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!
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 ...