Warbird News

[DaveM]

Historic Aviation Museums: A Must-Visit Destination for College Students

“Vintage Aviation News staff did not write this article; the content comes via our partners who wish to help $upport our website.”

Want to try something new and unique? Visiting a historic aviation museum might seem niche and only interesting to fans or people who have an aviation career, but it can be exciting for anyone.

Airplanes are one of mankind’s greatest inventions, and learning about their history can potentially stimulate inspiration and awe unexpectedly. We’ve compiled some good reasons as to why you should visit an aviation museum on your next trip and a few examples of some great ones you should consider going to.​

Reasons To Visit​

Before we dive in, if you want to take some time off to travel and explore cultural and artistic hubs like museums, it’s time you use Studyfy. Hire a professional academic writer to help you with your college work by simply sending us a “write essay for me” request on the website. Invest in your time and your success simultaneously by visiting Studyfy. Now, on to the topic at hand. Your reasons for visiting an aviation museum can either vary from casual scrolling to keen interest, whatever it may be; here are some obvious advantages to just getting up and going to one.​

Learn Something New​

Historic aviation museums can certainly offer a breadth of knowledge when it comes to the history and the technological evolution of aircraft and flight. If aviation and aircraft fascinate you, you might learn a thing or two by visiting. If you’re completely new to the topic, you can learn something new altogether.

Exhibits in these museums typically showcase:

• Aviation’s evolution started with the Wright Brothers to space exploration and modern-day aviation.
• Close-up vintage aircraft.
• Interactive exhibit elements.

If you have further questions, the staff at these museums will typically be knowledgeable about aviation and can help with your inquiries. They can also teach you something that’s not showcased, which can be helpful, especially if you’re not just there to visit but to collect information.​

Gain Valuable Career Insights​

For college students who want to pursue a career in aerospace and related majors, visiting an aviation museum can be a valuable experience. You have the potential to not only learn new knowledge about the field but you can also possibly meet relevant professionals that work in the aviation industry. This can be good for building your career network.

You might also have the chance to attend seminars and workshops, given that you go on the right day. By doing so, you can learn more in-depth about engineering, management, and aviation safety. There might also be a possibility that you meet other students who share similar interests and aspirations to yourself.

You’ll also be thrilled to know that some of these museums offer internship and volunteer opportunities. If you’re looking to get hands-on experience that can help with setting up your career path onward, then you might want to take the chance of signing up for them.​

Must-visit Aviation Museums​

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington, D.C.​

A large and prominent aviation museum, it’s a must-visit destination for casual travelers and enthusiasts alike. It can be found in the National Mall of Washington, D.C. The museum hosts about 60,000 artifacts related to aviation or space exploration. So, if you’re looking for a huge aviation center, this should be your pick.

In this museum, you’ll find some very prolific aircraft artifacts such as the Wright Brothers’ 1903 Flyer or The Apollo 11 Command Module. Looking for one of the most iconic and popular sights in the Smithsonian? You might want to try visiting the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, which has the Boeing 367-80, Space Shuttle Discovery, and the Enola Gay Bomber.​

Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Ottawa, Ontario​

Located in Ottawa, Ontario, is the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. It holds a massive collection of aircraft and is the biggest in Canada. The museum features military and civilian aircraft. You will also be able to witness gliders and helicopters, and the museum even has a space shuttle simulator. We definitely think it’s a must-visit center for enthusiasts.

Another noteworthy exhibit that this museum holds is the “World War I” exhibit. You’ll be able to see up close and personal vintage planes that hail from the earliest days of aviation. You can also enjoy interactive games, virtual tours, workshops, and the like.​

National Museum Of the United States Air Force , Dayton, Ohio​

Located in Dayton, Ohio, The National Museum of The United States Air Force is the largest military aviation museum. Not just in the U.S. but in the world. It’s also the oldest military aviation museum. For enthusiasts, this might be another must-visit destination idea for your bucket list.

If you’re interested in military aircraft, then you’ll find 360 aircraft and even missiles in this museum. Popular aircraft include the B-29 Superfortess, The F-22 Raptor, and the SR-71 Blackbird. You can also have the chance to witness the “Presidential Aircraft Gallery.” A gallery showing the aircraft used by U.S. presidents like John F. Kennedy and George Bush.​

Final Thoughts​

Historic aviation museums are a great place to visit, especially for those who are keen on aviation history and technology or who want to pursue a career in a related field. You can enjoy an engaging experience where you’ll be able to learn more about aviation while gaining valuable knowledge about the industry.

Whether you’re just casually looking into going to one or if you’re a huge fan of aviation, it certainly is a unique place to visit and can be refreshing. Tourist destinations can always be too overcrowded and even overhyped. By visiting something that you wouldn’t normally go to, you might find something new to appreciate.

As for fans and students who want to get into aviation, it’s pretty obvious why visiting one can be beneficial in many ways. We hope you check out one of the centers on our list for your next trip.​

“Vintage Aviation News staff did not write this article; the content comes via our partners who wish to help $upport our website.”

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[DaveM]

New Bomber Command Exhibition Opens at RAF Museum Midlands

Marking the 80th anniversary of the famous ‘Dambusters’ raid, a new permanent exhibition, ‘Strike Hard, Strike Sure: Bomber Command 1939–1945’ is now open at the Royal Air Force Museum Midlands. Featuring the newly restored Vickers Wellington bomber, Guy Gibson’s Victoria Cross, and the new arrival the Bristol Blenheim, discover how the RAF’s Bomber Command took the war to the enemy. The new interactive displays tell the wider Bomber Command story, exploring stories of the crew, technology, and raids that were crucial to Allied victory.​

© RAF Museum

At the center of the new exhibition is the Wellington B Mk X bomber, one of only two remaining examples, and on display for the first time in the Midlands after more than a decade of conservation work. The Wellington was widely used as a night bomber in the early years of the Second World War, and by 1942 Wellingtons were the most numerous aircraft in Bomber Command. They began to be replaced by more capable four-engined heavy bombers such as Halifaxes and Lancasters but continued to operate with Bomber Command as a training aircraft. The Wellington’s rear turret is displayed alongside the aircraft, allowing visitors to peer inside the fuselage and view its famous geodetic structure designed by Barnes Wallis. Interactive displays around the Wellington focus on the roles of the five-strong crew, their extraordinary service, and the close bonds they developed when flying together.

On display for the first time in the Midlands is the Bristol Blenheim Mk IV, a light bomber and night fighter. Although Blenheims were faster than other RAF fighters when they entered service in 1937, by the start of the war they proved to be too slow and lightly armed to defend themselves adequately. As a result, they suffered high casualty rates. With no surviving RAF Blenheims, this Royal Canadian Air Force example represents aircraft of No.139 Squadron, the first RAF squadron to undertake an operational mission in the Second World War.​

Personal artifacts from the Museum’s collection are now on display, many for the first time, sharing the stories of RAF aircrew and groundcrew, including Wing Commander Guy Gibson’s Victoria Cross and medal bar. Gibson received the medal for his leadership of No. 617 Squadron, The Dambusters, on their first operation over Germany, the daring Dams raid of 17 May 1943. He completed an astonishing 177 operations and was awarded the Victoria Cross as recognition of the leadership, determination, and valor he demonstrated throughout his career. Other artifacts featured in the new display include a collection of aircraft nose art, flying suits, aircrew lucky charms, uniforms, and caps, log books and post-raid reconnaissance photographs. Some of the innovative technical developments which supported Bomber Command to deliver their mission are represented through items including Barnes Wallis’s bouncing bomb test models and sketch.

People’s stories are at the heart of the Bomber Command storytelling. Men and women from across the world, on the ground and in the air, played a part. Throughout the exhibition, silhouettes depict the stories of individuals who played crucial roles, like that of Squadron Leader Ulric Cross DSO DFC. Born in Trinidad, Ulric Cross enlisted in the RAF in 1941 and trained as a navigator. He flew Pathfinder sorties on Mosquitos and completed 80 operations, his proficiency and skill leading to his award of both the Distinguished Service Order and the Distinguished Flying Cross. Of around 6,000 volunteers who came to the UK from the Caribbean to support the war effort, 450 were aircrew and 360 of these flew with Bomber Command.​

Interactive elements of the display will encourage participation from visitors of all ages. Learn about ordnance, navigation, protecting the bombers, pathfinders, and an unpredictable enemy – the weather! A timeline shows the key activities of Bomber Command during the Second World War and illustrates how bomber aircraft and tactics changed. View animations, video footage and personal accounts in a series of videos. Have your say and contribute to the debate about the RAF’s contribution on the wall of reflection.

