Catch - 22 - The Commemorative Air Force Dixie WIng

The Dixie Dispatch
DIXIE WING, COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE, PEACHTREE CITY, GA
www.dixiewing.org
Col Frank Kalinowski, Editor - [email protected]
February 2016
Education through living history.
Keep 'em flying.
Dixie Wing Staff
Officers /Contacts
Wing Leader
Col Jay Bess
[email protected]
Executive Officer
Col Larry Combs
[email protected]
Adjutant
Col Malcolm Lelliott
[email protected]
Finance Officer
Col Paul Zampol
[email protected]
Maintenance Officer
Col Bob Heath
[email protected]
Operations Officer
Col Jim Buckley
[email protected]
Recruiting Officer
Col Michael "Zee" Zeeveld
[email protected]
Public Information Officer
Col Steve Forsyth
[email protected]
Marketing Officer
Col Moreno "Mo" Aguiari
[email protected]
Safety Officer
Col Rodney Higginbotham
Rodneyhigginbotham
@gmail.com
Air Show Scheduling
Col Phillip Beegle
[email protected]
Aircraft Rides Officer
Col Jerry Robinette
[email protected]
Angel Squad
Merikay Franklin
[email protected]
Catch-22
No … not the book. This refers to the length of the Dixie Dispatch this
month – 22 pages that I hope will catch your attention.
Why so big? Well, what else should you expect from a Wing that has big
plans and ideas, plus dedicated men and women to carry them out.
Since the Dixie Dispatch rose like a Phoenix last August our staff has
worked late in the night to think up and bring new features for you such as
“What’s That,” “Web Watch,” and my favorite, “The Tailpipe.” This issue
brings not one, but FIVE new features: “Plane Talk About Safety” (p. 5),
“From the Bookmaster” (p. 9), “PLANE CRAZY” (p. 10), “Members Corner”
(p. 12), and “CAFactoid” (p.15). You will recognize the new features by the
little red “NEW” graphic in the corner.
2016 promises to be a bigger and better year. In addition to Red Nose going
on tour with Fifi, the unfortunate accident with Red Tail has pressed our P-51
into many of the Red Tail Squadron’s scheduled appearances. And don’t
forget the new Living History series (p. 6) WWII Heritage Days (p. 11 & 22)
and Atlanta Warbird Weekend.
Plus, we are including information regarding events from one of our friends,
Candler Field (p. 18 & 19).
So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
WHAT'S INSIDE?
2 ..... From the left Seat; What’s That?
3 ..... From The Other Seat; XO Report
4 ..... Focus on Finance; Meeting Reminders
5 ..... Plane Talk About Safety
6 ..... Living History Program; Link Trainer Update
7 ..... T-34 Update
8 ..... Dixie Wing Cols Strive to Get A Head
9 ..... From The Bookman
10 ..... P-63 Update; PLANE CRAZY
11 ..... WWII Heritage Days
12 ..... Members Corner – Jerome Kline
14 ..... New Members / Recruiting
15 ..... Web watch; CAFactoid
16 ..... Answer to “What’s That?”
17 ..... WASP Stung by Arm’s Decision
18 – 19 Candler Field Activities
20 – 21 On The Horizon
22 .... WWII Heritage Days
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 2
From the Left Seat:
Col Jay Bess, Wing Leader
It’s been a very busy month in the Dixie Wing hangar with the P-51, SBD &
LT-6 annuals and the continued progress on the T-34. A special “thank
you” to everyone who has been working on Red Nose – many of you have
been here nearly every day getting her ready for the air show season. In
addition to the Airpower History Tour with the B-29 “FIFI,” and a busy air
show and ride event schedule, we will be filling in on the Red Tail “Rise
Above” Tour. If you aren’t familiar with the CAF’s traveling educational
program “Rise Above,” I encourage you to learn more at www.redtail.org.
This will an extremely busy air show and rides season!
Our next big event will be WWII Heritage Days on April 30th & May 1st. This has grown into a large regional
event and draws several thousands of visitors each year. We are honored to host James “Pee Wee” Martin of
G Company, 506th PIR, 101st Airborne – one of the “Toccoa Originals.” Jim will get to climb aboard the C-47
“Placid Lassie”, a D-day and Market Garden Veteran. Please consider volunteering, raising sponsorship and
donations or attending!
Thank you to all of the CAF Dixie Wing Volunteers – you are what makes this organization great!
Keep ‘em Flying!
Jay
WHAT’STHAT?
ColFrankKalinowski
Those of you who played along with this new feature in January remember that we had a USAAF bomber as
the aircraft in question. This month we give you Navy types the opportunity to test your knowledge, so
here she is:
A few hints:
• It was designed to be the replacement
for both the Douglas SBD Dauntless
and the Curtiss SB2C Helldiver.
• Although the two prototypes were
built as two-seaters, the remainder of
those manufactured were of the single
seat variant (pictured).
WHAT’S THAT? Find the answer on page 16.
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 3
From Some Other Seat: Operations
Col Jim Buckley, Operations Officer
It’s been a warbird quiet zone here at Falcon Field since December.
