wasa one of three that crashed in British Columbia on their way to Alaska in 1942. Recovered in '77, two were cannibalized to make a flyer out one. they've been working on this one for years, making parts that were missing, etc.. This one was the 99th one made. ::)
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If they get it in flying condition, It will be the only Flying Martin B-26 in existence. The CAF had the only one for several years, until it crashed on a maintence flight near Midland, killing all on board.
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That was probably the one they cobbled together from parts of the other two, TLD. Article said that there only was one flying out of 5,000+ made during WW II. They had kind of a bad rep at first, widow-makers.
Not sure if they're going for a flyer or static with this one. It's short some of the plexiglass, nose and one gunner's position according to the article. It did say that there were some engines due in shortly, and they were getting ready to put it on it's landing gear ::)
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I don't where the CAF got "Caroline", but I know they had her for a long time. She had gone through a major overhaul and they were "slow timing" the engines. She went down near the CAF HQ in Midland, It has been about 10 years or maybe longer since it happened.
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Caroline was probably that ship, TLD. don't know if there's anymore in the resto pipeline or not. Too bad, it's combat record was exemplary. Losses due to enemy action were extremely low. Believe they called in Doolittle to solve the control problems with them and set operational perameters for them ::)
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That was probably the one they cobbled together from parts of the other two, TLD. Article said that there only was one flying out of 5,000+ made during WW II. They had kind of a bad rep at first, widow-makers.
Not sure if they're going for a flyer or static with this one. It's short some of the plexiglass, nose and one gunner's position according to the article. It did say that there were some engines due in shortly, and they were getting ready to put it on it's landing gear ::)
I believe the Hazy center got one on static display, don't know that it is air worthy
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The Martin bomber was nicknamed "Widowmaker". I lot of crews were killed.
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"Caroline" was not one of those three. The CAF purchsed it in 1967. The crash occured in Sept. 1995, with a crew of 5, all killed.
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Warm-ups are startin' for the Reno Air Races that begin tamarraw. Was over that way applyin' for a job..could hear 'em but was on the wrong side of the building to spot what it was...
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Miz Letty, I hope can come out to Reno to see the Air Races someday.
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Me three.
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You guys are welcome to come out any time!!!
They've apparently re-vamped the race course so they don't fly in so close to the stands...Pit boxes still remain on the tarmac though...those seats sell like hotcakes an' they never have trouble fillin' 'em up even after the disasterous crash of "the Ghost" :'(
Media was tryin' to hype all the dangers and revealed that 20 pilots have lost their lives here. Don't ask about how many lives are lost drag boat racing or any other type car race. Heck, drivin' to work on the fwy is hazarderous enuf but we still do it!!!
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I'm not talkin' 'bout air racin' here, but I believe I've heard that for every mile you can (or do) DRIVE safely - you can FLY 4,0000 miles safely.
Flying (and probably air racing) really IS safer than driving to work.
Of course, those are just the odds - 4000 to 1. IF I have the right figure. It may be MORE safe fly miles vs. drive miles.
Or less.
And the more ya drive or fly ...
Well, ya know .....
;)
Sometimes the odds DO catch up to ya!
But I'd sit in those pit box seats. To heck with odds!
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I would too. Just think they may have ta take a closer look at the experimental class. Prolly have now.
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Here's a schedule of events to come.....
http://www.rgj.com/article/20120913/EVENTS05/120912018/1459?nclick_check=1
Might do a "drive- by" the area to watch from the road this week-end
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The Reno Air Races are on my "Bucket List". We had a great turnout for our Air Show over the Labor Day weekend, even though it was HOT.
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FYI
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FYI
Proceed.
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opps...........................
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/09/take-ride-openair-biplane
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Thanks. I always wanted to do one a those rides but they innerfere with the rent money.
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That's not a bad price for a ride in the Stearman. I don't remember how much they charge for a ride in our Stearman, but I bet that it is more than $150.
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I'm with Leo.
But I'd pay it ... gladly!
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We are having problems with HQ in Midland over the airworthyness of our A-26. We have had pilots fly and give it an okay, However the Chief checkride pilot has not given his okay. We are stuck between a rock and a hard place. No fly, No rides, and no Air Shows. The saga continues.
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I'd do it too !!
Been up in a glider had a 45 min ride around the mountains, wished I'da takin' a Dramamine...turned a funny color green
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The way it's looking the Endevor will go right over my house Friday on the back a that jumbo at low altitude. I'll be looking up while drinkin ma Cawfee.
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The way it's looking the Endevor will go right over my house Friday on the back a that jumbo at low altitude. I'll be looking up while drinkin ma Cawfee.
I hope you get good look. The dicovery being shuttled here won't be forgotten in my life time
BTW ya can get a Stearman ride here for a buck n half. Slightly more if you want a barf bag ride.
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I hope you get good look. The dicovery being shuttled here won't be forgotten in my life time
The local escorts practiced this morning. I got a great picture of three contrails in formation and a forth going over them just like they said it would be. I gotta a really good view, now they just have to figure out when she's coming after the weather delay. I'll be up early enough to hear on the news.
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Cool!
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Nothing much but what I saw off my back porch.
(http://i1190.photobucket.com/albums/z449/tom293/sept2012024_zpsab1a0b71.jpg)
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Leo, now you need to enlighten us.
Which contrail was whut? I assume the shuttle is the thin one going from upper L to the center? What were the 3 local escorts?
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Leo, now you need to enlighten us.
Which contrail was whut? I assume the shuttle is the thin one going from upper L to the center? What were the 3 local escorts?
I can't answer that. This was the day before and the thing about the jets is you don't hear em til they're gone. I'm going to do some looking to see what all was playing up there. So far as I can tell they used my backyard for a practice run.
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What I can answer is no, that wasn't the shuttle plane and yes, that was some low flying. The sound alone was a thrill for me, they were haulin a$$.
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Leo, It's the price of Freedom. I prefer the sight and sound of a Pratt and Whitney radial engine warming with the fire and smoke.
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Looks like some "hangers on" from the Reno "gig" Leo. Pretty cool
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Leo, It's the price of Freedom. I prefer the sight and sound of a Pratt and Whitney radial engine warming with the fire and smoke.
But there is nothing like the Wright Cyclone.
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Leo, We got two of those Cyclones in our A-26.
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Well I see Tom Brocaw and some folks in LA are not to happy about Endevor. 400 trees seems like a small amount for History. Especially since it will generate Millions more$$$ in the community in replacement cost and tourism shares. Wake up liberals trees are replaceable.
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Well I see Tom Brocaw and some folks in LA are not to happy about Endevor. 400 trees seems like a small amount for History. Especially since it will generate Millions more$$$ in the community in replacement cost and tourism shares. Wake up liberals trees are replaceable.
I wish they had cut some a my trees down fer me. I mighta got a view.
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We gotta look out for those spotted owls too.
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Hate to report this. Hoping to generate some out-of-town prayers. This happening to anyone is an atrocity but vet’s have a place here. An old man and young cowards.
From the article; “Friends and family described Silva as an avid hunter and ‘walking naval historian.’ They said he was a Vietnam veteran, carrier pilot and catapult officer. At one point, he flew F-8U Crusaders, one family member said.”
The rest of it:
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/10/man-77-life-support-after-assault-airport
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Ditto!
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He is in my prayers. That is just terrible.
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More prayers to Mr. Silva.
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Prayers up from here.
On a happier note, found this on the local so called paper's website:
http://journalstar.com/news/local/military/the-army-that-saved-the-superfortress/article_d147dfc2-9ccf-5816-8e27-1f7610f0e6bf.html
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Del, That's a great story about the B-29. I happen to be a member of the Stretegic Air Museum group. I would love to see it in person. Maybe sometime then I come up there for a visit, can go out there and look it over.
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Well I see Tom Brocaw and some folks in LA are not to happy about Endevor. 400 trees seems like a small amount for History. Especially since it will generate Millions more$$$ in the community in replacement cost and tourism shares. Wake up liberals trees are replaceable.
Why does anyone care what Brocaw does or doesn't like?
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Why does anyone care what Brocaw does or doesn't like?
He's a robot programmed to hypnotize folks with his voice. He's put me to sleep many times.
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Del, That's a great story about the B-29. I happen to be a member of the Stretegic Air Museum group. I would love to see it in person. Maybe sometime then I come up there for a visit, can go out there and look it over.
I'd love to Tex, I've never went myself.
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He's a robot programmed to hypnotize folks with his voice. He's put me to sleep many times.
He needs to be put to sleep.
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He needs to be put to sleep.
Well maybe one a theese days he will talk just enough ta do it to himself. On national TV no less.
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Leo, They are having a big shindig at the Planes of Fame museum at Chino in a few days. They are going to fly the "Flying Wing" and the first American jet, the P-59.
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Leo, They are having a big shindig at the Planes of Fame museum at Chino in a few days. They are going to fly the "Flying Wing" and the first American jet, the P-59.
My grandfather worked for Northrop and had early scetches of the flying wing. I wish I still had them they was perty old.
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My mom worked for Northrop & Hughes.
She got laid off from Northrop in '69 and went to Hughes in '73, she retired from there in '94. She had "special BG clearances to curry the flight data from the jets testin' missiles. Mostly went to White Sands & Eggland. Most depts left So Cal & went to Tuscon, she opted to take an' early out.
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Miz Letty, My Dad was training at Eglin Field when Doolittle's Raiders were training for the Raid. After the Raid, the Raider outfit was reformed and transfered to the 12th Air Force and sent to North Africa in 42, along with with Dad.
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Lost one of my uncles in No. Africa during the war...ambush :(
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My dad was also stationed at Eglin, only in the early 50's he talked about Doolittle being there
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Hate to report this. Hoping to generate some out-of-town prayers. This happening to anyone is an atrocity but vet’s have a place here. An old man and young cowards.
From the article; “Friends and family described Silva as an avid hunter and ‘walking naval historian.’ They said he was a Vietnam veteran, carrier pilot and catapult officer. At one point, he flew F-8U Crusaders, one family member said.”
The rest of it:
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/10/man-77-life-support-after-assault-airport
after reading some of the comments, sounds as if protective Custody is where those punks asses need to be.
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It's amazing what you can do with a Louisville Slugger to the kneecaps.
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Whap!
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Somehow, I don't think one of those aluminum bats would do as good as a good old ash bat.
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Somehow, I don't think one of those aluminum bats would do as good as a good old ash bat.
Yep - but it'd STILL hurt like the devil!
And it'd make a weird sound, too! Gareth & Sam [Samantha] (my Son & youngest Daughter) both have custom bats their friends got them for a birthday present. It's a cool tour that you can do when in Louisville. Go to the Louisville Slugger factory - and if you get there at the right time you can even go to the top of the giant bat that stands at the front of the factory entrance.
:D
Or not ...
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This one isn’t about aircraft per se. I thought it a good but saddening read.
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/10/carrier-enterprise-makes-sentimental-journey
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One of my best memories is getting to board that carrier and tour it. Now I'm takin ma own sentimental journey, thank Arcey.
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Sad, but that's how they end up.Her predecessor should have been saved.According to the book I had on her, some of her scrapped steel ended up in another form in the new one. Well done, Enterprise! :-\
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I got to tour the Lexington at Corpus Christi several years ago. It is a WW2 Essex class carrier. I would like to tour the Big E before she is dismantled.
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Went I was on her she was still carrying Corsair II jets. I have to look into what became of them.
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Leo, They built those jets in Grand Prairie, as well as the WW2 Corsairs.
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The Navy retired them a few years back. The USAF also flew them while I was in but has retired all (or most) after I got out in '92.
The F7 Corsair II looked remarkably like the F8 Crusader, which is also known as "The Last Gunfighter," because it was the LAST fighter built with guns (20mm cannons) as its' planned primary weapons. Few F8s in Viet Nam SHOT down any Migs; most were taken with missiles, even on F8s. That too has been retired from Naval service for years. I don't think that the USAF ever flew F8s.
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Thanks for the info guys. Seeing those planes at 8 years old I fell in love just like ma Dad did with the original Corsair when he was young.
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Boy-oh-boy, I'm with ya there, Leo!
To this day, the planes my Dad liked are still (for the most part) MY favorites!
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Leo, SHB and my self love old airplanes as well as CAS shooting. I guess we inherited from our Dad's as well. I am able to carry on my love of Warbirds by being a member of the CAF.
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Leo, SHB and my self love old airplanes as well as CAS shooting. I guess we inherited from our Dad's as well. I am able to carry on my love of Warbirds by being a member of the CAF.
I wish I were closer to the CAF, 'specially one of the primary locations!
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I am lucky that I live near several of the CAF wings and I am able to see lots of Warbirds around here.
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VERY lucky!
I am lucky enough to live within 5 miles of the Mount Comfort airstrip. Once a year there is a big fly-in (big around here) and we see many of the planes and I especially like it when the Blue Angels or Thunderbirds are practicing. During their show, they occasionally fly near to my house and I get a good look, but most of their routines are further North of here. When we moved here in 1996 the main part of their turn-arounds were right over my house & pool, but since the neighborhoods have grown and expanded, they moved the majority of their flight plans over less-populated areas. We still see them, but now they're 6-7 miles away, rather than 500-1000 feet over my house! The same was for the Warbirds - I used to get GREAT close-up views of their undersides, but now it's only the occasional flight going in to or away from the airport.
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SHB, I live in D/FW's flight path, so I don't get to see the T-Birds or Blue Angels, unless I go to the AirShows.
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The Navy retired them a few years back. The USAF also flew them while I was in but has retired all (or most) after I got out in '92.
The F7 Corsair II looked remarkably like the F8 Crusader, which is also known as "The Last Gunfighter," because it was the LAST fighter built with guns (20mm cannons) as its' planned primary weapons. Few F8s in Viet Nam SHOT down any Migs; most were taken with missiles, even on F8s. That too has been retired from Naval service for years. I don't think that the USAF ever flew F8s.
Onlyiest one I seen were Navy or Marines. Funny in town the Corsair was honored. I was only there on a an official capacity I mind you. ::)
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Onlyiest one I seen were Navy or Marines. Funny in town the Corsair was honored. I was only there on a an official capacity I mind you. ::)
Right.
;D
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They are still building planes here for the military. I think they are still building C-17 transports here.
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Follow up.
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/10/77yearold-chesapeake-assault-victim-dies
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I hope that those hooligans get some serious jail time.
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Hate to report this. Hoping to generate some out-of-town prayers. This happening to anyone is an atrocity but vet’s have a place here. An old man and young cowards.
From the article; “Friends and family described Silva as an avid hunter and ‘walking naval historian.’ They said he was a Vietnam veteran, carrier pilot and catapult officer. At one point, he flew F-8U Crusaders, one family member said.”
The rest of it:
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/10/man-77-life-support-after-assault-airport
Any further word on how the old gent is doing? Did I miss an update?
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Forty, He passed away this week.
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Thanks. I looked right over your update, just plain missed it.
Did they ever catch those courageous young agents who attacked him?
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Someone's been charged with the beating, FR. I suspect with the gentleman's passing murder charges will soon be brought.
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I figger he will name his co-conspirators when the charge is MURDER. No honor among Criminals.
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I wish they'd hang.
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A tall tree and a short rope.
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As quoted from the Warning which announced the beginning of the Scarlet Mask Vigilance Committee, from which our Club's name was born: The Scarlet Mask Vigilance Society.
A short shrift and a hempen collar.
See the SMVS website, at the bottom of the page: http://www.scarletmaskvigilancesociety.com/index.htm (http://www.scarletmaskvigilancesociety.com/index.htm)
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Hang EM all, and GOD sort em out!
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LR, I just happened to go by the Grand Prairie airport yesterday. I finally got to see the Oscar Deuce up close and personal. It is painted black to represent the time it spent in Thailand. The new engine from Contiental has to be sent back to be retrofitted in order for it to be installed.
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We'Ve got a Veteran's Day planned for tomorrow at the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth. We'll have tours of the aircraft in the hangar and serve hot dogs and cokes to active duty and veterans that are present.
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Drink a Coke and bite a dog for me, Lil' Jimmy, please! I'm a Veteran as you know.
Oh - and admire those beautiful works of Aviation Technology some for me, too.
I KNOW you can do that, right, Pard?
;D
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SHB, The A-26 is experiencing some in-flight handling issues that need to be addressed. CAF HQ won't certify it to flu at any airshows.
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That's a shame. But better safe than sorry. Have I mentioned that the A-26 is one of my top favourite military twins?
(In no particular order)
A-26
F-7F
Mosquito
P-38
Beauties all!
And ya gotta love the B-25!
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The K model A-26 that is being restored by a private is nearly complete. It will br flyable soon. It will be neat to see the 2 A-26's flying together.
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The K model A-26 that is being restored by a private is nearly complete. It will br flyable soon. It will be neat to see the 2 A-26's flying together.
Awesome!
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Tex I'd like to see the O-2. I'm glad some survived the conflict
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LR, The lady that owns is the Adjuant of the A-26 squadron. She has owned it since 2000. It was restored by one of it's previous owners that lived in Florida. I plan on helping her with it after the new engine is installed and it is returned to flying status.
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You ever wonder how some are created?
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LR, Tou gotta love those A-10's. They is ugly and they fly slow, but they kick butt. At one time, they had a squadron of A-10's at Barksdale AFB in Louisana. They had another one at Tucson AZ. Chad Hennings, who played for the Cowboys, flew an A-10 in Desert Storm.
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The A-10 is designed to take a licking and and keep on ticking. A case of function over form ::)
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The A-10 is designed to take a licking and and keep on ticking. A case of function over form ::)
sort of like me
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LR, The A-10 proves that you don't have to be fast, pretty, or sleek to kick ASS!
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Indeed. But the Air Force doesn't "like" them BECAUSE they aren't fast, sleek, & sexy. But they won't "allow" the Army to take 'em over. It'd be cool to have an Army Air Corps again.
I can tell ya some 1st hand stories of A10s and their wonderful pilots. Suffice to say, I'm glad they're on OUR side!
In 1975, the old Soviet AF had received a pretty capable aircraft, too - the SU25 "Frogfoot" (our NATO code name). It carries a LOT of ordnance. It's also been continuously upgraded after the fall of USSR - one of a very few pieces of equipment. It's being sold, of course, to several countries, including Israel.
http://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/su25/
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SHB, I'd like ta see the USAAC up an running again. Somewhere in all the stuff my grandmother kept there is a blanket with the emblem stitched on to it.
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SHB, I bet you did see a lot of them, you might say that you had "ringside" seats at times.
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sort of like me
But your form is ugly and your function is doubtful to sporadic at best.
