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VISIT THE OV-10 BRONCO MUSEUM!
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NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESSES!!
Includes the OV-10 Bronco Museum (OBA), FAC Museum (FACM), and Ft. Worth Veteran's Memorial Air Park (VMAP)
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Mailing Address:
OBA (or FACM or VMAP)
P. O. Box 161966
Fort Worth, TX 76161
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Visits (Only):
3300 Ross Avenue
Fort Worth, TX 76106
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Phone: 800-575-0535
Open Sat. & Sun. 8:00am - 6:00pm
(Other times by appointment)
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TODAY'S HEADLINES
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OV-10X Informational Brochure
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(Posted 07/01/2009)
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Here's a little bit more about Boeing's revival of the OV-10, which they're calling (for now at least) the OV-10(X) Super Bronco. Click here to view an OV-10X informational card that Boeing Integrated Defense Systems has been circulating recently at industry trade shows. It's still unknown whether this proposal will ever actually come to pass, though that probably depends largely upon whether any serious customers are found who are willing to commit to the project. It's still very much possible, though... the Bronco has a unique combination of capabilities that have never really been completely duplicated in one aircraft.
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OV-10 Co-Inventor Bill Beckett Heads West
Conceived OV-10 Bronco Concept With K.P. Rice
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(Posted 05/18/2009)
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All,
I regret to inform you of the passing of Bill Beckett last night. Bill and KP Rice were the two Marines that invented the OV-10. Without the efforts of these two men, none of us would have the OV-10 in common and our lives would have been different. Bill's name will be placed on our memorial prop along with the names of other Bronco Association members who have headed west. Below you will find the news from Bill's long time friend, KP Rice.
God's speed,
Jim Hodgson
Sent: Sunday, May 17, 2009 11:46 PM
Jim --
Just got word that Bill Beckett passed away this evening.
He was a great Marine as well as a gentleman and a true military scholar. Bill taught me a lot, not only about being a Marine aviator but also about how to think and how to live with integrity. I'll miss our long telephone debates on every subject in the world.
I had known Bill on a nodding basis since 1946, during my flight training, but I really first got to know him when I went to my first real squadron, 223, in 1949. I didn't really have my feet on the ground there before a jaunty young captain came up to me in the ready room and asked me if I wanted to learn how to become a real fighter pilot which of course I thought I already was. We subsequently spent hours in the sky pushing a pair of Corsairs to the limit with Bill getting the best of me 99% of the time.
Lots of tours in the same area, as well as a couple in the civilian world, really forged an unbreakable bond between us.
Thanks again for the honor of making both of us a part of a great organization, one that used our bird in every way we envisioned for it as well as several you guys improvised on the spot.
Semper Fi
KP
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Bronco Legend Ralph Lippe Heads West
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(Posted 02/02/2009)
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We are sad to report on the passing of Maj. Ralph Lippe on Dec. 14, 2008 in California. Ralph was well-known in the Bronco Community, dating from the earliest days of the Bronco's combat service in Vietnam. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ralph's friends and family.
Below is the obituary.
Major Ralph Lippe, USMC Retired
1929 - 2008
Retired Marine Corps Major Ralph Lippe passed away December 14, 2008 at UCSD Medical Center La Jolla, after a long and courageous battle with leukemia. He was born June 24, 1929 in New York City. Major Lippe enlisted in the Marine Corps at age 17. While serving in Korea and during three tours of duty in Vietnam he received numerous commendations for valor. He was proud of his enlisted service and as a "Mustang" progressed through every rank from E-1 to E-9. He flew in the 2nd combat mission of the OV-10 Bronco spotter plane in Vietnam and logged over 3000 hours in them. Major Lippe retired after 33 years of active duty service.
After military service, Ralph worked for Cubic Corporation and TRW developing the B-1 bomber training system and Hunter Unmanned Aerial Vehicle. He had a passion for horse racing and cherished his association with his Marine Corps Family.
He was preceded in death by his first wife of 44 years Claire Buckley Lippe and his brother Morton Lippe. He leaves behind his present wife of 12 years Grace Boothe Lippe of Rancho Bernardo, Calif. Surviving children are Paul (Christine) Lippe of Stafford, Va., Brian (Pamela) Lippe of Coronado, Calif., Susan Waters of San Marcos, Calif., Janet (Lynn) Harvick of Yuma, John Lippe (Scott Werner) of Portland, Ore., and Steven Lippe of Temecula, Calif. He is also survived by three stepchildren, Maureen Gritz of Pittsburg, Pa., Patrick McDonough of Rancho Bernardo, Calif., and Timothy McDonough of Boca Raton, Fla. He was blessed with a total of 23 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He has two great-grandsons on the way.
We've lost a true patriot, a loving father and a devoted spouse. Ralph will be deeply missed by all who loved him, laughed with him and served with him. Ceremony will be held January 14, 2009 at 11 a.m. at the Rotunda, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery with full Military Honors. The family asks in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Leukemia Foundation.
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Mark Hunley, OV-10 Manager, Heads West at Age 87
Was Longtime NAA/Rockwell OV-10 Logistics Manager
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(Posted 12/05/2007)
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Rube Best passed along this sad bit of news...
Would appreciate you passing this memo on to the OBA members who may have known Mark Hunley, who recently passed away. For example our Field Tech Reps to the squadrons came under Mark and Maj. Bill Beckett/Col K.P. Rice, founders of the OV-10 project, who were inducted into OV-10 Hall of Fame in October, probably knew Mark.
Mark was born August 23, 1927 and deceased November 27, 2007. He was a graduate of Ohio State University and Capital University, both in Columbus, Ohio. He had a long tenure as OV-10 Logistics Manager with North American Aviation/Rockwell International, retiring in 1985 from NAA/RI. He is survived by his wife Nancy of 56 years.
Thank you Jim, I have the greatest respect for Mark and our past association on the OV-10 Program.
Warm regards,
Reuben
In addition to his wife Nancy, Mark is survived by his sons Eric (Jane) Hunley and Matthew Hunley of Dallas, TX as well as John and fiancee Melissa Straub of Berkley, MI, and Matthew of Dallas. He will be interred at Union Cemetery in Columbus, OH at a later date. Contributions to honor Mark may be made to the Bexley United Methodist Church, Bexley Education Association, or Ohio State University.
Our condolences and prayers go out to Mark's wife, family, and friends. You can read his obituary here.
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Indonesian OV-10 Bronco Fleet Grounded After Crash
Broncos To Be Replaced Soon?
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(Posted 07/25/2007)
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This news item was posted on Aero-News on Wed. 7/25/2007:
In response to a fatal accident Monday, the Indonesian Air Force has grounded its remaining six OV-10 Bronco light attack aircraft.
"All the Broncos will be grounded until we know the cause of the accident," Air Force Chief Air Marshall Herman Prayitno told reporters.
One of the Broncos went down shortly after taking off from the Abdurahman Saleh Airport on a routine training flight Monday in the East Java town of Malang killing one of the two pilots, according to China Xinhua News.
"I heard an explosion before seeing one person jump out using a parachute," said a witness who identified himself as Gimin. "The plane then exploded again twice before falling to the ground."
Local media reports engine failure as being the cause of the accident.
When asked if the Broncos would be replaced, Prayitno said "yes, there is such a plan."
This is the second accident involving the Indonesian Air Force's Broncos. The previous one also went down in Malang and was said to have been due to bad weather.
Only a handful of countries still use the 1960s era, US-developed turboprops as part of their active fleets.
FMI: www.tni-au.mil.id
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Arson and Homicide Charges Filed in CDF OV-10 Crash
Sept. 2006 Crash Claimed Two Lives
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(Posted 11/20/2006)
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Federal and state investigators have made an arrest in connection with the fire that a CDF OV-10A was working when it crashed on Sept. 6, 2006, killing two people. 29-year-old Patrick Courtney of South Valley, CA is believed to have set three separate fires near Springville, CA. Courtney is expected to be arraigned in court on Tuesday, November 21. CDF Battalion Chief Rob Stone and pilot George "Sandy" Willett died when their Bronco (civil registration N419DF, manuf. s/n 305-104M-56, BuNo 155445, Air Attack No. A-410, based at Porterville, CA) impacted into 125 foot trees on the upslope of a box-like canyon about 170 miles north of Los Angeles while directing and observing the firefighting efforts.