Not much flying going on, but lots of maintenance and paperwork.
As some of you may know, our three trainer/rides aircraft (L-16,
PT-26, LT-6) have been shut down by the FAA. We can fly them,
but not for rides for a period of 4 to 6 weeks. Of course our P-51 and
SBD 6802 rides are still OK, but both aircraft are in Annual
Inspection. Headquarters made some unannounced changes in the
regulations that we are still trying to figure out. Also, changes have
been made in the way we submit paperwork to become a sponsor.
It used to be as simple as faxing Rita three sheets of paper. The first
submission under the new “Portal” system took me 4 hours! To add
to the confusion factor, Rita will be absent for a month or so
recovering from back surgery. I’m sure we will get past it all.
Upcoming ground school for the LT-6 is scheduled for March 19, all the rest of the ground schools have been
completed.
We had a pretty good number of events lined up for 2016 for the Mustang, but now, due to the unfortunate
incident with RED TAIL, we have more events than we ever dreamed of. We will be busy.
Our first P-51 event will be February 26, a rides event with the B-29 “FIFI” at Mobile Alabama (MOB),
followed by Sarasota Florida (SRQ) the next weekend. Check the calendar on our Dixie Wing website for a
complete listing. Hopefully we will have some back seats open for shows this year. The Corsair is already at
its first event of the year with the Red Tail trailer at Tallahassee Florida. It should be a record year for the
Wing.
Col Jim Buckley, Operations Officer
XO Report: Col Larry Combs, Executive Officer
What a whirlwind month
February has been! While
the Mustang has taken
most of my time, along
with
many
other
mechanics
and
pilots,
work continues on the
restoration of the T-34 (p.
7), Link Trainer (p. 6), and
the SBD Annual.
Additionally, progress is being made on the
remodeling of the men’s rest room (p. 8). The lack
of volunteers is not a problem at the Dixie Wing.
Thank all of you for your continued dedication
and hard work.
As I write this, we are 5 days from the scheduled
departure of our P-51 Mustang to join up with the
first leg of CAF’s Bomber Tour in Mobile, AL. The
clock is ticking and we still have a small issue to
resolve. We are working daily to ensure we make
this date.
Since becoming your Executive Officer I have been
privileged to sit in on the “behind the scenes”
meetings that keep our wing going. Believe me, all
the work that is being done requires a lot of
planning and strategy. I am truly humbled to sit
among the very intelligent members of the staff.
Without letting anything out of the bag I will just
say you will be impressed by the plans our Wing
Leader has to bring additional revenue to our
coffer without turning a propeller. More to come…
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Focus on
Finance
Page 4
bottom lines, but
we expect those
numbers to turn
positive in 2016.
Col Paul Zampol,
Finance Officer
We are almost finished finalizing 2015
numbers and, as previously reported, 2015
will produce red ink on the P&L. Right
now, we are looking at just over a $60,000
loss. Again, much of this is related to the
accounting for the P51 spare engine
overhaul, which is nearly complete. The
balance sheet, however, still looks pretty
strong.
Most of you know that the P51 Mustang,
Red Nose, is our workhorse when it comes
to generating revenue, mostly from rides.
Our smaller aircraft are often a challenge
when it comes to covering their cost of
upkeep. Last year was a bright spot for our
PT-26 and our L-16, however. We did lots
of rides and both turned in positive results,
based on our Quickbooks accounting. The
PT-26 returned $5,100 and the L-16 $800.
The Corsair and the T-34 each had negative
Dixie
Wing
member dues are
due at the end of
each year for the
following year. I sent around an email near
the end of 2015, noting that all members
should pay 2016 dues of $48 as soon as
possible. Many members have done so, but
a few are still outstanding. As we approach
the end of February, I will check dues
payments against the current roster and a
reminder will be sent to those who have not
yet paid 2016 dues. This will be the last
notice of a member’s delinquency. Those
members who have still not paid dues by
the end of March or thereabouts will be
moved to inactive status and will not be
able to fly in Wing aircraft or participate in
other Wing activities. Thank you to those
members who have paid your dues and
thereby supported all our Wing’s activities.
NEXT WING MEETING DATE: March 5 –
as we move to the FIRST Saturday of the
month instead of the third Saturday.
Angel Squad meeting, Saturday, March 5th, 10:30 a.m.
Special guest, Willard Womack, will share a presentation
entitled "Remembering WWII on the Home Front." All ladies
of the Dixie Wing are welcome. We meet in the large meeting
room at the Dixie Wing.
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 5
Plane Talk About Safety
Col Frank Kalinowski
In my former life I once spent three years as the
safety officer for a school district that had about
6,000 employees. In addition to getting this new
hard hat I was already wearing several other hats,
but I did take the new role seriously.
One of my jobs was to review the accident/injury
reports that were submitted by principals and
other administrators, with the idea that this
information might help prevent additional
accidents and injuries, ones that
were already costing the school
district a substantial amount of
money and time lost.
As I reviewed the reports that had
been collected by my predecessor, it
struck me odd that a public school
district had such strong religious
feelings. By that I mean that time
after time under “cause of accident”
administrators wrote “act of God.”