Other aircraft on display as part of the Bomber Command exhibition include; the de Havilland Mosquito, Junkers Ju 88, Messerschmitt Me 410, Focke-Wulf Fw 190, Messerschmitt Me 262, a section of a Short Stirling Mk III and a Tiger Moth in which many bomber pilots received their first flying experience. Interactive display panels allow visitors to delve deeper into the role of each aircraft including a view inside the cockpit. Displayed alongside the aircraft is a V-1 ‘doodlebug’ flying bomb and catapult ramp, and a V-2 supersonic ballistic missile.​

The ‘Strike Hard, Strike Sure: Bomber Command 1939–1945’ exhibition is now open. The Museum is open daily from 10am and entry is free. Pre-book your arrival time online at rafmuseum.org/midlands.​

© RAF Museum

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[DaveM]

Take a Ride on a Huey Helicopter to Celebrate Armed Forces Day

PRESS RELEASE

Have you ever flown in a Huey helicopter with the doors wide open and the wind rushing over your face? Celebrate Armed Forces Day in the iconic workhorse of the Vietnam War at the Yankee Air Museum on Saturday, May 20th. This experience is not your typical airplane ride; you’ll feel the difference from lift-off to landing.​

Photo By Rick Hamman

Come and see how a Huey operates and then decide if a ride is for you! For only $125.00, you can take a thrilling 10-minute flight with a new perspective from the air. Book your ride/time in advance or take a chance and walk up that day. Rides occur from 10:00 am until noon; to order tickets in advance visit Historic Plane Rides | Yankee Air Museum | Southeast Michigan or just walk up at 10:00 am to see what’s available.

The Yankee Air Museum Huey, Greyhound, served in the Vietnam War from 1967 until 1971. It was part of the 240th Assault Helicopter Company known as The Greyhounds, Mad Dogs, and Kennel Keepers. The Greyhound Bus Company was honored by the name and gave the company permission to use its logo. A versatile helicopter, the UH-1 was used as a gunship, for medical evacuation, and for utility purposes.

Yankee Air Museum is a Blue Star Museum, which means active duty military members and their families get free admission to the Museum from May 20th (Armed Forces Day) through September 4th (Labor Day). Yankee Air Museum, located at 47884 D Street, Belleville, Michigan on the grounds of historic Willow Run Airport.

About Yankee Air Museum

Established in 1981 the Yankee Air Museum is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. The Yankee Air Museum dedicates itself to educating individuals through the history of American aeronautics, aerospace industry and its associated technologies while inspiring generations through personal experiences to instill pride in our national accomplishments. Visit www.yankeeairmuseum.org to discover more or call 734-483-4030.​

Photo By Pete Lerro

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[DaveM]

Neptune Aviation’s P2V Donated to National Museum of Forest Service History

As reported by Fire Aviation, Neptune Aviation and the National Museum of Forest Service History in Missoula have announced a partnership to provide Lockheed Martin P2V “Tanker 12” a new home after its retirement in September 2017. This closes the final chapter on the world’s last active fleet of former maritime patrol aircraft, dating back to the Cold War era, which served for years as national aerial firefighting assets.​

Photo by Neptune Aviation Services

The Lockheed P2V Neptune is largely a forgotten aircraft, since it arrived too late for World War II and was eventually overshadowed by its replacement, the Lockheed P-3 Orion. However, through the 1950s and into the 1960s, the Neptune served in large numbers as the aerial backbone of the West’s defense of the seas. A somewhat similar and competing aircraft, the Martin “Mercator”, was only built in small numbers but served with distinction in Cold War secret spy flights.​

A Lockheed P2V-7 Neptune (BuNo. 148352) of patrol squadron VP-56 Dragons, deploying to South America for exercise “Unitas IV” on 6 August 1963. Image via Wikipedia

On a statement on their Facebook page, Neptune Aviation said: “Neptune Aviation’s T12 is moving to Missoula’s National Museum of Forest Service History on May 17th. Both Neptune & the Museum have been working hard to prepare the P2V for the move – Neptune has been getting the aircraft ready for the static display and the Museum has been doing prep work on their grounds. T12’s final “flight” isn’t too far, she will be towed across the Missoula International Airport to the Museum’s Forest Discovery Trail.”​

NewsTalk KGVO reported that from 1993 Neptune operated a fleet of Lockheed Martin P2V aircraft, and its ships put in about 47,000 firefighting missions, dropping a total of 97 million gallons of retardant.

The National Museum of Forest Service History is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission of sharing the history of America’s conservation legacy. Neptune Aviation Services is based in Missoula, Montana.​

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[DaveM]

“Innovations in Flight” Event Returns to Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum

PRESS RELEASE

The National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center will host its annual “Innovations in Flight Outdoor Aviation Display,” Saturday, June 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors will be able to view over 50 vintage, modern, and commercial aircraft that will fly in for the day and be on display outside the museum. Aircraft scheduled to appear to include a C-17 from the 514th Air Mobility Wing; a Bell UH-1 Iroquois from the 1st Helicopter Squadron; aircraft from the Naval Test Pilot School such as a T-6B Texan II, Bell H-58, and C-26 ASTARS III; and a variety of civilian aircraft. Free passes are required to view the outdoor display and can be reserved on the museum’s website.​

Visitor board an Air Force aircraft at the Innovations in Flight Family Day and Outdoor Aviation Display at Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA, June 16, 2018. (NASM photo by Jim Preston)
[NASM061618JP-0230] [NASM2018-01246]

“Innovations in Flight Outdoor Aviation Display” will explore the engineering and design achievements of the past century of flight. Visitors can talk with pilots and explore the aircraft’s cockpits and cabins. In addition to the outdoor aircraft display, museum educators will lead visitors in plane spotting aircraft landing at Washington Dulles International Airport and teach them how to spot and identify aircraft from anywhere. Visitors will also be able to use social media filters to transform into iconic pilots from aviation history.

A special pop-up online store will open May 15 with limited-edition “Innovations in Flight” merchandise. Items such as T-shirts, posters, and mugs can be purchased for a limited time.​

Photos of the 2018 Innovations in Flight event at the NASM Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA. The event was sponsored by United Airlines and featured various planes, helicopters, classic and modern automobiles as well as performances by the USAF Drill and USAF Band in the museum. [20180616_ds_nasm_INNOVFLT-0018 copy] [NASM2018-01385]

The event is made possible through the support of United Airlines. To learn more about the museum and “Innovations in Flight,” visit the museum’s website.

“Innovations in Flight” is one of the museum’s most popular events of the year and draws large crowds. While the museum has parking available, public transportation is also available via Fairfax Connector’s 983 bus, which includes a stop at the Innovation Center Metro station. Schedules, routes, and fare information are available.

The National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is located in Chantilly, Virginia, near Washington Dulles International Airport, and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, but there is a $15 parking fee for vehicles entering before 4 p.m. at the Udvar-Hazy Center. The museum’s building on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., is located at Sixth Street and Independence Avenue S.W. and is open daily from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. (closed Dec. 25), timed entry passes are required.​

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[DaveM]

Museum of Flight Awards $238,000 in Scholarships to 14 High School Students

SEATTLE, May 19, 2023—The Museum of Flight awarded $238,000 in scholarships to 14 Washington students for post-secondary education and flight training during a ceremony held at the Museum on May 16. The scholarships are awarded each year to students who have participated in The Museum of Flight’s education programs or are enrolled in Raisbeck Aviation High School. The recipients represent a racial and economic diversity of 77 applicants chosen from 27 school districts. The ceremony was emceed by the Museum’s Vice President of Education, Dr. Dana Riley Black, with additional remarks by the Museum’s President and CEO, Matt Hayes.

“The Museum’s education programs are designed to guide students’ inspiration, exploration and preparation of space and aviation topics. These annual scholarships create a unique bridge from the Museum’s programs to the students’ next steps in their education and careers,” said Dr. Black. “The post-secondary STEM education scholarships are opportunities for high school seniors planning to attend a college, university or trade school in science, technology, engineering or mathematics-related fields, and the flight training scholarships provide opportunities for high school students who want to earn their private pilot license—which is an important first milestone for anyone with aspirations to become a professional pilot or aviation industry professional. We are so proud to see that past recipients have since become commercial pilots and aerospace professionals.”

The 14 scholarship recipients represent nine school districts, and they reported their gender as 57 percent male and 43 percent female. Fourteen percent reported eligibility for Free/Reduced lunch. (Detailed data is available upon request.)

Image: 2023 Scholarship recipients at The Museum of Flight awards ceremony. Sean Mobley/The Museum of Flight.

THE AWARDS

One Frank “Sam” and Betty Houston Post-secondary Scholarship at up to $120,000 towards a degree related to the field of aviation or aerospace.

Five Frank “Sam” and Betty Houston Flight Training Scholarships at $12,000 each for flight instruction to the level of “Single-Engine Land.”

One Alaska Airlines Flight Training Scholarship at up to $12,000 for flight instruction to the level of “Single-Engine Land.”

Two Benjamin L. Ellison Future Pilot Scholarships at up to $12,000 flight instruction that leads to solo, with the possibility of additional funding toward earning a Private Pilot Certificate.

One Aeronautical Science Pathway Scholarship Recipient at up to $3,000 toward flight training and/or post-secondary studies at a university, college, technical school, or other accredited institution of higher education.

One Stephen and Hazel Eastman Memorial Post-secondary Scholarship at $4,000 to offset post-secondary expenses.

One Stuart Knopp Memorial Scholarship Recipient at $5,000 to offset post-secondary expenses.

One Jim and Sue Johnson Post-Secondary STEM Education Scholarship Recipient at $5,000 toward STEM-based scholarship pursuits with opportunity for renewal.

One Reba Gilman Endowed Scholarship Recipient at $5,000 to offset college expenses.

THE RECIPIENTS

2023 Frank “Sam” and Betty Houston Post-Secondary STEM Education Scholarship Recipient | Up to $120,000 towards a degree related to the field of aviation or aerospace:

Cilicia Diaz is a senior at Tahoma High School in the Tahoma School District. She is currently enrolled in the Museum’s Aeronautical Science Pathway program (ASP). Her future career plan is to become a commercial airline pilot. She received the Aeronautical Science Pathway Scholarship in 2022 and used those funds to begin her flight training in March 2022. After eight months of training, she earned her Private Pilot License.