Oh wait, that's ME!
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Forty, That description fits a lot a lot of us old codgers.
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But your form is ugly and your function is doubtful to sporadic at best.
Oh wait, that's ME!
I shouldn't use your videos for training purposes?
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"Only the names have been changed to protect the innnocent"!
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Innocent?
In this place?
Surely you jest!
No, I'm not kidding and stop calling me Shirley!
::)
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SHB, I was just giving everyone the benefit of the doubt.
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SHB "this is ""Roger" go ahead"
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Alpha Romeo Foxtrot!
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Not guilty...Maybe,Innocent...Never ;D ;D ;D
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Major, Most of us around here, fall into thast catagory.
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Roger, Over.
Lost One, this is Lost Three. Are you LostTwo?
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Really? ;D
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Apparently you are ...
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SHB, My GPS don't work anymore and I don't have a map.
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Innocent?
In this place?
Surely you jest!
No, I'm not kidding and stop calling me Shirley!
::)
;D
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Forty, We all need to look after each other, there is safety in numbers.
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Forty, We all need to look after each other, there is safety in numbers.
who's leading this herd?
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0A5t5_O8hdA[/youtube]
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Inquiring minds wanna know!
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Forty, We all need to look after each other, there is safety in numbers.
In this crowd of cutthroats and brigands? (Brigands: not a word you hear much any more.) ::)
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In this crowd of cutthroats and brigands? (Brigands: not a word you hear much any more.) ::)
I'm more of a blagart.
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Leo, I've also be called a neer-do-well. I sorta like being called a cutthroat and a brigand.
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Leo, I've also be(en) called a neer-do-well. I sorta like being called a cutthroat and a brigand.
Yep. And I seem to be called an Old Fart a lot lately, especially after the (probable) gas explosion here in Indy. Natural gas seems to be the most likely culprit.
who's leading this herd?
We're all Bozos on THIS bus.
But brigands is cool too, 40 Rod!
I've been called a lot of names, but never a brigand.
Call me anything 'cept late for dinner, I always say.
;)
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Just don't call me Shirley.
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Shirley, I mean Leo, We need to be pirates to be considered as brigands. I could stand to miss a few meals at my age.
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;)
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ARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR! :) ;) :D ;D 8)
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Don't know if this has been posted,But saw it on another forum I frequent
FiFi's #2 engine went down and it's going to cost $250k to get her in the air again.
There's a donation page....just in case any of you guys want to help keep a piece of history flying. I'm going to chip in and forego some training to save on ammo.
So, if you'd like, here's the link to donate: http://www.keepfififlying.org/
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Major, I just happen to be a member of the B29/B24 Squadron and we have started a donation drive for the repairs. They are asking for a $29. donation. If we could get every CAF member to donate the $29, we could almost have the $250,000. You get a coin with "FIFI's" picture on it. On the behalf of the CAF, I wish to thank everyone that donates money for the engine repairs.
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The latest on Mr. Silva.
Friend remembers Chesapeake airport caretaker
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/12/friend-remembers-chesapeake-airport-caretaker
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sounds as if this punk is not giving up his friends
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LR, When he realizes that he is taking the "rap" for the other two perps, he may cry like a little girl. No honor among thieves!
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They're #*^%!<+= !!
(Contents cleaned up for Family viewing)
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If he’s guilty and convicted, perhaps those he’s protecting will keep his ATV well used for him. And, perhaps he’ll think fondly of them as he develops a deep, personal, long term relationship – with Elmo.
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When he gets out of prison, he'll be wearing a strap-less evening gown, kitten heels, and carrying a beaded handbag.
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Or a body bag.
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Leo, He would stand a better chance ending up in a body bag if he was a child molester. Real convicts don't like them.
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They're #*^%!<+= !!
(Contents cleaned up for Family viewing)
hold your tongue sir
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I'll BET you understood WHAT I called the low-life B_____d, even without the censoring!
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I'll BET you understood WHAT I called the low-life B_____d, even without the censoring!
I can name that tune in one note.........................
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I'm not as old as Mr. Silva. That being said, I'm not 30 anymore either. I remember my dad went out and bought a pocket piece when he retired because of a similur incident in Smalltown Indiana. Where he retired to. A gentleman was beaten to death over a few dollars worth of things in his home. 5 Years ago at end of the street a Older man ( little older than me) home on disability was also beaten by teenagers, when he awoke to them in his home. He was found dead by a friend who stopped by to see if he wanted to go to church. The punk son of bitches were caught a few days later. Now we support their exsistance, in one of the commonwealths penal insitutes. Where I hope Elmo is watching them.
I really don't worry alot but I see these teenagers, sex and race makes no difference. This is a mixed neighborhood. Wandering the streets aimlessly, all times of the day. Okay not so much at 0600. Generally anytime of the day afterwards. No jobs no insight to one, and little education to support one. No visable means of income, and the few parents I see interacting with them are just as bad. Few blocks away the parents and teenagers are out till way late :30 drinking in the rain on the front lawn. Empty's laying in the yard the following morning along with one or two of them in some instances. Yet the deputy wants to give me a traffic stop on private property for a 3rd break light. Then the law wonders why I am armed. ( I know the true reason behind the 23:00 traffic stop) Look around the kid walking up the street see's me pulled over and turns and dissappears into the dark. Yes I am armed and till 5 years ago I didn't think of hiding one to be reached in a hurry was nescessary. The teenager today is a fearful soul, do they scare me? I guess the answer is Hell Yes they do. I will remain armed and ready.
I hope and wish Mr. Silva got in a few good one of his own. I hope the little punk ass spills is guts on his buddies and they all get life. I don't send many prayers out but I send one to Mr. Silva, his family and his friends. I hope they heal from their loss soon. Sorry for the "Sheepdog rant"
rant off> now back to flying machines
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Rant understood and agreed:
(from) Another Sheepdog
Bring on the aircraft. Or a UMV to ... uh ... "find" that Langreder punk and his ATV pals and send a greeting to them ... preferably attached to the front of a laser-guided munition.
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Years ago, I thought nothing about going to a convienence store after midnight, unarmed. I don't go out late much anymore, but I carry one on my person and a pistol grip shotgun in the truck, out of sight. An armed teenager is more dangerous than an armed adult.
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Tex,I don't leave the house without 1 and usually 2 pistols on my person.Too many wannabee gangstas out there
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The neighborhood that we lived in years ago was bad. I still had a "take home" vehicle back then, so I didn't worry too much. Somebody left a stolen SUV, parked at the curb in front of my house. That was the last straw for me. We moved from Arlington to Grand Prairie, not that far in miles, but a better class of neighbors. I still go "heeled", but there's less danger where we live now.
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This airplane's been sitting there for some time. I remembered to catch it before I drove past the entrance to the airport. By the way, that’s the airport where Mr. Silva was attacked.
I checked with a retired pilot who shoots with us. It turned out he flew it when it was in service as a commuter airplane. She’s worn out past the present owners’ desire to restore it. It’s being parted out. As you can see, the engines are gone.
If anyone wants to try to ID it I’ll keep quiet. I didn’t have a clue. Sorry about the photo quality. It was foggy and that’s as close as I could get.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0105.jpg)
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0104.jpg)
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A-26?
-
Cs and Rs in military service. It isn’t a Douglas.
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Think'n Amelia Earhart..... Lockheed Electra.... ???
??? ??? Military # I couldn't guess... ??? ???
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It's a Lockeed "Lodestar" and the British called it a "Hudson.
-
Exact-a-mundo!
And a fine plane by all accounts.
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Arceys C and R C56 C57 C60 R50Navy
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Arceys C and R C56 C57 C60 R50Navy
Did some research'n my own selfff....
Lockheed Electra....... C-40 & R-30...... Navy: JO-1, JO-3, XJO-3
Lodestar based off the Electra.... Difference is size........ if ya get what Wikipedia is serve'n
Question is what rc is serve'n..... ???
jus looks like the plane Earhart was fly'n 'cept her's had engines without fuel....
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It's a Lodestar.
Virginia Ed said they had two and tore one up when it lost hydraulic pressure on landing years ago. A little aggravation was in his voice about that incident. He told me it was run into a ditch when it could have been “ground looped.” That one’s totally gone now.
They didn’t make all that many of the things. Seems sad that one’s going to seed.
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It's a Lodestar.
Virginia Ed said they had two and tore one up when it lost hydraulic pressure on landing years ago. A little aggravation was in his voice about that incident. He told me it was run into a ditch when it could have been “ground looped.” That one’s totally gone now.
They didn’t make all that many of the things. Seems sad that one’s going to seed.
There ya go! ;) ;) ;) ;)
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Our (CAF) Lockeed Lodestar was purchased from the DEA. It crash landed with a load of MJ aboard. Our A-26 was aquired the same way. It lost an engine near Amarillo and landed with product aboard(MJ) and abandaned. The Lodestar crashed out in West Texas, west of Midland. The Lodestar was originally designed as a 18 passenger airliner. My feelings are hurt that Arcey didn't take my word for identifying the airplane. The Lodestar was built after the Electra. Both were used as trainers. The English used them as bombers in the early part of WW2.
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"It's a Lodestar" was taking your word for it.
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I was an aircraft spotter in WW2, I've be lying about my age, I was really born in 1920.
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They called the bomber version a Hudson, IIRC. Brit's used most of them in RAF's Coastal Command for anti-sub work ::)
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I had mentioned earlier that the British called it a Hudson. The Hidson's were part of the Lend-Lease program between the US and Great Britain.
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Yessir ;)
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Just courious what engines were on that plane. Looks too small a fuselage fer Wrights.
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Leo, The early models had pratt&whitney 1200s and the latest ones had Wright 1820s.
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Thank ya I was thinkin a the Cyclones bein too heavy.
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Leo, We've got two of those 1820s on our A-26. You can see some pictures of it if you google CAF Invader Squadron.
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FYI
http://hamptonroads.com/2012/12/defense-airport-victim-pointed-rifle-fatal-assault
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That smells like CYA from the perps.
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The Vintage Flying Museum is taking on a new restoration project. They are in the process obtainng our first Heliocopter for the Museum. It is a CH-21B (Flying Banana). It in storage about 150 miles from Fort Worth. It have to be transported by flat bed. It will be reassembled inside our hangar and be on static display. No info on when it will arrive, Sometime in the next 2 months. They were used during the first part of the VietNam war, later replaced by the Shinook.
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I think most of the ones commenting got the ideal. He was told he was tresspassing why did he come back?
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I think most of the ones commenting got the ideal. He was told he was tresspassing why did he come back?
Because.
Assholes don't listen.
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That's true SHB, too many take a warning as a dare these days.
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Yeppir!
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+1 "Stupid Is As Stupid Does"!
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(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/Delmonico_1885/188752_10151312597224769_1339297678_n.jpg)
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Del, Santa is requalifying for his Air Refuel certification.
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A tanker of hot chocolate? ::)
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Liquid food supplement for the Reindeer.
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Liquid food supplement for the Reindeer.
Raineer ;D
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Raineer ;D
Haven't had that in years.
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Leo, I don't think they brew Rainier anymore.
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Leo, I don't think they brew Rainier anymore.
I hope not.
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I hope not.
Sounds like the voice of experience here.
And not real GOOD experience, either.
But hey - some people like Bud.
I prefer REAL bier. And ya don't find much of that in this country.
As the great Monty Python troop put it in one of their old sketches;
(Imagine a British accent while you read this)
Man#1) We find that your American beer tastes like making love in a canoe.
Man#2) OH? How's that?
Man#1) F...ing close to water!!!
Pardon any bad language alluded to ...
;D
Hope y'all had a great and Merry Christmas!
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SHB, I drink Bud Light, corona, Coors Light. I only had Raimer one time and it was on draught and cold. It wasn't bad.
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What I drink - because it's available around here - and what I PREFER are different.
;)
There's Coors Light in my fridge ... but it's mostly Miss Billie who drinks it. And not often a that!
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Heard tail that Rainier ran off with some floozy Artesian from Tumwater Falls, WA to Irwindale, California.
Suppose'n ya can find them there..... maybe best left alone..... ???
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Getting back to the subject of Aircraft, The Caf's B-29 is needing some engine repairs and we are asking for donations. For a donation of $29 you get a CAF B-29 coin.
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Heard tail that Rainier ran off with some floozy Artesian from Tumwater Falls, WA to Irwindale, California.
Suppose'n ya can find them there..... maybe best left alone..... ???
When I quit drinking thay had to sell out.
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Pop, can ya put up the donation info er a link?
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Sounds like the voice of experience here.
Worst one I ever drank was called Texas Pride, brewed in Sulfur Springs Texas, yes it had a hint of rotten eggs to it. :P
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Worst one I ever drank was called Texas Pride, brewed in Sulfur Springs Texas, yes it had a hint of rotten eggs to it. :P
:o :o
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Leo, The website is Keep FIFI Flying.
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Here's the link.
http://www.keepfififlying.org/ (http://www.keepfififlying.org/)
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Those $29. donations add up.
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Thanks, got it set aside fer the monthly bill payin. Let's keep that baby in the air.
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Thanks Leo, Iknow that FIFI will appreachiate it.
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Nose art.......
http://www.pin-up-girls.org/bomber-pin-up-girls.htm
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SMOKIN'!
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Is it warm in here? :o
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Is it warm in here? :o
lol
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Never shoulda banned it, I imagine it it did wonders fer morale.
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Some of the WW2 NoseArt was pretty creative. There is a coffee table book on WW2 NoseArt. We have a neat collection of Nose Art in the maintence hangar at the CAF HQ in Midland, Tx.
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They are supposed to have a couple of short flights for the A-26 today. I had to leave at noon. They had it hooked on the tug and were ready to pull it out of the hangar when I left.
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Didn't even get ta hear it fire? That musta been an important appointment ya had.
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Leo, I've been able to see it fly last fall and see and hear the engines run before Christmas. They have been working on it in preporation for the Air shows this spring. I am gonna be part of the ground crew for it at the Air Shows and at the Hangar. The pilots are being trained and when they are trained, the ground crew will be trained as well. I am really looking forward to it. I am going to contact Fort Worth Tent and Awning to get them to make a couple pair of bright Orange coveralls for me.
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Everything went well with the test flight Sat. They didn't make a second flight because it was getting dark. It has been a labor of love getting her back to flying status. The engine cowlings are red right now, they need to be yellow for the 8th Bomb Squadron. We have a page on Facebook with a few pictures.( CAF Invader Squadron).
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If the red cowls are still as shown on the F/B page, it's cool to look at, but to get it authentic to the 8th, change is understandable.
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SHB, It has been the plan all along to paint them yellow. When is was the "Spirit of Waco" the Bomb Squadron that it represented had red cowlings. After we got the plane, it was decided that the "Texas Special" would represent the 8th BS, whose cowlings are yellow. I haven't heard any timetable on changing the colors. I don't know if the painting will be done in house or sent out.
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I saw what was said on the website and it makes a lot of sense. First: get her airworthy, THEN do cosmetics.
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We've had problems with the landing gear and the flight controls. The CAF has an inapector that will check all the systems on the aircraft. He will determine whether or not the aircraft is airworthy and able to participate in Air Shows.
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Murder charge filed in death of 77-year-old veteran
http://hamptonroads.com/2013/01/murder-charge-filed-death-77yearold-veteran
FYI
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Let's hope some slimey defense attorney doesn't get him off on a technicality. I hope they all do time.
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The addition to the Vintage Flight Museum arrived on Friday. The"flying banana" is on loan to us by the Naval Air Museum in Penscola. It's gonna a lot work to put it back together. It will be inside on static display. I hope I get a chance to do a little work on it.
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The "Flying Banana" was the 1st hell-of-a-copter I remember learning about. They are kinda cool.
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SHB, This one will need a lot of TLC. It has spent too much time outside in the elements. I have not got to see it person. We have a Invader Squadron meeting in March and I will see it in person.
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Our maintence chief sent me an e-mail yesterday, asking for help in restoring the "banana" for static display. I am an old, retired cop that loves old aircraft. I will try and contribute some form of work on the copter.
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Good on ya, pard! I'd volunteer to help, but that drive everyday to get there then back home would wear me out!
;)
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The tires have rotted off it. We need to find used tires to put on it for the static display. The nose wheel is a different size than the other two wheels.
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We have a meeting on Sat. at the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth. The maintence chief will assign tasks for the volunteers to perform to restore the copter for static display.
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One of the guys at the Vintage Flight Museum has found a used tire for the nose wheel on the "Flying Banana". We still need at least 2 more tires for the main landing gear, and maybe one for the tail wheel.
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Leo, I didn't watch the race from the beginning. The Arizona Wing's B-17, "Sentmentel Journey" made the prerace flyover. Ot made me proud. I am now a Life Member in the CAF.
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Congrats Pop. Thought ya might like this clip.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7umIJj8UBo[/youtube]
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Leo, The military is doing away with fly overs and a lot of their military demonstrations due to budget cuts. This will really effect our Air Shows. I had DVR'd the race, so I got to see the fly over on the replay. I have been out to Thunderfield Field, where they keep "Sentimental Journey".
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I was eatin' lunch at the Grand Prairie Airport. I looked out the window and saw a Citation CJ4 taxi up. and 6 folks got out of it and came in to have lunch. That's a purdy fancy ride to go out and eat lunch. The new price on one of them is 9 Million bucks. Somebody has got some deep pockets.
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I could write a check for it ...
Of course, you'd better not drop that check before you get it cashed ... it might bounce back up and whop you on the nose!
;D
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SHB, Them planes is expensive. Several years ago, I saw an ad in Trade A Plane, A guy had a Hurricane that had seen action with RAF in Singapore. He only wanted 900,000 for it. It would made for a good investment.
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Yeah, Hurri's are kinda rare. Maybe rarer than Spits :o ::)
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Yep, I would like to have a Mosquito and a Spit as well.
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SHB, They have committed us to at least 3 air shows in the next few months. I just hope we can get er done. I've got one more payment on my Life membership with the CAF, I'll get a new 4-digit serial number, a big fancy plaque, a new set of metal wings and some other stuff. I will able to sign autographs at the Convention.
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I just found out today that the Air Museum out Arcey's way is getting a new Warbird, A Mosquito. It's being shipped from New Zealand.
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Wow, a plywood wonder! :o
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My Dad told me a story about a Mosquito he saw crash when he was in the Med during WW2. He was on the flight line watching this RAF Mosquito flying around and performing acrobatic maneavers. He put the plane into a steep dive and flew the plane right into the ocean. The plane broke up in a million pieces and the pilot was never found. Some much for wooden aircraft.
