Supermen for a Superfortress
Getting FIFI ready to fly January 2014
B-29/B-24 Squadron Officer & Staff Listing Position
Name
Telephone
Squadron Leader
Neils Agather
817-946-9950
vnagather@agathertx.com
Executive Officer
Tom Travis
972-241-8102
TomTravis@aol.com
Adjutant & Personnel Officer
Debbie Travis King
469-688-1709
Squadadjutant@gmail.com
Crew Chief
Rick Garvis
972-380-8800
rgarvis@cafhq.org
Finance Officer
Gerald Oliver
312-953-0357
goliver@behringerharvard.com
Maintenance Officer
Don Obreiter
580-471-3048
obreiter@cableone.net
Operations Officer & B-29 Tour Coordinator
David Oliver
630-853-9624
B29ops@gmail.com
Public Information Officer
Kim Pardon
432-413-4100
kmpardon@yahoo.com
Ride Captain
Jon Oliver
312-925-6184
jake8350@gmail.com
Safety & Training Officer B-29 Scheduling Officer
John Flynn
717-632-4497
jnaflynn@embarqmail.com
B-24 Scheduling Officer
Jim Neill
214-762-5891
jakat2@verizon.net
Facility Manager
Jim Neill
214-762-5891
jakat2@verizon.net
Appearance Captain
Henry Bordelon
972-406-0644
pixiee@sbcglobal.net
Docent Emeritus
Jack Bradshaw
214-987-1963
jackbradshaw@sbcglobal.net
Webmaster
Rick Greer
The Flyer Editor
Konley Kelley
rgreer4@gmail.com
214-995-5184
konartist@verizon.net
2
If it only were this easy... Why we train, train and keep training. See you at B-29 Ground School!
Photo by Mark Russell
In this Issue:
2014 B-29 Ground School Schedule inside
• Spring 2014 AirPower History Tour Schedule • Officer Reports • 2014 Superfortress Calendar • Diamond Lil B-24 Go Team Report • “Keep Diamond Lil Flying” Fundraiser & Website • Member News • 2014 Meeting and Activities Schedule • B-29 Ground School Schedule • Special Feature: “Making the Most of Your Tour” • Book Review: The Airmen and the Headhunters • Volunteer Spotlight: “Steve Rabroker” • Editor’s Corner • Squadron Contact Information
Squadron member, Angie Whitney, leading CPR/AED class at B-29 Ground School in 2013. CPR/AED is offered again at 2014 GS.
Special Feature: “Making the Most of Your Tour” by Robert Wickman 3
Spring 2014 Tour Midland, TX
Dec 17, 2013 - Feb 15, 2014
B-24 only
2014 Florida* Pensacola, FL Leesburg, FL Clearwater, FL Sarasota, FL Naples, FL Ft. Meyers Lakeland, FL Vero Beach, FL Orlando, FL Deland, FL Jacksonville, FL
Feb 13-16 Feb 17-19 Feb 20-23 Feb 25-Mar 2 Mar 3-5 Mar 6-9 Mar 11-16 Mar 17-19 Mar 20-23 Mar 25-26 Mar 27-30
Summer Tour A (California) Summer Tour B (OR, WA, UT, CO, OK) Fall Tour AirPower EXPO CAF AirSho
B-29 B-29 B-29 B-29 B-29 B-29 B-29 B-29 B-29 B-29 B-29
May 21-Jun 30 July 11-Aug 18 Sep 19-Oct 1 Oct 3-5 Oct 10-12
Check www.AirPowerTour.org for tour updates and news on other aircraft joining FIFI and Lil. *Schedule subject to change.