It was the easy way out, and God
was getting a bum rap.
Why go to all of the trouble of doing
an investigation and identifying the
real human error/cause? More than
likely it was because for years they
had gotten away with it.
Not any more.
It took a while, but each of those reports was
rewritten to identify the true nature of the human
cause of the accident and/or injury.
Looking back some twenty years ago I think that I
can categorize the major, and often combined
causes of most of those reported accidents:
• taking a “short cut;”
• being in a hurry;
• not using the proper tool or equipment;
• not using a tool or equipment properly;
• not following directions;
• not wearing recommended protective gear;
• wearing improper footwear or clothing;
• trying to do a two-person task alone;
• fatigue;
• “I always did it this way” attitude; and,
• lack of preparation for the task.
So, what can we learn from this?
We can learn to avoid most
accidents by following these simple
and common sense safety rules:
• Take your time. Don’t cut
corners.
• Use the proper tool for the job.
If you can’t find it, ask. And use
the tool for its intended
purpose.
• Use the proper equipment for
the job. Use recommended
settings and follow directions.
• Wear the proper clothing and
footwear for the task at hand,
and protective gear if called for.
• Seek assistance if needed. Don’t let your ego get
in the way of getting help.
• Take regular breaks. Fatigue increases the
chance of mistakes, and stopping work is better
than spending more time correcting errors.
• Follow the “safe” way or working. You may
have done something 99 times – it might be the
100th time that ends in disaster.
• Plan and prepare for the task. The time you
take to stop and “think the job through” will
pay off in the end.
Look for more Plane Talk About Safety articles in
future issues from your new Safety Officer, Col
Rodney
Higginbotham.
For
March:
Fire
Extinguishers.
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 6
New CAF Living History Program Launches Monthly Seminars
Col Steve Forsyth, Public Information officer
Military aviation history will come to life through a new monthly series presented by the Commemorative
Air Force (CAF) Dixie Wing at the Wing’s headquarters. The public is invited to join the Saturday discussions
by a variety of aviators dedicated to preserving the memory of U.S. aviation history. The series begins March
19 and concludes November 19. All events will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dixie Wing headquarters and
museum, 1200 Echo Ct., Peachtree City, GA. (adjacent to Atlanta Regional Airport – Falcon Field). Some
events will include aircraft displays and the opportunity for rides.
“The CAF Dixie Wing Living History program brings history out of the textbook and gives it the human
perspective of those who have actually experienced it,” said Mo Aguiari, Dixie Wing marketing officer. “This
is a fascinating presentation of events that is geared for the entire family and delivers on our
Commemorative Air Force mission of education. Displaying the aircraft made famous by this era makes this
program truly ‘hands-on’ history.”
Living History Schedule
March 26 – “Helicopters and Vietnam,” presented by Col. Cliff Stern and helicopter pilots from the Army
Aviation Heritage Foundation.
April 16 –“Flying the Blackbird,” presented by Lt. Col. (Ret.) Les Dyer, a pilot in the SR 71 program until
1985.
May 21 – “The L-Bird Story: Liaison Aircraft from WWII to Vietnam,” moderated by Steve Seal and George
Harrison.
June 18 – “Veterans of the Mighty Eighth,” presented by Veterans of the Eighth Air Force Society Georgia
Chapter, moderated by Brent Bracewell and Willard Womack.
July 16 – “The Making of a Pilot,” presented by Dixie Wing colonels, moderated by Keith Wood or Connie
Bowlin.
Aug. 20 – “The Lost Squadron,” the story of the Greenland Expedition Society, presented by Expedition
Society members, led by Pat Epps.
Oct. 15 – “Fighter Pilots Symposium,” the evolution of the fighter pilot from WWII to today, presented by
Dixie Wing pilots, moderated by Keith Wood or Kevin Korterud.
Nov. 19 – “What Makes Combat Vets Different,” presented by veteran and local author Terry Garlock.
The fee to attend these Dixie Wing events is $10 (FREE to Dixie Wing members). For more information, visit
www.dixiewing.org.
Link Trainer Update: Col Bill Marx
Restoration efforts on the Link Trainer are progressing at an exciting pace. Most of the parts in the “blue box,”
where the trainees would get their training, have been removed, cleaned, and put back into working order. Most
of the components in the base of the simulator have also been removed, cleaned, and put back into working order
as well. Wiring diagrams have been obtained and are being used to start the enormous job of rewiring this
complicated (for its time) piece of machinery. Finally, the heart of the machine, the vacuum pump, has been
made good as new. It really sucks now, which in this case is a good thing.
There is still a lot of work to be done, but kudos to all who have contributed to this effort
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 7
DIXIE WING GARNERS T-34 MATCHING GRANT FUNDS
Periodically, CAF HQ seeks to raise funds from both
inside and outside of our organization for the purpose
of providing funds to be used for the restoration of
aircraft assigned to its various Units. These funds allow
the Mission of the CAF to continue without depleting
HQ funds needed for normal operations. The Matching
Funds Grant Program is so named because it requires
Units who wish to participate in the program to raise,
from their own sources, funds to match those which
CAF makes available to the Unit.
with a new prop. The engine is also fairly high time
and had been subject to operation in tropical climates
before a five-year period of storage without proper
preservation. The Sponsors decided to have the engine
overhauled at this time, and it has now been removed
and delivered to the overhaul facility.