“On the majority of flights I have taken, I had only ever seen white men or rarely, a white woman, on the flight deck. I cannot wait for the day a little girl walks onto my flight, looks over, and sees a woman of color in control of the flight. Being a role model for women around the world is the core reason this career is made for me.”

2023 Frank “Sam” and Betty Houston Flight Training Scholarship Recipients | Up to $12,000 each toward earning a Private Pilot license:

Myla Fox is a senior at Tahoma High School in the Tahoma School District, she previously participated in the Museum’s Private Pilot Ground School program (PPGS). Fox plans to be a commercial pilot and has passed her FAA Written Exam.

“I was so lucky to have found this free ground school program, because like other kids who can’t afford the expensive world of flying, I had always just ignored those nagging thoughts and pushed aviation away. Now that I know I am capable of enjoying and succeeding in this field, I have decided that I will find a way.”

Sterling Norris is a senior at Bellarmine Preparatory School and resides in the Clover Park School District; she previously participated in the Museum’s Private Pilot Ground School program (PPGS). Norris’s long-term career goal is to be a commercial airline pilot.

“Honoring my younger self’s dream, I know my life will be in the air. I want to know that feeling of people feeling confident aboard my plane with me as their pilot. I want to inspire other girls and raise the number of female pilots way higher than 29.3% and female pilots of color (Native American and Hispanic) as am I. I want to be an example for those women from basic, middle-class backgrounds who dare to dream.”

Robert Peterson is a junior at Foster High School in the Tukwila School District; he previously participated in the Museum’s Private Pilot Ground School program (PPGS) and is currently enrolled in its Aeronautical Science Pathway course (ASP). Peterson’s long-term career goal is to be a captain of a large aircraft while transporting either goods or people.

“ASP has been beyond beneficial to me, I am surrounded by peers with the same passions and interests who only push each other forwards never backward, I am mentored by a very knowledgeable and experienced person who also has the same interests and is there to support. Through these programs, I am best set up for success on the path I am walking, and is giving me a major head start in aviation and working towards my goals.”

Owen Teodoro is a senior at Raisbeck Aviation High School in the Highline School District. He is currently enrolled in the Museum’s Aeronautical Science Pathway program (ASP). Teodoro plans to be a commercial airline pilot and hopefully, one day, fly for the National Parks Service.

“It’s not always easy remembering how unique of an experience I am getting from an aviation-focused high school and through a program like ASP. I get to eat lunch under a B-52, watch planes take off all day in class, and have many friends that already have their Private Pilots License. I have received a foundation in aviation that other students in “normal” classes don’t.”

Hailin Truman is a senior at Raisbeck Aviation High School in the Highline School District. He has interned at the Museum’s Pathfinder Gala for the past two years and was an attendee prior to that. Hailin intends to major in Aerospace Engineering and hope to innovate and design aircraft and possibly spacecraft in the future. Hailin was the first ever High School Intern for the Boeing Company’s engineering team.

“Overall, The Museum of Flight has changed my world. It has led me down the path of aviation and instilled in me the dream of one day floating in space.”

2023 Alaska Airlines Flight Training Scholarship at up to $12,000 toward earning a Private Pilot license:

Rhys Nelson is a senior at Raisbeck Aviation High School in the Highline School District. He is currently enrolled in the Museum’s Aeronautical Science Pathway Program (ASP). Nelson plans to attend Green River College and earn a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science with the long-term goal of becoming a Commercial Airline Pilot.

“I am dedicated to furthering my education in the aviation industry and am looking forward to putting these skills into practice to become a pilot my family will be proud of, and even more importantly, I will have the chance to be doing something I love in an industry that continues to show promise, financial and job security, as well as growth.”

2023 Benjamin L. Ellison Future Pilot Scholarship Recipients | Up to $12,000 each toward earning a Private Pilot license:

Zane Johnson is a junior at Tahoma High School in the Tahoma School District. He is currently enrolled in the Museum’s Aeronautical Science Pathway program (ASP) and has previously participated in the Museum’s Private Pilot Ground School program (PPGS). His long-term career goal is to be an Airline Transport Pilot for either cargo or passengers.

“I think The Museum of Flight is an extremely important building to maintain, as it is the place I first found my passion for aviation. Ever since I was young, I was always looking for the planes I could hear soaring over me.”

Henry Dejanikus is a sophomore at Lakeside School in Seattle. He is a Museum Volunteer and will be attending the Museum’s Private Pilot Ground School program (PPGS) this summer.

“The Museum of Flight fuels my fascination for anything flying more than I can describe. From an early age, I remember trips with my mom or dad to the Museum, walking up the stairs into the Queen of the Skies, or standing next to the sleek and long blackbird. These trips fostered and enriched my passion for aviation, and truly, the museum is, more than anything else, the reason I want to fly.”

2023 Jim and Sue Johnson Post-Secondary STEM Education Scholarship Recipient | $5,000 toward STEM-based scholarship pursuits with opportunity for renewal.

Nicole Piedrahita is a senior at Everett High School in the Everett School District. She previously participated in the Museum’s Washington Aerospace Scholars program (WAS). Her future career goal is to become a Propulsions Engineer and to find a sustainable way to fuel rockets.

“I also know that the aerospace field needs a bit more diversity. As someone of Colombian descent, I want to inspire girls and young women of diverse backgrounds to follow their aerospace goals. Being involved in an aerospace career would make it easier for me to help others since I could serve as a mentor or a reference. I hope I can show others that overcoming stereotypes and difficulties is possible and that there is space for them.”

2023 Aeronautical Science Pathway Scholarship Recipient | $3,000 toward flight training or post-secondary education:

Edan Tsegaye is a senior at Kentridge High School in the Kent School District. She is currently enrolled in the Museum’s Aeronautical Science Pathway program (ASP). Her future plans are to work as an aerospace engineer at a space exploration-based company and design spacecraft.

“Participating in this program [ASP] has enhanced my learning in ways that I never imagined possible. Through the participation of this program I have been immersed in a highly interactive environment with interactive exhibits, lectures, and discussions as well as hands-on activities and simulations that have provided me with a variety of opportunities to gain a greater understanding of the principles and practices of aeronautics and science.”

2023 Stephen and Hazel Eastman Memorial Scholarship Recipient | $4,000 toward post-secondary education:

Hunter Trujillo is a senior at Auburn Riverside High School in the Auburn School District, and he is a Running Start Student at Green River College in Auburn. He previously participated in the Museum’s Michael P. Anderson Memorial Aerospace program (MPA) and the Washington Aerospace Scholars program (WAS). Trujillo’s career goal is to become a commercial airline pilot.

Referencing the Museum’s MPA event he said, “I remember being excited about the information we were learning, enjoying the small group of peers that I spent the day with, and in awe when we had the chance to meet a real-life astronaut. I came home from that event and asked my parents to frame the photo we were given along with my certificate of completion from the program.”

2023 Stuart Knopp Memorial Scholarship Recipients | $5,000 toward post-secondary education:

Abigail Krawcyzk is a senior at Shorecrest High School in the Shoreline School District. She has previously participated in the Museum’s Aerospace Camp Experience (ACE), Aeronautical Explorations program (AE), and Washington Aerospace Scholars program (WAS). Krawcyzk’s long-term career goal is to become an aerospace engineer and fly planes in her free time.

“I have long been fascinated with aerospace and aviation, and through my experiences at school, have also fallen in love with engineering. I love creating and problem-solving, and engineering is a direct fruition of that. When considering my future and my long-term plans, it only makes sense for me to pursue the combination of my two loves: aerospace engineering. I hope to follow that age-old adage of ‘love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life.’”

2023 Reba Gilman Endowed Scholarship Recipient | $5,000 to offset college expenses:

Ali Karim is a senior at Raisbeck Aviation High School (RAHS) in the Highline School District. In the future, Ali hopes to use data science, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to transform outdated technology and data collection methods to create better simulations, do more in-depth data analysis, and create new computational modeling programs to better explore our solar universe. Karim co-founded a non-profit called Balanced Media, a platform to encourage healthy conversations and bipartisanship in a politically divided America. He is currently the Chief Operating Officer.

“Creating this nonprofit wouldn’t have been possible without the connections, staff, and mentors available to us through school. Without the support of my RAHS community, a community I only found through The Museum of Flight, I would still be the shy and timid kid who never followed his dreams.”

Photos and detailed bios of each recipient are available upon request through The Museum of Flight. Data is also available detailing the applicants’ school districts, gender and eligibility for free/reduced lunch programs.

The Museum of Flight’s Boeing Academy for STEM Learning

All education programs at The Museum of Flight operate under the umbrella of
The Boeing Academy for STEM Learning, which was created in 2015 through a major investment by The Boeing Company and Mr. and Mrs. William E. Boeing, Jr. From pre-kindergarten to college prep and career readiness programs, the Academy provides unparalleled learning opportunities for students to explore and prepare for education and career pathways in aviation and space.