4
Squadron Report The first tour of 2014 is nearly upon us. Rick, Don and Ben and our volunteers have been working feverishly on FIFI to get her ready. The winter maintenance work this year is as ambitious as any other year and all is on track. Another terrific Ground School has been planned for Saturday and Sunday, February 8-9th. If you have not made plans to be there, please do so. This school is important for everyone planning to tour with either aircraft regardless of whether one is a flight, ground crew or tour crew member. Ground School is where we teach and refresh what we do so that 2014 is even more successful than 2013. David Oliver reports that we will have a good turnout for it. Please do not miss it. A terrific Florida tour has been planned for FIFI. She heads out for Pensacola on February 13th, right after Ground School. Winter has been a cold one this year. Florida sounds awfully nice. Be sure to sign up for tour duty too. Florida has been a successful tour stop before and I suspect this one will be every bit as good and fun. In the meantime, Diamond Lil has been on display in Midland at CAF HQ. The plan is to bring her back to Addison for her winter maintenance and she will head out for her own tour. Reading, Canada and Oshkosh are all on the schedule. This should be fun tour as well. I am looking forward to seeing Lil strut her stuff alone. I look forward to seeing everyone on the 8th. Neils Agather Squadron Leader SPECIAL NOTE: On the next page is a message from Robert A. Stenevik, Vice President of Safety, Maintenance and Operations, Commemorative Air Force. Please review this message. You can see the official CAF Aircraft Insurance Guide on the CAF website at http://commemorativeairforce.org/?page=members/index&cms_page=1299 Thank you.
5
Subject: Non-Owned Insurance Due the First of March Please pass this on to your pilots and mechanics who taxi aircraft (put it in your newsletter if you can). Everyone who flies, or taxis our airplanes needs non-owned insurance, unless the only CAF aircraft they fly/taxi is covered by our comprehensive policy. NOTE: Sometimes we don’t get our renewal on time and your coverage is extended until the new policy is in place and the invoices mailed. There is no need to call in now, we don’t have the new policy yet. PILOT NON-OWNERS HULL PROGRAM (Policy Period: March 1st - March 1st of each year) This policy has several limits, depending on the type of aircraft being flown by a given pilot. Limits are either $25,000 with a deductible of $5,000; or $50,000 or $100,000 with a deductible $7,500. This coverage responds in the event a pilot, through his own negligence, damages an aircraft. This coverage responds to physical damage only to CAF owned aircraft and only up to the limit purchased less the applicable deductible. This only covers pilot negligence, not mechanical failure. (Note: Premiums stated are subject to change at annual renewals) COVERAGE Aircraft Non-owned Hull Coverage - $25,000 or less. Aircraft Non-owner Hull Coverage - $50,000 or more. Aircraft Non-owner Hull Coverage - $100,000 or more. Aircraft Non-owner Hull Coverage for mechanics.
PREMIUM $350** $450 $875 $250
DEDUCT $5,000 $7,500 $7,500 $5,000
This insurance is to be carried by each pilot* if he/she desires to fly CAF aircraft, payable to the Commemorative Air Force, P.O. Box 62000, Midland, TX 79711-2000. This policy is designed to cover individual pilots and mechanics of the Commemorative Air Force. (Checks or credit cards received by Headquarters, enables the “donation” to also be used for tax purposes. Each pilot will receive a thank you from Headquarters for this purpose. Please advise if you do not receive this letter.) * Under certain circumstances, a pilot may be exempt from this requirement. 1. If he/she is a co-pilot only and does not fly any other CAF aircraft as PIC and flies with a pilot-incommand who has purchased the non-owner insurance, then he/she may fly a CAF aircraft without purchasing this coverage. 2. A CAF check pilot without CAF non-owner insurance can only give check rides to CAF pilots who serve as the pilot-in-command and who carry the non-owner coverage. (approved by General Staff 7/18/97) 3. The only CAF aircraft the pilot flies is covered by our comprehensive policy. There is a reduction of 20% if a pilot attaches after 6 months. **Only pilots flying the aircraft listed below pay the lesser insurance premium of $350 and only if they do not fly other CAF aircraft solo or as PIC: J3-CUB, N6125H; L-16, N7436B; L-2, N53768; L-3B, N36681; L-6, N46336; S-108, N97040; YO-55, N2354H Robert A. Stenevik Vice President of Safety, Maintenance and Operations Commemorative Air Force Cell (primary way to get me) 817-705-5817 Office 432-563-1000 x2266 Fax 432-567-3058 rstenevik@cafhq.org
6