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TLD
Beg to disagree, but a lot of Mosquitos took a lot of battle damage and still returned home. The Spruce Goose showed that a humungous piece of tree could at least get airborne. Then there was the Bellanca Viking with it’s spruce spar and plywood wing covering that survived telephone poles and lake crashes (they do like to float). Just don’t drive them nose first into water!
Just keep them all away from tree borers and termites. ;D ::)
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Russ, I was talking about the one my Dad saw crash into the Med. It broke up in a bunch of pieces. Hitting the water at over 200 mph will do some serious damage to a wooden plane.
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Russ, I was talking about the one my Dad saw crash into the Med. It broke up in a bunch of pieces. Hitting the water at over 200 mph will do some serious damage to a wooden plane.
I doubt that a plane made of primarily aluminum (as were most during WWII) would've fared much better. One of them at 200 MPH straight down would leave bigger pieces, perhaps - but I'd bet there wouldn't much difference in the end result; i.e. - dead pilot & fragments.
Just sayin' ...
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I am sure they sent a boat out to search for the pilot, Dad didn't say anything about a search.
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Well, I got my special plaque and my Senior Wings in the mail, I am know a Life member of the CAF, #2918. SHB, I'll bring the stuff to the Convention. I know that you will appreciate it.
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Congrats! Se you there!
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I’ve been to the airport several times since I’ve posted last. There hasn’t been anything sitting outside. Winter time I guess. The hangar doors have been closed. I suppose they have Chuckie and the Junkers in newest hangar in the back.
This is running on the paper’s website this AM re: the Mosquito. Hit the link. Pictures are included of its arrival in pieces. Credit noted in the text.
Restored WWII Mosquito warplane lands in Pungo
By Margaret Matray
The Virginian-Pilot
© March 17, 2013
VIRGINIA BEACH
When Jerry Yagen first saw the photographs, he was not impressed.
The heap of decayed wood and crumbling parts didn't look like much, let alone a warplane.
During World War II, the wooden, twin-engine Mosquito was known for its speed, built by the British and used as a reconnaissance plane, a fighter and a bomber.
This particular Mosquito had fallen a long way since its prime. It had been used for scrap parts to repair equipment on a farm in western Canada, sitting outside for 40 years, left to withstand the elements.
Still, from those photos, Yagen saw potential. Necessary parts such as landing gear and instrument panels were still there, and pieces of remaining wing and fuselage could be used for measurements.
Yagen asked whether there was any hope of rebuilding it. Then he bought the pile of plane.
It would take eight years to put the Mosquito together again, but it is now airworthy, making it the only Mosquito in the world capable of flight today, Yagen said.
Last week, the plane arrived at its new, permanent home: the Military Aviation Museum in Pungo. The Mosquito, which flew about 25 hours in New Zealand, where it was rebuilt, will make its first flight for the American public in May at the museum's annual Warbirds Over the Beach Air Show.
"It looks magnificent," said Yagen, president of the museum. "It's sleek, fast looking, and when it passes overhead, it sounds like a pair of Spitfires flying in formation."
Yagen, who founded Tidewater Tech - now called Centura College - and the Aviation Institute of Maintenance schools, began collecting vintage warplanes in the mid-1990s. In the early 2000s he established the museum, which has become one of the largest collections of flying warplanes in the U.S.
Plans to bring a Mosquito to Virginia Beach began after Yagen finished working on another plane with Avspecs, a warbird and vintage aircraft restoration company in New Zealand.
Yagen asked Avspecs owner Warren Denholm what he wanted to work on next.
A Mosquito, he said.
"I laughed," Yagen said.
Mosquitoes weren't exactly easy to find, Yagen said. And getting one to fly would be even more improbable.
"Nobody had ever rebuilt one. It was so difficult," Yagen said, adding that a Mosquito is like the "Holy Grail" among vintage fighter planes.
At the onset of World War II, the British de Havilland Aircraft Company pitched an idea for a wooden warplane at a time when aluminum was in short supply, Yagen said. Nearly 8,000 were built during the war in England, Australia and Canada. Called the "Wooden Wonder," the plane was lauded for its speed and versatility.
But a wooden plane had little use after the war. The company sold the planes, and over time, the stressed plywood and animal glue holding parts together began to wear, Yagen said.
The most recent Mosquito capable of flight crashed in 1996 at an air show in England.
Denholm knew of a New Zealand woodworker, Glyn Powell, who knew of a Mosquito in Canada. Yagen flew him out to see it, and Powell took pictures of the messy pile.
The Mosquito was built in 1945 in a de Havilland factory in Toronto, Yagen said. It was used as a training plane but did not see action during the war.
The plane needed completely new construction, from a wooden body, engines and radios to hydraulic and electrical systems.
It took a worldwide search to find all the parts needed. The brakes were found in England, the prop spinners from a fence post in Canada, Yagen said. One of the seats came from Australia, via eBay.
Back in New Zealand, Powell was able to bend wood into a fuselage using molds he created from partial blueprints, Yagen said. He had created the molds years prior, when he helped build a non-flying Mosquito for a museum.
As word spread, people started contacting the team to offer plane parts.
"One by one, these pieces all came out of the woodwork," Yagen said.
The plane was painted with the marking of a New Zealand squadron that flew in a prison raid during World War II.
Yagen declined to say how much the project cost, other than to say it was "well over $1 million."
"It's priceless because it's one of a kind," he said.
After several tests flights, the Mosquito flew for the first time in public at the end of September, in front of a crowd of several thousand in New Zealand.
Taken apart and boxed into three shipping containers, the plane made a one-month journey to the U.S. by ship and truck.
When the pieces arrived at the museum's maintenance hangar Thursday, a crew unloaded the tail, engines, wing, fuselage and parts bundled in bubble wrap and cardboard. Two crew members with Avspecs, the New Zealand company, will arrive in several weeks to assemble the plane, which should take three to four weeks.
The Federal Aviation Administration is working with the museum to approve the plane for flight in the U.S., Yagen said.
Yagen said he hopes the Mosquito flies for years to come, and that the image of dark green and sea gray buzzing through the sky is something that sticks with those who see it.
"I'm saving a piece of history," he said.
Margaret Matray, 757-222-5150, margaret.matray@pilotonline.com
http://hamptonroads.com/2013/03/restored-wwii-mosquito-warplane-lands-pungo
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The Mosquito will be welcome addition to the Museum in Virginia. It will be first on the list of places to visit.
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Awesome!
Be still, my heart!
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I am hoping that Arcey can get us some pictures of it at some time/
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In the video of that Mossie there is a British-marked twin that I've never seen. Not flashy or famous, but it has that "Early RAF" look. Do you know what it is? I think it's the 1st aircraft shown. It's probably a "dive-bomber/recon/torpedo/transport/all-around-workhorse" type of aircraft. One of the ones that were seen everywhere back then but since they didn't have much "cool," few folks wanted to save them - and now most are gone forever.
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That Museum at Pungo has got some wonderful warbirds and it is a private collection. It's a place that I wanna see some time. We have a wonderful private collection/ museum in Addison Texas called the Cavanaugh Flight Museum. He has a great collection of planes from WW1 through VietNam era. The CAF hangars it's B-24 and B-29 over there.
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Tex, ya gotta clue who the Trojan Warbirds that did the fly over before the Nationwide race last night belong to?
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No sir, I do not. There are a lot of privately owned T-28s. I know that the CAF has at least one at HQ in Midland.
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Was just kinda curious. Don’t think they have three of ‘em at Pungo. Guess they could have met up somewhere.
I saw a single plane in the air when I was checkin’ on the farm stands Friday. Too far up for me to identify but it was headed north. The thought crossed my mind it could be headin’ for RIC. Heck, they could leave the museum, do it ‘n come home. Ain’t far in the air. Couple hundred miles.
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Since they have done away with the military fly overs, the private sector has taken over. The CAF will be more visible at these future fly overs during the NASCAR season.
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That's what I was thinkin', or hopin' for. I'm lookin' forward to seein' more of 'em.
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This may be of interest.
http://hamptonroads.com/2013/05/seven-decades-later-veterans-rekindle-wwii-friendship
B-17 veterans. God Bless them.
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When I rode out to check the produce stands, I heard this one before I saw it. He put on a right nice show. Here he was going back up the runway to take off again. With the angle of the sun I had a fit seeing the little screen on the camera. He did a couple touch 'n goes, some barrel rolls when he was away from the museum and he buzzed the parking lot, low, like a bat outta hell.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0155Mes_zps003cb531.jpg) (http://s521.photobucket.com/user/ArceySASS13901/media/IMG_0155Mes_zps003cb531.jpg.html)
They had several sitting out back.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0154_zps97845d36.jpg) (http://s521.photobucket.com/user/ArceySASS13901/media/IMG_0154_zps97845d36.jpg.html)
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0153St_zps9cbd2553.jpg) (http://s521.photobucket.com/user/ArceySASS13901/media/IMG_0153St_zps9cbd2553.jpg.html)
I brought this one closer with the software.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0156P-51_zpsaafece65.jpg) (http://s521.photobucket.com/user/ArceySASS13901/media/IMG_0156P-51_zpsaafece65.jpg.html)
I couldn't get a shot of the B-25 in the back ground. Went to the other end of the building to try but all I could see was the tail. Head on the Brit thing or whatever it is was in the way.
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The Brit thing is a Hawker Hurricane, Arcey. The one you saw flying is a Focke-Wulf 190 ::)
Nice pics, though ;)
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Nice job there Shutterbug
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Thank y’all for the kind words.
The Mustang’s heavily cropped. As is this one of the Hurricane. They’re from the same shot.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0154Brit_zpsb9b0fb23.jpg) (http://s521.photobucket.com/user/ArceySASS13901/media/IMG_0154Brit_zpsb9b0fb23.jpg.html)
Whatever the German thing is the pilot was having a Focken’ good time with it…………………
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Several years ago, a guy in Hawkins, Texas advertised a Hurricane for sale at $900,000 in TradeAPlane. The plane had seen a tion in Singapore I am curious to know whether it might be the same one at Lingo.
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http://hamptonroads.com/2013/05/photo-gallery-unique-wwii-plane-buzzing-again-va-beach-skies
The Mosquito's up and running. The page contains images and a short video.
I wish I knew the arrival time for the Lancaster. All I see is it'll be there this weekend.
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Arcey, Are they adding a Lancaster to the collection,,at Pungo? Lancaster in flying condition in the USA is a rarity. It will be a welcome addition to the collection.
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She’s just visiting from Canada. Warbirds Over the Beach is this weekend. They’ll have a few guests.
There’s a great chance of the biggest crowd the museum’s had yet. There’s no air show at Oceana this year because of the marxists in DC. They’re buying votes with the money.
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I have seen that one at the CAF AirSho in Midland, Texas. I also saw it at an Air Museum in Calgary.
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Like to see it myself. Thinking about going in this year. If I can park the station wagon on the Princess Anne Road end of the land bound vehicle parking field I can take a camp chair ‘n watch from there. I haven’t decided yet. Much depends on what happens between now and then.
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Arcey, Just remember to wear a hat and plenty of Sun block.
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Will do, thankee.
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I have had some skin cancers removed due to exposure to the sun. My Dad had part of the tip of his nose removed.
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The dermatologist has warned against exposure to the sun. Had one taken off my nose back in January. Bought a UV shirt just after. Long sleeved and large enough to cover the Glocks with the shirt tail out.
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Like this one but mine's white.
(http://scene7.samsclub.com/is/image/samsclub/0081392101181_A?$img_size_380x380$)
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That is a good idea. I wonder if they have them in big sizes? I had red hair when I was younger,but I still have the ruddy complexion. I have enough Cherokee in me that I do not burn easily.
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I was just down there, missed that Hurricane, etc. Did see the Storch fly. Weeks came out and told us a nice story about his B-17s. I loved that place.
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Their B-17, "Chuckie" came to the Museum at Pungo via the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth, of which I am a member.
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Their B-17, "Chuckie" came to the Museum at Pungo via the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth, of which I am a member.
I sthat teh static exhibit? He was talking about one he flew back. It was dmeolished in the hurricane.
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They flew "Chuckie" from Fort Worth to Pungo. I have not received any info on it being destroyed. I volunteer at the Vintage Flight Museum and I know "Chuckie" Hospers, the former owner. I am a Life Member of the CAF.
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Chuckie was alive and well just before noon this morning. She was sitting outside of the Fighter Factory when I was out checking the produce stands. She'll be in the air Saturday.
I didn't see a trace of the Lancaster, Tex. If it's there they've stuck it behind the German hangar or the factory.
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Thanks for the info on"Chuckie". I am glad she is okay. I have a strong attachment to that B-17.
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Rode past the museum. I could see ‘em in the air before I got there. Found a decent place off the road to park the station wagon. Got out ‘n crossed the road for a better view – it rains. Aggravating when you’re in it and look at the sky three miles towards Carolina and it’s a pretty, bright blue.
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Suppose I missed some of the fun yesterday. I was at the other end of the place. The fire department had to get a couple jumpers out of trees. As I understand it paratroopers were hung up in trees frequently in WWII. They must have been going for realism.
http://hamptonroads.com/2013/05/skydivers-rescued-trees-va-beach
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A bunch of the 101 and 82nd landed in trees on D-Day.
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I received my copy of Air and Space today. They have a two page, full color, picture of the Pungo Mosquito in flight. A real cool picture of a real cool airplane.
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Still waitin’ ta see her.
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I heard that the crate came through the Panama Canal on it's way to the east coast of Virginia.
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Turned into the museum’s entrance. We saw a bunch of stuff sitting out. There was a bit of activity around this one.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0159_zps5cb8cf47.jpg)
He climbed down and moved the ladder, there's a pilot in it. The ground crew manned the fire extinguishers and hooked up the battery cart.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0160_zps71e9b3ce.jpg)
She coughed a couple three times then fired. Note the exhaust.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0162_zps246d03af.jpg)
Taxiing towards the runway. Fat lady was wondering if he knew the wings were up.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0163_zpsd4dfd899.jpg)
Told her he must have heard her.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0165_zps82c3dd04.jpg)
East bound, heading down wind.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0167_zps1ad3167f.jpg)
Turned her west, nose into the wind.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0168_zpsc4fe0f1c.jpg)
Throttled up and moving.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0169_zps0e4cc29b.jpg)
The image is trimmed. But, the fact is, I'd put the station wagon's tailgate up and I was sitting on the bumper. The airplane wasn't much more than a hundred yards from me - if that. Note the tail wheel.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0170_zps1cd6ef9c.jpg)
Airborne.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0171_zpsb652afd2.jpg)
Off we go, into the wild blue yonder.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0172_zps914e97c4.jpg)
This is stretching it about as far as I can take it. She's still west bound, going away in this image. I heard one of the ground crew tell another he was going to do a fly-by. He did. I couldn't get it.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0173_zpsf120a188.jpg)
After that, we went across the road and bought some fruit and vegetables.
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That is a Corsair with the Jolly Roger squadron markings. The Jolly Rogers are tall around today.
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VF-84(Jolly Rogers) are inactive since 1995, the last airplane they flew was the F-14 Tomcat.
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You sure have some cool stuff near you, Arcey.
They had a big airshow at Columbia, Mo this weekend, but I had some schedual problems, couldn't go. They didn't have an F4U, but they have P-51, T-6(several) B-25, I think a couple of TBMs, a BT-13, plus the Dawn Patrol, they fly replica WW1 , several different Newports, Fokkers, some others. Maybe next year!
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PE, WE have a A-26, a B-25, and a C-47 in our hangar in Fort Worth.
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Thankee, PE. We were fortunate to get that one.
We'd see the Jolly Roger markings at Oceana occasionally. Guess the were visiting.
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I'd like to see that (or any) Corsair, both up close and flying. My dad did Aviation Ordinance on them, and AD Skyraiders on an escort carrier in the early 50's. It was during Korea, but he only operated in the Atlantic and Medeterrainean.
TLawdog, maybe I can get down that way again sometime, I thing the GAF Grand Muster is supposed to be at Lockheart, TX again for 2014. Do they do tours? I know the CAF in St Louis does, but I haven't had the opportunity to be intown on the days they do it. The B-25 and TBM at the Columbia show are based there, as well as some others I can't remember at the moment.
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One of my wife's teacher friends grew up as a military brat. Her father retired as a bird colonel in the Corps, he was a Marine aviator. He was one of the "Black Sheep". His name was Ed Shifflet and he broke "Pappy" Boyington' s leg. He passed away before I could meet him. I know he could have told some stories. Bill Jordan was another one of his USMC buddies. I have a autographed copy of "No Second Place Winner".
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Skyraiders were referred to as Spads back in 'Nam. they actually downed a couple Migs early on.
As far as the original WW I craft, they're all fascinating to me. Took some real sand to mix it up in those............Buck 8)
Howdy!
Buck, you are correct, 'tho I don't know WHY the Skyraider was called the SPAD, since there was a WWI biplane ALREADY called the SPAD. Eddie Rickenbacker made most (or all) of his 26 kills flying a SPAD. Doesn't matter - I wasn't there at the time to correct them, nor am I in charge of nicknaming airplanes.
However, I want to pass on this VERY cool thing I just heard about. About a week & a half ago, our NCOWS CAS Club, the Scarlet Mask Vigilance Society had a Saturday Work Day. One of our Original members, Robert "Chief Oldtimer" Browning and I were talking and the subject of airplanes came up. He said that before WWII (he's around 90 years young!) he was a pilot. I was surprised, 'cause while I wasn't sure what all he'd done in his long life, I was not aware that one of the things was as a pilot. So, I said innocently "What did'ya fly?" He said ... "A SPAD!!!" He continued on, saying "Our group down in Texas - where they had a lot of rice fields, had 3 old surplus SPADS that were converted to drop Sulfur Bug-Killer as cropdusters!" I'm tellin' ya, folks - I was flabbergasted! I didn't know that ANY SPADS had been converted to cropdusters, let alone one of the most famous aircraft of WWI! He's going to did around his house for the pictures he remembers, and I'll post 'em here if he finds them!
Just to think - - my 2 favorite hobby things in life: shootin' CAS and Flying-&-Airplanes rolled up in one location! We talked about planes and flight stories for about an hour after we were done with the Work Party!
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SHB, IT is neat to talk to those old timers. They always have a bunch of stories to tell.
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Yeppir!