The Academy strives to accelerate opportunities for all youth, with particular focus on those populations underrepresented in aviation and space, by connecting them to fulfilling, in-demand STEM careers. The Academy operates in partnership with schools, community-based organizations, government, business and industry to ensure that the next generation of workers are ready to lead and innovate.​

The main display area of the Museum of Flight, located at Boeing Field, Seattle, Washington. (Photo via Wikipedia)

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[DaveM]

D-Day Squadron Launches Crowdfunding Project for 2024 Legacy Tour

On June 6, 1944, more than 11,000 aircraft were mobilized as Allied forces began their massive land, sea, and air invasion now known as D-Day. It was a massive undertaking that was known as the beginning of the end of WWII.​

Photo by Ian Hardman via D-Day Squadron

In 2019, 15 legendary DC-3 type aircraft made a historic North Atlantic crossing to celebrate both the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the 70th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift. Featured on the international stage and in media across the world, the men and women of the D-Day Squadron touched tens of thousands of lives as they flew to honor the world’s Greatest Generation.​

The magnificent formation flight down the Normandy beaches on June 6th, 2019. (Screen Capture of Into Flight Once More – via D-Day Squadron)

Building on these accomplishments, the D-Day Squadron is coordinating a fleet of aircraft to fly to Europe in 2024 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Invasion of Normandy and the 75th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift. In mid-May 2024, DC-3 variants representing World War II and Cold War vintage aircraft will ‘cross the pond’ from the United States to the United Kingdom, cross the English Channel to Normandy, France, then fly on to Berlin, Germany and beyond.

This is no easy task, and while nothing can compare to the amount of organization the Allied forces faced in planning for the D-Day invasion, there is still a tremendous amount of preparation, time, and cost involved in recreating this historic anniversary tour. Start-up costs for the 2024 Legacy Tour branding and design, mission operation and planning, campaign management, and advanced logistics in Europe are significant, and they need our help to get off the ground.​

The airplanes lined up on the Duxford Airfield flight line. (Screen Capture of Into Flight Once More – via D-Day Squadron)

According to Lyndse Costabile, D-Day Squadron Executive Director, “Our duty is to remember the significance of these events and to ensure that future generations never forget. Today, our mission continues, to perpetuate the sights and sounds of “Flying Freedom,” and to promote the legacy of the Greatest Generation and the Douglas DC-3s in which they flew. The D-Day Squadron is currently setting the schedule for the 2024 Legacy Tour, organizing appearances across Europe, and serving as Mission Control – a central unit for all operators, crew, and operations.” ​

The moment when Erik Zipkin (right) handed over Placid Lassie’s controls
to Col. Halvorsen. (photo via D-Day Squadron)

The D-Day Squadron Kickstarter lasts 30 days with a goal of $7,500. As always, backers can choose from a variety of reward levels and perks including special edition ball caps, playing cards, commemorative artwork and challenge coins. These are exclusive rewards only available through the Kickstarter campaign. You can find them all right here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/fiveoaks/d-day-squadron-2024-legacy-tour

Starting from the Northeast United States in May of next year, the aircraft must complete six total flight legs to Europe involving crew rest, refueling, proper maintenance, formation planning, and logistics. Can you imagine? It will take the squadron 15 days, close to 3,000 nautical miles, approximately 15 hours of flight time, 120 gallons of oil, more than 1,400 gallons of fuel, and 150 crew to make this historic transatlantic crossing!​

The D-Day Squadron’s airplanes getting ready to perform the Missing Man formation. Photo by Ricardo von Puttkammer via D-Day Squadron

Once again, more than 150 parachutists are planning to fill the skies in 2024 symbolizing freedom, the sacrifices made during the Normandy invasion, and the overall war effort. Flown by retired servicemen and women, as well as civilian seasoned pilots, each crew member participates as a volunteer with this effort. Flying this legend of an airplane, the Douglas DC-3, is an honor and privilege for each crew. The C-47 was the most ubiquitous airplane of the war, performing multiple services in all theaters of operation, from North Africa to Burma, from New Guinea to Normandy, and from Sicily to Holland. Along with the C-54, the DC-3 was among the heroes transporting and dropping food and supplies into West Berlin during the Berlin Airlift.​

Pan Am’s crew in Greenland yesterday with our very own Moreno Aguiari on the left. He is part of the crew for the Historic Flight Foundation’s C-47 on this journey. HFF’s John Sessions is to his right, Mike Sessions and Tim Manna. (photo via D-Day Squadron)

A portion of the Kickstarter funds will cover the cost of campaign graphics, merchandise, swag, and cool items – which will be added to the perks and revealed on June 6, 2023. All profits received after campaign costs will go directly to the D-Day Squadron.

This effort is dubbed the “2024 Legacy Tour.” With many WWII veterans having ‘flown west’ since the 2019 mission, 2024 will be the opportunity to focus on both the LEGACY of these WWII veterans and the legendary aircraft that served as the backbone to multiple war campaigns. Our veterans are our window to the past, and this is a chance for us to continue honoring those who made sacrifices for the freedoms we have today.​

Virginia Ann’s crew before they departed Narsarsuaq for Prestwick this morning. (photo via D-Day Squadron)

Key Details

• Operators Involved: DC-3/C-47/C-53/C-46 operators across North America
• Expected Total Trip Dates: May 15 – late June 2024
• Mobilization: Assemble in Northeast USA for training and cross North Atlantic as a squadron
• Flight Plan: Oxford, Connecticut, or New York (TBD) – Presque Isle – Goose Bay – Greenland – Iceland – Scotland – England

Proposed Timeline

• May 15-25: Train and cross North Atlantic
• May 25-31: Europe training and buffer for weather / mechanical
• June 1-5: Imperial War Museum, Duxford, multiple events/flyovers, photo flights before English Channel crossing
• June 6-11: Normandy
• June 11-14: Berlin Airlift (TBD)
• June 15-21: Lido Italy/Portugal (TBD)
• June 21-28: Return to North America

Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber refueling in Greenland yesterday. The C-47 along with 14 similar aircraft from the D-Day Squadron are heading to Europe right now to take part in the D-Day 75th Anniversary Celebrations. (photo via D-Day Squadron)

“Following the successful mission in 2019, the D-Day Squadron has continued to be a presence at multiple flyovers, aviation events, and warbird-themed airshows,” Costabile continues. “We also launched the DC-3 Society to actively aid operators and enthusiasts with maintenance, operations, airworthiness, and displays. The Allies won the War, in part, because of their logistical abilities. It’s only appropriate that we, as the stewards of these noble aircraft, continue to fly and maintain the very airframes that were the backbone to achieving victory.”

The ceremonies in 2024 celebrating the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the Berlin Airlift will be a momentous occasion to celebrate peace, liberty, and reconciliation. This is your chance to celebrate these amazing, historic aircraft, and ensure a proper launch effort and a safe journey for their crews!​

You can find them all right here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/fiveoaks/d-day-squadron-2024-legacy-tour​

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[DaveM]

CAF Lake Superior Squadron 3rd Annual Bong Airport Open House

On June 10th, the CAF Lake Superior Squadron is hosting its 3rd Annual Bong Open House at the Richard I. Bong Memorial Airport located in Superior, WI. The events start at 7:30 am with a fly-in breakfast and will continue throughout the day with flying opportunities, a classic car parade, kids activities, reenactments, and the Blue Water Big Band.

Throughout the day, visitors will be able to access the Lake Superior Squadron hangar and museum, hop in the pilot’s seat of their ‘Black Cat’ PBY Catalina, or take some photos next to the unit’s classic warbirds. With the entire airport open, there will be plenty of opportunities to learn about aviation, take a fun flight and see the area from the sky. Local aviation groups like the Civil Air Patrol, the Bordertown Betties, the Bong Veterans Center, and Lake Superior College will also be on hand.​

The event schedule is published below:

7:30 AM – Doors Open at the EAA, Breakfast and Flying at EAA Hangar
11:00 AM – Lunch is served at Lake Superior Squadron Hangar
11:00 AM – Youth Aviation Education
12:30PM – World War II warbird flight
2:00 PM – Dancing to the Blue Water Big Band

Unfortunately, although previously announced to the contrary, the Squadron’s Stinson OY-2 will not be flying at this event; its restoration is complete, but scheduling issues have impacted its return to flight. That being said, weather permitting, some engine run demonstrations are planned for the WWII-era liason aircraft.​

Click HERE to learn more about the event.​

Visitors can check out progress with the restoration of the unit’s PBY Catalina and learn about future plans for this important project. To support this event – and the restoration of the PBY – please click HERE.​

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[DaveM]

Sea Harrier Museum Inaugurated in India

On May 11th India’s Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy inaugurated the Sea Harrier Museum on Beach Road and Indoor Sports Complex in MVP Colony of Visakhapatnam. The new museum space features two Pegasus engines, a flight simulator, and other artifacts alongside the Sea Harrier. All the exhibits have been brought from Goa Air Base.

The Sea Harrier Museum is a component of the Integrated Museum and Tourism Complex project of the VMRDA. This will be an additional attraction for tourists on Beach Road, after INS Kursura Submarine Museum and TU-142 Aircraft Museum.

In 1983, Indian Navy acquired 30 British-made Sea Harriers jump jets and stationed those at the INS Viraat. The Sea Harriers were decommissioned along the INS Viraat in 2017.​

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[DaveM]

CAF Launches New Pilot Scholarship Program

PRESS RELEASE

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is proud to announce a new Pilot Scholarship Program in 2023. This program, supported by the Ray Foundation, facilitates students, ages 16 through 19, to earn their private pilot’s license with little to no cost.