Executive Officer Report As most of you know, Diamond Lil is on display at CAF headquarters in Midland until later in the winter. FIFI is in winter maintenance and, thanks to our full-time mechanics and volunteers, she is coming along nicely. Rick, Don, Ben and Val are doing a first-class job. To those of you who have come to me and expressed your concerns about life on the road with these two airplanes I want to say thanks. Please know that your concerns are being heard and the Squadron officers are working to try to make life a little better on tour this year. Hope to see you at B-29 Ground School next month. Tom Travis Executive Officer
Debbie Travis King and Tom Travis aboard Diamond Lil
Photo by Raymond Jeffcoat
7
Maintenance Report I’m very happy to report that FIFI’s annual maintenance is moving along very well! That’s definitely not to say it has been easy and without long hours and a lot of work! Aside from the obvious thank you to our tireless maintenance crew, I want to thank the volunteers that have been coming out and helping get things done. Without boring you with too many details of the process, the short version is the inspection phase is about 90% complete, much of the panel up is being accomplished, structural testing is complete, the engines are being finished up and all of the propeller assemblies will be reinstalled by the end of the month. Around the time you are reading this, FIFI will be up on jacks having the final landing gear inspections and operational checks accomplished. One impressive trivial side-note to mention, is that we finally had to change our very first engine cylinder on FIFI’s new engines. What is so impressive about this is that these engines have run for nearly 500 hours and the cylinder was replaced because the spark plug insert was a little loose. That minor discrepancy will be fixed and the cylinder put back into service. But, for those of you who were around when FIFI was flying with the old -57 engines, we were changing cylinder(s) at nearly every stop. This is definitely a true testament to all those involved with the design, implementation, upkeep and operation of FIFI’s new engines! Again, thank you to all those that have played a part in accomplishing FIFI’s annual maintenance process. Don’t wander off too far though because Diamond Lil’s annual maintenance starts next month. See you at B-29 Ground School. Don Obrieter Maintenance Officer
Photo by Scott Slocum
8
Flight Operations Report B-29 Ground School 2014 anticipated to be the best Ground School ever About two years ago we decided to split the B-29 & B-24 Ground Schools. I believe it was one of the best decisions the Squadron has made. But, more strategic than the decision to spend more time focusing on each aircraft individually, was the value of studying just what makes this unit successful. We operate the most unique aircraft in the world and we are unlike any other organization today. The theme for B-29 Ground School 2014 is going to be leadership. Our Squadron has fast become one of the most rapidly growing CAF units in the country. We have also quickly soared to the top of the warbird industry as a leader. More importantly, we all lead on an individual level as we interact and guide others wishing to learn about the history and operation of these aircraft . All this and much more will be the emphasis for 2014. So please make sure you RSVP online and plan your involvement. The training will start promptly on Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m. and will end on Sunday around noon. I encourage anyone with a desire to participate to attend. I promise you will enjoy it. Lead on! David Oliver Flight Operations Officer b29ops@gmail.com 630-853-9624
Photo by Konley Kelley
9
Training & Safety Report Steve Rabroker has accepted the task as the Safety Coordinator for our Addison Hangar as part of our new Squadron Safety Management System. Steve will be performing safety surveys in the hangar to help ensure everything possible is being done to protect our Squadron members, visitors and our aircraft. He will initially be focusing his attention on numerous safety topics including the following: PERSONAL SAFETY • Determining chemicals used and posting Material Safety Data Sheets for the solvents, paints, cleaners, lubricants, etc. • Availability of personal protective equipment such as eye, hearing, hand protection eye wash and emergency shower. • Use of fall protection. FIRE SAFETY • Location of our fire extinguishers and how to use them. • How to alert hangar occupants in case of a fire. • How to report a fire and get help. REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS • Safety informational postings. • Accident and Injury reporting.
It is important that every Squadron member pitches in to help Steve with the safety tasks required to make our hangar safe for all!
REMEMBER, IF THE JOB IS DONE RIGHT, IT IS SAFE! John Flynn Safety Officer
Chief kicking off hands-on training at B-29 Ground School in 2013.