Although a preliminary finding has been released, the final report will not be released for several more months, after the NTSB completes its investigation. While witnesses reported that the plane appeared to be flying too low, investigators think that Courtney can be held accountable for the crew's deaths is he is found responsible for the arson.
During a press conference on Friday, November 17 to announce the arrest, Tulare Fire Unit Chief Ed Wristen commended the efforts of the joint investigation team working the case and said that the two deaths had been very difficult on the agencies, families, and friends. "We are looking forward to bringing this incident to a close."
The widow of "Sandy" Willett told KFSN-TV Action News that she was happy that the legal process was moving forward.
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Cactus Air Force Bronco Calendar & Bronco Articles
Air Classics Magazine - Dec. 2006
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(Posted 11/20/2006)
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The current edition of "Air Classics" magazine, Vol. 42 No. 12 contains a 2007 calendar which features Rick Clemens' Cactus Air Force Bronco as the January aircraft. It's a shot of the Bronco over Lake Tahoe with Lee "Thumper" Griffin in front and Juan Redick in the back. Also in this edition is a short article with photo of CDF's "Air Attack 410" Bronco which was destroyed in a fatal crash in September 2006.
(Lee Griffin also has an article published in "Air Classics" magazine, Vol. 42 No. 9 titled "When the Navy flew Sabres.")
Rick's Bronco is also featured on the cover of June 2006 edition of Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) "Warbirds" magazine, with a centerfold picture, an in-depth article and plenty of pictures of the plane flying over Northern California.
It's always good to see the Mighty Bronco in print, especially on the covers of great aircraft magazines!
Melvin R. Clouser Jr.
Doctor of Broncology
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PAF OV-10 Bronco Involved in Landing Accident
Oct. 24, 2006 - Gear failure causes Philippine Bronco to leave runway -- Crew OK, fleet grounded
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(Posted 10/24/2006)
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(Updated: 11/3/2006 at 5:15pm EST)
An OV-10A Bronco of the Philippine Air Force (PAF tail number 134, this is a former Thai AF OV-10C, US Navy BuNo 159134) swerved off the runway at about 10:00 am local time on Tuesday, October 24, 2006 as it landed at the Haribon complex of Diosdado Macapagal Airport at Clark Air Base, Pampanga, Philippines. The Bronco was participating in the annual 'Talon Vision' joint US-Filipino military exercises, in a training module for joint attack tactics with a USMC Harrier. Just after touching down on landing, the Bronco's right main landing gear collapsed, causing the airplane to swerve off of the right side of the runway. Rescue crews from the Philippine Air Force, US Marine Corps, and the Clark International Airport immediately responded to the accident scene. Upon arrival, rescuers found the two crew members -- identified as pilot 1Lt. Maureen Fajardo and copilot Capt. Villamor Feria -- had already exited the stricken aircraft on their own, though they appeared to be shaken up. USMC EMT's evaluated the crew members at the scene, and they were then transported to an the Air Force City General Hospital on the base for x-rays and observation, but were found to have suffered only minor bruises. BrigGen Gilbert Llanto, commander of the 600th Air Base Wing (the PAF host unit at Clark Air Base) stated that the aircraft landed on its right side, in a grassy field along the runway... "An incident like that is normal to us in the Air Force," he said. [We sure hope not! Ed.] Though one headline read "PAF Plane Destroyed in War Games Landing", photos showed much less than total destruction. Philippine Air Force spokesman Augusto dela Peña told the Sun Star that "The aircraft suffered major damage, particularly at the right wing, landing gear, the nose gear and the right engine... we needed a crane to lift the aircraft." The PAF has grounded all 14 OV-10s in their active fleet pending the investigation into this accident.
Rescue crews found a fuel leak and applied a light coat of foam as a precaution against fire. The rescue vehicles were moved off the runway and normal airport operations were able to resume. The three rescue agencies have trained together previously, and were each complimentary of the smoothness of the rescue and the ability of the different units to work together to save lives and protect property. The Philippine Air Force uses their OV-10s for supporting ground troops fighting insurgents in Luzon and the Visayas, for strafing and bombing missions against Abu Sayyaf terrorists based in Sulu, and to patrol the Kalayaan Islands, in the South China Sea.
FMI:
Story in the Sun Star (including aircraft info and damage report)
USMC/AP Photos: Photo 1 - Photo 2
Philippine Star Editorial (Is this the world's first op-ed cartoon featuring an OV-10?)
Story on USMC Website
Philippines Inquirer: Article 1 - Article 2
Article in The Manila Times
(Our thanks to CWO2 Damon Anderson, USMC for the heads-up on this story... Oooh-rah!)
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CDF Bronco Crashes During Firefighting Mission
Sept. 6, 2006 Crash Claims Two
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(Posted 09/07/2006)
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An OV-10A Bronco owned by the California Dept. of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) crashed on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2006 near Portersville, CA while assisting with fighting a wildfire in the remote foothills of Tulare County, California. The Bronco (registration N419DF, manuf. s/n 305-104M-56, BuNo 155445, Air Attack No. A-410, based at Porterville, CA) went down around 6:30pm, about 170 miles north of Los Angeles. No possible cause for the crash has yet been established. Sadly, both crew members died in the crash, which sparked a three-acre fire. CDF spokeswoman Becki Redwine said that the two victims were George Willett, age 52, a DynCorp contract pilot from Hanford, CA; and CDF Battalion Chief Robert Paul Stone, age 36, of Visalia, CA. Redwine said that over 75 CDF and Sherriff personnel responded to the crash scene, but it was difficult to reach due to the rough terrain. The fire that the Bronco was assisting with was thought to have been caused by a campfire, and had been contained earlier the day of the crash.
The FAA and NTSB is investigating the crash. The OV-10 Bronco Association extends our thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of the victims of this sad incident, and we are sure that we aren't alone in thanking these brave folks who gave their lives in the course of protecting the lives of others.
FMI:
Mercury News article
FAA Preliminary Accident Report
CDF Website
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704th TASS Reunion
Colorado Springs, CO - Sept. 21-24, 2006
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(Posted 07/12/2006)
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The 704th TASS will hold a reunion in Colorado Springs on September 21-24, 2006 celebrating the 30th anniversary of the re-activation of that squadron. Reunion events will include a Hail & Farewell schnitzel dinner at the Edelweiss, Tailgate party with kegs of Bischoff and Zaragoza Sangria, Crud Tournament, bike ride down Pikes Peak ending at the Colorado winery, and more. For information contact Bob Munson at rmunson@adelphia.net or call (719) 487-1464.
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Warbirds International Magazine
March - April 2006 (Vol. 25, No. 2)
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(Posted 02/06/2006)
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Rick Clemens' Cactus Air Force OV-10A/B Bronco (N338RC) is featured in the March-April 2006 (Vol. 25, No. 2) edition of "Warbirds International" magazine. The plane is featured on the cover, has two "centerfold" photos and has an article that encompasses eight pages with additional photos. This is a must-have magazine for the true Bronco enthusiast. This is the first and only "Warbird" flying North American Aviation OV-10 Bronco!
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OV-10 Crash in Philippines Claims One Life
Town, resident sue PAF over damages from Jan. 24, 2006 crash
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(Posted 02/06/2006)
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An OV-10A Bronco from the Philippine Air Force crashed in Paumbong town in Bulacan province at about 9:00 am local time on the morning of January 24, 2006. The aircraft's co-pilot, Capt. James Acosta, 35, was able to eject successfully and was taken to Villamor Air Base Hospital to recover. Unfortunately, the pilot, Capt. Aniano Amatong, 31, was killed in the crash.
The Bronco took off from Danilo Atienza Airfield in Sangley Air Base in Cavite City at 8:46 am. The Bronco was headed to the former Clark AFB, Pampanga, to participate in a joint training exercise with the U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force, said PAF spokesman Lt.Col. Restituto Padilla Jr. The Bronco crew's participation in the exercises, known as "Balance Piston", was to undergo training in low-level air delivery at Clark Field.
Capt. Acosta told investigators that they began to experience a problem with the left engine, causing them to lose altitude. They decided to eject at 2,000 ft. but Capt. Amatong decided that the plane might hit a populated area, and stayed with the aircraft. A PAF statement cited Capt. Amatong for "heroism of the highest order" in steering the plane into the middle of a fishpond in the island village of Barangay Binakod, in Paumbong town, Bulacan province. The PAF said that eyewitness accounts confirmed Capt. Acosta's account of the incident.