A new paint job, in proper military colors, will follow
the reinstallation of the engine, prop and test flights.
There are always expenses that crop up that are not
covered.
The Dixie Wing would appreciate any
contributions to the project, large or small. Art Martin,
Willard Womack and their faithful crew have a lot of
sweat equity in this project. Mike McGowan and
Randy Hawkins have taken on the job of cockpit
restoration, which is no small task.
While you may not have the skills or time to participate
in the restoration work, you may have the ability to
show your support with a tax- deductible donation to
the project. This is what allows the CAF, and the Dixie
Wing in particular, to continue its mission.
T-34 Team L to R: Cols Jack Van Ness, Andy Anderson,
Paul Zampol, Mike McGowan, George Harrison, Art
Martin, Joe Broker, Jeff Neiger.
The 2015 program began in the late summer when the
Dixie Wing prepared and submitted a detailed
application which included the work to be done along
with the material costs, a schedule for completion of
each phase and an estimated project completion date.
In early January 2016 the Dixie Wing was notified of the
approval of a grant of $27,517 for our T-34. This now
required the raising of a like amount to receive this
award. As evidence of support for the T-34 program,
several of the 12 aircraft Sponsors stepped up to the
plate and have met the challenge of providing the
required matching funds.
A T-34 Sponsor meeting was held to discuss priorities
for best usage of resources. The old propeller was
obsolete and unserviceable; it was agreed to replace it
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 8
Dixie Wing Cols Strive to Get A Head
Cols at the February Wing meeting were flush with excitement over learning that the Wing’s latrine is being
completely renovated. Not everyone was privy to this decision, but Col Tom Walsh and a small cadre of
helpers, including Cols Paul Areson & Rodney Higginbotham, demonstrated a “can-do” spirit by plunging
in and dismantling the existing facilities to make way for new tile & ADA compliant fixtures. Floor tile was
being finished on Saturday by an outside worker as we had to temporarily make the ladies room a shared
facility, but that will be remedied by the next meeting. Look for photos of the completed facility in the next
Dixie Dispatch. Meanwhile, in loo of (groan) those photos, enjoy some of the construction photos.
As a final note: Regardless of your pride in
your service, you are forbidden to put one of
these on the wall of the completed facility:
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 9
From The Bookmaster
Col Dave Porter
BOTM*
“The Dauntless Dive Bomber of World War II”
by Barrett Tillman
Published by the Naval Institute Press in 1976, the book is a study of the
Dauntless itself and the missions it flew, both in the Pacific and the Atlantic
theaters of operation.
The Dauntless was considered obsolete at the time of Pearl Harbor and was
in the process of being replaced as a divebomber by the new bigger and
faster SB2C Curtis Helldiver. Development and production delays of the
Helldiver kept the Dauntless in production and in service throughout the
war. At war’s end it was the only U.S. carrier aircraft still in service that had
been operational at Pearl Harbor. Dauntlesses flew in all five naval
engagements fought exclusively by aircraft carriers.
Written by the son of an SBD pilot, Barrett Tillman is a native of Oregon and
helped to restore a Dauntless in 1971-72 that is now in the National
Museum of the Marine Corps at Quantico, VA.
*BOTM - Book of the Month …. it is on our shelf – it’s a good read; borrow
it if you like but please return it!
Speaking of the Dauntless, I found an interesting project in
progress back in our hangar. It appears that while
undergoing its annual inspection our Dixie Wing
Maintenance Officer, Col Bob Heath, apparently wearied of
hearing Col Buckley and other SBD pilots whining about
the lack of comfort facilities on our own CAF SBD. Taking
matters into his own hands, presumably with the approval
of the senior wing staff, Col Heath is having comfort
facilities installed. I hope they remember the toilet paper.
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 10
Work progresses on the P-63 with the installation of the
37mm cannon. Col Lee Weaver is on the forklift; L to R:
Cols Walter Cantrell, Jim Arnold, and Jon Wilson.
Left and below left: Col Elizabeth Sigman from Alabama readies a
cylinder for removal on the SBD. Elizabeth’s fiancé introduced her to
the CAF and she became fascinated with the history of it. She said
that, “As far as being able to get in there and get my hands dirty
working in them, it reminds me when I would work in the shop with
my grandfather turning wrenches on cars. I'm an ICU nurse by
profession so not a whole lot related to the aviation industry at all.”
PLANE CRAZY
Slightly photoshopped from a photo I took at the
National Museum of the USAF, I call this one the
“Missing Link Trainer.”
PhotosbyColCharlesBurcher
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 11
WWII HERITAGE DAYS
COL MIKE DALY
This is the 13th year for WWII Heritage Days, scheduled April
30, May 1. This year is building to be an exciting event. We
have arranged two very special appearances this year:
• In addition to the Dixie Wing aircraft, we have scheduled
an appearance by a historic Douglas C-47 Skytrain troop
transport aircraft as the highlight of this year’s event. This
restored plane, “Placid Lassie,” participated in the D-Day
invasion of Europe and was utilized in the Market Garden
operation in Holland.
