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Nov-Dec 2011
- A Trophy Tomahawk
- Metal of Honor: Corsair Remake & Hero’s Reunion
- Bond of Brothers
Flying Heritage Collection is the proud caretaker of the P-47 Tallahassee Lassie. This story chronicles the history of this rare fighter, from the waning days of World War Two to the jungles of Brazil, and back.
From a swamp in Russia this combat veteran P-40 Tomahawk IIB has been returned to pristine condition and is one of only three flyable examples of early model P-40s in the world. This amazing Avspecs restoration went to Reno and the National Aviation Heritage Invitational where it earned the title, Trophy Tomahawk.
Reading the official citation for a Medal of Honor action is humbling and thought provoking, but having the thoughts and recollections of the man who earned the medal offers true insight into the camaraderie between brothers in arms that transcends race, color, or creed.
The Wisconsin Wing of the Commemorative Air Force needed an aircraft that was more appropriate for their membership size and resource level. When they found a pristine PT-26 restored by Mark and Joe Denest, they found a perfect match.
When Doug Matthews set out to have his Corsair repainted in U.S. Navy colors he wanted to find a historically significant pilot and aircraft to represent. When he chose to honor Thomas J. Hudner and Jesse Brown for a Medal of Honor mission he sought to introduce the Medal of Honor pilot with his Metal of Honor Corsair.
Between races and air show events, many Reno spectators take advantage of the spectacular static display of pristine aircraft. But, the collection is much more than old planes on the ramp. These are the pristine aircraft taking part in the National Aviation Heritage Invitational, and all are vying for the coveted Rolls Royce Aviation Heritage Trophy.
This Bell UH-1H Huey flew countless combat missions in Vietnam so it is only fitting that it was restored to its wartime 25th Infantry configuration. When this beautifully maintained helicopter went to Reno to compete in the Heritage Invitational, it was called upon to complete one more mission of mercy in order to save lives.
Every warbird has a story to tell, and sometimes the story is a powerful statement about young men in war, and bravery between brothers. Pancho, who served as 961’s crew chief in combat for over a year, is an important part of this warbird’s history. He was one brave soldier among many, and this was one harrowing day among many.
FHC’s P-47 Thunderbolt Tallahassee Lassie is the connection between two veteran Air Force pilots, Lt. Col. Greg Anders, who flies the P-47 for FHC, and Col. Ralph Jenkins, who flew the original Tallahassee Lassie in World War Two. Join them as their dialogue takes you into the cockpit and back in time.
The Reno National Air Races is a sport that is uniquely intimate, so when tragedy struck at the 2011 event it was devastating. This personal account provides insight to the camaraderie between pilots, expressed through pre-race banter, then into the events that will be recorded as Reno’s worst day.