PAF spokesman Lt. Col. Restituto Padilla Jr. said that Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Jose Reyes had ordered the grounding of the remaining Bronco fleet (about 12-14 aircraft) pending the results of an investigation into the cause of the accident, an action which is standard procedure after a serious incident or crash.
The PAF's Broncos were acquired from the U.S. and later, some were transferred from Thailand's now-defunct OV-10 squadrons. The OV-10 is now the Philippine's main combat aircraft since the decommissioning of the F-5 fighter fleet in October 2005. The PAF uses the OV-10 for close air support, aerial reconnaissance, cloud seeding, and has recently used the Bronco to bomb Islamic terrorist hideouts in the Mindanao area.
Crash Leads to Lawsuits
Reportedly, the Philippine Air Force has offered to pay P150,000 (about $2,850 US) to cover the damages incurred in the crash... but that's not nearly enough, say those who were affected. In early February 2006, the municipal government of the town of Paombong filed a lawsuit against the PAF. The town seeks to recover over P10 million (about $189,970 US) from the Air Force for damages to Mrs. Luzviminda Isidro's fishpond, local waterways, and the local environment which they say were harmed by the crash, largely due to jet fuel contamination. They say that it will cost at least that much to decontaminate the fishpond (which is used by many local fishermen) as well as nearby rivers and other areas.
The Manila Times quoted Paombong's mayor, Donato Marcos, as saying "The fishpond of Mrs. Isidro is severely damaged... we must also consider the fact that the fisher folk's livelihood has been affected due to the jet fuel oil spill."
Mrs. Isidro has filed a separate lawsuit against the PAF for P3.5 million (about $66,490 US) to cover her fishpond damage, including costs for draining it completely to allow rescuers to reach the wreckage. She said, "We already lost at least P2.5 million [about $47,492 US] because our operations stopped, and we need to spend at least P1 million [about $18,997 US] for the cleaning and detoxification of the ponds." She showed the media an itemized list of the various damages which were submitted to the PAF.
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Trader Jon's Lives!
Memorabilia collection saved by National Museum of Naval Aviation
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(Posted 10/31/2005)
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The law firm that purchased the historic memorabilia collection from Trader Jon's bar in Pensacola, FL - a rite of passage for nearly every US Naval Aviator for many decades until it closed for good in 2003 - has donated the entire collection to the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola. (Wow, maybe there is such a thing as a good lawyer, after all.) The 10,000 piece collection, said to be worth around $2 million, features a dazzling array of items and photos representing most of the history of US Naval aviation - including a bunch of items from the Blue Angels, who were well-known patrons of the bar - and regardless of it's monetary value, is truly irreplaceable. Much of the memorabilia was traded by sailors and aircrews for free drinks. The Naval Museum will eventually put the collection on display so that current and future generations can understand the legend that was Trader Jon's.
What's even better is that the memorabilia might even be displayed in a re-created Trader Jon's on the waterfront in Pensacola, in a proposed maritime park. Retired Vice Adm. Jack Fetterman, CEO and president of the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation - is strongly supportive of such a venture. "If we can get the maritime waterfront going, then this memorabilia and a re-creation of Trader Jon's, with a restaurant, would support a maritime museum." Should the park not come to pass, Fetterman said that another stand-alone venue could be developed to display the collection.
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All News...
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NEXT OBA MEETING
OBA HQ, Ft. Worth
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OBA UPDATES
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OBA: CDF Trash Becomes OBA Treasure, Urgent Fundraising Needs (April 10, 2004)
CWOBA: Official announcement of the formation of the Colombian Wing of the OBA. (October 25, 2001)
GWOBA: We almost took off, first flight will be soon!!! (September 12, 2000)
PWOBA: Official announcement of the formation of the Philippine Wing of the OBA. (October 1, 2000)
VWOBA: Official announcement of the formation of the Venezuelan Wing of the OBA. (October 25, 2001)
Archived Updates...
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NEWS BRIEFS
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Archived listings...
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BRONCO EVENTS
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Metroplex OBA Meeting
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(Ft. Worth, TX - Every 3rd Sat.)
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Held at OBA HQ in Ft. Worth, TX in the Vintage Flying Museum hangar at Meacham Field. The monthly meetings typically begin at 10AM. All are welcome to attend, OBA members or not. There is free food, lots of hangar flying, and you can make a real difference in the OV-10 community. Check the Next OBA Meeting section on the site homepage for the latest.
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Archived listings...
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MEDIA COVERAGE
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Archived listings...
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FEATURED STORY
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Today's randomly-selected story:
The Loss of Thomas and Carr (Laos 7/6/71)
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THOUGHT OF THE DAY
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We wanna fly with THIS guy...
Heard on a pre-flight announcement from an American Airlines pilot:
"On our flight today, we will be flying at 34,000 feet. To give you an idea of how high that is, we would be able to fly over 50 Empire State buildings stacked one on top the other.
"Our speed will be about 500 miles per hour. That is just over the muzzle velocity of the standard military .45 pistol."
"We will be pushed along by two Pratt and Whitney JT-8D-200 turbofan engines. While thrust to horsepower varies with altitude, the total 40,000 pounds of thrust is greater than the combined power of 10 D-9 diesel locomotives."
"In other words, we're faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, and able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, and as always, your Dallas based crew stands for truth, justice, and the AMERICAN way!"
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TALK TO US
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Need to contact the OBA?
We're happy to help! To get the fastest response, please direct your inquiry to the appropriate person whenever possible:
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Extra, Extra! Spring 2009 Edition of Cleared Hot! Now Available!
Latest Newsletter from the OBA / FACM / VMAP
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Posted:
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06/21/2009 07:20 PM
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Updated:
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06/21/2009 07:27 PM
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By A Cast Of Thousands
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Read It Now!
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To read the latest Cleared Hot! please click here (Adobe PDF file, 3.4 MB).
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The Spring 2009 edition of Cleared Hot has just been released, with all the latest news from the OV-10 Bronco Association, FAC Museum, and the Veteran's Memorial Air Park. Among this edition's highlights: The OBA's 11th Birthday, Bronco Fest VII & Cowtown Warbird Roundup 2009 Reports/Photos, OBA/FACM/VMAP Moves, Fort Worth Aviation Museum update, Bronco Fest VII Award Recipients, Jami "Hollywood" Clayman's OV-10 documentary "One Tough Ride: The Story of the OV-10 Bronco" released, Bronco ejections, a flurry of European Bronco activity, the Return of the Yankee Air Pirates, and an update on Boeing's rumblings concerning new OV-10 production.
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OBA / FACM / VMAP Has MOVED!!!
After 10 years, OV-10 Bronco Association / FAC Museum / Veteran's Memorial Air Park has new digs!
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Posted:
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06/13/2009 11:29 PM
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Updated:
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06/13/2009 11:29 PM
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By Terry Tabor
A message from OBA President Terry Tabor:
All,
Wanted to let you know how significant this day is to your OV-10 Bronco Association, the Forward Air Controllers Museum, and the Veteran's Memorial Air Park in Fort Worth - WE HAVE OFFICIALLY MOVED!
Today we finally moved the last of our collection out of the Vintage Flying Museum which has been our home for 10 years. Specifically, we moved the OV-10 factory mock up (our first aircraft), the gray NAIL O-2 (Jerry's Duck - our second aircraft), and the tail boom from one of the two prototype YOV-10's. We are now located in our new facilities at the south end of Meacham Airport and hope to have the museum and air park re-established by sometime in September. This has been a monumental effort by the Fort Worth crew and I'm proud of all of them! We did the impossible in only six weeks after the Cowtown Warbird Roundup at the end of April. Many of the Nails and VMO-2 alumni were at that CWR and saw the museums prior to moving -- you wouldn't recognize the place now!
We hope that many of you will visit us next year at the next CWR (in conjunction with the MCAA reunion here in May) or at the Forward Air Controller's Association bi-annual reunion next October. Specific dates are still to be determined. In the meantime, here is our new address information:
Mailing address:
OBA (or FACM or VMAP)
P. O. Box 161966
Fort Worth, TX 76161
Phone Number: 800-575-0535
Websites:
www.OV-10Bronco.net
www.FACMuseum.org
Physical address: [For visits only - DO NOT send mail here]
3300 Ross Avenue
Fort Worth, TX 76106
If you are in the DFW area and would like to help set up the new museum, drop me an email!
If you are passing through and would like to visit, also drop me an email.
Or you can call my cell phone and let me know: 817-637-5918.
