Hornet to Hellcat a Special Day

[Dan Newcomb]

Over the years I have had several special moments aviating. Last Friday I had another. After a very long day of positioning aircraft in preparation for our air show I sat on the old gray tug taking a breather when the roar announced “Mutha’s” arrival. After an extended downwind and a dramatic vapor enhanced carrier break, friend and fellow wing member CAPT Mark Hubbard had arrived in his F-18 from Lemoore NAS.

We put the Hornet to bed and then pulled the Hellcat out of the barn and within minutes “Mutha” was overhead this time in an F-6F. When, I wondered was the last time that an active duty Navy aviator with combat experience to boot, had flown a Hellcat?

The other thing that amazed me was that in the space of about an hour I had seen someone step from one century to another. Mark transitions from glass cockpit to steam gauges effortlessly. Within minutes I had observed two equally impressive carrier breaks in two completely different aircraft piloted by the same man. Something very rare indeed.

[Warbird Kid]

Very Cool!

[JOMiller]

NICE!

[Robbie Stuart]

I have not had too much to say lately on here, but dang that is cool.

[whistlingdeath77]

i'll take the hellcat!

[Old Shep]

We hosted "Mutha" at an Museum Seminar Series program here in Midland back in December....entitled "Hellcats to Tomcats" we had both the F6F and the F-14 as a backdrop to a program featuring Naval aviators from WW II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and current operations over Iraq and Afghanistan. Very interesting, and each man, tho separated by almost 70 years, shared a similar pride in wearing Wings of Gold. We appreciated the SoCal Wing's help in getting both Capt. Hubbard and the Hellcat to Midland.

We do (and have done) some pretty neat programs at the museum....getting ready to host Rich Graham of SR-71 fame in September, and Louis Zamperini in November. If you are in the area stop in.

Old Shep

[Dan Newcomb]

I am trying to get my act together and make a pilgrimage back to Midland before this year is out. I have flown into Zamperini Field many times and would love to meet the man it was named after. Please keep me posted.

Dan

[Mike]

Thanks for the post Dan, it certainly was a great weekend at Camarillo.

The Hellcat looked real pretty on Sunday evening too!

[Dan Newcomb]

Wow! I love the shot. I hope Jason sees this.

Thanks,

Dan

[Lightjug]

That is just too cool

[Dan Newcomb]

My only regret is not being able to share moments like this with more people. I am a lucky man.

Dan

[wendovertom]

Truth is that "Mutha" is actually a Commadore! The BIG Cheese!

Tom P.