• We will also be hosting veteran paratrooper, Jim “Pee Wee”
Martin, https://www.facebook.com/Jim-Pee-Wee-MartinG506-150930871630989/. A member of the 101st Airborne
“Screaming Eagles”, 506th PIR, Company G, Martin will be
among several veterans honored throughout the WWII
Heritage Days weekend.
So, don’t miss out. If you haven’t done so already, go to
http://wwiidays.org/registrations.htm and register today!
Due to the size that our event is growing to, with your help,
we would like to get an accurate idea of who is joining us as
soon as possible.
You can also follow the buildup on our Facebook page at
https://www.facebook.com/WWIIHeritageDays/?ref=bookmarks, along with viewing pictures from past
events.
Over the next couple of weeks we will be sending out more information, so stay tuned!
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 12
Cross-Country in An Open Cockpit The Real Life Adventure of Col Jerome Kline
By Col frank Kalinowski; Photos reproduced by Col Charles Burcher
1978 -
That was the year that Col Jerome Kline decided to do
what has seldom been done since the Army carried the
US Mail in the 1930s – fly across the United States in an
open cockpit airplane.
hours of flight time could be accomplished before the
need for refueling – a welcome stop to warm up a little.
And without the proper equipment, night flying was
out of the question.
It all started with his decision to purchase a WWII
vintage Fairchild PT-19. Level of difficulty – Jerome
lived in South Ft. Myers (FL) at the time and the plane
was in Los Angeles – a 2,342 trip.
The first part of getting it home was easy – he flew
commercially to Los Angeles, but this would be the last
time he would enjoy a beverage and a package of
peanuts on the trip.
With no modern navigation equipment other than a
portable aircraft radio, he made the return trip at a
maximum of 5,000 feet in order that he could see
ground landmarks and keep below the freezing
altitudes. To combat the ever present cold he bought
traditional flying gear: leather flying hat, goggles, scarf,
long johns, thermal socks, long sleeve wool shirt,
sweater, and a parka.
Fortunately there was only one near emergency when
the oil pressure gauge fluttered. He put down in a
farmer’s field near Houston, put in more oil, and was
gone before even the farmer had a chance to notice.
The only other mishap was being over the wrong town,
but that was resolved when he landed at an airstrip to
find out exactly where he was.
Following, for the most part, Interstate 10 all the way
into Florida, the cold and bad weather were his biggest
problems. “I kept catching up to a cold front that was
ahead of me and then I’d have to wait and let it get
ahead again.” Altogether there were two half-day
delays to let the front with its low clouds and high cold
winds pass.
As WWII primary trainers were not designed for long
distances or high performance, at 100 mph about 3
Jerome wound up
selling the plane back
less than a year later,
purchasing
other
aircraft and flying
charters
to
the
Bahamas and other
locations. He now
lives in Newnan, GA,
and no longer flys,
but the memory of
that cross-country trip
will remain with him
forever.
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 13
NORTH AMERICAN P-51 MUSTANG
Col Willard Womack
Part two of four parts.
distinctive five white stripes on the fuselage.
The first use of the P-51 by the Army Air Forces
was as a ground attack aircraft named the A-36
Apache/Invader. Some sources call it an Apache,
others an Invader. These names were seldom used
however, as “Mustang” was used in most combat
reports.
Despite having a reputation for reliability and
performance, its loss rate was high, due to its
mission of ground attack. Its Achilles heel was the
cooling system, which could not withstand battle
damage. Every thing from small arms fire on up
could disable it. Along with its ground attack
mission, it did shoot down over eighty enemy
aircraft, and one pilot became the only ace flying
the Allison powered Mustang.
There were no funds available in 1942 for a new
fighter. But there were funds for an attack aircraft.
Thus the P-51 became the A-36A, with dive brakes,
bomb racks, and completely rebuilt heavier wings.
The bomb racks were located just outboard of the
landing gear, and each could carry up to a 500lb
bomb. Armed with two fifty caliber machine guns
in the nose and two in each wing, it had the most
firepower of any P-51 at the time.
Normal attack procedures for the A-36 were to
over fly the target, roll inverted, and when directly
above the target, pull in to a vertical dive. The dive
brakes had to be opened just before entering the
dive, otherwise the high speed would cause them
to open unevenly. This would result an unstable
dive and make aiming difficult. With all four dive
brakes open (two on top and two on bottom of the
wing) the speed would be held to 390 mph.
The A-36 entered combat in North Africa in April
of 1943, serving throughout the Mediterranean
Theater and Italy. It also served in the China
Burma India (CBI) Theater along with the P-51A,
which was an A-36 without the dive brakes and
nose mounted machine guns. In the CBI the P-51A
was used with great success by the First Air
Commando Group, pictured here with the ACG’s
Its role in the history of the war is often
overlooked, due to the success of the Merlin
powered Mustang in air to air combat and of the
ground attack abilities of the P-47 Thunderbolt.