10
PIO Report I spend most days these days working on Florida tour advertising and publicity. I have made some great contacts so far and have promises for good advance publicity for a number of stops. The first of those will be an article in the Pensacola News Journal appearing on January 26. (www.pnj.com) One can’t ask for better “advertising” than a news story. . .I love it! Also, Channel 47 in Dallas is doing a story on the B-29 at Addison focusing mainly on maintenance. Crew Chief Rick Garvis is the star of that show; a story to be aired on the Texas Daily Show. I will give everyone a heads up as to when that airs and will try to include the link on Twitter, Facebook and our media page. Other than that, I am really looking forward to Ground School and catching up with all of you I haven’t seen for so long. I will be in Dallas from January 31 through Ground School. If anyone wants to stop in and help me make DVDs for the ride packets, let me know. See you in February! Kim Pardon PIO
Will BOB break its own record for ride flights in 2014?
Photo by Scott Slocum
11
Financial Report The accounting and bookkeeping department is hard at work checking and re-checking all the financial results from 2013. The final numbers have not yet been tallied, but by all measures 2013 was a great year. Total revenues were around $2,000,000. Next time you see Cindy Kirby and Mary Roz Torcoletti please tell them “Thank You” for all their work. In addition we have to thank all the Tour Leaders from last year who stay up way past all the other crew to count money, make entries and generally take care of all the little things. Thank You Tour Leaders! Make sure you also give a big thanks to all that help run the Ride Desk. This is often a difficult job juggling customers, weather, pilots and maintenance issues. Our customers pay a lot for the experience and a high level of expectation comes with that. Our team does a great job. Jon Oliver is the head of that department. Kim Pardon answers the phone, places ads, writes press releases and does so many jobs it is incredible. Thanks to all! To give you more comfort that the money is correctly accounted for, we undergo an annual audit by CAF Headquarters. They send out a contingent that includes Floyd Houdyshell (CAF Chief Financial Officer) and members of his team. They take a week and pour over our reports and numbers, all in an effort to make certain our business is run correctly. Last year they even brought with them an outside auditor. Glad to report to you that we have received clean audit results for the last four years. They were probably good audits before that, but I can’t say because I was not involved in the financial side of the Squadron then. In next month’s report I hope to be able to publish a summary of the 2013 financials. Ground School is coming up in a few weeks. One of the things we will be doing is discussing our financial procedures. If you have a special talent in this area and are interested in helping in some way, please let me know. I’m looking forward to seeing you at Ground School and out on the road this next year. Gerald Oliver Finance Officer PS… make sure you buy a SUPERFORTRESS calendar. Order them at http://keepfififlying.org/ Gerald, I received my "Fifi" calendar and it is wonderful, the photos old and new, the information about the B-29's and their crews, and of course the memories. I even saw a photo of a plane that was in my Dad's bomb group. The calendar is worth having on its own but to be able to donate to such a worthy cause makes it that much better! The credits indicated you you were one of the volunteers who worked on the calendar and I just wanted to say how nice it turned out. Please forward my comments to the others who worked on it. Thanks, Koert Snyder Lenexa, KS
This month is the five year anniversary of the “Miracle on the Hudson”. Jeff Skiles (left), who was flying right seat that day, is now a rated pilot in the B-29. Look for his article about flying FIFI in an upcoming issue of EAA’s “Sport Aviation”.
12
The year 2014 marks FIFI’s 40th year of flying with the CAF. To celebrate we have produced the SUPERFORTRESS 2014 collector’s calendar to honor FIFI and the men and women who keep her flying. We are pleased to send you one of these great calendars as our thanks for your donation to FIFI. But her continued flight is at risk . . . The exhaust system on the plane is original equipment manufactured in the 1940s. It is becoming old and needs replacement. Without a new system she can’t continue to fly. . . Our goal for this year is to raise $75,000 to replace the exhaust system. Now we know an exhaust system is not a fancy thing that gathers lots of imagination. But it is VITAL to her ability to fly. So please help us. SUPERFORTRESS 2014 CALENDAR The SUPERFORTRESS 2014 calendar is unique and fabulous. It is large with vibrant colors showing FIFI flying over our great country. You will be proud to display this calendar on your wall, or keep it as a collector’s item. There are 12 fabulous, full color pictures of FIFI and her friends. Plus there are a number of historic photos of B-29s. The overall size is 14 x 20 (it is huge). Included on the inside cover are historic pictures of FIFI and the story of her recovery and return to flight.