On of his shorter stories was about one of the other guys who was "dusting" and (with the sulfur dust I mentioned - apparently even back then in 1940, DDT was already outlawed) raised his altitude up a little to get over a power line, but fingered the dust release lever a bit too soon - BEFORE he was all the way over the power line - and when the cloud of sulfur dust touched the live line - WHOOMP! Up in a smoky explosion!!! And what's MORE, that pilot managed to LAND what was left of the plane!!! Robert said he got out of the wreckage, walked away and never flew in an airplane again!
Cool story ... since it had a happy ending, that is!!!
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They called'em Spads because the main craft were jets by Viet Nam. The jet jocks used the term kinda derisively ::)
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They called'em Spads because the main craft were jets by Viet Nam. The jet jocks used the term kinda derisively ::)
I understand. As if they were "prehistoric" aircraft. (as if there were there such a thing, aside from the Flintstone version)
;)
I don't agree, but I do understand. The slightly more modern jet jockeys didn't like the A10 Lightning II "Warthog" when it came along because in spite of the fact that it IS jet powered, it doesn't have swept wings, so it isn't really "jet sexy!"
Gotta love those throttle jockeys!
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I would not say anything bad about the A-10, especially around Maj. CHAD Jennings. He flew one in the first Gulf War. He was a DT do the Cowboys and a graduate of the Air Force Academy.
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I like to see the A-10s go over here. They have a training range on Ft Leonard Wood, so they fly over my area frequently. I guess they are based at Whiteman AFB. Funny how quiet they are when flying directly toward you, I suppose you are probably well within his firing range by the time you hear him. Then you can really hear when he goes over and away. One time I was driving a tractor in the field, think I was disking, one went over.....lowwwww..... he came from directly behind me, I never heard him untill he was right on top of me. Then he "wagged" his wings as he went away. Good thing I wasn't an enemy tank....
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They also have squadrons at Davis-Monthan AFB in Tucson and Barksdale AFB in Louisana.
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Pony, You are absolutely right - they are very quiet until they're PAST you! And if you're the bad guy, it's too late and you'll likely NEVER hear them! Our M1 tanks were the same way, surprisingly. It's amazing that something SOOO big & heavy (nearly 70 tons and moving in excess of 40 mph) can fool you. If you hear ANYTHING at all, it's probably the eerie squeaking/screeching of the tracks moving at high speed and it can sound like it's ALL AROUND you! I've experienced it MANY times while on field problems when we had to dismount to simulate grunts. (Infantry) During many of those instances when Infantry guys have been with us on the same FTX (Field Training Exercise) they have remarked to us how fast we came up and over-ran them and how eerily quiet we were, especially at night. They thought we had surrounded them.
Suffice to say, I'm sure glad they're on OUR side!!! The A-10s, as WELL as our Grunts! Those Grunts can "sneak & peek" quietly very well, too! A-10s really impress us Tankers!
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SHB should know, he had lots of experience in the First Gulf War.
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Fortunately, I was on the CORRECT side with the A-10s! They played Hell with the loser Iraqis! Regular troops, Republican Guard ... no matter. They were all targets and those A-10s made the best of it!
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Yepper!
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Fortunately, I was on the CORRECT side with the A-10s! They played Hell with the loser Iraqis! Regular troops, Republican Guard ... no matter. They were all targets and those A-10s made the best of it!
That A-10 Warthog is my personal favorite with that tank kill'n 30mm 7 bbl Gatling Cannon....too bad the gun's a General Electric product.... :-\ :-\ :-\
Have you folks seen this?
(http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx10/yeti76620/A-10areBorn_zps554c8a97.jpg) (http://s736.photobucket.com/user/yeti76620/media/A-10areBorn_zps554c8a97.jpg.html)
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Was here the other week:
(http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx10/yeti76620/CASTBuckleyAirForceBase003_zps620d09ef.jpg) (http://s736.photobucket.com/user/yeti76620/media/CASTBuckleyAirForceBase003_zps620d09ef.jpg.html)
Deliver'n this:
(http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx10/yeti76620/CASTBuckleyAirForceBase005_zpsc5cf18f0.jpg) (http://s736.photobucket.com/user/yeti76620/media/CASTBuckleyAirForceBase005_zpsc5cf18f0.jpg.html)
Seen this:
(http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx10/yeti76620/CASTBuckleyAirForceBase001_zps0475e009.jpg) (http://s736.photobucket.com/user/yeti76620/media/CASTBuckleyAirForceBase001_zps0475e009.jpg.html)
I know they're try'n but I hope the A-10 does not become a center piece of a flower bed.... :'(
;)
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That's what you call piggy back, USAF style! They should be able to fit at least 2 , nose to tail in that C5A.
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someday an A-10 will be planted next to a Flag pole. Till then I hope they have the life span of the B-52
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someday an A-10 will be planted next to a Flag pole. Till then I hope they have the life span of the B-52
Hear Hear!
8) 8) 8) 8)
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Hear Hear!
8) 8) 8) 8)
btw that man hole is going to have a hard right turn
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btw that man hole is going to have a hard right turn
RIGHT! :o.....lol...I know what you mean...I just deliver that RCP stuff [reinforce concrete pipe] do not get to see much of it get buried...Hopefully it's at the top of the grade with a grated cover for the 100 year flood to breath! It would be one heck of a plug at grade bottom....Pretty sure that there will be a bunch of blacktop for that 4' dia pipe to catch run-off.....first they're pulling a bunch of asbestos contaminated soil from that lot on the Air Force base....another cool thing to watch....45 foot side-dumps with condoms, people in "suits & full face respirators".... :D :D
Got me wondering what was going on in that section of Buckley AFB as it's been an empty field (buffer zone) between the Base and John Q. Public for decades to have large patches of asbestos contamination.... ???
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That A-10 Warthog is my personal favorite with that tank kill'n 30mm 7 bbl Gatling Cannon....too bad the gun's a General Electric product.... :-\ :-\
Yeti, perhaps you can think of it this way: Dr. Gatling, a Dentist from Indianapolis invented it. GE just copies his design somewhat modernized. Maybe Dillon Aero could work their magic on it like the did the Mini-Gun, also a GE product, if I'm not mistaken. Works real good, now!
Altho' I haven't heard about problems with the 30mm GAU like I did the Mini-G.
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We got the CH-21B in the Hangar this weekend. It had not been in a hangar in almost 50 years. The restoration will begin shortly.
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.....first they're pulling a bunch of asbestos contaminated soil from that lot on the Air Force base....another cool thing to watch....45 foot side-dumps with condoms, people in "suits & full face respirators".... :D :D
Got me wondering what was going on in that section of Buckley AFB as it's been an empty field (buffer zone) between the Base and John Q. Public for decades to have large patches of asbestos contamination.... ???
Since I was in the Air Force and spent much time on the Tarmacs I really don't want to know.
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Brake dust and pieces of the brake material??
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I was around our garage and radiator shop till I was in college. I am guessing that I will develop symptoms related to exposure to asbestos.
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I figger I'm past 61, nearly 62 so I ain't gonna worry much about it. I'll prob'ly kick the bucket long before that asbestos brake dust, asbestos tank heater insulation, and other asbestos-related crap develops into meso-whutthe-heckia. I got enough issues right now that them sawbones couldn't tell iffn sumthin' new comes around.
;)
'Course, I'd rather NOT have them issues in the 1st place!
I haven't yet had a chance to fly in ever'thin' I wanted to! If some AT-6 or an SNJ (Navy AT-6) comes to town to take rides an' I can shoehorn my fat arse into one of the seats, I'm gonna be sorely tempted! (Or it could be a twin-control biplane like a Stearman, or maybe a Mosquito ... well, you know.) I'm goin' UP!
I gave up on a ride in a twin-seat P-51 back about 17 or 18 YEARS ago when we were at one of the Kissimmee airports and they had "10-20 min." (guaranteed!) rides fer ONLY $1500! A bit rich for my blood. Or bloody pocketbook, as the case may be.
;D
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I gave up on a ride in a twin-seat P-51 back about 17 or 18 YEARS ago when we were at one of the Kissimmee airports and they had "10-20 min." (guaranteed!) rides fer ONLY $1500! A bit rich for my blood. Or bloody pocketbook, as the case may be.
62 come the end of September mywonself. Certain items of walkin' scenery convinces me I was born too soon.
Thinkin' the price keeps the riff-raff out. Soon, the federals will decide that isn't fair 'n subsidize the experience for the needy. Similar to free electronics. We ain't the 'needy.'
For the askin' price of a thirty minute ride I can find 'n buy an old Smith, slick it up 'n ring a lot of steel with it.
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Right, Arcey!
But I'd remember the ride long after (or until) the Smith gets traded, sold, or I pass.
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Hell, my memory'd probably rust before the gun does. Wish ya better luck.
I’m pretty sure I remember how to get a Cessna in the air. I know I can put it down. I have no idea what kinda shape it or me’ll be in after that. I remember gravity works from other activities.
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"Any landing you can walk away from is a good landing" says the old Pilot's Axiom.
I feel the same about my lessons in a Cherokee 140 or 180. I'm sure I could do a thorough pre-flight and get it off the ground and fly around. Landing, on the other hand ... Like you, I KNOW I'd get it down. One way or another.
It's kinda like old Bill Dana used to say in his Jose' Jimenez's "The Astronaut" hilarious comedic skits.
Asked about landing by the Interviewer, Jose' replies; (In his dialect, of course) "I am going to be landing in Nevava - in de state of Nevava. I am conveenced that they will get me back to earth ... ... just ... how far into eet? That's what I'm not conveenced about !!"
(Interviewer asks;) "Surely they've made some provisions to break your fall ?!!"
(Jose') "To break my Fall ?? Chure ... Nevava !"
[Nevava = Nevada; conveenced = convinced. For those who might not unnerstan' waaay south of the Rio Grande dialects - ;)
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Ain't thought of Bill Dana in a long time. Thanks for that.
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Glad to help. Now, I have to make a last minute munchies run before I head out to the NCOWS 2013 National Shoot. I'll be talking a lot of airplanes with our own aviation enthusiast Jimmy "Texas Lawdog" Reed while there!
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Have ya a memorable time. One with a pile of fun in it.
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I went over to the Manassas Airport last week to look at Fifi, it was $600 for a ride in her. I am sure it is an experiance of a life time. But way to rich for my experiances :o
I always said you give me enough runway I can get a light plane off the ground someone else better land it.
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I figger I'm past 61, nearly 62 so I ain't gonna worry much about it. I'll prob'ly kick the bucket long before that asbestos brake dust, asbestos tank heater insulation, and other asbestos-related crap develops into meso-whutthe-heckia. I got enough issues right now that them sawbones couldn't tell iffn sumthin' new comes around.
;)
'Course, I'd rather NOT have them issues in the 1st place!
I haven't yet had a chance to fly in ever'thin' I wanted to! If some AT-6 or an SNJ (Navy AT-6) comes to town to take rides an' I can shoehorn my fat arse into one of the seats, I'm gonna be sorely tempted! (Or it could be a twin-control biplane like a Stearman, or maybe a Mosquito ... well, you know.) I'm goin' UP!
I gave up on a ride in a twin-seat P-51 back about 17 or 18 YEARS ago when we were at one of the Kissimmee airports and they had "10-20 min." (guaranteed!) rides fer ONLY $1500! A bit rich for my blood. Or bloody pocketbook, as the case may be.
;D
Jeff. it's a might more $$$ these days P-51 Mustang $3,250 an hour ($700 an hour for the T-6 Texan).
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SHB and I did have a great visit at the National Shoot. The weather was hot and muggy. The restoration on the "Flying Banana" is coming along along fine.
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Indeed! My guns shot better than I can, the weather was pretty good ('tho the sun & humid-idity was more than uncomfortable for ME) and I had a great friend to pass the time with. My wife woulda listened to about 2 minutes of mine & Tex LD's conversation and said: "You two are like a couple old hens. Do you guys EVER talk about ANYTHING besides airplanes & guns???!!!????"
;D
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We did talk a lot about guns, old planes, and tanks. We had a good visit. We live too far apart to see each other very often. We keep in touch by phone and internet. We have a lot of interests together and always have a good time being together. Jeff is a good friend.
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Any one who is interested in flying on a Ford Tri Motor can go here to see where they will be over the summer,Only $75 the day of the flight...
http://www.airventuremuseum.org/fordtrimotor/
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Major, That is a reasonable price for a ride. I wish they were nearer to my home. I would book a ride.
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Jeff. it's a might more $$$ these days P-51 Mustang $3,250 an hour ($700 an hour for the T-6 Texan).
Looks like I'll NOT be going in the immediate future!
:(
:'(
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SHB, When I win the lottery, We can book rides as much as we want.
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SHB, When I win the lottery, We can book rides as much as we want.
Awesome! Thanks!
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Fifi and a Mustang are in Akron at the moment. Saw a blurb on the news tonight. She's at Akron Municipal airport which is next to the Goodyear blimp dock ::)
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The P-51 is probably "Gun Fighter", which usually travels with "FIFI".
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Had a parade and concert at the East Sparta homecoming last night. Since I don't march, I waited at the band stand for them to get done on the route. While waiting, i checked in at the American Legion's tent for a while. There was an old fella sitting behind the table with an aircraft pin on his cover. Asked him if it was an F-6 and he said yes, he flew them off the Antietam during WW II. He also had some time in SBD's and FM-2's. That made my night! An honest to gosh Hellcat pilot! I thanked him for his service and got to shake his hand ;)
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Those WW 2 vets are getting fewer every day. It is great that you were able to visit with one.
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So are wing walkers.
20130623/US--Air.Show.Crash/
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Roo, Wing walkers are an endangered species.
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Such a shame. Wasn't the plane a Stinson? They stay flying pretty well, normally.
Prayers go out for the wing-walker & pilot and their families.
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Jeffi it i believe was 450 hp Sternan. It has flown over ranchero del paradize on many of Sundays.. Ms Wickers I believed owned it.
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The AP article I read identified the airplane as a “450 HP Stearmans," registered to her. I believe that’s one S too many but ennyways.
The vid is no fun ta watch.
I couldn't help but remember the docent walkin’ Tom ‘n me thru the museum sayin’ the pilots didn’t like flyin’ theirs because of its relative instability. But as I admonish myself 'n others – regularly, about many things – don’t base an opinion one recent event. They’re frequently flown 'n the woman had pulled the same stunt before without incident.
Thinkin’ it’s goin’ to end up judged pilot error.
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Most likely.
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However it turns out, it's a dang shame.
Actually, when I typed "Stinson," I MEANT "Stearman." ;)
And yes, Arcey - there's only ONE "S" in Stearman ... unless yer talking 'bout a gaggle of 'em! ;D
I'm actually puzzled by the comment you mentioned from the docent regarding:
"I couldn't help but remember the docent walkin’ Tom ‘n me thru the museum sayin’ the pilots didn’t like flyin’ theirs because of its relative instability. But as I admonish myself 'n others – regularly, about many things – don’t base an opinion one recent event."
And Arcey, you ARE also right on about the one opinion from the docent. The Stearman was the Primary flight trainer before (and perhaps DURING WWII. I have heard that it is a "sweertheart" to fly. I would seriously doubt that the Military (US Army Air Force & US Navy) would choose a plane that was "relatively unstable" as a training plane! But!!! Stranger things HAVE happened!
But like the docent's comment, that's MY opinion - based primarily on my Dad's comments as well as those of other "old timey pilots" regarding learning to fly back when he was still alive.
Still a terrible shame to lose TWO lives, not to mention a classic and VERY valuable aircraft ...
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If it’s too good to be true, it is.
Gentlemen, with regrets, I humbly and sadly report:
http://hamptonroads.com/2013/06/va-beach-museum-owner-selling-plane-collection
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Boy that's ashame
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Yep. But we had it for awhile.
R Clarence left a comment. Y'all made the paper.
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Oh, man! There goes your photo ops, Arcey. :-\ :(
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The Stearman was the Primary flight trainer before (and perhaps DURING WWII. I have heard that it is a "sweertheart" to fly.
SHB, perhaps the 450hp conversion was what made it less stable.
I talked to a vet on my route, he trained pilots in a Stearman during WW2, I forget where he was based at, but near the Mississippi river. They had a kind of unwritten rule among them, whenever they crossed the river, they crossed inverted.
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I just heard that "Chuckie" had been sold to a collection in Oregon. I hate that I am not going to see the Museum at Pungo.
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Well, DANG It, anyway!
I'm not totally surprised, however that these things happen. The economy sure puts a hurt on everything, and having & restoring
airplanes is a VERY, VERY expen$ive undertaking. Look what it costs for a ride in one ... just like we were talking about just a few days or a "week-er-2" ago!
I just hope that his planes & equipment go to "good homes," so to speak. Much like a beloved dog or other pet.
It's getting near to the time when simply restoring and keeping an airplane on display is too costly - let alone keeping one in flying condition! Those old planes (warplanes, that is - NOT civil craft) were only meant to be "used & abused" then $hit-canned after some combat ... they weren't made to fly for decades. It shows how great some of these collectors really ARE, to be able to invite the public in to see their "toys" and things of that nature.
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I see Mr. Clarence the cumugeron(sp) that he is, has a few thumbs up on hisself now.
I agree Jeffi
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Proudly, the gentleman racked up a few more
dissin' givin' the good mayor of our fair city some advice on another topic too.
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It is a shame that the collection has to be sold off.
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It is a shame that the collection has to be sold off.
Yep.
Isn't it such a shame? All your (and my) life, my parents kept saying "money isn't everything." Well, it seems that money IS what rules so many things in our lives!
If I had the money, I'd sure keep at least one old Warbird flying!
AFTER I win the Lottery, of course ...
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Jeff, We sure could put a lot of that lottery money in circulation.
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RIGHT!
I said that (about the Lottery, but then something else dawned on me.
Don't ya have to buy a ticket to actually WIN?
;)
;)
;D
Might be WHY I never seem to win!
:o
::)
::)
::)
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A ticket would help win.
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The latest on Pungo:
http://hamptonroads.com/2013/06/virginia-beach-museum-may-have-sell-planes
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We need to go visit there again Arcey!
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It has been confirmed that the B-17 and the FW-190 have been sold to a collection in Oregon.
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It has been confirmed that the B-17 and the FW-190 have been sold to a collection in Oregon.
Glad I had the opportunity to see the B17-
Sounds as they still have quite a inventory of planes on hand.
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I got to spend a lot of time with the B-17 when it was in Fort Worth.
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We need to go visit there again Arcey!
'Spect so...
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I heard the Mosquito had been sold to a private collector.
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Here's one for the P-51 Mustang "Ain't Misbehaving"
http://player.vimeo.com/video/36034351
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The p-51 will always be an icon of WW2, just like the b-17.