Regardless, it served the USAAF well during its
combat tour. Removed from combat by mid 1944,
it served on until the end of the war in small
numbers, often as a trainer for future fighter pilots.
Less than five hundred A-36As were built and
only three hundred and fifty P-51As were ordered,
for by that time both the British and North
American Aircraft were looking into mounting a
Rolls Royce Merlin engine in place of the Allison.
The British had realized that this was a good
plane, and with the Merlin it would be a great one.
Next Month: Part Three
Col Willard Womack served as an Army pilot for four and a
half years, including service on Okinawa and Soc Trang
Vietnam in December of 1962. Following his return to the
states in June of 1963 leaving the Army in 1964, he flew for
Trans World Airlines for 33 years, including the Lockheed
Constellation, Douglas DC-9 and Boeing 727. Over the span
of 40 years he has owned seven airplanes. In 2007 he moved
to Peachtree city in November of 2007 and joined the CAF,
piloting the LT-6 before retiring from flying. Willard now
works on planes and does talks and tours.
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 14
Here We Grow Again!
ColMichael“ZEE”ZeeveldRecruitingOfficer/DeputyAdjutant
Three new Colonels were sworn in at the February 20th
Wing meeting. From left to right: Dick Fink, Jeff
Shetterly, and Bruce Conners take the CAF oath as
administered by “Zee” Zeeveld.
Below, new Cols Connors and Shetterly receive their
Dixie Wing patches.
The addition of three new Cols brings the Wing strength
to 307.
In a prior swearing in ceremony WWII P-51
combat pilot (29 missions) Paul Crawford is
welcomed to the Wing.
Photos by Col Charles Burcher
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 15
WEB WATCH
Like looking at photos of
extremely low flying aircraft
“cutting the grass?” Who
doesn’t! Take this B-17 on the
right making a low fly-past
during the filming of the Steve
McQueen film The War Lover.
As Billy Mays used to say on TV, “But wait … there’s more.” More that is if you go to the website for Vintage
Wings of Canada, specifically the story “Lower Than A Snake’s Belly In A Wagon Rut” at:
http://www.vintagewings.ca/VintageNews/Stories/tabid/116/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/325/Lo
wer-than-a-Snakes-Belly-in-a-Wagon-R.aspx
Grab an adult beverage, sit back, and enjoy photos of everything from single-engine aircraft to the mighty
B-36 Peacemaker going lower than low. And yes, some actually did cut the grass. Best of all, you can sign up
for weekly stories from Vintage News. You can even read it in French if you choose. Pretty neat, eh?
CAFactoid
There are three wings that are authorized by the
Commemorative Air Force to be worn by
members / Colonels.
At top is the basic wing insignia issued to all CAF
Cols. This wing insignia also appears on CAF
apparel, regardless of the membership level of the
member.
Center: Lifetime Cols are issued CAF wings with a
star above the center of the wings.
Bottom: Cols who are sponsors of CAF aircraft are
issued wings with a star encased in a wreath
above the center of the wings.
Next Issue: Why we don’t put a period after Col when
we use it before our name.
January 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 16
AnswertoWhat’sThat?
The Douglas BTD-1 Destroyer was the result of the Douglas Aircraft Company’s answer to the USN’s
request for a divebomber that could replace both the Dauntless and the Helldiver. The first two prototypes
were built as traditional two-seaters, but changed with the Navy’s request to move to a single-seat
configuration minus the defensive turret. On 8 April 1943 the prototype first flew, with greater speed than
the Helldiver and twice the bomb load. The Navy ordered 358 of the single seat (BTD-1) version, but only 28
were delivered by the surrender of Japan, so the remainder of the order was cancelled. None saw combat.
Note: The same Douglas team (led by legendary Ed Heinemann) responsible for the Destroyer was already
working on the aircraft that would become the Douglas A-1 Skyraider.
Where can I see one? You are in luck, as the
one surviving example is located at the
Museum of Flight (aka, Hixson Flight Museum
http://www.hixsonflightmuseum.org) at 304
Russell Field Road NE, Richard B. Russell
Regional Airport in Rome, Georgia. The plane
had been on display at the Florence Air &
Missile Museum in South Carolina until the
museum closed in 1997, then went to the
Wings of Eagles Discovery Center, Elmira, NY.
In 2015 a crew from Tennessee retrieved her
(right) and she is now being restored in Rome.
This particular ship has the distinction of
having been both the first Destroyer off the
production line, and the last off the production
line. How could that be? See:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfWrxEn9ghE.
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 17
WASP STUNG BY ARMY’S DECISION
A decision by the Department of the Army has
revoked the Women Airforce Service Pilots
(WASP) eligibility for interment at Arlington
National Cemetery.
The family of WASP Elaine Harmon, of Silver
Spring, Maryland, has been informed that their
beloved mother and grandmother no longer
qualifies to choose Arlington as her
own final resting place. Harmon
and other pilots have attended the
services of their fellow WASP
interred
at
Arlington,
never
realizing their own right could be
revoked.