Terry Tabor
President
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Wings of War Film Festival
To be held in conjunction with BroncoFest / Cowtown Warbird Roundup
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Posted:
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04/05/2009 09:19 PM
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Updated:
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04/15/2009 10:00 PM
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By OBA Staff
As an added bonus, attendees at BroncoFest/CWR will be treated to the Wings of War Film Festival... that's just one more good reason to attend this great event! More details on BF / CWR are listed below.
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BroncoFest VII / Cowtown Warbird Roundup Is Coming!
Events to be held in Ft. Worth on April 23-26, 2009
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Posted:
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02/03/2009 12:00 AM
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Updated:
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03/24/2009 04:07 PM
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By OBA Staff
The seventh edition of Bronco Fest will be held April 23rd to 26th, 2009. As in past years, a major portion of the activities for the weekend will be attending the Cowtown Warbird Roundup (CWR) which is our annual fly-in and fund-raising event.
We are including many of the events from past years, along with a few new twists here and there, including a FAC Symposium. Discounts will be available for multi-day and early registrations. (Please note that the prices for some events have been lowered since the first announcement of BF VII/CWR was published... so if you've already registered, we will give you the better price!)
Some of the featured activities include a Lockheed Martin Plant Tour (Carswell AFB), Museum Tour, Cowtown Warbird Roundup pre-show VIP Access, Flight Suit Dinner, Cowtown Warbird Roundup w/ VIP Access, lunches, banquets, dinners, and more! Some of these events require pre-registration, so don't wait too long to register.
Hotel registrations will be handled directly with our Bronco Fest VII headquarters, the Radisson Hotel Fort Worth-Fossil Creek. A separate web site is being set up for direct registration (click here). Their special discount rate will be $109.00 per night single or double occupancy. Or you can call them directly at (817) 625-9911 and ask for the Bronco Fest Special.
The Friday night Flight Suit Dinner and the Saturday night Bronco Fest Banquet will both be held at the Radisson.
In addition to all this, we are pleased to announce our new corporate sponsor for CWR, Texas Aviation Services. All CWR activities and events will take place at their corporate location at Meacham Field on Main Street. Bronco Fest VII attendees will have special access to a VIP Pavilion in the Texas Aviation Services facility.
Please note that as is the case throughout the OV-10 Bronco Association, we welcome and wish to fully include EVERYONE who has any interest in the OV-10 or the Bronco Community... not just those who flew, worked on, served with, designed, or were otherwise associated with the plane.
We are anticipating 60 plus warbirds to fly in for the weekend for the Cowtown Warbird Roundup and many other activities and events related to it.
If you have questions, please contact Jim Hodgson.
We hope to see you there!
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Boeing Considers Re-Starting OV-10 Program
New-build Broncos being considered to fill modern-day COIN roles
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Posted:
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02/02/2009 10:54 PM
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Updated:
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02/02/2009 10:54 PM
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By Mike Whaley
Lately, the rumor mill has been abuzz with reports that Boeing has been considering the possibility of re-launching the OV-10 Bronco production line, going so far as to create a marketing brochure about the concept that it has been distributing at trade shows. Apparently, the idea thus far (and Boeing notes that their thoughts on an OV-10 revival are very preliminary) entails producing new OV-10s with essentially the same rugged airframe that has made the Bronco legendary in terms of maintenance and survivability. The instrumentation and avionics would however be drastically overhauled, and brought up to modern glass-cockpit standards and include the latest in battlefield sensor technology such as advanced Infrared sensors. The growing need for Close Air Support (CAS) and Counter-Insurgency (COIN) aircraft has lead to reviews of current and historic aircraft systems and it appears that the OV-10 keeps rising to the top of the field (no surprise there!) While these rumors have come and gone for years, we certainly hope that perhaps this time things will indeed work out to produce a "Super Bronco" to soldier on for many more decades, just as the original has done. Re-starting production of a U.S. military aircraft that has been out of production for a while is not unheard of... it's been done with some very well-known aircraft including the B-26/A-26 Invader, U-2, and C-5 Galaxy. Could the OV-10 be added to this list? Only time will tell!
Here is a list of links to articles and blogs we've been alerted to which are related to the current rumblings about re-starting OV-10 production. It also includes some material that better explains the background and justifications for doing so:
Flight International - 'Boeing considers restarting OV-10 production after 23-year hiatus' (Stephen Trimble)
News article about the possible re-activation of the Bronco production
Society of Cost Estimating and Analysis (SCEA) - 'Counterinsurgency Aircraft Procurement: An Acquisition Approach'
Small Wars Journal - 'A Method & Estimate For Counterinsurgency Aircraft Procurement' (Maj. David L. Peeler, Jr.)
Boyd Conference 2008 - 'Expanding U.S. Tactical Aviation's "Approved Belief"' (Dan Moore)
Not OV-10 specific, but some very interesting observations on the school of thought within the US command structure that discouraged low-altitude operations, which eventually pushed the Bronco out of US military service.
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The 'Vark Has Arrived!
F-111E Aardvark S/N 68-009 arrives at VMAP on May 5, 2008
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Posted:
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05/06/2008 06:55 PM
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Updated:
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05/06/2008 07:38 PM
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By OBA Staff
The OV-10 Bronco Association and the Veteran's Memorial Air Park are proud to announce that one of the showpieces of the growing Air Park has arrived... a swing-wing F-111E Aardvark all-weather fighter-bomber (nicknamed "Balls 9" after the USAF serial number of 68-009). The 'Vark was built by General Dynamics in Ft. Worth and has 5,430 flight hours, all with the 77th TFS in England, and includes combat time in Desert Storm. As anyone who has seen an F-111 fly knows, this truly awesome aircraft was the epitome of the advanced Cold War era low-level nuclear attack bomber. Though the VMAP's F-111E is far from ready to display, she will certainly be a real highlight of the park. As you may know, aircraft restoration, even for static display, is quite expensive to do properly (and there's no other way that we'd consider doing it!). Even though she's home, your donations are very much needed to continue the restoration process (an estimated $3,000 is needed for the restoration, on top of the $12,000 it cost to bring her home to the VMAP). We are looking forward to getting the 'Vark fully restored to the graceful state she's intended to be in!
The Ft. Worth Star-Telegram carried an article about the arrival of "Balls 9" that you can read here with a photo gallery here.
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Cowtown Warbird Roundup 2008
Fri.-Sat. May 30-31 - 10AM - 6PM
Meacham Field - Ft. Worth, TX
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Posted:
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04/07/2008 02:17 PM
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Updated:
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04/07/2008 02:17 PM
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By Mike Whaley
The OBA, FAC Museum, and Ft. Worth Veteran's Memorial Air Park is pleased to announce that the Cowtown Warbird Roundup 2008 is coming at the end of May!! Our theme is "A Salute to Veterans Past, Present and Future". Come out with the whole family to see over 50 aircraft and enjoy a great day of aviation and fun!
COWTOWN WARBIRD ROUNDUP 2008
A Salute to Veterans Past, Present and Future
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May 30-31, 2008 (Fri. & Sat.)
10AM - 6PM
Meacham Field, Ft. Worth, TX
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FREE Admission
Parking $10 per car or aircraft
For more info, visit www.CWR08.com
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PRESS RELEASE:
Fort Worth Four Homecoming Planned
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Posted:
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12/05/2007 08:39 PM
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Updated:
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12/05/2007 08:57 PM
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By OBA Staff
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Veteran's Memorial Air Park
OV-10 Bronco Association & Forward Air Controller's Museum
505 NW 38th Street - Hangar 33s
Fort Worth, Texas 76106
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PRESS RELEASE
December 4, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Fort Worth Four Homecoming Planned
FORT WORTH, TX The Fort Worth Veteran's Memorial Air Park (FTW VMAP) has announced plans to
recover and restore four aircraft with significant ties to Fort Worth. The OV-10 Bronco Association, owner and operator of the FTW VMAP and Forward Air Controller's Museum (FACM) plan to display these aircraft at Meacham Field as soon as their homecomings can be financed and arranged.
The "Fort Worth Four," as the museum refers to them are:
- An Air Force F-111E "Aardvark" built in Fort Worth by General Dynamics in 1970.
- A Navy/Marine Corps RF-8G "Crusader" built in Grand Prairie by Chance-Vought in 1960 and served at Navy Dallas with Marine Photo-Reconnaissance Squadron VMJ-4.