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The Corsair and Mustang aren't usually housed together in the Navy end as you see here. There wasn't anything sitting outside.
A new sign is posted at the road leading to the Fighter Factory. Black on White and leaves no doubt they don't want anyone riding back there. The front parking lot was full with a few cars in the overflow across the road. The parking from where I took the shot only had one in it.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0204_zpsa02011d3.jpg?t=1373310246)
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I sure hope that they can retain some of the collection at Pungo.
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We'll see what the future brings. I was glad to see those two.
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Arcey, I may try and fly out there next year, before it gets hot. They built Corsairs here in Grand Prairie during and after WW2. That and the fact that one of Moose's girlfriends father was a "Black Sheep". some of the Corsairs had four blade propellers on them instead of a three blade propeller.
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Come hungry.
(https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/p480x480/969144_10151611523274883_1204913020_n.jpg)
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Pizza and ice cream sounds good. Plenty of hot dogs as well.
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No time for a photo, was passing by Whiteman AFB on the way to the Dept of the Missouri Muster in Nebraska, caught a glimpse of a B-2, apparently coming in for a landing. Probably nothing special to those who live near there, but I never seen one before.
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White man AFB ia one of the few B-2.outfits, you were lucky to see one.
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Arcey, I may try and fly out there next year, before it gets hot. They built Corsairs here in Grand Prairie during and after WW2. That and the fact that one of Moose's girlfriends father was a "Black Sheep". some of the Corsairs had four blade propellers on them instead of a three blade propeller.
The first Corsairs off the lines had 3-bladed props, the last had 4. The 4 bladed props & engine were the same as on the B-29 and had a huge diameter - which is why the wings were bent. The designers knew they were getting a big engine with a huge prop and also knew that the landing gear would have to be so long that they wouldn't handle carrier landings well. Voila - bend the wings!
Solved both issues ... and then the Navy hardly flew them off carriers 'til the end of the War and then later in Korea.
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I wish that I could have met Ed Shifflet. I know he had a bunch of stories about his time as a "Black Sheep". He was a PM, a Shriner, and a Red Hat in the Scottish Rite.
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I know that name. Shifflet helped make history.
I, too would have loved to meet him.
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Ed broke "Pappy's" leg, during a wrestling match at the Officer 's Club. Bill Jordan was another of Ed's Marine Corps buddies. I have an autographed copy of his book, "No Second Place".
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Cool!
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Ed's daughter, Evelyn did know how famous Bill really was. She knew him as,"Tex" and not as Bill. I got to know Ed's wife, Martha real well. She was a real "hoot".
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They had a 2 day air show at Chino on May 4-5. They had 5 of the 6 P -38s did a flyover during the air show. There are only 6 fly able P-38 in existence.
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What a sight it must've been!
Was "Glacier Gal" one of them?
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SHB, I did not get a list of the planes.
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"Thoughts of Midnite", "HoneyBunny", "23 Skidoo", "Tangerine", and "Glacier Girl".
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Cool! "Glacier Gal" is one of the early versions. You can see a difference looking at the engine cowling right under the prop spinner. I THINK the planes with "G.G." are the only ones surviving of the early models. (I say the ones WITH "G.G." because it's my understanding that it's being attempted to get a couple MORE from that glacier, but I don't know if that continues.)
LOTS'o'Bucks involved ...
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CAF had a P-38 at one time, I have not seen it in nears. It was configured as one of the photo recon models, I saw it crash land in Breckenridge several years ago, nothing since then.
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I LOVE P-38s.
Of course, I could say the same about P-51s, Spitfires, Tigercats, Mosquitoes, Hellcats, Fokker D-VIIs, A-26s, F-86s, Twin Beeches, Bearcats, and many other flying machines.
;D
One of our SMVS (Scarlet Mask Vigilance Society - our NCOWS Olde West shooting & re-enacting club) members, Mr. Robert "Chief Oldtimer" Browning, was - I just found out - a former pilot. Back in 1940 he was 16 and began a short career (just a couple years) as a crop duster down Texas way. He said that at the time, DDT was not legal to use as a bug killing chemical so they used powdered sulfur. Take a guess what plane they used!?!
Give up?
SPADs! The guy he worked for had a bunch of wrecks (an acre & a half!!) along with 4 or 5 flying SPADs. The wrecks were all types, not just SPADs, but he bought them surplus from Uncle Sam. Many folks may not know that after WWI the US Army Air Corps used SPADs they had purchased from France into the 1920s. Captured Fokker D-VIIs and a few D-VIIIs (not many D-VIIIs were built by the end of the war - fortunately for the Allies!) were also used by our early pilots.
He (Bob) is very interesting to listen to because he has a great memory and despite his age, he's still pretty active, including shooting most of our monthly matches as well as some SASS matches. After he passed 18, he joined the Army and began his flight training to be a pilot, but about 3 or 4 weeks into training, they found out he was mostly deaf in his Left ear so they said "Bye." He didn't even have to turn in his uniforms when they released him from service. Needless to say, he was disappointed as well as a little pi$$ed, so he went out to a field in California (where they released him) with his duffel bag full of uniforms and set fire to them! ;)
Bob said the SPAD was pretty easy to fly, as were several other biplanes he flew during his " 'Duster" career. The only plane he ever owned was a Stinson L-5 he bought after WWII.
It was cool finding all about this guy's other life "back when." He'll be 85 his next Birthday. Great Guy!
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Those WW2 vets are neat to talk to. The B-29/B-24 squadron has a WW2 vet, that was a fighter pilot. He was a member of the "Eagle" squadron before the US entered the War. His name is Bob, I cannot remember his last name. He flew Mustangs and P-47s. Bob was 93 on his last birthday. He is still sharp.
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My friend Bob WISHES he was a WWII vet. He joined, got thru induction and past the first few training flights before the "Docs" found out he was deaf in one ear.
Disappointed is a good way to describe his feelings about the issue.
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"Glacier Girl" is owned by a guy from Houston.
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TL,here's a plane the CAF should look into acquiring...
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2013/07/16/original-air-force-one-stuck-in-arizona-desert/?intcmp=obnetwork
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rgzAnrI6Bw
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The "Connie" would need to be painted in a USAF. MATS markings to be considered.
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The Dixie wing of the CAF is restoring P-63 Cobra. It should not be too long until it will be flying again. Congrats to the Dixie Wing for restoring such a rare Warbird.
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Airshow at Lake of the Ozarks today, not a real big show compared to some, but only the third annual one.
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A few more:
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Texas Lawdog may be familiar with some of these planes, I'm sure they make some of the shows down his way. The AC47, and Gunfighter P-51 are out of Kansas, I believe the TBM is from the Missouri CAF. The B-25 that was scheduled at first couldn't make it due to engine problems. Couldn't afford a ride on Gunfighter, it runs $1650 a ride, and his available rides were sold out before the airshow even began. Unfortunately at the moment, I was too broke to go for a $150 Stearman or $180 PT-19 ride. Local bank along with several other local businesses sponsored rides for local WWII and Korea vets in the AC-47 and TBM, I think 16 rides, had a drawing to choose who got to go. Usually they do that in the B-25. Also had several Pitts doing aerobatic shows, and a group of (I think) 6 doing some formation flying, with 2 or 3 different types of small civilian planes I'm not familiar with.
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The B-25 on tour is "Made In The Shade". The P-51, "Gunfighter" Usually tours with "FIFI", our B-29. The job of keeping these 70 year old aircraft is a expensive and difficult one at best. These aircraft require constant maintence. I am a Life member and I belong to three squadrons. The CAF is my first love and CAS, being my second love.
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Nice show. Thanks for the images, PE. Enjoyed 'em.
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The B-25 on tour is "Made In The Shade". The P-51, "Gunfighter" Usually tours with "FIFI", our B-29. The job of keeping these 70 year old aircraft is a expensive and difficult one at best. These aircraft require constant maintence. I am a Life member and I belong to three squadrons. The CAF is my first love and CAS, being my second love.
Missouri's B-25 is named "Show Me", can't get a B-29 or even a B-17 in here, but they're talking about extending the runway to 5000 feet in the next year or two, that's the holdup on getting any four engines in here.
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The B-25 is my favorite. My Dad flew B-25s in WW2, 12thAF, 57th BW, 310BG, 428BS. He was in. Pilot training when the War started. He served in North Africa and the entire Med. He was overseas from 42-45.
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Kinda miffed.
Took the fat lady out to Pungo ta get a few things from the produce stands. Kept seein’ car show signs. Hit downtown Pungo ‘n there was an early fifties Chevrolet flat bed with a big sign in the back sayin’ antique cars ‘n airplanes. Sure ‘nuff it was at the museum.
Rode in ‘n folks was startin’ to trailer stuff up. We’d already seen of pile of folks in old stuff on the road goin’ the other way. Bunch of airplanes sittin’ outside. The P-51 was the closest ta the parking lot.
Didn’t have anything to do I couldn’t have blitzed this mornin’ ‘n gone. I go thru the paper every mornin’. The radio’s on all damned day. Not one word. Remember the conversation I had with an employee out there. She told me they weren’t gonna advertize. The thing is on their website calendar ‘n that was kinda it. Wonder if that ain’t a reason why they’re goin’ belly up.
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Lack of gettin' the word out sure can kill things, Arcey.Probably can't afford the advertising costs ::) :-\
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I did not renew my membership at the Museum at Pungo. I got a newsletter about the happenings at the Museum.
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Run into a neighbor who volunteers at the museum from time to time. He worked the car show Saturday.
He says there’s another Focke Wolf (sp) in the Fighter Factory in pieces. The ME 262 is still in the area but stored in a remote site several miles away. I ain’t sure that one can be flown in. I know the storage place he spoke of, it’s nowhere near a runway if they could. I guess they’d have to disassemble the thing to get it to Pungo. Don’t know it’s of any value to anyone anyway as it’s a new reproduction, not an original.
The morale is pretty good according to him. They’re getting things reorganized and intend to keep it going.
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Well, Best of Luck to them.
Whoever owns the 262 has a LOT of Ca$h and probably wants it available to fly, since it's new. But not out of that storage place with no runway, of course! It might already be disassembled enough to fit on a trailer.
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There is a guy at Meacham Field in Fort Worth that was a Luftwaffe cadet pilot, and later a regular Luftwaffe pilot. He has built some F2F replicas from scrap frames. He has also built some ME262 replicas. He got one million dollars apiece for the F2F's. I do not know what he is selling the 262's for.
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I have recently joined the 57th Bomb Wing Association. The 57th was the Bomb Wing that my Dad was in. Membership is open to former members and relative of former members. I am hoping to attend a reunion sometime, and get to meet some of the men that served with my Dad, before they all pass away.
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Good luck with that, Pard!
Those old guys are getting fewer by the minute! God Bless 'em all!
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They are planning to have next years reunion here. I have suggested either Meacham Field in Fort Worth or Cavanaugh Flight Museum in Addison, Texas. It looks like that I will helping with stuff around here.
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I got my 57th Bomb Wing membership card yesterday, along with 4 of the group's magazines. I have got to reading to enjoy. I am hoping to meet someone at the reunion that served with my Dad or knew of him.
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Sounds good, Brother James! If you're lucky, you may meet up with one of those guys who served with your Dad. When my Step-Dad Bud died, his pilot was able to attend the service. Bud was the nose-turret gunner on a B-24 G model, if my memory is correct. Bud and this gent and the rest of their crew had stayed in contact throughout the years. (This was back in 1994 or so.) The pilot was the only man still able to get out and about and he was able to come to the service. It was an honor to meet him. I WISH my memory could supply his name. Unfortunately, most of the rest of the crew had already passed away.
I have several of the very typical "crew shots" showing the crew standing in front of their B-24. At some point in time, Bud had the photos enlarged and framed - they are the large size of photo paper; around 22" X 30" or thereabouts. (I haven't measured them, but they're pretty big and pretty clear, too.) And framed, of course. They don't show a lot of detail about the plane, altho' the focus is on the crew, naturally. But it does show the nose-art. I might try and take a photo and post it, but I have to actually FIND the photos - they're back in my "storage" (read: junque) room!
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ShB, I am hoping to meet some of those guys! Especially if the next year's reunion is held in the D/FW area.
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Scott Carpenter has passed on.
If I may slightly plagiarize your line, sir - Godspeed, Scott Carpenter.
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The Mercury astronauts are slowly dying off. I know that Grissom and Shepard are gone, and now Carpenter., so that would leave 4?
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I believe Glenn is the last of the living.
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God Bless 'em all.
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Glenn is the only one left now. Schirra passed in '07 :-\
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Glenn is the only one left now. Schirra passed in '07 :-\
Glenn got be a gazillion years old. I won't tell him that cause I don't want him to kick my @$$
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John Glenn was born on July 18, 1921.
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An amazing and brave group of men. Imagine back in their time being told, "We're going to stuff you in this big metal can, shoot you into space and then let you fall back to earth until the parachutes catch and slow you so you can land in the ocean and then we will come get you.
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An amazing and brave group of men. Imagine back in their time being told, "We're going to stuff you in this big metal can, shoot you into space and then let you fall back to earth until the parachutes catch and slow you so you can land in the ocean and then we will come get you.
tested on animals first....
I worked with a guy who was on the ship that picked the first chimp out of the water
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It is hard to believe that all happened over 50 years ago.
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Recovery time for Bonzo?
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Was Ronald Reagan in that movie?
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Nose Art!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And more ;)
www.Acepilots.com (http://www.Acepilots.com)
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I have that big coffee table book on "NoseArt". There were A lot of talented painters among the ground crew folks.
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The LONE STAR FLIGHT MUSEUM Lost on of their aircraft, a P-51(Galveston Gal) on the 23rd of October.The pilot and a passenger were killed in the crash. The museum is located in Galveston, Texas.
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Sorry to hear, Tex.
Since the pilot (lower case intended) went to pay-per-view I don"t know if y'all can bring up the link.
http://hamptonroads.com/2013/10/chesapeake-man-convicted-seconddegree-murder
There's been a conviction in the case of the 77 year old Viet Nam veteran jet pilot who died following a beating at a small Chesapeake airport. The jury has recommended a total of 25 years.
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It opened for me. I don't think 25 years is enough, & it sounds there are a couple others that need to be charged. Might have turned out better if Mr. Silva had fired his rifle a couple more times & in a different direction.
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I am not satisfied with the verdict in this case, the others involved need to be prosecuted.
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Thinkin’ there’s more to the relationship between the two-turned-witness and the commonwealth than the prosecution’s lettin’ on. At this point I'd be guessin' at anything further.
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Arcey, I was thinking that as well.
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The Arizona Wing of the CAF is represented by our B-17, "Sentimental Journey", doing the flyover at the NASCAR race in Phoenix.
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Memphis Bell was on last night
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The "Memphis Belle" has been moved to the Smithsonian Air Museum for future restoration.
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Thursday was the last reunion of the Doolittle Raiders, held at the Air Force museum at Dayton. There are 3 survivors of the raid.
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Tex seems that whole generation is dwindling. In Ten years it will be the Korean Vets and in 20 the Vietnam Vets. Having 3 survivors of one campaign left is remarkable
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There were originally 80 Raiders.
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Litl Jimmy, there are 4 Original Raiders still alive, but one could not attend. They also (IF I read the write-up correctly) decided to have their final toast at this reunion, since they doubt any will live much longer, sadly. Therefore, I think they broke out the bottle that was saved and made their final toast. I don't know whether they will have a reunion next year if even 2 (or the same 4) are still with us. It is a sad end of an era. I watched (for the third time) the Eisenhower movie starring Tom Selleck and his last lines (presented as if they were thoughts) of the movie were something like (sic) "We will never see the likes of this generation again." Sadly, this may be true. Our country's leadership certainly isn't the honest & strong, forceful type we had during the War years and not long after; including when Gen. Eisenhower became President.
But I won't get too far into THAT rant er, subject right now.
God Bless the Raiders; past & present.
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I don't know if I ever told you that my Dad's outfit was the reorganized Tokyo Raider unit. He watched them train at Eglin Field, but he did not know what they were training for till after the Raid was over.
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"FIFI" will have a Florida vacation in Feb. And Mar. She will visiting several cities in Florida for display and Rides.
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This may be of interest. Be sure to scroll through the comments. That's where the full story, as well as a description of the airplane, will be found.
http://hamptonroads.com/2014/01/airplane-fuselage-move-could-delay-traffic-suffolk
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One Saturday morning, when I worked for White Settlement PD, we moved a B-52 bomber to a Museum near General Dynamics. The bomber was in Carswell AFB. They took done a section of the perimeter fence and hooked a tug on to the bomber. They pulled the bomber on to a road parallel to the runway of Carswell. We got the bomber on the road, and the tug quit. They got another tub and we finally got it moved to the Museum. It was a Saturday morning that I will never forget.
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A Sea Fury,eh? The Hurri's replacement ::)
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I was hoping it was the Lodestar. Guess not. She's destined to rot there. Sad.
Took a ride to the museum. Didn’t see anything. I fear all I managed to do was wash a quarter acre’s worth of Waverly real estate from the wheel wells and add it to the city of Va. Beach.
They have a new, prominent sign telling one not to go any farther – as in to the Fighter Factory. I’m not much for signs on private property that’s open to the public. But, as I’ve mentioned before, they have a heavy gate at the entrance I’d hate to see closed with someone in a guard shack taking money. I respected the sign.
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We have a Lodestar that we acquired at auction from the DEA and our A-26 as well.
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Here's one for all you nose art lovers,I bet TLD would love to have access to all the spares that were in these fields...
http://youtu.be/1TJk1jqzjYU
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We can always use spare parts. The CAF HAS a collection of NOSE ART hung on the walls of the main hangar. Someone was able to cut out the the Nose Art before the planes were crushed. It is a shame that more of them were not saved.
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Some more Nose art...https://www.google.ca/search?q=aircraft+nose+art&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=wmraUsOELaPMsQTZqYBg&ved=0CCkQsAQ&biw=1280&bih=587
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Major, Thanks for the pictures of the nose art.
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If anyone has problems opening it let me know.
FYI
http://hamptonroads.com/2014/01/jerry-yagen-mystery-man-and-his-flying-machines
Pay no attention to the loon in the comments section. He stays up all night drinking and, when he has it, getting stoned. He's admitted to it.
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Some more Nose art...https://www.google.ca/search?q=aircraft+nose+art&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=wmraUsOELaPMsQTZqYBg&ved=0CCkQsAQ&biw=1280&bih=587
once or twice a year I hear someone complain that nose art is not allowed anylonger. Apparently these people can not use google
Thanks Majer
I see the famed Virginia Author Mr. R.Clarence has been busy
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They a nice coffee table book on NoseArt, with lots of pictures. I need to pick up a copy before it goes out of print.