“Getting young people interested in flight is at the core of the CAF’s mission. We understand that big challenges and roadblocks can hinder young people from getting a pilot’s license. We are excited to work with the Ray Foundation in creating a program that can help remove some of those barriers and do it in a unique/CAF way through the Units of our organization,” said CAF President Hank Coats.​

The program works by providing the scholar access to experienced mentors, establishing a rigorous timeline, and providing financial assistance. The program’s timeline is set for attaining the license in one year. For the CAF Pilots Scholarship program, the scholars selected will need to be students that are active within the CAF Unit and have an endorsement from the Unit to participate and a CAF Unit member that can serve as a mentor through the process.

This program is a big commitment, and there are a lot of expectations and timelines to be familiar with before agreeing to participate. Before the CAF releases this information to the public, we invite our members to learn more about the program by visiting the website www.cafscholarships.org. Bill Ervin, Director of Training at CAF Headquarters, is leading the program and will be holding a webinar within the next few weeks to introduce Units interested in the program and answer any additional information and questions; click here to sign up for more news and get on the list to join the webinar.​

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[DaveM]

B-29 Doc Returns to Oshkosh & EAA AirVenture 2023

PRESS RELEASE

B-29 Doc will make a return trip to EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI, this summer as a featured performer and static display aircraft on Boeing Plaza. Doc, one of only two remaining B-29 Superfortress aircraft in the world that is still airworthy and flying, will also participate with the EAA in providing aircraft rides in Appleton alongside the EAA’s B-25 Berlin Express during the week.​

“Our thanks to the Doc team for creating these added flight experiences during AirVenture week,” said Sean Elliott, EAA’s vice president of advocacy and safety. “Bringing together the opportunity to fly aboard one of only two airworthy B-29s left in the world while at Oshkosh will be an unforgettable moment for everyone. AirVenture attendees are in for a treat as well, as they will see this magnificent aircraft over their heads more than ever before!”

B-29 Doc will operate its B-29 Doc Flight Experience rides July 24-27 in Appleton, WI, and will perform in the AirVenture air show through the week before arriving on the show grounds Thursday evening, July 27, to be on static display for ground and cockpit tours Friday through Sunday, July 28-30. Ride flight tickets and merchandise for Doc will be available for purchase at the Bomber Shack in Warbird Alley at AirVenture beginning Monday, July 27.​

Brig. Gen. Paul Tibbets IV, 509th Bomb Wing commander, Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., conducts pre-flight checks on Doc, a restored B-29 Superfortress, June 9, 2017, on McConnell Air Force Base, Kan. Tibbets’ grandfather, retired Brig. Gen. Paul Tibbets Jr., piloted the ‘Enola Gay,’ during WWII and dropped the world’s first atomic bomb used in warfare. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Tara Fadenrecht)

“Our mission with B-29 Doc is to honor the Greatest Generation and those who designed, built, flew and maintained warbirds to protect freedom at home and abroad–while at the same time–ensuring the legacies of these heroes are not forgotten,” said Josh Wells, B-29 Doc executive director. “We are humbled once again to be a part of EAA AirVenture and to be able to join other performers and attendees to share in the greater mission of inspiring future generations of aviators. In addition, working with the EAA team this year to provide B-29 Doc Flight Experience ride passengers with ground transportation to and from the AirVenture show grounds will allow even more access to the unique experience of getting up close and personal with these historic warbirds.”

B-29 Doc Flight Experience tickets are on sale now for the week of EAA AirVenture. Information about rides and flight ticket information can be found here: www.b29doc.com/rides.

Event Details for the B-29 Doc History Restored Tour at EAA AirVenture 2023

B-29 Doc will arrive at Appleton International Airport Sunday, July 23, and will host B-29 Doc Flight Experience Rides Monday, July 24 through Thursday, July 27. The flight path for the Doc ride flights will be over the EAA AirVenture showgrounds (as air traffic allows). Doc will arrive at Whitman Field on the EAA show grounds Thursday evening (July 27) and will be featured on Boeing Plaza Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 28-30, for static ground and cockpit tours. For details about B-29 Doc Flight Experience Rides, visit www.b29doc.com/rides.​

BOOK YOUR SEAT ON B-29 DOC IN OSHKOSH TODAY!​

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[DaveM]

Discover an Untold Story of Humanitarian Heroism – Operation Lights Out

PRESS RELEASE

“Operation Lights Out – The Story of Canairelief” is a powerful film that reveals the untold story of the Biafran Airlift – the largest non-governmental humanitarian war relief effort in history. The film highlights the incredible bravery and humanitarianism of Canadians who took part in the airlift known as Joint Church Aid (JCA). The effort saved an estimated one million lives and ultimately led to the establishment of global humanitarian organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) (aka Doctors Without Borders), Concern Worldwide and thrust other agencies into the humanitarian spotlight such as Save the Children, Christian Aid and Oxfam. The Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), which led to the necessity of the Biafran airlift, left over two million people dead. Primarily women and children were subjected to unimaginable suffering and starvation. However, in the midst of this crisis, a group of selfless individuals came together to orchestrate an unprecedented relief effort that forever changed the landscape of humanitarian aid.​

A field that had been converted into a makeshift airport in Calabar, Nigeria, where relief efforts were aided by a helicopter team. These helicopters could move one ton of crated, dry fish quickly to refugee camps in the Nigerian-Biafran war zone. Image via Wikipedia

The untold role of exemplary Canadians is highlighted. Oxfam Canada collaborated with The Presbyterian Church in Canada and a private businessman, Jack Grant, to purchase for $108,000, the first of five Super Constellation airplanes, for what became one of the most impactful non-profit airlines in history. Canairelief was born when The Presbyterian Church in Canada and Oxfam Canada put down $50,000.00 each, while Jack Grant wrote a personal check for $8,000.00. This pivotal moment was crucial for the larger JCA as the Canadian super constellation aircraft had a 20 tons capacity, the largest in the airlift. The effort was ultimately responsible for feeding 200,000 people every day.

The Biafran Airlift is virtually unknown to the general public. Unlike the Berlin Airlift, which was accomplished by governments, the Biafran Airlift was the largest civilian airlift in world history, with 80,000 tonnes of food and medicine transported by over 7,000 flights. This epochal effort was coordinated in its entirety by a number of non-governmental organizations in the face of deadly resistance.​

A helicopter, which has landed at a makeshift airport in Calabar, Nigeria, is loaded with crates of dried fish, a staple food in that area, to be shipped to refugee camps during the Nigerian-Biafran war. Image via Wikipedia

As we approach the 56th anniversary of Biafra’s declaration of independence, May 30, which sparked this devastating conflict, there is an opportunity to reflect on the lessons of humanitarian history and ongoing and emerging crises, especially in Africa. On May 30, 2023, “Operation Lights Out” will be released via “Vimeo On Demand”. The film has taken five years to produce.

It is the desire of the creator and director of the film, Angela Onuora, to ensure that the legacy of the Canadian contribution to the Biafran Airlift lives on. We would be grateful if you could share the news of the release of the film as widely as possible within your communities and networks ensuring that this incredible story of compassion and courage reaches as many people as possible. To stay updated, please encourage them to visit the website at https://operationlightsoutmovie.com/ and sign up for the mailing list. For your reference, we have also attached a Press Kit with more information, and the link here will give an introduction video series to help further explain why this film is important.​

Canairelief flew four purchased ex-Nordair Super Constellations. Image via Wikipedia

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[DaveM]

The Evolution of Pilot Education during World War II

“Vintage Aviation News staff did not write this article; the content comes via our partners who wish to help $upport our website.”

The World War II didn’t pass unnoticed by anyone. It involved 61 countries and 80% of humanity. It brought great destruction and intense changes in many life aspects. The pilots were not spared. The war forced them to learn new strategies and technologies. We will look at the evolution of aviator training during WW II and what role it played. Students who learn about the War and military rehabilitation after it may find information the following. Archives and libraries, online resources. museums, and documentary videos dedicated to this global period in human history.

Military Flight Training Programs

Primary flight training programs implemented during World War II

The countries involved in the war developed different ones. In the USA, the Army Air Corps program was introduced. It provided pilots with intensive training. Much attention was paid to teaching flight skills: maneuvers in the air, shooting, and landing.

How did these programs differ from pre-war pilot training methods

Writing academic papers about the World War II, students discover many topics. Below we will consider more than one. No matter what the topic, the essay must be meaningful, and structured. Many students face difficulties along the way. Online services with excellent examples of essays will provide qualified help. For example, StudyMoose. So, students will not lose academic performance. They will be able to use community essay examples and ideas on topics related to the adaptation of military pilots to civilian life and PTSD and SUD among returning veterans to make their articles meaningful and close to the best result. They will also learn new topics for themselves. For example, that one of the biggest differences between pre-war and war aviator training was acceleration. There was a need for mass mobilization of pilots. Thus, the duration of training was shortened and the intensity increased. Training programs were more specialized. There were programs for fighters, night fighters. Also, bombers, and other specialized groups. This made it possible to train pilots for specific tasks.

Key elements and stages of military flight training

These included theoretical training, ground training, and practical flights. Theoretical training:

• study of aerodynamics
• navigation
• strategic planning and other aspects of aviation.