- An Air Force TF-102 "Delta Dagger" built in Fort Worth by Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corporation, Convair, in 1958 and served at various locations throughout Texas.
- A Navy A-7 "Corsair II" built by Vought in 1968.
Each of these aircraft has significant links to Fort Worth and the DFW Metroplex.
For instance, "there is no example on the F-111 on display anywhere in the Metroplex, even though 563 of them were produced at what is now the Lockheed Martin facility in Fort Worth," says Jim Bloomberg, Director of Aircraft Operations for the museum. This particular airplane spent most of its career in Great Britain before it was decommissioned and sent to the aircraft boneyard in Arizona to await disposition. "Another museum wanted this airplane but eventually defaulted on the transfer," Bloomberg added. The aircraft is still in a salvage facility waiting recovery, nearly four years later. If not recovered, this aircraft will be destroyed for scrap.
The RF-8 is a true combat veteran. It started life with Navy Photo-Reconnaissance Squadron VFP-63. It, along with others, flew dangerous missions over Laos and Southeast Asia before the Vietnam War began. In fact, an RF-8, like this one, was the first casualty of that conflict. Later, this airplane was transferred to the Marine Air Reserve Training Detachment at NAS Dallas. Many Marines in the Metroplex have a history with this airplane. Most recently, it was part of a display in Mobile, Alabama but was damaged by hurricane Katrina and returned to the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Florida. There, it was discovered by
members of the Veteran's Memorial Air Park on a recovery mission of an A-4 "Skyhawk." "The airplane was slated to be a target on a bombing range in Florida until we said we wanted it for our Veteran's Memorial Air Park," Bloomberg stated. "This airplane is a combat veteran," Bloomberg continued "and it deserves a better fate than to be blown up for practice. Our air park will be a perfect place to honor the people who flew and served with this airplane and ones like it," Bloomberg added.
The TF-102 is a two seat version of the "single seat fighter" and is a very rare airplane in its own right. Only 85 aircraft were produced. The forward fuselage of these airplanes were built by Convair in Fort Worth and shipped to San Diego for final assembly. The "Deuce" was used as a pilot trainer for the B-58 "Hustler" bomber and F-102's. This airplane also served in several Air Force squadrons throughout Texas.
The A-7 "Corsair II," was built in both Air Force and Navy version by Vought in Grand Prairie. This particular airplane served with various Navy ground attack squadrons, including VA-25, VA-122, VA-204 and VA-304. It made several carrier cruises and was damaged in combat by surface to air enemy fire and safely returned aboard its ship.
"These four aircraft are worthy of being saved and displayed as memorials to the people who flew and supported them in defense of our freedoms," stated Jim Hodgson, President of the OV-10 Bronco Association. "As each of these airplanes arrives here in Fort Worth we will give them a homecoming befitting veterans," Hodgson added.
The Veteran's Memorial Air Park through the OV-10 Bronco Association (OBA) is conducting fund raising efforts to save these airplanes for the Fort Worth community. The OBA is a certified 501(C)3 non profit corporation chartered for educational purposes, so donations and gifts are tax deductible.
Each aircraft have a variety of costs associated with their recovery and restoration, such as transfer fees, transportation costs, crane rentals, supplies, lodging and travel expenses and others. They all have a different set of circumstances associated with their acquisition and final display. All aircraft are non-flying and will only be for static display. They will come to the museum on loan either through the National Museum of Naval Aviation or through the Texas Government Surplus Property Program. None of these aircraft have ties to the US Air Force.
The total cost to return all four of these airplanes to Fort Worth will be $42,500. To date, the museum has raised just over $15,000 toward that goal. Each is being handled separately under individual accounts.
The F-111 is the closest to being recovered, with just over $10,000 of the $13,000 needed already raised or pledged. Half of these funds have been pledged by the local B-36 Peacemaker Museum on a matching funds basis. Once the "Vark" is here, it will still require $5,000 for restoration and display. After the F-111 is recovered, the most likely to be returned is the "Crusader," which only needs an additional $3,500 to make its homecoming possible. The other two will be harder to bring home due to thin financial support.
The Veteran's Memorial Air Park needs help to bring the "Fort Worth Four" aircraft home. Christmas gifts or year end tax deductible donations from veterans, aviation or history enthusiasts and others, will help make these homecomings possible. Interested parties can contact the OBA directly or through the Museum's web site at www.OV-10Bronco.net. The contact person for details on the individual airplanes is Jim Bloomberg, Director of Aircraft Operations, 214-952-8502 or jlbloomberg@aim.com.
The mission of the Fort Worth Veteran's Memorial Air Park is three fold:
- Preservation: The Fort Worth Veter an's Memorial Air Park (FTW VMAP) will preserve examples of military aircraft manufactured or based in North Texas, relevant to the role of Forward Air Control or are historically significant. In addition, the history of people who built and served with these aircraft in the defense of our nation will be maintained.
- Inspiration: The FTW VMAP will endeavor to inspire young people to continue their educations using aviation to encourage careers in aviation, technology, engineering, and the military.
- Education: The FTW VMAP will educate the public on the historical role North Texas and its people have played as a world-wide leader in military aviation.
Aircraft already in the collection include: the original factory mockup of the North American OV-10 Bronco; two Vietnam and Cold War veteran Air Force Cessna O-2A Skymasters; two veteran OV-10A Broncos, one Air Force and one Marine Corps; an Air Force/Navy Northrop F-5E Tiger II aggressor flown in the movie "Top Gun"; the last McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II to have flown in the Navy, a QF-4S, known as "Scooby"; and "Christine," the longest serving F-14D Tomcat in US Naval history. The Veteran's Memorial Air Park is open to visitors on weekends at no charge at the Vintage Flying Museum facility at 505 NW 38th Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76106 or by appointment by calling 800-575-0535.
Photos available on request.
The Fort Worth Veteran's Memorial Air Park (VMAP) and the Forward Air Controller's Museum (FACM) are enterprises of the OV-10 Bronco Association, Inc., a Texas non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to the preservation of historic combat aircraft and other aspects of military aviation for the benefit of the local community.
www.FACMuseum.org
www.OV-10Bronco.net
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Meacham Complex Becomes the
Fort Worth Veteran's Memorial Air Park
& 3 New OBA Directors Announced
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Posted:
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11/11/2007 12:00 AM
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Updated:
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11/28/2007 09:32 PM
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By Chuck Burin, OBA BOD Chairman
1. The OV-10 Bronco Association Announces New Name for the Meacham Airport Complex:
The OV-10 Bronco Association announces that it will be doing business and operating under the name Fort Worth Veteran's Memorial Air Park. The Air Park will include the aircraft as well as the Forward Air Controllers Museum and the Bronco Ready Room.
There is no structural change to the Bronco Association other than operating the conglomerate of the Air Park, Museum and Bronco Ready Room under the name of the Fort Worth Veteran's Memorial Air Park.
The OBA Board will continue to provide direction, guidance and support for the growing organizations.
The operating name change has been discussed electronically by the board over the past several months and was finalized at the November 24, 2007 board meeting in Fort Worth. The board believes that the name change will better reflect what we, as separate organizations, are trying to accomplish in the way of education and outreach, as well as have a better name recognition to the public.
2. OV-10 Bronco Association Board of Directors Announces New Directors:
The Bronco Association Board of Directors announces the election of Admiral Jim Lair, Jim Hodgson and Terry Tabor to the Board. Adm. Lair comes to the board after a 38-year career in the Marine Corps and Navy. After his retirement from the Navy he worked for Lockheed-Martin and the Flight Learning Center at DFW. He is currently the Federal Security Director for the Transportation Security Agency at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Jim Hodgson is a Captain with Continental airlines flying the Boeing 777, he is also an OBA founder and President of the OBA for the past 4 years. Terry Tabor is a retired USAF pilot and American Airlines pilot. He is currently the head of the Forward Air Controllers Museum steering committee and has previously served as OBA Vice President and Treasurer. All three terms will expire in October 2011.
The board would like to thank outgoing Directors Tom "Scooter" Skutca and Darrell "Doc" Lambert for their years of service to the board. Both will continue their support of the OBA and FACM as well as the newly named Fort Worth Veteran's Air Park.