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Article's fresh but short from the pilot. The link's there for credit. In its entirety, FYI:
RICHMOND
Legislation permitting Virginia Beach to grant tax breaks to a financially-troubled military aviation museum flew out of the Senate Finance Committee Tuesday morning.
Sen. Frank Wagner's SB 508 authorizes a locality to exempt real and personal property of federally recognized nonprofits that display "Warbirds to the general public" or use such pre-1955 militaryairplanes for educational purposes.
That proposed add-on to the state tax code is crafted specifically for the Military AviationMuseum in Pungo.
Its proprietor, Jerry Yagen, last summer said he could no longer afford to keep his collection of airplanes from the World War I and World War II eras and would be selling them.
The Virginian-Pilot recently reported that Yagen sold a dozen airplanes and has noted that he faces a lawsuit from a competitor that had hoped to acquire four trade schools he once owned.
In brief remarks about the bill Tuesday, Wagner presented it as an asset and "large tourist attraction" for Virginia Beach that hasn't previously relied on public dollars, unlike some other museums.
Also speaking in support of the measure was Beach lobbyist Bob Matthias. He said the $80,000 a year in lost tax revenue to the city would be more than made up for from other tourism revenue.
A similar bill has been filed by Del. Barry Knight, R-Virginia Beach, in the House of Delegates.
http://hamptonroads.com/2014/01/aviation-museum-tax-bill-soars-va-senate-panel
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I hope that it will ease some of his financial woes. The Mid-Atlantic flight Museum in Reading, Pennsylvania is undertaking a complete restoration of a P-61 Black Widow. It is one of the 4 remaining aircraft, the other 3 are in Museums. It was recovered from Borneo, where it had crashed during WW2. The plane will be returned to flying statis. There is a book written about finding the plane and the recovery process. "Lost Widow" is the title. They have many pictures of the restoration process on the Mid-Atlantic Flight Museum web site. I hope to see it in person some day.
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if you like WW1 aircraft, Check out this website...
http://www.network54.com/Forum/149674/message/1385149639/Photos+from+The+Vintage+Aviator+Ltd%27s+Remembrance+Day+airshow (http://www.network54.com/Forum/149674/message/1385149639/Photos+from+The+Vintage+Aviator+Ltd%27s+Remembrance+Day+airshow)
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Thanks for the pictures, Major. The WW1 planes do not get as much attention as the WW2 ones.
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Wow, that's quite a group! There's a smaller group from around Kansas City that flies replica WW! planes, but most are 3/4 or 7/8 scale....most of those appear to be full scale with lots of original engines.
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Ain’t sure which one it was. Looked in it ‘n the pilot’s seat was a board. Airspeed indicator was a pointer onna scale ‘n hadda paddle on it. T’was hangin’ under the high wing off ta the left. Air pushed the paddle back, that moved the pointer. Asked the docent how it was calibrated ‘n he said, ‘hairdryer.’
If I hadda get in one of ‘em I’d go ta the WWII stuff. The WWI guys had more nerve’n I was born with.
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WW I aircraft were the infancy of flight. But, the developements during the conflict advanced aviation immensely in the short(?) duration of time :o ::)
Those planes in the post were interesting to say the least ::)
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WW1 pilots were braver than I. You do a lot of wild stuff when you are young.
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Boy, those New Zealanders sure have good taste about flying and restoring old Birds! (I realize that most were probably new builds, but ... you know!) I didn't realize that ANY Fokker D-8s were flying!
Awesome!
As to what my favorite era was, I would have to limit it to the 1903-present time frame!
Yes, those old kite-fliers had nerve of steel, and I don't consider myself any braver than the next guy stuck in my foxhole, but I'd take a flight in one of those planes in a heartbeat!!!!! And if that was my time to go, I'd thank the Good Lord for it.
"High Flight"
Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
of sun-split clouds, — and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of — wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there,
I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air....
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace.
Where never lark, or even eagle flew —
And, while with silent, lifting mind I've trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
- Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.
This is probably known to all of us regulars on this forum, but if not, it was written by the late John Gillespie Magee, Jr. an American who was raised in China & Britain and who flew Spitfires during the Battle Of Britain era. He died at age 19 in a mid-air collision before he actually saw combat, but this poem speaks to me personally and to many pilots. You can read more about him in this Wikipedia page: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Gillespie_Magee,_Jr. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Gillespie_Magee,_Jr.)
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SHB, I am glad to see that you are warm and breathing, My Brother. It sounds like INdy has been snowed in a lot. Did you see my post on the P-61 restoration by the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum in Reading Pa.?
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Wonder where they found it?
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Borneo!
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Jeffi has been here?
Regret I never took the ride in Virginia at the Flying circus before I left there. in there open cockpit Bi-'s
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The Old Rhinebeck aerodrome has flights available Here's the link...
http://oldrhinebeck.org/ORA/biplane-rides/
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The Old Rhinebeck aerodrome has flights available Here's the link...
http://oldrhinebeck.org/ORA/biplane-rides/
Wow nice collection
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Litl Rooster, I've had the pleasure of a 2 day visit to Old Rheinbeck and it is awesome. I'm sure it's even grander than when I was there in the mid 1970s. Cole Palen (who owned & operated it until his death) was still flying and it is one ofg the greatest thrills of my life.
Litl Jimmy, yes ... I saw your post about the P-61. They were very advanced aircraft and it's a shame that more don't "live on." Like all of the WWII craft, they are very expen$ive to restore and operate and the P-61 with double the fuel required ... well, I wish them the best of luck! It's too bad more folks won't pitch in to save some historical objects (and places) but they'll plunk down Lot$-O-Ca$h to pay some former gang member to play basket ball, or other "stars" who get those multi-gazillion dollar contracts. There sure are some misplaced priorities these days.
:(
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Are you attending the NCOWS convention?
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Are you attending the NCOWS convention?
That's the plan, Pard. However, Dart & I were going to travel together and then room together at the Convention . However, he has had something family related come up and can not go. I can't drive by myself that distance. If I can find someone to share the ride, I thing I could swing it, perhaps we could room together ... but the ride part is the deciding factor.
We will see what we will see.
(By the way, Litl' Jimmy, look on the Masonic area for a post I will be writing after I get off here. It's about the honor I had this past weekend "raising" my Son into the fellowship of Free & Accepted Masons.)
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SHB, I had gotten a post from Dave, telling me about it. I know how proud you were. I got a room at the Best Western, just down the road from the Ramada. You are welcome to bunk with me. I have a king size room reserved, but I should be able to change it to two beds. Let me know. We had leftover pot roast for supper.
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I got a PM from the Vintage Flight Museum. The Cavanaugh Museum of Flight is expanding their facility and need the hangar space occupied by "FIFI" and "Diamond Lil". The B29/B24 Squadron contacted the Vintage Flight Museum to arrange hangar space for the 2 aircraft for a couple of years or more. The folks at VFM agreed to house the 2 aircraft. The VFM hangar is in fact a B-29 hangar. The B-24 will arrive first, and is due for its Annual. I am extremely excited as well as the folks at the VFM about the two planes coming to Fort Worth. When a new location for the CAF HQ is chosen, new hangars will be constructed for both aircraft, and they will be t the new HQ location.
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Read an article in today's Rep that there's a B-17 being put together in Urbana,Ohio, which is in the Dayton area. This one is shooting at being flight certified,too :o :) Still in polished aluminum in the pic that was shown, but there's already nose art on it. IIRC, called Champaign Girl. Using scrounged parts,used parts, and in some cases,making new ones from blueprints out of the Smithsonian ::)
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I read that as well. I subscribe to a B-17 Blog and it was mentioned.
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Wonder which model they're doing? Hopefully not another G ::)
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Any model will be fine, just having another B-17 to attend air shows and for people to enjoy the greatest bomber of all time.
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Any model will be fine, just having another B-17 to attend air shows and for people to enjoy the greatest bomber of all time.
Agreed!
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SHB, The Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth is going to be home for "FIFI" and "Diamond Lil" for the next couple of years. Cavanaugh Museum has run out of hangar space, due to the fact that they have acquired a Catalina. When the new CAF HQ is built, hangars for the two bombers will be built on sight.
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Just watched Top Of The World w/ Dale Robertson: C-47s, F-80 /T-33/ WACO gliders, F082s. and B-36s.
WOW! What a mess of scarce stuff with good footage.
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Retired employees of General Dynamics are restoring the last B-36 built. They are working on it at Alliance Airport, north of Fort Worth. The plane was a static display at the old Great Southwest Airport, till the airport closed. It was dismantled and moved to Fort Worth, later moved to Alliance.
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I saw one at Hill AFB when they had an open house in the late 50s.
My God that's big plane.
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They are big plane. One went off the end of the runway at Carswell AFB in Fort Worth. The Air Force salvaged as much off of it as they could. The fuselage is still in the lake.
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There was so much plane that it raised the water level a foot when that big B-36 went into the drink!
;)
Or not ...
Jimmy, it's good to hear about the GD folks restoring that Peacemaker. I'd love to see Fifi and that beast parked along side of each other! And have the photo, too!
A lot of aluminum all in one spot, for sure!
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It is time for the annual on "Diamond Lil", so she will be in the back of the hangar. and "FIFI" will in front.
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Wow, wonder how many man-hours are needed to do an annual on a 70 year old four engine bomber?
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LiL was built in June,1941. She is the only A model in existence and the oldest B-24.
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No nose turret, then. Just a "green house" ::) ???
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Yep !
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To: Pony Express:
Wow, wonder how many man-hours are needed to do an annual on a 70 year old four engine bomber?
The amount of hours that these VOLUNTEERS put in restoring one of these "70 year old four engine bomber"(s) is probably better measured in weeks or even months - and it can often stretch over the course of years, sometimes even a decade or two. Hours would be practically incalculable.
It's a labor of love, to be sure. He might mention it, but not brag about it ... but our own Texas Lawdog is one of those volunteers. I'm not sure what all he's worked on but he IS a Colonel in the old Confederate, now Consolidated Air Force. Becoming a Col. in that organization is a true honor and shows that he has put in many hours (and not a few dollars) into restoring one or more of these old sweethearts!!
I WISH I were in a position to give the CAF some of my time. They need serious money to restore even the smallest, least complex "birds" and they never have enough. As my friend here on CAS City, St. George said ('tho he was talking about Pocket Pistols, it applies here, too) spare parts for many of these planes are in other folk's planes. Not a lot of B-17 parts (or P-51, P-38, B-24, Spitfire, Fokker D VII, SPAD or whatever) are still lying around airports and warehouses these days.
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I am sure that things will be busy over at the Vintage Flight Museum for awhile. The B-24 is being worked on for it's annual and the B-29 is being readied to go out on it's Spring Tour.
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Tex or any of you. I wondering any one knew the names used on all of "Fifi's" 4 engines
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Roo, I will have to ask the guys who work on "FIFI".
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Thanks Tex
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I think they're Biblical, Matthew,Mark, Luke, and John ::) ???
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Roo, The four engines are named: Betty, Rita, Mitzi, and Ingrid.
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Now that I think about it, I mixed them up with the old Narwhal from WW II. The four diesels were the biblical names ::)
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Roo, The four engines are named: Betty, Rita, Mitzi, and Ingrid.
Thank you Tex, I knew they were ladies names
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I hope that the annual inspection on Diamond Lil goes well. There are a bunch of things that need to be inspected on a B-24.
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The EAA's B-17, "Aluminum Overcast" will be at the Arlington,Texas airport on April 29th for rides and tours.
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I never heard of this Lynn Garrison, but I did know his partner Milt Harredance;
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lynn_Garrison
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Probably because he is a Canadian.
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Got a question:
I've been seeing posts about air shows for years and I live about 8 miles from both Planes of Fame and Yanks air museums been to other museums in Riverside, Hill AFB in Utah and others.....
..... so how come I never see C-123 Providers anywhere. I rode all the hell and gone all over Vietnam in them and loved the noisy little bastards, but I haven't seen one anywhere since 1968.
I don't think they made more than 300 or so of them and the ones I caught rides on were flown by folks supplying backwoods villages and outposts. One made a more or less regular run from Cam Ranh to Ban Me Thuot and back, flown by rejects from MASH 4077. (At least they looked like it, real cowboys in Hawaiian shirts and Levis.
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Wikipiedia lists a bunch of them in museums, one at castle airport in California. They say there are several still operational, but didn't say where. No more time for research, time to go to church.
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I cannot remember seeing one. I am sure that there is one at the Air Force Museum at Wright-Patterson AFB in Dayton, Ohio.
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There is one at the Pima Air Museum in Tuscon , used to be with Miami Coast Guard and is still in that livery.
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You.are correct Major 2. I have visited the Pima Air Museum several times. I had forgotten about that one.
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Only thing all the online references to C-123s seem to agree on is, they don't know how many are still in service. Guess there's still some hauling stuff around in third world countries. Maybe some are still hauling stuff we're not supposed to know about???
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They used some in the "Air Amercia" movie.
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They used some in the "Air Amercia" movie.
That's where I last saw some used. I've been to Dayton, OH. to the USAF museum many times but I don't remember if they have one on display or not. If not, they should! It would actually surprise me if they DIDN'T have one, at least in the holding areas where they do their restoration work. It takes time to get all the truly significant aircraft ready for display, ESPECIALLY since the Museum strives to have as many planes in "flying condition" as possible!
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I am enjoying having the CAFs B-29/B-24 at Meacham. They are having a Militaria show over there this weekend. The EAAs B-17, "Aluminum Overcast" will be at the Arlington, Texas airport on April 29, from 2 to 5 pm.
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Speaking of B-17's here is an interesting News piece
http://news.discovery.com/history/us-history/world-war-2-wreck-reveals-wartime-romance-photos-140214.htm
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The CAF will announce today that the national HQ will be at the Executive Airport in Dallas. I was invited to the press conference today because I am a Life member, I was informed of the move about a week ago, but I was told not to say anything. The airport is about a 15 minute drive for me, instead of a 340 mile drive to Midland. I would like to volunteer over there when they get the new HQ built. "FIFI" and "Diamond Lil" will have new hangars over there.
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(http://www.militaryaviationmuseum.org/images/WOB-14-Banner-ad.jpeg)
http://www.militaryaviationmuseum.org/ww2-airshow.html
Anybody goin' lemme know. Meet ya there.
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wish I could, but it's a 9 hour drive for me...maybe next year.
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We have FIFI and Diamond LiL over at the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth this weekend. A trip to Pungo next year is a possibility. I would like to see the Museum. I am a sissy, I would fly into Norfolk and drive down.
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Thinkin’ I could do nine hours – inna couple three days.
I wanna see Patriot’s Point. It may as well be in South America rather’n South Carolina. Long ride for me ‘n once I got there I wouldn’t wanna leave ‘til I saw it all. Be gone a week ta ten days.
Ennyways, if y’all do the trip I ain’t hard ta find.
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I guess it is about 10 hours for me
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I might have to do the Charleston trip separately. It would a lot of fun at both places. I love old airplanes and old naval ships. Both places are on my "bucket" list.
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Mine too ::)
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Me ‘n the fat lady rode out ta Pungo ta hit some farm stands. Saw the Stearman in the air.
Hit the first place, she was gettin’ strawberrys when three left the MAM. Too far away for me to ID ‘em. Same planes, same color. Formed up inna triangle ‘n went off.
Moved to another stand. Looked o’er at the runway on the way past ‘n it was empty. Got there she started shoppin’ while I stood in the parkin’ lot. The place was packed. ‘n closer to the MAM, just ‘round a curve from the entrance. Heard a roar ‘n the Junkers appeared o’er the trees.
Left there ‘n found a place ta stop ‘cross Princess Anne Rd., still closer, just short of the entrance. Sat there a good while but they didn’t send anything else up.
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Was out after dinner feeding the Jays their last for the day. A neighbor who volunteers at the MAM came by walking his dog and we spoke for a bit.
He said they flew about just everything flyable - that's damned near all of them. The Mosquito went up. The Me 262 clone isn’t kept there. They can’t land the jet on the grass. She’s hangered in Suffolk but they flew her in and made some low passes. Sorry as heck I missed that.
The yellowish orange airplanes I saw from the first produce stand were T-6s. As soon as he said that I remembered (old age) they flew in for the event last year. Those don’t belong to the MAM, they’re there for their owners’ pleasure and the crowd’s.
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We have New Zealand version of the T-6, at the VFM in Fort Worth. Things are busy over there, the B-29 and B-24 are being prepped for their summer tours and will be leaving soon.
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Mooz Newz.......
By Kathy Adams
The Virginian-Pilot
© July 2, 2014
VIRGINIA BEACH
The Military Aviation Museum's request for a tax exemption breezed through the City Council on Tuesday.
The 8-1 vote means founder Jerry Yagen will no longer have to pay real estate taxes on the nonprofit museum's buildings and land, totaling more than 80 acres. That tax bill is more than $81,000 this year, according to city records.
It also means Yagen won't have to pay personal property taxes on the museum's 57 warbirds going forward. Yagen and his business, Training Services Inc., own the aircraft, but the museum houses, displays and flies them.
Yagen may, however, end up owing several years of back taxes because the city never sent him a tax bill for the planes, a mistake the Commissioner of the Revenue's Office said it realized last year when Yagen, who owns several private technical colleges, temporarily put the collection up for sale. It estimated the annual property tax bill at $9,300, according to paperwork provided to the council.
Councilwoman Barbara Henley*, who represents the Pungo area, was the sole vote against the exemption. She said Yagen has ignored the safety concerns of his neighbors, who worry about vintage aircraft increasingly flying over their homes.
Several of her counterparts on the council said those concerns are planning, not tax, issues. Henley disagreed, saying that subsidizing the operation is the same as condoning its activities, including selling airplane rides.
"There has been no willingness to compromise with the neighbors, no willingness at all on this flying issue," she said. "I just think that it's a safety threat and that people have a right to have some consideration."
Councilman John Moss was absent, and Brad Martin abstained because of a conflict of interest with his engineering firm, which does business with the museum.
Yagen assured the council that his airplanes are safe.
Adm. Bill Gortney, head of U.S. Fleet Forces Command, agreed in response to a letter from Henley about the planes potentially sharing airspace with Oceana Naval Air Station's jets.
"I believe that the Military Aviation Museum aircraft create no ascertainable risk to Navy aircraft," Gortney wrote in a letter dated June 27. "Indeed, the Museum's record since it has been in operation reinforces this conclusion."