Ground training was conducted using simulators. They simulated flight scenarios. Practical flights were conducted under the supervision of experienced aviator instructors. The latter taught newcomers flight skills and tactics.

Role of simulators and flight instructors in pilot education during the war

Simulators have become an integral part. They allowed aviators to get practical skills without risking their lives. Different types of simulators were developed:

• maneuvering
• visual
• cockpit simulators

They allowed pilots to:

• improve their flying skills
• learn the procedures for taking off and landing
• train to respond to unforeseen situations

Flight instructors also played a major role. They taught flight techniques, tactics, strategy, and maneuvers. They were responsible for evaluating aviators’ progress and identifying their strengths and weaknesses.

Aircraft Technology and Pilot Training

The influence of technological advancements in aircraft pilot training during WW II

It was immediate and significant. New models of airplanes had to be developed. They had to be faster, more powerful, and more maneuverable. All this required mastering new skills and acquiring new knowledge. Pilots had to adapt to these new technologies and learn their characteristics and capabilities.

Specific challenges pilots faced in adapting to new plane models

Adapting to new plane models required pilots to retrain their skills and learn new ones. This included changes in control, flight characteristics, and plane equipment. Aviators faced the following problems:

• more complex control
• feeling new aerodynamic features
• increased complexity and speed of reaction to new situations
• new flight modes

How were pilots trained to operate advanced systems and weaponry?

The pilots studied the operation of radars, bomb launchers, piloting systems and other equipment. Special simulators became an integral part of aviator training. They allowed simulating various flight and combat scenarios. They taught them how to operate complex systems and use weapons effectively. They provided practical training in a controlled, safe environment. The pilots gained valuable experience before real battle.

The impact of technological progress on piloting safety and efficiency

Technological advances increased the safety and efficiency of pilots. Improved plane was more maneuverable and reliable. New control and weapons systems provided more accurate and efficient operations. It increased the success rate. Technological advances also contributed to the development of training methods. Simulators allowed aviators to learn complex procedures without risking their lives. This reduced the number of accidents.

Navigation and Communication Training

How did navigation techniques and tools evolve during World War II pilot education?

Navigation methods and tools were developing rapidly. They played an important role in preparing aviators for effective navigation flight. And ensuring communication with the command post. Navigation training included the use of various tools. New navigation devices appeared:

• onboard remote navigation devices
• radio compasses
• star-based positioning systems.

What methods were used to train pilots in navigation skills?

The pilots learned to use mapping materials and calculate flight routes. They also studied navigation techniques:

• using markings on the ground
• recognizing landmarks on the earth
• finding their position using navigation devices

How were communication systems and protocols taught to pilots during the war?

New radio sets were introduced. They allowed aviators to communicate over long distances in difficult conditions. Pilots received instructions, transmitted reports. They obtained important information about missions and strategic tasks.

Role of radar and radio navigation in pilot training

The radar systems allowed aviators to detect and track enemy aircraft. They could avoid collisions and detect threats. Pilots also used radio navigation systems, such as the LORAN (Long Range Navigation) system. It helped them to determine their position and execute routes. Radar and radio navigation allowed them to track the movement of enemy forces. Also, to determine their position in difficult conditions, and avoid obstacles.

Military Rehabilitation Program

How pilots were prepared for civilian life

After the end of World War II, rehabilitation programs were developed. They were aimed at helping military pilots transition to civilian life. They focused on preparing pilots for new professions and integration into public life. Aviators were supported in their job search. They also retrained and received new education.

How World War II affected the rehabilitation program

WW II led to new types of injuries and problems faced by veterans. Many aviators returned with amputations and disabilities. Rehabilitation programs were expanded and improved. They took into account the special needs of veterans.

What problems did doctors encounter when treating veterans

Doctors had to address the pilots’ physical and mental health issues. They developed individual rehabilitation plans. They also worked on restoring the pilots’ physical skills:

• motor skills
• motor activity
• control over the devices.

Doctors helped to select prostheses. They provided psychological support to pilots who suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder.​

Aspect	Pre-War Pilot Training Methods	Pilot Training During World War II
Flight Training Programs	Teaching the basics of flying, learning to fly small airplanes	Training on military aircraft, special simulators and combat simulators. Teaching air combat tactics and strategy
Technological Advancements	Limited availability of aircraft. The focus is on using simpler plane of the period.	Implementation of new technologies and advanced plane models. The pilots gained skills in operating more complex systems and weapons.
Navigation and Communication Training	The main methods were based on the use of maps and compasses. Communication was carried out by radio and signal flags.	Implementation of new navigation methods. They included radio navigation and the use of radar to improve the accuracy and efficiency of flights and sights.
Operational Training and Combat Readiness	Training of pilots in air combat tactics, use of weapons. Coordination of actions within military formations.	Operational training was more intensive. Simulations of combat conditions, tactical training, and special courses on air combat strategy.

Combat readiness involved providing pilots with the necessary resources. Such as fuel, ammunition, and reserve units.


Combat readiness was enhanced through the new technologies implementation and improved supply systems. They ensured rapid response and readiness of pilots to perform combat missions.

“Vintage Aviation News staff did not write this article; the content comes via our partners who wish to help $upport our website.”

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[DaveM]

TBM Avenger Project Arrives at Fagen Fighters

by Richard Mallory Allnutt

The team at Fagen Fighters Restoration never seems to slow down. With the airworthy resurrection of Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver BuNo.83393 fast approaching its conclusion, another WWII-era U.S. Navy warbird project may soon take its place in their workshop, this being TBM-3S Avenger BuNo.85597. This Avenger is the second example which the Fagen Fighters WWII Museum has acquired. It arrived from Carson City, Nevada on the back of a low-loader this past Saturday, whereupon it was soon unloaded and guided into a hangar to await its turn in the restoration queue. Given the push to get the Helldiver ready for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh this coming July, it’s quite possible that space will free up to allow the Avenger to receive some TLC later this year, although no firm decisions have been posted on this front as of yet.​

The Avenger soon after its arrival at Fagen Fighters Restorations in Granite Falls, Minnesota. (image via Fagen Fighters)

Preparing to unload the Avenger following its journey from Carson City, Nevada in May, 2023. (image via Fagen Fighters)

Rolling off the final assembly line at General Motors’ Eastern Aircraft Division plant in Trenton, New Jersey during 1945, this TBM arrived too late to see service in WWII. In 1952, following a period of storage, BuNo.85597 made the journey north to join the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), one of 125 Avengers to do so. The aircraft underwent conversion into an AS.3 anti-submarine variant with Fairey Aviation of Canada, and served with both VS 880 and 881 in the RCN, based principally at HCMS Shearwater near Halifax, Nova Scotia but also deployed, at times, aboard the carriers HMCS Magnificent and later, Bonaventure.

Following the end of the Avenger’s military service, the Canadian government sold on the bulk of their surviving Avenger fleet to the civilian market. A good number of these airframes ended up as aerial sprayers and water bombers, and so it was with 85597, which took up the civil registration CF-IMK with Skyway Air Services Ltd in Langley, British Columbia during January, 1958. Here the Avenger served as fire tanker #602, keeping this number (and registration) following its move to Conair Aviation Ltd in Abbottsford, BC in 1969.

In August 1977, Forest Protection Ltd (FPL) acquired the TBM (along with Conair’s remaining Avenger inventory), moving it to their home in Fredericton, New Brunswick (updating the registration to C-FIMK). The aircraft served with FPL for several seasons as both a fire bomber and bug sprayer before moving into inactive storage at Fredericton in 1985. FPL sold the Avenger to Jeff Thomas in Seattle, Washington during 1994, but he soon sold the project on to Byron Neely of Austin, Texas. Neely placed the aircraft on the U.S. register as N704QZ. The Commemorative Air Force acquired the Avenger in 2003, and while it entered restoration with the Florida Wing in DeLand, Florida, the CAF eventually parted with the airframe in 2012, selling it to an undisclosed buyer in Carson City, Nevada. While some additional restoration work did take place, the Avenger clearly will need significant additional work to return it to flying condition. However, Fagen Fighters Restorations has a significant inventory of parts, and plenty of experience to return this aircraft to its authentic military configuration. The plan, at present, is to restore this airframe to airworthy condition while restoring the other example to static for museum display.​

Safely tucked away in a hangar in Granite Falls, the TBM Avenger awaits its turn in the rebuild queue at Fagen Fighters Restorations. (image via Fagen Fighters)

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[DaveM]

Memorial Day Free for Active-Duty Military and Veterans

PRESS RELEASE

The Museum of Flight recognizes Memorial Day with an 11 a.m. performance by the Boeing Employee Concert Band, followed at noon with a special ceremony commemorating fallen U.S. service members. The keynote speaker will be U.S. Marine veteran and artist Michael Reagan. Other speakers in the ceremony include Museum President and CEO Matt Hayes and Tukwila Mayor Allan Ekberg. Veterans and active U.S. military (plus their family) receive free admission to the Museum with identification.