Harmon's family has said her ashes
will remain in her daughter's home
until she is allowed to rest at
Arlington National Cemetery. The
Harmon family, and the other
WASP still living who may desire an Arlington
burial, need your help.
When the Army Air Forces was short on airmen
and outcome of the war still uncertain, these
women volunteered against much social prejudice
and
skepticism.
General
Hap
Arnold,
Commanding General of the Army Air Forces,
intended to militarize the WASP, but because their
service was so desperately needed he placed the
WASP in a civilian capacity to expedite their
creation.
Unlike other women’s service auxiliaries, the
WASP performed the same domestic missions that
men did, freeing male pilots to go overseas at a
time when the outcome of the war was in peril.
The WASP flew every aircraft type in the Army
Air Forces, from single engine trainers to the
mighty B-29 Superfortress, and performed every
kind of flying mission needed in the domestic
United States from instruction, target towing,
flight test, and aircraft ferry and delivery. The
WASP met (and often exceeded) all military
physical requirements, took and passed the same
military training, and executed military missions but because their military status had been
deferred, they did so with no benefits, no
recognition, and for far less pay.
The WASP military service was finally recognized
by Congress in 1977, who granted the WASP long
overdue veteran status. In 2002 administrators at
Arlington National Cemetery found the WASP
eligible to receive standard honors. In 2010 the
WASP were awarded the Congressional Gold
Medal in recognition of their valiant and
pioneering service. These women are veterans and
deserve to be treated and honored as such.
U. S. Representatives Martha McSally
(R-Arizona) and Susan Davis (DCalifornia) have introduced The
Women Airforce Service Pilots
Arlington Restoration Act (HR4336)
in the House to allow the cremated
remains of the WASP to be placed in
Arlington. Senators Barbara Mikulski
(D-Maryland) and Jodi Ernst (R-Iowa)
have introduced a similar bill (S2437)
in the Senate.
CAF President Steve Brown has
called for your help in contacting your
representatives and urging them to support these
bills.
Short of contacting your representative, you can
sign a petition online by visiting the National
WASP World War II Museum website at:
https://secure.ifrors.com/NWASP/HR4336Petition/index.asp?info
=EA0201
Above: Your editor (the dorky looking guy) with four
WASP at the 2002 Sun N’ Fun Fly In. The photo was
taken by Tuskegee airman Col. Charles McGee.
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 18
Candler Field Museum Hosts Two Events:
#1 - EAA TOWN HALL MEETING
WITH JACK PELTON
Candler Field Museum is privileged to host an EAA Town Hall Meeting on Saturday, February 27th. That
afternoon, beginning at 1 PM, Mr. Jack Pelton, CEO of EAA, will begin the meeting. Jack will discuss the
medical reform proposal, the new requirements to fly Young Eagles, events for AirVenture, and other
pertinent issues facing the experimental aircraft group, vintage aircraft owners, warbird owners, and general
aviation. The meeting will conclude at 3 PM followed by an informal reception. This is an ideal opportunity
for all interested to catch up on all of the
EAA news including AirVenture plans.
You can drive in, fly in on the airline, or
fly your own private plane to the
meeting. Peach State Aerodrome (GA2),
is a 3,000 ft grass strip perfect for a
tailwheel airplane (also good for
nosewheels). The website:
(www.chandlerfield.com ) has a section
on Airport Operations that you can
review prior to flying in.
In addition to learning all of the latest
news you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or
dinner at the resident restaurant
appropriately named “Barnstormer’s
Grill”. A 10% discount will be offered to
all VAA and EAA members by the
restaurant. You can also learn about the
history of the original Atlanta Airport,
see an original Curtiss Jenny (that will
fly weather permitting), and simply
enjoy fun and fellowship with other
aviation enthusiasts. You will be able to
join Vintage if you are not already a
member. One more item – we will raffle
off a ride in the Curtiss Jenny. If the
weather is such that we can fly the Jenny
you will collect that day. If not, we will
schedule a time. We will also have other
items that will be given away.
For more information please go to
www.candlerfield.com or call 770-4678318. You can also email
[email protected]. We are
looking forward to seeing you there!
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 19
#2 - CANDLER FIELD MUSEUM
DINNER DANCE
You are cordially invited to the GREAT GATSBY
benefit dance on Saturday, March 5, 2016 at the
Candler Field Museum located in Williamson,
Georgia. The evening will begin with a champagne
reception at 6 PM. Dinner will be served at 7 PM
catered by Barnstormers Grill. Music and dancing
starts at 8 PM. The music will be presented by the
Night Train orchestra featuring vocalist Karin
Williams. This 17-piece orchestra will entertain us
throughout the evening. Whether you enjoy
dancing or simply like to listen to the music,
please plan to attend. All proceeds will benefit the
Candler Field Museum. Tickets are $65 per person
or $500 for a table of 8. Please join us for this
enjoyable evening.
PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE AT www.candlerfield.com. (SELECT THE JOIN MUSEUM/BUY TICKETS
TAB) OR CALL 770-412-8318.
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 20
ON THE HORIZON ......