Others called the museum an asset.
"I think it's the best thing to come down there in my lifetime," Pungo resident Thomas Tillman said. "And I believe the City Council should support them. It's a wonderful facility."
Kathy Adams, 757-222-5155
*My addition.
Ole Barb, emphasis on 'old,' lives in and thinks she owns Pungo. Does own a good hunk of it. She's arranged and voted in favor of a law that'll provide her family millions of tax dollars in the future for not developing their property.
Her driving in the area is so slow it's become a traffic obstruction running joke.
She's been voted out 'n back in a couple times. Hope she goes out again - soon. I don't believe she has a clue, outside of Pungo, what's happening here. It's a small circle of her allies not wanting history on display there for whatever reason.
I have driven past her family owned produce stand and strawberry fields to get to others. I won't put money in her pocket. One didn't reopen this season. It's on the way to the museum in beautiful downtown Pungo.
The above, some fact, some opinion.
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This is my first time here in quite a while and I have missed y'all!
Ol' Barb, eh. (Can you "hear" the disgust I'm feeling as I type this?)
Sounds like she has a lot invested in this. From the piece: "She said Yagen has ignored the safety concerns of his neighbors, who worry about vintage aircraft increasingly flying over their homes."
This sounds SOOO typical of the wealthy land-owner politician types. She said Yagan "ignored" her concerns and those of the few folks affected. I'll bet that if you look into it, #1) the chance of an accident is real, but VERY remote, #2) very few actually voiced concern versus the ones who either didn't bother to respond because they figured it was a non-issue or actually the few who actually TOLD her it was a non-issue, #3) and as a result, since Yagen went on with the project, he then "IGNORED" her (thinly disguised) whines & near-demands. Had Yagen gone along with her she would NOT have said he ignored anything.
In other words, it's the old "IF you don't play with MY rules and wishes, then I'm taking my ball home and no one will play!" (In this case, the "ball" is monetary and tax-based - but I think you know what I mean. She tried her darndest to get things done her way, but she obviously couldn't browbeat any other Council-Persons to vote her way.
I'm really tired of the self-serving politicos that America has allowed to govern us. Their special interests are waaaaaaay more important that what the majority they supposedly represent want. And if you don't go along with them, you are accused of IGNORING their pet issue. Majority rule has nothing to do with it.
But I wish Yagan and his organization the best of luck and success! These beautiful old birds are getting scarce - they were built for quick use and basically disposable, so keeping them "alive & kickin' for 60 (Plus) years is quite an achievement. (60 years is just an average figure. Some are older, many are not, but all were built for quick use and were made as quickly as possible, and NOT for long life.)
I'm stepping off my soapbox now ...
;)
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The CAF B-24, "Diamond Lil". Is back at the Vintage Flight Museum in Fort Worth between Tours.
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Lil' Jimmy, is the B-17 that is named "Aluminum Overcast" one of the CAF birds?
It flew in to Indy a few years back and I think that's one of the coolest names for a bomber. Thinking back to what it must have looked like when THOUSANDS of those birds plus their "Little Friends" were overhead - it's a great name! Overcast skies due to aluminum aircraft! It was a great experience for me. I would have happily paid the $300 for a ride they were offering, but alas ... it couldn't happen.
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No, It belongs to the Collings Corporation, who also owns the B-24, "Witchcraft". The B-17 landed over at Arlington airport this summer and I drove over and checked out.
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The 57th Bomb Wing is having a reunion at Cavanaugh's Flight Museum in Sept.(11-15). The 57th was my Dad's outfit, so I am looking forward to attending. I hope that I can meet anyone that may have served with him.
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Remember the fighter pilot who flew through the Eiffel Tower in 1944?
... He's Gone...
In the spring of 1944 Bill and his P-51C, the 'Berlin Express' were near Paris when the scene that is immortalized in the artwork by Len Krenzler of Action Art that leads this article took place. Bill had followed this Bf109 from the bombers he was escorting when most of the German fighters left. The two planes had been in a running dogfight. The German pilot flew over Paris hoping that the heavy German anti-aircraft artillery would solve his problem and eliminate Overstreet and the 'Berlin Express', though Bill managed to get some hits in at about 1500 feet. The German's engine was hit, and Bill stayed on his tail braving the intense enemy flak. His desperation undoubtedly growing, the German pilot aimed his plane at the Eiffel Tower and in a surprising maneuver, flew beneath it. Undeterred, Bill followed right behind him, scoring several more hits in the process. The German plane crashed and Bill escaped the heavy flak around Paris by flying low and full throttle over the river until he had cleared the cities heavy anti-aircraft batteries.
WWII fighter pilot who flew THROUGH the Eiffel Tower to take down a German plane dies in Virginia aged 92
William Overstreet Jr., a former captain in the U.S. Air Corps, passed away on Sunday at a hospital in Roanoke.
He famously flew his plane beneath the Eiffel Tower in Nazi-occupied Paris in 1944, lifting the spirits of French troops on the ground
In 2009, he was presented France's Legion of Honor
William Overstreet Jr. died on Sunday at a hospital in Roanoke, Virginia, according to his obituary, but there was no indication
of the cause of his death.
Hero: World War II Aviator Bill Overstreet Jr., best known for flying beneath the Eiffel Tower in pursuit of a German plane, is pictured
in his military days. He passed away in Virginia on Sunday, aged 92
Before the ceremony, Overstreet had previously said that, if he lived long enough to receive the Legion of Honor, he would
be accepting it in memory of his fallen brothers.
In particular, he wanted to pay tribute to a friend, Eddy Simpson, who died fighting the Nazis on the ground so his comrades,
including Overstreet, could escape.
After the award was pinned to his lapel, Overstreet said: 'If I said, "Thank you," it wouldn't be enough,' before adding:
'What more than "thank you" do you need?'
He was born in Clifton Forge, Virginia in 1921 and after Pearl Harbor, he enlisted in the Air Corps as a fighter pilot.
By February 1942, he was a private and sent to California for flight training; here, his instructors prepared him for the unexpected
mid-flight by cutting the engine as he landed.
Remembered: Overstreet was presented with France's Legion of Honour in 2009
Aircraft: Overstreet is pictured by his P-51 'Berlin Express', the plane he flew beneath the Eiffel Tower
Proud: Overstreet is pictured in 1943 with his cherished 1938 Buick in California, where he trained
Close call: The wreckage of his Bell P-39 Airacobra which spun out of control mid-air as he completed combat
training in 1943. He managed to force his way out of the craft and walked away unhurt
Loss: Bill Overstreet is pictured at an event, Warbirds Over the Beach, in 2013.
'He was always humble. Whenever the press interviewed him, he said, "I didn't do anything, we were a team".'
RIP Bill Overstreet.
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RIP Captain Overstreet
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Farewell, team mate.
Rest well, sir.
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RIP
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RIP Noble Warrior!
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Not as much of a Labor Day crowd as I'd expected at the museum. That said, traffic here to there and back was a heck of a lot lighter than I thought it'd be. Maybe everyone's out of money.
A crew had just finished fueling the SNJ after a charter ride. The ole boy in the image walked over and offered to answer questions. I didn't have any and he excused himself rather quickly, saying he needed to get out of the sun and find some cold water.
The box behind him stores the fuel pump, hose and related equipment.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/SNJ0901142_zps2853e1d2.jpg)
With the rent-a-rides it seems like the Stearman's always sitting on the pad. Or in the air......
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/Stearman090114_zps3ead6b39.jpg)
View from the parking lot:
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/SNJ090114_zps45fb908b.jpg)
The station wagon, being one of the few Toyotas actually built in Japan, kinda gets nervous and tends to keep her distance.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/4runner_zpsb0cb0993.jpg)
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Arcey, Don't put no Meatballs on it!
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Heh, heh, heh......... yeah.
Gotta keep pullin' 42s off. Big fan of Kyle Larson.
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The station wagon should be pretty safe from the Stearman and SNJ, however, if they bring out a Corsair, or an f6f or f8f, maybe it better hide somewhere....
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In the uncropped image, the Corsair lives in the hanger just to the right of the SNJ. The station wagon's been there before 'n one time the thing buzzed 'er.
Fortunately, the B-25 sits in the other end and they don't take it out much. The sight of that would probably turn 'er white.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0288_zpsfc45df5c.jpg)
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"Thirty Seconds over Tokyo"' The Doolittle Raid!
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Watched the Stearman in the air Saturday Arcey. We were moving my daughter's horse and the farm we left was right in the flight path.
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The D/FW wing of the CAF has a Stearman that they sell rides on as well as a R4D. They just had a local air show over the weekend in Lancaster, Texas
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The Stearman is the least expensive ride in the lot. $149.00 for 15 minutes. Reckon the ole bird's gettin' a work out.
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The Stearman is the least expensive ride in the lot. $149.00 for 15 minutes. Reckon the ole bird's gettin' a work out.
About the same price at the Flying Circus(yankeee occupied Virgina) in their Stearman. Many hours of free entertainment of them flying over there.
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That is a reasonable price. The rates for the CAF aircraft is by the hour, and usually over $400.
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I think the Stearman at Lake of the Ozarks Airshow costs about $150, too. I don't rewmember what they charged for a ride in the P-51 though. Doesn't matter , I guess, it's out of my price range. They usually have a B-25, but the rides on that are paid for by local businesses, and donated to local WWII Vets, or sometimes Korea. Last year we had a C-47 Gunship and a TBF, since the Missouri wing's B-25 was in down for an engine replacement.
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The P-51, the Bombers, and "FIFI" all go for over $400.an Hour.
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Our local airshow is coming up in a couple of weeks, broke again, so probably no rides in anything.
I'll have to go sometime to one of the bigger shows, we can't get any 4 engine planes here, not enough runway, although they're planning an extension.
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The runways at Addison airport are long enough for the B-24 and the B-29 to land and take offs.
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My Dad's WW2 outfit's reunion is this weekend over in Dallas. Most of the reunion will take place a Cavanaugh's Museum of Flight in Addison, Texas. I am really looking forward to it. I am hoping to meet anyone that may have known him or served with him.
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We leave at 0930 for our day at Cavanaugh's Museum. They are forecasting rain today. They will be offering rides for us. We have 9 WW2 veterans in attendance at the Reunion.
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Have fun, ole man.
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We had a blast at the Cavanaugh Museum. The Veterans really enjoyed seeing the B-25, it was one of the 310th Bomb group's Aircraft. The weather has cooled off today, with a high of 65.
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The P-51, the Bombers, and "FIFI" all go for over $400.an Hour.
I'm sure the price is much over the $400 per hour mark, at least that's what I would expect after seeing the sign at the Kissimmee airport's P-51 parking space. It was $1500 - for 20 minutes!
Hell, I'd HAPPILY pay $400 for an hour's flight in a Mustang ... or Fifi ! What a bargain!
But that's me. And I probably couldn't shoehorn my fat-assed self in a P-51 anyway.
;)
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SHB, I am attending a reunion of my Dad's WW2 Bomb wing in Dallas.
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http://www.kpax.com/news/wwii-airman-s-remains-come-home-to-montana/
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I'm sure the price is much over the $400 per hour mark, at least that's what I would expect after seeing the sign at the Kissimmee airport's P-51 parking space. It was $1500 - for 20 minutes!
Hell, I'd HAPPILY pay $400 for an hour's flight in a Mustang ... or Fifi ! What a bargain!
But that's me. And I probably couldn't shoehorn my fat-assed self in a P-51 anyway.
;)
Stap you to a pod. :)
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Were we speakin' of schools? Opps, 'nother thread.
Fat lady 'n her kids could see 'em practicin' from the classroom taday.
(http://media.hamptonroads.com/cache/files/imagecache/large_site_image_760x760/files/images/1649561000.jpg)
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Moose enjoyed the polyester flight suits that the pilots wear.
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Arcey hope one or two of them were inspired by what they seen.
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Arcey hope one or two of them were inspired by what they seen.
Hope so.
A pilot (lower case intended) reporter (lower case intended) took a ride inna SNJ with the Geico folks yestitty. Short video included.
http://hamptonroads.com/2014/09/take-ride-aboard-74yearold-skytyper-prop-plane
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Without creating a new account- advise Mr. Clarenance the reporter suffered from altitude sickness. Green helmuts is for Rookies
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Give 'im a horn ta stick on it 'n send 'im back ta the Republik.
'Nother reporter flew with the Blue Angels. Didn't puke. Did good. The article's the top link. Bottom link goes straight to YouTube.
http://hamptonroads.com/2014/09/videos-pulling-7-gs-navys-blue-angels
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-vsE-hEx3I
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Those Pilots try and make the riders sick from the Gs. I would hate to be the poor soul that has to clean out the masks.
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Put me in the back seat. If I puke I'll clean it up.
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Are you sure your frame would handle the G's, Arcey? Not so sure my discs would like the heightened compression. I might end up being 5'6 or less instead of 5'7 :o ::) ;)
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Prolly not, Buck. Then again, I ain't gonna get invited no how so we'll never know.
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I guess that size does matter.
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Could see the Navy showin' off from the gas pumps at Sam's but by the time I got ta my observation spot it Oceana they'd parked 'em. Did see three bi-planes 'n a jet powered glider (?) werkin' on their routines. Saw three T6s appear then disappear towards the ocean.
Had folks sittin' nearby with camera lenses big as a mortor............................................
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Hopefully they were on tripods ,Arcey. Otherwise them things might be a bit muzzle heavy :o ;) ::)
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Next Friday, Cavanaugh's will be hosting the last reunion of the "Flying Tigers". They will have a flyover at 0900 with P-40s and P-51s. A catered BBQ lunch. Tickets are $30.
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They will have a flyover at 0900 with P-40s and P-51s. A catered BBQ lunch. Tickets are $30.
I'd like to see that, P-40s are one of the best looking planes of the era, to me at least. I know the P-51s were better, but I sure like the looks of the P-40. Don't see many of them, even though they made a ton of them, I've read a lot were used for training and stateside patrolling all through the war.
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I was able to attend a reunion of my Dad's WW2 last weekend and I am attending a Reunion of the Flying Tigers this Friday at Cavanaugh's. I wish that the Museum was nearer to my house.
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I was able to attend a reunion of my Dad's WW2 last weekend and I am attending a Reunion of the Flying Tigers this Friday at Cavanaugh's. I wish that the Museum was nearer to my house.
Awesome! Glad you got to visit your Dad's unit.
That reporter couldn't think of anything but crashes and "how to get out of this thing!"
Whadda puss.
I'd prolly have to grease the sides of the cockpit to squeeeeeeze my arse an' shoulders in the seat, but just give ME a chance! I'd give those readers a helluva You-Tube piece!
And yes - if I did puke (highly doubtful) I'd be honored to clean up my own mess! More time in the thing, I say!
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I got to meet the current 310th Commander, a Bird colonel. They have activated two of the squadrons(379 and 380). Plans are in the works to activate my Dad's squadron(428) in the future. He gave 2 of the current 310th patches to put on my flight suits.
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Sounds good, Litl' Jimmy!
I wish I had more information about ANY of my Dad's Navy units. The only carrier I know he flew from was the U.S.S.Independence, which was an "Escort Carrier," sometimes known as a "Jeep" carrier. They were considerably smaller than the full-size carriers like the "Lady Lex" (U.S.S.Lexington) or the "Hornet" or the "Enterprise." (No - NOT NCC 1701!)
;)
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here you go Jeff & Jim
SN 43-24362 recovered from Fl Everglades in 1986. Nearly complete airship wreckage.
-Curtiss P-40 Warhawk SN 43-24362 recovered in the Florida Everglades. This nearly complete airship is one of the few surviving, unrestored P-40 Warhawks left in the world. Currently being restored in Douglas Ga.
This fighter was piloted by Earl Goodyear and involved in a mid-air collision in 1945 with another P-40 piloted by Roy Rom during a training exercise. This event resulted in a forced landing in the Florida Everglades. Both planes remained undisturbed for the next 40 years.
The laborious recovery was performed in 1986, and took nearly two years to excavate and remove from a very remote part of the Everglades. The aircraft had to be disassembled and moved out by small boat, component by component.
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The CAF has a P-40 painted like one of the "Flying Tigers".
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Surprising there's that much left after crashing and sitting in a swamp for 40+ years!
Good day for the airshow today, B-25 Show ME was in attendance, as well as P-51 Gunfighter and Spooky the CAC-47 gunship(Static display only) A Stearman, several Pitts', a PT-19 that was offering rides(Too broke) And a formation flying group, K.C. Flight.
Off to a Philippine get together in a few, afterwards, I'll see if there's anything in my wife's I-pad to post. As they say "film at 11"
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(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/BlueAngel092014_zpsb54a7c3b.jpg?t=1411159375)
Best I could get. Went to an industrial area bordering the base. Turned out to be a good spot, rain and all.
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Good picture of a Blue Angel F-18 Hornet.
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Thanks.
I kinda like the old stuff better but those jets and what the pilots can do with them is art. Impressive.
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Yessir!
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Wendy sounded great. Hope she keeps the gig.
Anyway.......
Ben was there to greet us. Same spot as yesterday. He wasn't there then. Didn't miss stepping on him more than a couple inches when I got out of the station wagon.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0337_zps6ad39db8.jpg)
Got the shot but, let me tell ya, by the time I pushed the shutter they were overhead and gone. The speed along with the low altitude was unbelievable.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/BlueAngels902114_zpsb90d3a7c.jpg)
Cropped and enlarged the heck out of this to get the detail. Not too shabby for a $108.00 pocket camera and Google's free photo editor.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/BlueAngels7902114_zpse9a2c614.jpg)
Still moving fast with the gear down. The full show speed stuff I quit trying to get. Several were nothing but empty blue sky.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/BlueAngels6092114_zps76196ea5.jpg)
Different airplane, or manned missile...................
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/BlueAngel5-02114_zps9e7d4832.jpg)
Another accidental discharge.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_0345_zps108a1232.jpg)
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Great pictures of the Blue Hornets!
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Great pictures of the Blue Hornets!
Yes they are!
Thanks for posting them!
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I am really looking forward to being at Cavanaugh's on Friday. I called early this morning and made my reservation for Friday.
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My honor, gentlemen.
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You guys know how much I love pictures of military aircraft, so keep them coming.
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here you go Jim
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I will be looking forward to seeing the finished product. I took a trip to Fighter Town in Kissimmee several years ago, it was a wonderful experience. I got to see a P-47 packed in a crate.