Special Program with Artist and Veteran Michael Reagan

At 2 p.m. Michael Reagan lead a special presentation describing on what he calls “the most important project he has ever done,” The Fallen Hero Portrait Project. In this project Reagan works with veteran’s families to hand-draw “portraits of all fallen heroes for all circumstances” free of charge. So far he has completed over 6,200 free portraits.​

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[DaveM]

Yankee Air Museum Celebrates Memorial Day With Detroit

PRESS RELEASE

Honoring the fallen Memorial Day weekend, Yankee Air Museum will participate in parade flyovers, offer historic aircraft rides and feature its Tribute Rosies Drill Team in Memorial Day parades. Check out these Memorial Day weekend activities.​

St. Clair Shores Memorial Day Parade kicks off at 1:00pm on Sunday, May 28th at Jefferson Avenue and 9 Mile Road and ends at 11 Mile Road. You’ll know when the parade begins as you hear the rumble of the engines of the iconic World War II planes flying overhead: the B25 bomber, Rosies Reply, and the C47 troop transport, Hairless Joe. Marching in the parade you can’t miss the Museum’s Tribute Rosie Drill Team as they salute the millions of women from World War II who worked tirelessly in factories across our nation building airplanes for the war effort. The Tribute Rosie Drill Team will also be marching in the Royal Oak Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 29th, which starts at 9:00am on Main Street and Jefferson and concludes at 4th Street.

Take a ride in the C47, Hairless Joe, occurs on Sunday, May 28th at the Roush Aeronautics Center on the Willow Run Airport at 48075 Tyler Rd, Van Buren Charter Township, MI 48111. Experience a flight that thousands of Allied troops took during World War II at either 10:00am or 11:00am or just come out to see history in flight. Find out more information or book your seat in advance at Historic Plane Rides | Yankee Air Museum | Southeast Michigan.

Dearborn Memorial Day Parade, Michigan’s oldest Memorial Day Parade steps off on Monday, May 29th at Michigan Avenue and Outer Drive at 10:20am. Flying over the parade route will be the battle-proven B25 Rosie’s Reply, the most widely-produced twin-engine combat aircraft of World War II.

Milford Memorial Day Parade will occur on Monday May 29th that will include a patriotic flyover of the gallant B25, Rosies Reply. The Milford parade starts at 11:15am at the Milford American Legion Post and goes south to Central Park.

Huey Helicopter Rides join Milford’s Memorial Day activities at Central Park in Milford, MI. No reservations are required for the rides, just walk up to the staging area at Carl’s Family YMCA, 300 Family Drive, Milford, MI 48183. With the doors wide open and the wind rushing over your face, a Huey ride is an experience you’ll never forget. Come and see how a Huey operates and then decide if a ride is for you! For only $125.00, you can take a thrilling 10-minute flight with a new perspective from the air. Book your ride/time in advance or take a chance and walk up that day. Rides occur from 9:00am until 2:00pm; to order tickets in advance visit Historic Plane Rides | Yankee Air Museum | Southeast Michigan or just walk up to see what’s available.

Hartland Memorial Day Parade will also occur on Monday, May 29th with a flyover of the valiant B25, Rosie’s Reply at 11:30am. The parade route begins at Ore Creek Middle School on Hartland Road and ends at Village Elementary School on Maple Street.

About Yankee Air Museum: Established in 1981 the Yankee Air Museum is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. The Yankee Air Museum dedicates itself to educating individuals through the history of American aeronautics, aerospace industry and its associated technologies while inspiring generations through personal experiences to instill pride in our national accomplishments. For more information, visit www.yankeeairmuseum.org​

Proposed new home for the Yankee Air Museum in the preserved portion of the Willow Run Plant.

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[DaveM]

Aviation Summer Camps Across the USA

For those looking to encourage a lifelong love of aviation in school-age family members, an aviation summer camp offers a great place to start. Fun, engaging, and educational, these camps provide an exciting window into the wider world of aviation for hundreds of young people in the United States every year. Numerous aviation museums host such programs, so it’s likely you can find one near you.

In addition to sparking enthusiasm for flight in the next generation, aviation summer camps are also an excellent way to engage with your local museum and support their ongoing community outreach efforts. By inspiring our youth to venture skywards in these ways, we will also offer them insight into aviation’s past, thus promoting its preservation for future generations.

To help readers choose an appropriate aviation summer camp for their own friends or family, we have compiled a list of U.S. museums featuring such opportunities this summer, alphabetized by state across 22 states. While your state may not be covered in this list, it is very likely that an aviation museum near you can help. One thing for sure though, however, is that slots in these camps often fill up quickly, early registration is highly recommended!​

Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Aviation Camp
Mesa, Arizona
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National Air and Space Museum S.H.E Can STEAM Camp
Springdale, Arkansas
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Aerospace Museum of California
McClellan, California
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Army & Navy Academy Aviation Camp
Carlsbad, California
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Hiller Aviation Museum Aviation Camp
San Carolos, California
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Pacific Coast Air Museum Aviation Summer School
Santa Rosa, California
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San Diego Air & Space Museum Summer Camps
San Diego, California
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Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Summer Camps
Denver, Colorado
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New England Air Museum Aerospace Academy Summer Camp
Windsor Locks, Connecticut
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Air Mobility Command Aviation Summer Camp
Dover AFB, Delaware
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Florida Air Museum
Lakeland, Florida
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National Naval Aviation Museum Flight Adventure Deck Camp
Pensacola, Florida
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Georgia Air & Space Museum ASPIRE Aviation Summer Camps
Atlanta, Georgia
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National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Pooler, Georgia
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USAF Museum of Aviation
Warner Robins, Georgia
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Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Summer STEM Camps
Honolulu, Hawaii
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Mid America Museum of Aviation and Transportation Junior Pilot Summer Camp
Sioux City, Iowa
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Combat Air Museum Young Aviators Education Classes
Topeka, Kansas
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Aviation Museum of Kentucky Aviation Camps
Lexington, Kentucky
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Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Experience Camps
Kalamazoo, Michigan
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Mississippi Aviation Museum Summer Camp
Gulfport, Mississippi
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Aviation Museum of New Hampshire Flights of Discovery Camp
Londonderry, New Hampshire
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Cradle of Aviation Museum STEM & Space Camps
Garden City, New York
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National Museum of the United States Air Force Aerospace Camp
Dayton, Ohio
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Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum Aerospace Summer Camp
McMinnville, Oregon
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American Airlines CR Smith Museum Aviation STEM Summer Camp
Forth Worth, Texas
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Commemorative Air Force National Aviation Education Center Camp SOAR
Dallas, Texas
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Frontiers of Flight Museum Summer Camps
Dallas, Texas
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Lone Star Flight Museum Summer Camps
Houston, Texas
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Military Aviation Museum Aviation Adventure Camp
Virginia Beach, Virginia
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National Air and Space Museum S.H.E Can STEAM Camp
Chantilly, Virginia
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Museum of Flight Aerospace Camp Experience
Seattle, Washington
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Pearson Field Education Center Foundations of Flight
Vancouver, Washington
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EAA Air Academy
Oshkosh, Wisconsin
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EAA GirlVenture
Oshkosh, Wisconsin

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[DaveM]

F-117A Nighthawk Arrives at Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins

The Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins, Georgia has just received a Lockheed F-117A Nighthawk which, following a period of refurbishment, will go on display sometime next year.

Although the U.S. Air Force ‘officially’ retired the remaining examples of their 59 F-117As during 2008, almost all of those airframes went into long-term, Type 1000 storage within their original shelters at Tonopah Air Force Base in Nevada. These ‘Stealth Fighters’, which gained fame for their remarkable achievements during the first Gulf War in 1991, were still a strategic asset, even in retirement, and likely deemed too sensitive for public museums at the time. What we didn’t know, for some while, was that the Air Force had secretly maintained a handful of the breed in operational condition (likely as test vehicles). There have been a number of confirmed F-117 sightings since that first official retirement more than a decade ago. However, until recently, the only Nighthawks on public display anywhere were the four extant F-117 prototypes at military or manufacturing facilities. That began to change in late 2019, however, with several museums receiving a formerly operational F-117A on loan.​

The Palm Springs Air Museum’s F-117 Nighthawk. Photo by Adam Estes

In November 2019, Lockheed Nighthawk F-117A 82-0803 went on display at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. This airframe reportedly flew 78 combat missions, more than any other examples of the breed. In October 2020, the Palm Springs Air Museum received F-117A 85-0833 Black Devil which, following a period of restoration, went on display during April 2022 in a specially designed exhibit at their new Jim Houston Pavilion. In December 2020, the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum welcomed F-117 Nighthawk 85-0817 Shaba to their facility in Kalamazoo, Michigan. In early 2021, Castle Air Museum had the good fortune to receive confirmation that they too would receive a Nighthawk; F-117A 85-0813 Toxic Avenger arrived in July 2022, and it’s restoration is currently well-advanced. And then in March 2021, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland, Nebraska announced the assignment of F-117A 85-0831, which is reportedly the highest-time example in the fleet (2,720.7 flight hours).​

F-117A 81-10794 Delta Dawn on temporary outdoor display at the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins, Georgia following its arrival on May 18th, 2023. (photo by Austin Kuback)

The latest organization to receive a Nighthawk is the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins, Georgia., on display last Thursday (May 18th, 2023). As reported by Austin Kuback, F-117A 81-10794 Delta Dawn made the journey from Tonopah, Nevada within the belly of a Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, arriving on May 18th. Given the aircraft’s relatively small size, museum personnel towed the aircraft across the base to the museum on its own landing gear, as this was deemed a safer and simpler option than transporting it down Highway 247 in front of the base. The aircraft was placed on temporary outdoor display at the museum’s amphitheater in front of Hangar Two (the Century of Flight building), but will soon move to a maintenance area at the back of the museum’s property. From there, the aircraft will be repainted and fitted with replica pieces to replace parts of the aircraft’s wing leading edges (removed prior to acquisition). The aircraft’s original paint (and wing leading edges) were removed prior to its arrival in Georgia to comply with national security protocols regarding stealth technology. According to Kuback, museum personnel expect that the aircraft’s refurbishment will take roughly a year to complete, following which it will go on display within Hangar Two.​