For the Board of Directors,
Chuck "IGOR" Burin - Chairman
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OBA/FACM Veteran's Memorial Air Park Status Board
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Posted:
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06/25/2007 12:00 AM
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Updated:
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05/05/2008 10:29 PM
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By Mike Whaley
VETERAN'S MEMORIAL AIR PARK
AIRCRAFT RESTORATION STATUS BOARD
Updated: 2008-05-05 11:00 PM EST
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This board will track the status of our aircraft acquisition projects. It's often very expensive to bring an aircraft home, often including fees for the acquisition, transportation, motels for the disassembly crew, etc. Even after an aircraft arrives at our facility, there are many one-time and recurring expenses related to it's restoration, care, and proper upkeep, such as materials for repairs, painting, monthly rent for the space it occupies, and regular cleaning and maintenance to keep the aircraft in good condition. Getting them to the air park is critical, but maintaining them once they're here is equally as important... your ongoing support is vital!
HOW TO HELP:
The fastest way to support a specific aircraft is to click one of the buttons below. This will take you to a PayPal webpage that will allow you to donate directly to the account for preserving that aircraft. You don't need to have a PayPal account set up to make a donation. If you would prefer, you may also donate with a check or Money Order made out to the OV-10 Bronco Association. Please note whether your donation is for a particular aircraft or a general donation.
We also welcome general donations. These may be used for specific aircraft as needs arise, and/or may support more general needs and goals of the Veteran's Memorial Air Park. The OBA and FAC Museum are 501(c)3 non-profit, tax-exempt organizations so your donations may be tax-deductible (check with your accountant).
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Send checks or money orders to:
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Veteran's Memorial Air Park
c/o the OV-10 Bronco Association
505 NW 38th Street, Hangar 33S
Fort Worth, TX 76106 USA
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- OR -
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Thank you... with your valuable support, we can save these historic aircraft for future generations to enjoy!
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OV-10A Bronco
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USN BuNo: 155426
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STATUS:
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* RESTORATION COMPLETE *
2005-11-05: Arrived at Air Park from California.
2007-10: Reassembled and repainted, on display at Memorial Air Park.
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NOTES:
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NAA production S/N 305-66M37, the 66th Bronco manufactured and the 37th for the USMC. Delivered to HML-267 at Camp Pendleton, CA on 1968-06-28. Arrived in SEA 1968-08-08 and assigned to VMO-2 / MAG-16 at MCALF Marble Mountain. in Feb. 1970, VMO-2 moved to MAG-11 at Da Nang AB. Aircraft spent 32 months in Vietnam, estimated to have flown 2500 hours on over 1000 missions in theater. Aircraft transferred to VMO-6 at MCAS Futenma in Okinawa Japan as part of VMO-2 standdown in March 1971. When VMO-6 disestablished in Jan. 1977, transferred to HMS-36 at Futenma. Returned to Camp Pendleton in 1991 and served with VMO-2 as aircraft No. 16. Spent short time in Marine Helicopter Training Squadron 301, in 1993 was sent to civilian duty with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in Boise, ID with civilian registration N97LM. Transferred to California Dept. of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) in Dec. 1999, apparently CDF never flew it. Transferred to OBA in Apr. 2005. This airframe has no restrictions against being flown.
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OV-10A Bronco
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USAF S/N: 68-3825
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STATUS:
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* RESTORATION COMPLETE *
2006-01-18: Arrived at Air Park from California.
2007-10: Reassembled and repainted, on display at Memorial Air Park.
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NOTES:
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Delivered to USAF and served with 23rd TASS (Tactical Air Support Sqn.) during the Vietnam War. Later served in the Cold War throughout West Germany and South Korea. Flew with BLM and then the CDF to direct fire fighting missions. This airframe has no restrictions against being flown.
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O-2A Skymaster - "Duck"
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USAF S/N: 67-21430
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STATUS:
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* UNDERGOING RESTORATION *
2007-07-01: Undergoing restoration at OBA.
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NOTES:
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Manufactured in Wichita, KS and delivered to USAF 1967-11-20. To 504th TASG (Tactical Air Support Group) (Pacific Air Forces), Nha Trang AB, Vietnam in Jan. 1968. To Cam Ranh Bay AB, Vietnam and Da Nang AB, Vietnam, Aug. 1969. Then went to 110th TASG (ANG), Kellogg Field, Battle Creek MI, Sept. 1971. In June 1972, went to 105th TASG (ANG) at Westchester County Airport, NY. Went to 115th TASG (ANG), Traux Field WI in Oct. 1974. In May 1976, transferred to 602nd TACW (Tactical Air Command), Bergstrom AFB, TX. In July 1979, went to Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ, and finally was dropped from inventory in Mar. 1980 by transfer to other agency. Acquired by OBA in 2001 and restored largely by Jerry "Nail 57" Stephan.
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QF-4S Phantom II - "Scooby"
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USN BuNo: 153821
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STATUS:
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* RESTORATION COMPLETE *
2005-02: Arrived at Memorial Air Park from Pt. Mugu, CA.
2007-10: Repainted and repaired, on display at Memorial Air Park.
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NOTES:
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On loan from NMNA. This "Rhino" was the first aircraft to be acquired for the Memorial Air Park. This aircraft is the last Navy/USMC F-4 to fly. Last flew with VX-30 "Bloodhounds". Formerly an F-4J. Served with several Navy and Marine squadrons, among them: VFA-31 "Tomcatters", VMFA-333 "Trip Trey", VMFA-451 "Warlords", VMFA-312 "Checkerboard", VMFA-212 "Lancers" and VMFA-251 "Thunderbolts". Flew in Vietnam.
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F-14D Tomcat - "Christine" / "Tomcatter 111" / "Felix 111"
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USN BuNo: 159600
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STATUS:
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* UNDERGOING RESTORATION *
2007-02-04: Arrived at Memorial Air Park via C-5.
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NOTES:
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On loan from NMNA. This aircraft was manufactured in 1976 and was the longest-serving Tomcat in the US Navy. Was in the last group of F-14s to be decommissioned in Sept. 2006. Aircraft has long combat history including Desert Storm and the War on Terror. Arrived at Meacham from NAS Oceana via C-5 transport on 2007-02-04, making what is likely the last US F-14 flight in history.
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F-5E Tiger II
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USN BuNo: 74-1558
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STATUS:
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* RESTORATION COMPLETE *
2007-02: Moved to Memorial Air Park from Pensacola NAS.
2007-10: Reassembled, on display at Memorial Air Park.
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NOTES:
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On loan from NMNA. Aircraft served with US Navy in VFC-13 as an "Aggressor" adversary aircraft. Has two-tone brown and tan desert "Tiger Stripe" camouflage with a red star on the tail and number 13 painted on the nose. In 1984, was in USAF service with the 64th FWS. Has a Swiss F-5 wing installed (originating aircraft ID is unknown), as the original wing was low time sent to F-5/T-38 SLEP program. May be repainted to represent a South Vietnamese Air Force (VNAF) aircraft.
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TF-102A Delta Dagger - "Deuce" / "Tub"
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USAF S/N: 56-2337
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STATUS:
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* UNDERGOING RESTORATION *
2008-05-05: Undergoing restoration at OBA.
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NOTES:
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This aircraft was built in 1958 and served in the USAF 327th and 482nd Fighter Squadrons, 3555th Fighter Wing, 4780th Air Defense Wing, and 147th Fighter Intercept Group at Ellington AFB in Houston with the Texas ANG. The aircraft served in Greenland, North Carolina, and at Perrin AFB and Ellington AFB in Texas. The TF-102 cockpit and forward fuselage was built in Ft. Worth and assembled in San Diego CA. TF-102s were briefly used as Fast-FAC aircraft in Vietnam. F-102s served until 1976 with Air National Guard units. Only 85 TF-102A trainers were built. The F-102 was transported to the OBA facility in April 2008 and is currently awaiting full restoration. Donations are needed to fund the restoration of this unique bird!
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A-4C Skyhawk
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USN BuNo: 147715
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STATUS:
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* RESTORATION COMPLETE *
2007-07-03: Arrived at Memorial Air Park from NMNA.
2007-11: Repainting completed, on display at Memorial Air Park.
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NOTES:
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This "Scooter" began life as an A4D-2N and was accepted by the US Navy on 1960-04-29. There is a gap in the history between Apr. 1960 and June 1968. It served in VA-873 1968-06-24; VA-125 "Rough Riders" 1968-08-19; VC-13, NAS Miramar 1969-04-07; and VC-13, NAS Miramar Mar. 1973. It was administratively stricken from the record in Memphis on 1973-07-13. This plane was most recently used for ground training in Memphis. Although it currently wears Blue Angels colors,it was never actually one of the Blue Angels aircraft. In June-July 2007, the plane was disassembled by a small crew from OBA with help from an NMNA crew and moved to the Air Park. This plane is in very good shape, especially considering it has been beaten on by students for a long time. The damage is minor and it should take minimum time to re-assemble and repair to display condition.