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That just over in Kissimmee ...at the War bird Museum
I've been several times.... you can take a ride in a P-51 MUSTANG or T-6 TEXAN
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Here is something you all will like.
http://www.aopa.org/News-and-Video/All-News/2014/August/Pilot/f_talltale
My best,
Blair
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Wow Blair..thanks for sharing that ..that is sooooooooooooooooo cool
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I had heard rumors about that collection existing for about 20 years. The owner has been secretive and was not willing to allow visitors or willing to sell the aircraft. His son has died and he has no one to leave the collection. He really doesn't need the money. I am glad that he I selling the aircraft and letting collectors restore them.
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Tex, do you know of any air shows in the NY New England area? Saw some big plains flying low over the town south of me, when I got closer one was a B-25, the other a B-29, heading South.
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I do not know of any, however we are having one this coming weekend at the new CAF EXPO at Redbird airport in Dallas. Redbird Airport is the new HQ for the CAF. I have a feeling that they are flying back to Dallas for the EXPO.
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Probably about time for the airshow circuit to start winding down, isn't it? I'm sure they don't want to get caught in any weather with those old ones.
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I know that "FIFI" is scheduled to be at the EXPO this weekend, and probably the B-25 as well. I'll be working over there this weekend.
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Found out where they are, The Dutchess county airport, they have Betty Jane, a P-51C, Nine of Nine a B-17 G and a B-24J I think she's named Witchcraft,Go here to read story.
http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/story/news/local/2014/09/29/vintage-aircraft-show-airport/16453939/
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"Witchcraft" is owned by the Collings Corp. I don' know about the other two.
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Stopped for a short stretch after making passage thru the tunnel heading home from the shoot yesterday. Took the break on the north side of Little Bay across from NAS Norfolk. Managed to catch a Dragon.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/HeloWillougby100114_zpsee1efbb8.jpg)
No clue was swinging under it but I've an idea someone off shore was waiting on it.
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Jolly Green!
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For your comsumption. Credit as shown - including the question marks I have no explanation for...........
Unedited.
A dogfight for world's rare planes
By Pilot and wire reports
© October 3, 2014
A Grumman F6F Hellcat, its dark-blue wings glistening in the sun, banks sharply to evade a pursuing Japanese Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero. The planes pull out of their steep descent and accelerate, the roar of their engines rattling the heavens.
Battles like this played out numerous times in the skies above the central Pacific in late November 1943 as the U.S. Navy launched its carrier-borne Hellcats into action against the Japanese. Only this particular dogfight happened not in 1943 but in June 2013 over Paine Field, a former U.S. Air Force base outside Seattle.
That's where Paul Allen, the Microsoft multibillionaire, keeps his Flying Heritage Collection - more than 20 vintage World War II fighter planes, all in working condition - of which the Hellcat and the Zero are a part.
Meanwhile, on the underside of the globe, visitors to Hood Aerodrome near Masterton, New Zealand, could be forgiven for thinking they've been transported to northern France, circa 1918. There, the skies fill with British Sopwith Camels and brightly colored German Fokker Dr.I Dreideckers, for which enthralled spectators can thank another wealthy aviation enthusiast and amateur pilot: "Lord of the Rings" director Peter Jackson.
The filmmaker, who has amassed more than 40 flyable World War I warbirds - the planet's largest collection - is now neck-and-neck with Allen when it comes to claiming the Top Gun trophy for world's foremost fighter collector.
The vintage-aircraft market was once divided between individual pilots, who might own the odd North American P-51 Mustang or de Havilland Moth, and aviation museums, which typically display only stationary examples of historic aircraft. Allen and Jackson, however, represent a new breed of collectors who are buying, restoring and flying a National Air and Space Museum's worth of vintage planes.
"We are selling more and more to private collectors," confirms Simon Brown of Platinum Fighter Sales in Redondo Beach, Calif.
There are collections of vintage aircraft larger than Allen's and Jackson's. Oilman Rod Lewis has more World War II warbirds than Allen in his Lewis Air Legends collection in San Antonio. So, too, does oil heir Kermit Weeks, who claims more than 100 vintage aircraft at his Fantasy of Flight collection in Polk City, Fl?a.
Virginia Beach? also? is home to one of the world's foremost collectors. Jerry Yagen houses more than 60 vintage warbirds at the Military Aviation Museum in Pungo - 23 are from World War I and the rest date from after that war to the middle of the past century.
??His collection includes three Fokker Dr.1 triplanes, like Jackson's, and? in the works are? two Mitsubishi Zeroes, like Allen's, ?and a Sopwith Camel. The museum also houses the only deHavilland Mosquito in the world that ?still ?flies.
?More than 90 percent of Yagen's planes are flight-ready. The World War I collection will fly Saturday and Sunday in the museum's Biplanes and Triplanes airshow, Yagen said in an email. Information is atwww.VBairshow.com.
What sets Allen and Jackson apart is their deep-pocketed desire to dominate two of the most-storied and at-risk chapters of aviation history. When it comes to World War II fighters, no collection is as comprehensive as Allen's, which encompasses planes from all the war's principal combatants, including Germany, Japan and Russia.
He also owns a great many planes with combat experience, which are as valuable as they are rare.
Most World War II-era warbirds are late models that never saw action. Combat veterans, on the other hand, are often salvaged from crash sites, such as Allen's Messerschmitt Bf 109 E, a Battle of Britain fighter found buried in a sand dune in Calais, France, in 1988.
Restoring a wrecked warbird to flying condition can cost in excess of $3 million and take more than two years, says John Romain, CEO of Aircraft Restoration Co., which restores and flies vintage aircraft from a former World War II airfield outside Cambridge, England.
Visit Aircraft Restoration's workshop and it's clear why. Engineers use original 1940s lathes and metal-working machinery to manufacture parts when they can't find originals, wrap new wiring in 1940s-style insulation, and even hide contemporary safety components, like a modern radio, behind original features such as a map case. It's the sort of historical detail Allen craves.
"Our goal is to restore these aircraft to an absolute obsessively original condition - and then fly them," says Adrian Hunt, executive director of Allen's Flying Heritage Collection.
Jackson, too, is a stickler for historical veracity and, similar to his approach to "The Lord of the Rings," for which he pioneered his own visual effects studio, largely built his collection from the ground up. The bodies of World War I aircraft were essentially oversize kites, made primarily of cloth stretched over wooden frames. As a result, few original aircraft survive - fewer still in flying condition.
Consequently, Jackson has made an art of constructing precise replicas using original blueprints and historically accurate materials and techniques and then incorporating original engines, fuselages and parts whenever possible.
Brown says many collectors see investment value in vintage aircraft, with the prices of some models rising rapidly. A Supermarine Spitfire, Britain's classic World War II fighter, for example, now sells for as much as $5 million - more than double its value a decade ago.
Of course, neither Allen nor Jackson are in it for the money. Both are the sons of World War II veterans and have spoken of a lifelong fascination with vintage warplanes. Allen has tried to collect a real version of every model plane he built as a kid, while Jackson's passion for old warplanes extends to his filmmaking.
In 2008, he wrote and directed a World War I short called ?"Crossing the Line" and he has spoken about wanting to remake both ?"The Blue Max,?"? a 1966 film about World War I aviators, and 1955's ?"The Dam Busters,?" about daring World War II raids on German dams using ingenious bouncing bombs.
This story was compiled from reports by Bloomberg News and Pilot writer Elisabeth Hulette.
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There must be an Air Show going on somewhere locally?
Last two days we have had Jets flying around and now we have Propeller jobs practicing their routines.
I have heard nothing about an Air Show or where it might be in the local media. Nothing new about that!
But, I do love watching them practice.
My best,
Blair
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Afternoon rains have started.
The fly by's and zoom zooms have ended for the day.
Not saying the aircraft can't deal with the weather, it just makes things for the ground crew pretty nasty keeping the aircraft serviced
I have been there and don that aboard ship. However, we could usually change direction and/or out run the weather. Shore based, well you usually get what ya got.
My best,
Blair
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Tiz this Blair
http://www.airandspaceshow.com/
Not much in the press for coverage
http://www.floridatoday.com/story/entertainment/2014/10/01/melbourne-air-space-show-takes/16543555/?from=global&sessionKey=&autologin=
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I ran across this bit of Trivia
the first drummer for the Ventures ( remember them ? ) was George Babbitt.
that's 4 Star General George Babbitt ...USAF
enjoy.... I always liked the Ventures :)
http://www.stumptownblogger.com/2012/04/what-a-cool-video.html
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I had all of their albums ms on 8-Track, The Safaris, The Chantays, Dick Dale and the Daletones, and Dwayne Eddy.
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If it keeps up it'll be rainin' on the WWI Biplanes and Triplanes Air Show 2014 at the Pungo museum. Supposed to start puttin' the things in the air at noon.
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I spent some time listening to all of them , last night I revisited the Ventures.
That was the music of my youth....
The Grease & Surf culture , Jan & Dean , the Beach Boys , the British rockers took the Stage front & center ....
Just kinda got nostalgic, sorry for any high jack , General George sorta fit in with theme :-\
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I had all of their albums ms on 8-Track, The Safaris, The Chantays, Dick Dale and the Daletones, and Dwayne Eddy.
Used to watch Dick Dale and the Deltones at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach CA. The Belly Up took up two of about twenty side-by-side Quonset buildings.
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I had another full day of watching WW2 Aircraft in the skies over the Metroplex.
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Lucky you!
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I was taking money at the gate, and got to watch them take off, land, and fly across in front of me.
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The back doors were open.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_2045_zpsb89f692e.jpg)
1943 era drone?
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_2047_zps9c2c9d5a.jpg)
Taking a peek outside.
(http://i521.photobucket.com/albums/w332/ArceySASS13901/IMG_2049-001_zps49942bbc.jpg)
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Some kind of Trainer?
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Image matches the de Havilland Chipmunk shown on their page in the trainer category. Ain't familiar with it myself. Don't remember seeing it before. Other'n that, your guess is better'n mine.
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That works for me? I am more familiar with the fighter planes than the trainers.
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Reckon a trainer makes more sense. The name 'Chipmunk' ain't exactly gonna terrorize the enemy....
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Nope, Chipmunk does not any fear in my heart either.
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Hmm! The Flying Tigers or the Fighting Chipmunks, yep an easy choice.
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Speaking of Flying Tigers, I got to attend the last reunion of the Flying Tigers last fall at Cavanaugh Flight Museum at Addison, Tx. Last fall. There were a large number of Chinese folks that came over that their ancestors were part of the Chinese maintenance crews for the planes. We also had a flyover by the P-40s belonging to Cavanaugh's and the CAF.
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That would be something to see. While the P-40, wouldn't be considered a "best" fighter plane in most any list, it's one of my favorites. First I just love the way it looks, and second, I just have a soft spot for things that "weren't the best, but it was what we had and we made it work". That same sentiment would go for the F4F Wildcat, too.
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The P-40 was obsolete against the Zero. It was better suited to ground support than as a fighter aircraft. The Hellcat gave the Navy and Marines an aircraft superior to rhe Zero.
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While all agreed that it wasn't a very good idea to dogfight a Zero with a P-40, I also recall reading from a P-40 pilot in North Africa/ Italy, that the situation was reversed when it came to P-40 vs Bf109s. His words were something like "109s should never try to turn with a P-40." But I think the 109s had advantages against the p-40 in other areas, besides the fact that the main job in Europe became escorting bombers, and P-40s didn't have the range.
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My Dad arrived in North Africa in October, 42 with the 12th AF. Their fighter cover was the Free French AF, they had a bunch of wore out Hurricanes flown by members of the Lafayette Escridrlle.
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Yeah, once the Free French used up the stuff they had, all they got was everyone's castoffs. Their ground troops in Europe later on were mostly armed with US 1917 Enfields. I wouldn't be surprised if they got the P-40's after we upgraded to P-47s and P-51s.
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While all agreed that it wasn't a very good idea to dogfight a Zero with a P-40, I also recall reading from a P-40 pilot in North Africa/ Italy, that the situation was reversed when it came to P-40 vs Bf109s. His words were something like "109s should never try to turn with a P-40." But I think the 109s had advantages against the p-40 in other areas, besides the fact that the main job in Europe became escorting bombers, and P-40s didn't have the range.
Actually, you don't mean "dogfight" because there are several moves in dogfighting, not all of which favor the Zero. You mean "flat turn" which is the only real area that a Zeke outclassed US planes. After the Thatch weave, it was all academic.
The flat turn was used by novice pilots and those who panicked. The Flying Tigers had an ungodly kill ratio against the Ki-43 Oscar which turns as flat or flatter than does the Zero. They did so by using "dogfighting" tactics that favored their AC, namely Boom and Zoom. Any US plane could leave a Zeke behind by diving, once the F6 hit the market, the game was completely rigged. Note that when US researchers got their hands on an actual Zero they were appalled at what Junk it was.
The reason the Japanese aircraft had a great reputation was that Japanese pilots were absolutely fantastic at the start of the war and had a great deal of combat experience.
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The Zero's had a better rate of climb than our earlier fighters( 40's,39's, F-4-F's). If they could force our guys to climb, dead meat. ::)
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The Hellcat was an equal to the Zero. The Hell cat had self sealing gas tanks and 6 50 cal machine guns.
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A lot of dead Japanese pilots tried the climb bit with the F-6's mistaking them for the F-4's. took them quite a while to figure it wouldn't work ::)
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Apollo 1.
January 27, 1967.
Gus Grissom, Ed White, and Roger Chaffee. Rest in peace.
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In 1966, My Dad and I were at the Indy 500, we were going through the Museum. I noticed that Gus Grissom was standing next to my Dad. I whispered to my Dad that he was standing next to Gus. Dad knew he was one of the Mercury astronauts, but did not recognize him.
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The Zero's had a better rate of climb than our earlier fighters( 40's,39's, F-4-F's). If they could force our guys to climb, dead meat. ::)
That is correct, the Zero was better to about 9-10K as I recall, at higher altitudes it's performance suffered (including turn rate) so, depending on where you were I would tend to agree with you. The Japanese as you recall were used to having air superiority and fighting at lower altitudes. At higher altitudes it had no business fighting any US Iron made after 1940 excepting maybe the 39 which they stupidly stripped of its supercharger, even then at higher alts, likely no. But again, a booming US plane had vastly superior airspeed (P-40B could dive at 480 or better, a Zeke tapped out 100 MPH less in a dive) and climb rate was negated much by that: not all dogfights were fought from zero altitude up, as it were. I would still posit that Pilot experience and years at the craft were the greatest factors in the early going. Japan had a long training program and war experience, they had superb pilots early on. After 1942, they had very, very few fully trained pilots and no training program to bring new pilots online at the same level of capability as new US pilots. Also, the heavily armored US craft--even those you note in the early war--afforded a higher pilot survival rate so, again the US planes were superior. So, essentially the Japanese had a better chance (maybe even odds) for a few months, maybe 9-12, and after that, they had "Zero" chance (pun intended).
The great Japanese ace, Saburo Sakai, when asked how the Japanese could rationalize Kamikaze attacks said that sending the raw recruits up against F6Fs and F4Us etc., was in fact suicide and that it was simply logic, not delusional belief in the nation: you are going to die, may as well take someone with you, it was plain odds for him, not militaristic zeal.
It's a funny argument because the US had built a Naval plane and two US Army planes that could have out dogged the Zeke early on: The F4F but they over armed and armored it. The stripped, original specifications model flying as the FM2 was an awesome little fighter. The Army craft were the original design of the P-39 with a supercharger and the P-38. The 38 was unconventional and extremely expensive so it lost out but that plane could eat up just about anything in either theater in the right hands.
Cheers friend
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Agreed. I think the FM-2 had a higher horse power engine than the original F-4's as well. The FM-2's were well suited to ops off the jeep carriers ::)
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The seasoned Japanese pilots were killed off in the major battles of Coral Sea and Midway, By the end of 43 and the first part of 44, all that were left were young and inexperienced in obsolete and poorly made newer planes. The Kamakizes were out of desperation, to destroy as many naval ships as possible, by crashing into ships. The young pilots were told that it was honor to die for the Emperor.
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Agreed. I think the FM-2 had a higher horse power engine than the original F-4's as well. The FM-2's were well suited to ops off the jeep carriers ::)
Isn't that a neat legacy, those little carriers? Ever been to NAS Pensacola?
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The seasoned Japanese pilots were killed off in the major battles of Coral Sea and Midway, By the end of 43 and the first part of 44, all that were left were young and inexperienced in obsolete and poorly made newer planes. The Kamakizes were out of desperation, to destroy as many naval ships as possible, by crashing into ships. The young pilots were told that it was honor to die for the Emperor.
And we Americans was happy to oblige them sons of Nippon.
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I was at the Naval air Museum on the 75th Anniversary of Naval aviation. I really enjoyed the tour, unfortunately there many aircraft that were outside and deteriorating in the salt air. My wife has a girlfriend that is a daughter of one of the original "Black Sheep". Over the years, I have been able to tour several of the Military Air Museums in the US.
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The Great Marianas Turkey shoot was a good example of the superiority of the Amarican pilots over the Japanese pilots in the latter stages of the War. After the Battle of Midway, the Japanese Naval aviation ceased to be much of a factor.
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Hard to fly like an eagle when you're swimming with the fishes. The cream of Japan's aviators went down with those four carriers at Midway.The rest got ground up at Guadalcanal. After that, their carriers aviators were hardly trained like ours were. By the Turkey shoot, they were basically sitting ducks ::)
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Hard to fly like an eagle when you're swimming with the fishes. The cream of Japan's aviators went down with those four carriers at Midway.The rest got ground up at Guadalcanal. After that, their carriers aviators were hardly trained like ours were. By the Turkey shoot, they were basically sitting ducks ::)
Yeah, I don't recall precisely but it seems to me that the rigid Japanese training program was like 2-3 years and they had no concept of rotating skilled pilots back to training positions unless the guy was shot to hell. The US had a decent ace, they made him a trainer. We had the numbers, and more importantly, a fluid way of thinking that was far more practical.
I was always intrigued by Lindbergh's teaching of the P-38 pilots in long range flying so they could shoot down Yamamato.
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There are rumors that he did actually fly some ops while doing it. Some say he actually shot one down ::)
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Lindbergh was a controversial man in his later years. "The Spirit of St. Louis" is one of my favorite movies. Lindbergh was truly "The Lone Eagle".
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I got to fly in a Navy DC-3 Goony bird assigned to Midway Island in the middle 1970s. It was a beat up bird from hitting the local Goony birds. Dents in the nose and leading edges of the wings. They flew it to Hawaii, etc. Noisy old bitch, but still working.