Austin Kuback will monitor the restoration of this Nighthawk for Vintage Aviation News, so we hope to provide regular progress reports as they arrive. In related news, the Museum of Aviation anticipates the arrival of a Boeing E-8C Joint STARS electronic surveillance and targeting aircraft for display sometime in June.​

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[DaveM]

B-17G “Lacey Lady” – May, 2023 Restoration Update

It has been quite some time since our last update on the B-17 Alliance Foundation’s remarkable effort to restore Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress 44-85790 Lacey Lady in Salem, Oregon, but thanks to Scott Thompson of Aero Vintage, we have permission to relay his latest article on the project, reproduced (with gentle editing) below.​

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Better known as the ‘gas station bomber’ this B-17 has been under slow but steady restoration for much of the past decade. Many will still remember when it was mounted above a gas station on U.S. Highway 99 (back when it was a U.S. highway) in Milwaukie, Oregon – a small community just south of Portland.​

View looking forward from Station 4 toward the bulkhead located at Station 3. On the right is the rebuilt cockpit floor structure, with the angled section above it being part of the trap door assembly which provides access from the cockpit forward into the bombardier compartment and the underfloor area. These components have largely been built up new from plans, with some original parts.

In 2014, the B-17 came down from it long-time perch atop pylons overlooking the by-then closed gas station, with the plan being to restore the old bomber back to flying condition. By 2015, hangar space was secured at McNary Field/Salem Municipal Airport and the project moved indoors. Eight years later, and the project continues to grow and gain momentum. A charitable tax-exempt, non-profit 501(c)(3) foundation, the B-17 Alliance Foundation, was created to marshal the resources needed to return the airplane back to the skies.

The back story of this airplane is, of course, widely known; it is covered extensively in Final Cut (Fifth Edition) and of course on the B-17 Alliance website, so there is no need to repeat it here. Although the B-17 was brand new when it went up on the pylons in 1947, with only a few ferry flights on its log books, the subsequent sixty-seven years of exposure to the elements and vandals were unkind to 44-85790. Extensive airframe corrosion was present throughout the airframe, all of which has been, is being, or will be addressed in the restoration process. Many new parts are, by necessity, being hand-crafted using the original parts and Boeing’s manufacturing drawings as a guide. Parts which were stripped out, either by permission or by vandals, are being located, cataloged, and prepared for reinstallation.​

So, what is the current state of the restoration? The process started years ago with the nose compartment, rebuilt and shiny and as good as new. Moving aft, the cockpit between stations 3 and 4 is currently being rebuilt, with the floor support structure which undergirds the cockpit and top turret rebuilt and in place. Some of the longerons and latitudinal stiffeners are in place on the right side, but the left side is wide open for access.​

The right-wing inner panel is seen from above. This section is basically in storage while the left-wing inner section is rebuilt.

The wing carry-through structure and bomb bay assembly between Station’s 4 and 5 is intact, but work has yet to start on this area. This section will go into a custom-made add-on to the existing fuselage jig before it is disassembled and rebuilt, with the intent being to keep everything straight and true. The wing attachment structure has to be rebuilt precisely if the wings, also rebuilt to an exacting standard, are to fit properly.

Speaking of the wings, the left wing has been disassembled and the spar assemblies are being closely inspected. The inbound ends of the spar trusses where they join the wing attach terminal fittings are the subject of the new FAA Airworthiness Directive, so particular attention will be paid to these parts. Engine nacelles are being rebuilt one at a time. The four engines themselves appear to be candidates for an overhaul to airworthy condition, but that won’t be definitively established until disassembly at an engine shop at some future point. The B-17 Alliance obtained new propeller blades for use with overhauled prop hubs when the time comes. Many of the aircraft’s original propeller blades had small holes drilled in them to hold banners when the airplane was over the gas station – no one had any idea back then that the airplane might once again fly.​

Another view of the area between Station 3 and Station 4. This area holds the cockpit and top turret installation. The floor support structure is being readied to be riveted into position. On the far side can be seen longerons, frames, and latitudinal stiffeners that eventually will be rebuilt around the entire cockpit to provide the strength needed by the forward fuselage structure.

Presently, the right-wing is in storage awaiting completion of the left wing – which is still a long way off. The left-wing spar assemblies will need to be set in the jig and slowly rebuilt with ribs and supporting structure long before re-skinning can take place; they are complex assemblies. The restoration of each wing will be a multi-year project in itself, and the aft fuselage has not yet been touched, aside from some test polishing on its exterior skin. Many of the lower skins, circumferential stiffeners, longerons, and latitudinal stiffeners on the aft fuselage need replacing due to corrosion. Also awaiting attention are the horizontal and vertical stabilizers and the control surfaces.

While the scope of what is needed to put Lacey Lady back in the air may seem a daunting task, you must not consider the project as a whole, as one volunteer worker recently said. That would be overwhelming. To get such a project done, you have to look at each small part individually and move forward with that mindset. Small parts become assemblies, assemblies become structures, and structures become airplanes!​

Overhead view of B-17G 44-85790 undergoing restoration at the Salem, Oregon, airport.

And Lacey Lady is not the only current B-17 restoration project powered by volunteer labor and donations. Anyone with just a passing knowledge of aircraft restoration understands the high-dollar cost of parts acquisition and fabrication. The B-17 Alliance has more than a hundred volunteers helping out, but it is the financial component, as is usually the case, which sets the work pace. The estimate for the total restoration cost approaches US$9 million, so the process of securing donations, grants, and any other available funding to complete the project is a full-time job for the B-17 Alliance. Perhaps a friendly multi-billionaire might hear of this effort and complete the funding with their pocket change, but aside from that unlikely prospect, any and all donations made to the B-17 Alliance are very much welcome. Here is a link to its donation page…hint hint. Besides financial and in-kind donations, the B-17 Alliance is always on the lookout for B-17 parts – big or small – which they can use in this restoration or as trade. Right now, the group is particularly interested in locating the correct flight and engine instruments for the cockpit instrument panel. So if any readers have such items or know someone who does, please contact the B-17 Alliance through their website.​

The question most frequently asked, of course, is “When will this B-17 fly again?” It is a great question, but the answer comes down to simple economics – it depends upon funding. The B-17 Alliance has a plan which will see the Fortress back in the air by 2035, but that remains a loose and moving target. As is evident – there remains much work to be done!

(Specific thanks to Bill Deveraux, volunteer, and Terry Scott, Executive Director of the B-17 Alliance, for their time and information in putting this update together.)​

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[DaveM]

Bruce Gamble – Author/Historian Launches YouTube Channel

Bruce Gamble has written numerous popular books on WWII in the Pacific, and now the well respected author/historian has stepped into online video, announcing his establishment of a new outlet dubbed Skywarrior Media. His first production is titled Ride Along: A Flight in an A-3 Skywarrior, which incorporates video footage which Bruce recorded in the venerable naval attack aircraft almost 40 years ago.​

Bruce, first from the right, with his crew aboard the USS Carl Vinson

We turn the clock back to 1985 when Gamble was still an Overwater Jet Navigator – living a dynamic life as a carrier-based aviator during the closing years of the Cold War. At the time he was stationed with Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron One (VQ-1), based at Naval Air Station Agana on the South Pacific island of Guam, tasked with electronic reconnaissance across the Pacific and Indian Ocean areas. As a navigator in EA-3B Skywarriors, Gamble completed two long deployments aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), earning a Centurion patch with more than 100 traps aboard the carrier. During his second cruise, he documented shipboard life and operational flights using a bulky videocassette camera typical of the time.

Interestingly, one of the Skywarriors featured in the above video, EA-3B BuNo.146457, is now on display aboard USS Yorktown (CV 10) at the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Charleston, South Carolina. During its distinguished career with VQ-1, this Skywarrior wore the modex 005. It later moved halfway around the world to join VQ-2 in Rota, Spain, where its modex became 007. All operational A-3s retired from the fleet soon after that point, and BuNo.146457 survived to become a static exhibit aboard Yorktown. Due to its modex change, Bruce wasn’t aware that he had personal flight time in the aircraft until the Bureau Number caught his eye. Going through his logbook, he discovered that he had over 100 hours in the right front seat of the airframe. As one of two aircraft flown by Detachment Charlie aboard USS Carl Vinson in 1984-85, BuNo.146457 appears in several scenes of Gamble’s newly published video.​

Bruce’s goal is to use his new YouTube channel as a platform to both share his stories as a naval aviator and also his work as a naval aviation historian. In particular, viewers will be able to enjoy an inside view of his work about the war in the Pacific, especially the ‘Blacksheep’ of VMF-214 and its notorious leader, Gregory ‘Pappy’ Boyington. Visit his channel (HERE) and make sure to “follow” what is sure to be a fascinating ride!

Here’s a link to Bruce’s website, where you can find his books on ‘Pappy’ Boyington, Black Sheep Squadron, and a trilogy about Fortress Rabaul in World War II… and more.​

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