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A-7B Corsair II
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USN BuNo: 154479
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STATUS:
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* UNDERGOING RESTORATION *
2008-05-05: Undergoing restoration at OBA.
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NOTES:
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Aircraft was built in Dallas in 1968 (construction S/N B-119) and accepted Aug. 21, 1968. Served with VA-122 "Flying Eagles" (Oct. 1968), VA-25 "Fists" onboard the USS Ticonderoga (10/68-10/69), VA-304 "Firebirds" (5/78-5/82), and VA-204 "River Rattlers" (8/84-4/86), including many carrier cruises. On June 11, 1972, it was either hit by a missile or ground fire over North Vietnam, sustaining some damage. The plane was stricken from records on August 17, 1987. This "SLUF" ("Short Ugly Fat Fellow") flew with VA-204 "River Rattlers" at NAS New Orleans. More history is currently being researched. Aircraft was moved from the now-defunct English Field Air & Space Museum in Amarillo, TX to OBA in early 2008, and is now in the restoration queue. Your donations are needed to help fund the restoration of this combat veteran!
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RF-8G Crusader
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USN BuNo: 146898
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STATUS:
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* AWAITING RECOVERY *
2008-01-17: Sufficient funding secured to recover
2007-06-28: Disassembled at Pensacola NAS awaiting move to Memorial Air Park.
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NOTES:
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This Crusader was on display at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, AL and sustained damage from Hurricane Katrina, and moved back to NMNA in Pensacola. This Crusader began life as an F8U-1P and was delivered and accepted by the US Navy on 1960-02-26. The plane then served in VCP-63 (Composite Photo Recon Sqn.), NAS Miramar 1960-03-04; VCP-63 Det. L, USS Lexington 1960-10-26; VCP-63, NAS Miramar 1961-06-08; VFP-63 (Light Photo Recon Sqn.), NAS Miramar 1961-07-19; VFP-63 Det. F, USS Lexington 1961-11-01; VFP-63, NAS Miramar 1962-05-16. As part of the transition to the modern tri-service designation system, it was redesignated as an RF-8A on 1962-11-30. It then served with VFP-63 Det. L, NAS Miramar 1963-05-09; VFP-63 Det. L, USS Hancock 1963-08-31; VFP-63, NAS Miramar 1963-12-19; VFP-63 Det. M, NAS Miramar 1964-07-08; VFP-63 Det. M, USS Ranger 1964-08-31; BWR Dallas, Dallas 1965-05-11. There is a gap in the records between May 1965 and June 1968, believed to be when it was converted to RF-8G standard (these had stronger wings & fuselage, wing pylons, and ventral fins; improved engines, and updated electrical & navigation systems). The plane then served with VFP-63, NAS Miramar 1968-06-25; MARTD Olathe, Olathe (VMJ-4, Marine Recon Sqn.) (Reserves) 1969-06-27; MARTD Dallas, Dallas (VMJ-4) 1970-02-21; MARTD Dallas, Dallas (VMJ-4) 1971-06-16. There is a gap in the records between June 1971 and Jan. 1975. The plane then served with VFP-306, Andrews AFB 1975-01-05; VFP-63, NAS Miramar 1975-12-09; VFP-306, Andrews AFB 1976-06-15. It was administratively stricken from the record at Pensacola NAS on 1984-11-09. On 2008-01-17, the VMAP announced that enough funding had been secured to recover the aircraft from Pensacola, however much more funding will be needed for the full restoration.
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F-111E Aardvark
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USAF S/N: 68-009
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STATUS:
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* UNDERGOING RESTORATION *
2008-05-05: Undergoing restoration at OBA.
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NOTES:
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This aircraft, called "Balls-9" (for the S/N 68-009), was built at General Dynamics in Ft. Worth, TX between 1969-1971. Was once stationed at RAF Upper Heyford in Great Britain. This aircraft was destined for a museum collection and was disassembled and crated, but has been essentially abandoned in Arizona and is headed for the scrappers if it's not rescued. All but 7 of the 563 F-111s built came from Ft. Worth, yet no examples exist in the DFW area today except for this one which now resides at the OBA facility after being rescued from the smelter at the last minute in February 2008. Donations are needed to help with this expensive and complex restoration of this unique jet.
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F-105D Thunderchief - "Thud"
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USAF S/N: 60-5385
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STATUS:
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* UNDERGOING RESTORATION *
2008-05-05: Undergoing restoration at OBA.
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NOTES:
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This "Thud", nicknamed "Fireball Express", was built in 1960 and served in the 23rd TFW, 36th TFW, and the Virginia Air National Guard. During the Vietnam War, this plane also flew over the Ho Chi Minh trail, based out of Korat Royal Thailand Air Force Base. The Thud was transported to the OBA facility in March 2008 and is now awaiting restoration. Donations are needed to fund this extensive restoration project!
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STATUS:
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* UNDERGOING RESTORATION *
2008-05-05: Undergoing restoration at OBA.
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NOTES:
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This Cessna T-37B "Tweet" twin-jet trainer was built in 1957, making it one of the earliest production Tweets. She served for many years to help train thousands of military aviators. Nearly all pilots in the Air Force since the early 1960s trained in Tweets, which for many years was the only jet aircraft designed for intentional spins, making it a very significant aircraft type. In addition, the T-37 was the basis for the O/A-37 Dragonfly light attack aircraft which was used extensively in Vietnam and has been exported to several countries where it remains in service today, as an effective CAS and FAC platform. In addition, the Tweet has a long history in Texas... students from 12 NATO countries have trained in T-37B's at Sheppard AFB, as well as other bases in Texas and around the country. This Tweet was trucked to the VMAP from Robbins AFB in February 2008, and is awaiting restoration.
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OV-10A Bronco Engineering Mockup
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NAA S/N: 001
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STATUS:
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* RESTORATION COMPLETE *
2005-10: Restoration completed, on indoor display at OBA Museum (VFM).
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NOTES:
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This full-scale, mostly wooden engineering mockup was never a flyable aircraft, however it was used by NAA to finalize many design features and can be considered to be the "first" OV-10. In any case, it's certainly a significant relic from the early days of the OV-10 program. Purchased from private owner by OBA in Aug. 2001 with funds raised from members and other supporters. Fully and immaculately restored by the B-36 Peacemaker Museum restoration team in association with OBA from very deteriorated condition after sitting outside for 30+ years. Officially dedicated during ceremony at BroncoFest V in July 2005.
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SAVE-A-PLANE: Rare Two-Seat TF-102 Delta Dagger Fighter Trainer
Help needed to save a rare and unusual fighter trainer!
