Tag Archives: Vietnam

“A Soldier’s Trust”

There’s no question we need to remember our history. We are a nation of 330 million people and a very small percentage of our population served in the military. An even smaller percentage fought in any war. Those who are … Continue reading

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150 Years

Today marks the 150th anniversary of the end of the most devastating war America has ever fought. On April 9, 1865, General Robert E. Lee signed the instrument of surrender at Appomattox Courthouse and General Ulysses S. Grant accepted the … Continue reading

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Florida’s Hometown Hero

In the Orlando area, the aviation community is well aware of a gentleman by the name of Joe Kittinger. He has been well involved in the aviation industry almost all of his life. In fact, he has set some significant … Continue reading

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Memorial Day

Today is a day set aside for remembering and giving thanks to the women and men who have served and died in our military so that we may live the lives we live. I could have been one of those, … Continue reading

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Able Dogs and Spads

  Today, in 1945, the XBT2D-1 flew for the first time. It was another of the great designs by Ed Heinemann, the designer of many aircraft produced by the Douglas Aircraft Company. As with many of the aircraft Heinemann created, … Continue reading

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Fighting FIVE Takes the US Navy into the Jet Age

Sixty-three years ago today, Fighter Squadron FIVE became the first Navy squadron to land jet fighters aboard an aircraft carrier.  On March 10, 1948, they took their brand new North American FJ-1 Fury jets to sea to land aboard the … Continue reading

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Sara

Sixty-six years ago today the USS Saratoga, CV-3, fell victim to a horrendous attack by the Japanese.  The Japanese, taking advantage of poor weather and low clouds, were able to approach the aircraft carrier at about five o’clock in the … Continue reading

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The Eve of Christmas Eve

We are beginning such a wonderful period. By now, most of us are in the process of forgetting our jobs, ignoring negative world events, focusing on family, and maybe thinking about the meaning of Christmas. I would hope we are … Continue reading

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The Navy Corsairs

Whenever someone mentions the name “Corsair,” most aviation enthusiasts immediately think of the inverted gull-winged F-4U Corsair from World War II.  A few will think of the A-7 Corsair which gained fame as a light attack bomber in Vietnam.  Even … Continue reading

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Ed’s Hotrod

Occasionally one of my students will ask me which airplane I liked flying the best in the Navy.  The answer I always give is, “Depends.  If I was going out to deliver weapons, no question – it is the A-7.  … Continue reading

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