CAF AirPower History Tour - 2016 will bring the Dixie Wing’s
P-51 Red Nose to Join the CAF’s B-29 Fifi as part of the CAF
AirPower History Tour. See these and other amazing CAF aircraft
and take a ride at one of the following locations:
March 2 - 6
Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport, Sarasota, Florida
Book a ride: http://www.airpowersquadron.org/#!sarasota--florida/x4giu
March 7 - 9
Leesburg Airport, Leesburg, Florida
Book a ride: http://www.airpowersquadron.org/#!leesburg--florida/zi5r8
March 11 - 13
Punta Gorda Airport, Punta Gorda, Florida
March 16 - 20
Naples Airport, Naples, Florida
Book a ride: http://www.airpowersquadron.org/#!naples--florida/x3y1o
March 23 - 27
Lakeland-Linder Airport, Lakeland, Florida
Book a ride: http://www.airpowersquadron.org/#!lakeland--florida/gkum8
March 30 – April 3
Daytona Beach Airport, Daytona Beach, Florida
Book a ride: http://www.airpowersquadron.org/#!daytona--florida/nv4o0
NOTE: B-29 Fifi will not be there.
Air Shows in 2016:
April 16 & 17
Red Nose will participate in the Smoky Mountain Air Show, Knoxville, TN
For more info visit: www.smokymountainairshow.com
May 20 – 22
Red Nose and the SBD Dauntless at 2016 Warbirds Over The Beach Airshow
Military Aviation Museum, Virginia Beach, Virginia
http://www.dixiewing.org/536_Warbirds_Over_The_Beach_2015.htm
Meetings in 2016 – March through May:
March 5
Staff Mtg - 10 am; Angel Squad - 10:30 am; Monthly Mtg 1:00 pm
April 2
Staff Mtg - 10 am; Angel Squad - 10:30 am; Monthly Mtg 1:00 pm
May 7
Staff Mtg - 10 am; Angel Squad - 10:30 am; Monthly Mtg 1:00 pm
Other Events in 2016:
March 19
Living History: Helicopters in Vietnam
April 16
Living History: Flying the Blackbird
WWII Heritage Days Meeting Schedule
http://wwiidays.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WWIIHeritageDays
April 30 – May 1
WWII Heritage Days, Dixie Wing
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 21
ON THE HORIZON (cont.) ......
September 24 – 25, 2016
Atlanta Warbird Weekend – Dekalb-Peachtree Airport, Atlanta, GA
http://www.atlantawarbirdweekend.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/678366688918155
Don’tmisstheboat!
Submit your articles for the next
DixieDispatchbyMarch20.
February 2016
The Dixie Dispatch
Page 22
WWII HERITAGE DAYS
Why would a CAF Unit host a history event?
WWII Heritage Days Co-Chairs Col Chris Madrid and Col Scott Paul
“The mission of the CAF is education, such that generations of Americans will value
and support contributions of military aviation in assuring our nation’s freedom.”
Different units have their own interpretation of executing the CAF mission, based on the location of the wing
or squadron, the membership makeup and the aircraft in the unit. For the Dixie Wing, the membership has
embraced event marketing as a way to reach the public and convey the mission and connect with the local
community. Since moving into the Historical Airpower Facility, the Dixie Wing has hosted numerous patriotic
events that commemorate and celebrate the service and legacy of America’s veterans. WWII Heritage Days,
Atlanta Warbird Weekend, A Flight With Eagles, Veterans Day, Patriot Day and Pearl Harbor Remembrance
Day are all chapters in the Dixie Wing story.
While WWII Heritage Days is obviously focused on the Second World War, the event draws people with a
variety of interests. Aviation fans and World War II military history buffs who want to see warbirds and
vintage military equipment and artifacts are the most obvious audience, but as the event has evolved and
grown over the last 13 years, the challenge to offer a richer experience has pushed us to expand the event to
incorporate content that will appeal to a broader audience. Fortunately, new members bring fresh ideas,
energy and talent to the wing so that the event – and the CAF - can be relevant in a state where 5th graders
spend less than 3 days studying the pivotal event of the 20th century.
2016 will mark the 13th consecutive year that the wing has hosted WWII Heritage Days. The event will again
feature presentations by World War II veterans, living history displays and demonstrations restored military
vehicles, education displays. This year, we are also adding vintage cars and actors who portray 1940s
Hollywood stars. We are also introducing (weather permitting) a choreographed flyover by the Kate and
Corsair. WWII Heritage Days also provides fundraising opportunities at
“Keep ‘em Flying”, the wing annual 1940s hangar dinner dance and
auction, a mess hall and the wing PX. The team has been hard at work
since January and registration is already underway. Ultimately, over
100 organizations will take part in weekend, but Dixie Wing members
are key to the success. WWII Heritage Days is an opportunity for the
Dixie Wing to shine.
If you would like to volunteer for WWII Heritage Days, please contact
Volunteer Coordinator Dave Porter, [email protected]. In the
meantime, but sure to read your Hotline for breaking news.
Upcoming Meetings & Updates
March 5th - Membership Meeting Update
March 19th - Planning Meeting
April 2 - - Membership Meeting Update