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Posted:
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06/23/2007 04:48 PM
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Updated:
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06/23/2007 11:18 PM
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By OBA/FACM Staff
This SAVE-A-PLANE is Issued by the Forward Air Controller's Museum for Immediate Action:
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F-102A Delta Dagger Specifications
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Data from The Great Book of Fighters, via Wikipedia
General characteristics
- Crew: 1 (TF-102A has 2)
- Length: 68 ft 4 in (20.83 m)
- Wingspan: 38 ft 1 in (11.61 m)
- Height: 21 ft 2 in (6.45 m)
- Wing area: 695 sq. ft (64.57 sq. m)
- Airfoil: NACA 0004-65 mod root and tip
- Empty weight: 19,350 lb (8,777 kg)
- Loaded weight: 24,500 lb (11,100 kg)
- Max takeoff weight: 31,500 lb (14,300 kg)
- Powerplant: 1 x Pratt & Whitney J57-P-25 afterburning turbojet
- Dry thrust: 11,700 lbf (52.0 kN)
- Thrust with afterburner: 17,200 lbf (76.5 kN)
- Internal fuel capacity: 1,085 US gal (4,107 l)
- External fuel capacity: 2 x 215 US gal (815 l) drop tanks
Performance
- Maximum speed: Mach 1.25 (825 mph, 1,304 km/h) at 40,000 ft (12,190 m)
- Range: 1,350 mi (1,170 nm, 2,175 km)
- Service ceiling: 53,400 ft (16,300 m)
- Rate of climb: 13,000 ft/min (66 m/s)
- Wing loading: 35 lb/sq. ft (172 kg/sq. m)
- Thrust/weight: 0.70
Armament
- Rockets: 24× 2.75 in (70 mm) unguided rockets in missile bay doors
- Missiles:
- 6 x AIM-4 Falcon air-to-air missiles or
- 3 x AIM-4 Falcon
- 1 x AIM-26 Falcon with conventional or nuclear warhead
Avionics
- MG-10 fire control system
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THE F-102 DELTA DAGGER "DEUCE"
An important message from Bill "Spider" Spidle, OBA Director of Aircraft Operations:
June 15, 2007
Hello everyone,
In March of 1952, the Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corporation, aka Convair, announced plans to build the F-102 Delta Dagger. Of the 1,000 scheduled for production, 111 were to be built as two seat TF-102 trainers (which were often known as "Tubs" due to their wide forward fuselage... the airplane was identical to the normal F-102A behind the side-by-side cockpit area). Although the final construction of these aircraft was done in San Diego, California, the cockpit and forward fuselage sections were built in Fort Worth, Texas and shipped to California. During the Vietnam War, the U.S. Air Force briefly used the TF-102 as a Fast FAC aircraft, and standard F-102s became commonly used to good effect in the ground-attack role. Ultimately, only 85 of these rare two-seaters was ever built. While the F-102 probably isn't the best-known of the fighters of the period, it played a significant part in the Vietnam conflict and even had some unique uses. The F-102 carried air-to-air Falcon missiles which were combined with the nose-mounted Infrared system for night raids along the Ho Chi Minh trail... with the possibly unprecedented effect of using the air-to-air Falcon as a ground-attack munition. Before it was withdrawn from the war in 1968, fifteen F-102s were lost (only one to air-air combat, a few to AA fire, the rest to operational accidents). The F-102 served until 1976 with Air National Guard units (this is the aircraft that George W. Bush flew) and also served until 1979 with the air forces of Greece and Turkey. Beginning in the early 1970s, some were used as target drones until 1986. The F-102B development incorporated so many changes that it was re-designated as the F-106 Delta Dart. No F-102s are flyable today.
THE MISSION
Recently, the Forward Air Controller's Museum (FACM) and the OV-10 Bronco Association (OBA), learned that a small museum in south Texas was giving up its collection of airplanes. One of those aircraft was a rare TF-102A, number 56-2337. In addition to serving in Greenland and North Carolina, this aircraft spent a significant part of its career here in Texas at Perrin and Ellington Air Force Bases. This airplane is a true Texas native with a connection to Fort Worth. Our mission is to raise the funds needed to acquire, recover, transport and display this Deuce at the Memorial Air Park in North Texas.
TF-102 56-2337 was built in 1958. Although we have not yet completed its full history, this aircraft has a distinguished career the Air Force's 327th & 482nd Fight Squadrons, the 3555th Fighter Wing, 4780th Air Defense Wing and the 147th Fighter Intercept Group at Ellington AFB in Houston with the Texas Air National Guard.
THE GOAL
The Government Services Administration has approved the OBA (a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Museum) and the FAC Museum to accept this aircraft for its Fort Worth Veteran's Memorial Air Park at Meacham Field in Fort Worth, Texas. Acquiring this rare TF-102 for our collection has been a museum goal as this airplane is significant to the aviation history of Fort Worth, Texas. Our goal is to raise $8,000.00 to acquire, transport, and preserve this aircraft properly.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
We need sponsors to save this historic airplane from the scrappers. Please help now. Gifts of any size will make a difference, but time is running out for this old veteran of the Cold War. There is an immediate urgency to act now. The GSA has given us a limited timeframe in which to recover and display this airplane or it will be destroyed. If we meet this goal, we will save this piece of Fort Worth and American aviation history for future generations.
We need your help to preserve this great aircraft, and tell the TF-102 story. Some or all of your sponsorship or donations may be tax deductible. You can make your donations by cash, check credit-card or PayPal by sending your contribution to:
OV-10 Bronco Association
505 NW 38th Street, Suite 33S
Fort Worth, TX 76106
Phone/Fax: (800) 575-0535
Please pass this message along. We can't do this by ourselves, but together we can SAVE A DEUCE.
Thanks for your support,
Jim Bloomberg
Director of Aircraft Operations
jlbloomberg@aim.com
Click here for a downloadable/printable PDF version of this article
SAVE-A-DEUCE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Q:
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If you don't succeed in raising the money, will I get a refund?
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A:
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If that is your desire, no problem... just let us know. However, we would hope you might consider thinking of it as a general contribution to our goals... either to save this TF-102, or continue the restoration of our other aircraft (including the F-14, QF-4S, F-5E, O-2A, two OV-10A's, and others to be brought onboard soon), for seed money for future acquisition opportunities, to pay for the costs associated with our operations (ie, paying rent for the hangar space, keeping the lights and phones turned on), or to otherwise help with our mission to preserve our history and educate the public about it. We follow the US Marine's creed of "doing more with less" and we take seriously our responsibility to use all contributions effectively and wisely to work towards our stated goals.
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Q:
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Will this plane ever fly again?
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A:
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Unfortunately, no... it would be cool to see this plane fly again but it's simply not feasible or possible to do so for any number of reasons. However, even on the ground, this aircraft is very valuable as a static display and educational tool. We intend to restore her to the best condition possible so that future generations can see, learn about, and appreciate the history she was part of.
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Q:
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If the OBA/FACM doesn't get this plane, can someone else with the money get her?
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A:
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Maybe, but that seems fairly unlikely at this point. If we don't get her, she is due to be destroyed for her scrap value. Even if someone had the money to spend, the government still has a lot of requirements that must be met before you are eligible to receive such items, such as being approved by the GSA to receive government items. It took us years of hard work to gain this eligibility.
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Q:
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I'd like to help, but I don't have much money. Are there other ways to help?
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A:
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Certainly! First off, ANY amount of money will put us that much closer to our goal, so don't feel embarrassed if you're not able to send a lot. Every bit helps! But aside from money, there are many other needs... we will need volunteers for disassembly, transportation, volunteers to take her off the truck, and of course volunteers to help reassemble and restore her once she's in Ft. Worth. Right now, one of the most helpful things you can do is simply SPREAD THE WORD to all your friends about our needs... the more folks who know, the more likely we are to be able to raise the money to save this veteran. Remember, time is growing short!
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Q:
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What happens a few years down the road?
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A:
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Well, Nostradamus hasn't returned his voicemails lately so we don't have exact predictions of the future yet. However, the primary immediate goal is acquisition and restoration to a displayable condition. Next, we work on the details such as paint or smaller details. Long-term, there are various goals such as preventive maintenance and restoration, periodic cleanings, incorporation into the larger context of the Memorial Air Park, etc. Above all, the guiding principle is to treat this and all of our display aircraft with the respect they deserve. Many of our display aircraft are on permanent loan status, the terms of which include certain minimum requirements that we must continue to meet in order to retain eligibility to keep the aircraft. We have every intention of continuing to meet those obligations, not just because the government says we have to, but because it's simply the right thing to do to preserve the airplane for future generations. In fact, we strive to go beyond the minimum standards in order to do the best possible job to preserve the history that has been entrusted to our care, whether or not we're "required" to or not. It's simply the right thing to do. We want our grandchildren's grandchildren to be able to see, touch, and experience these valuable displays.
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Q:
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I checked my logbooks, and I have time flying in (or working on) this plane... are you interested in my records?
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A:
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Absolutely! We'd definitely love to hear from anyone with a personal connection with this aircraft... 90% of aviation history isn't about a particular aircraft itself, but the people connected to it. Let us hear about it!
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Q:
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Are you guys in competition with other museums/organizations? Isn't this more of a fighter than a FAC aircraft?
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A:
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Not at all! Every group has a stated purpose; we can't fulfill every mission and neither can anyone else. Whenever possible, we try to work with other groups with similar interests of historic preservation and education. While we focus mainly on the Forward Air Control part of history, this inevitably has a lot of crossover with other communities: fighters, bombers, ground-pounders, helicopters, etc. Many (if not most) of our members are also members of other organizations, and we often go to other group's events (Pop-A-Smoke, FAC Association, etc.) and they are always welcomed at our events. The OBA and FACM offer full, open membership to everyone interested enough to join, and please leave the "cliques" at the door. There's plenty of history to go around, and many valid ways to look at and present it. We just want to make sure that a plane at the center of the history is preserved.
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Feature Article Archives...
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