13
Here’s the best part… This calendar is limited to 1,000 editions ensuring it is a collector’s item for years to come. And it is signed by five Squadron leaders who help keep FIFI flying. They are: Neils Agather – Son of the original FIFI (Josephine “FIFI” Agather, namesake of the CAF B-29) and current B-29 / B-24 Squadron Commander Lt. Charles Chauncey – 35 mission pilot of the B-29 Goin’ Jessie from WWII and a current Squadron member Scott Slocum – Internationally known aviation photographer who took the color panel photos of FIFI in the calendar David Oliver – Squadron Operations Office and the current B-29 Instructor Pilot Rick Garvis – Squadron Senior Crew Chief on FIFI Your $50 donation ensures you will receive one of the limited edition calendars with all five signatures. But please act fast as we have only have printed 1,000. When those are gone, that’s it. . . Special Offer for Serious Aviation Historians We have obtained a very limited supply of these calendars that are signed by Theodore “Dutch” Van Kirk. Dutch was the navigator on the B-29 Enola Gay that bombed Hiroshima. He is the only remaining crew member from that plane’s fateful mission. Paul Tibbets IV, grandson of the Enola Gay pilot, will also be signing these calendars. Your donation of $500 ensures you will receive this special collector’s calendar with Van Kirk and Tibbets’ signatures. Only 29 are available so please order soon. Make A Memorial We are also offering several options for creating a living memorial for your loved ones. For your donation of $1,500 we will emboss your name, or the name of your loved one on the back right bomb bay of FIFI in half inch letters. You will also get a special calendar signed by Van Kirk, Tibbets and the five Squadron leaders. For your $5,000 donation we will emboss your name or the name of your loved one on the front right bomb bay in one inch letters. You will get a special calendar signed by Van Kirk, Tibbets and the five Squadron leaders. In addition, you will be given a certificate good for a ride in FIFI in the front cockpit section with the pilots. All donors will also receive a certificate for free admission for a family of four to all CAF AirPower History Tour events. Check our web site for schedule locations, dates and times. . . www.AirPowerTour.org. Donate Now So please help us today to keep FIFI flying by going to https://www.formstack.com/forms/caf-2014_calendar. Your tax deductible donation is much appreciated. . . and you’ll get a copy of this fabulous SUPERFORTRESS 2014 limited edition calendar. The Calendar makes a great gift so get several and pass them to your loved ones and friends. Each one helps us keep FIFI flying.
14
B-24 Go Team Report On Dec 17th, our B-24 flew to Midland. It was a nice flight and perfect weather, unlike the ice, snow and cold temperatures of early December. The CAF HQ Museum is offering aircraft tours while she is in Midland and we hope to also do some ride flights when we prepare to fly back to Addison about Feb 15th. Now that the holidays are over and the new year has arrived, the pace is quickening for the 2014 season. A good deal of time over the last month or two has been directed toward the upcoming B-29 Ground School, which involves more than just B-29 crews. All B-24 crewmembers should attend the Saturday morning session of the B-29 Ground School on Feb 8th, which covers topics related to the CAF, our Squadron and 2014 Touring. These topics are not repeated for the B-24 Ground School. The new B-29/B-24 Squadron Operations Manual is now available for download from the Squadron website. Many of our Squadron policies and procedures are in written form for the first time. This should be helpful, especially for new members. An overview of the Ops Manual will be presented at the B-29 G/S. I have been pleased with the high level of interest in Diamond Lil on the Airshow circuit for 2014. We have commitments for some excellent events that will help make this a successful season. As mentioned last month, Lil will not be touring with FIFI until perhaps some Fall events. Here's a summary of B-24 events: KRDG - Reading, PA KBUF - Buffalo, NY CYHM - Hamilton, ON KAKR - Akron, OH KDAY - Dayton, OH KOSH - Oshkosh, WI KYIP - Willow Run, MI
June 6 - 8 June 10 - 12 June 12 - 15 June 16 - 22 June 26 - 28 July 28 - Aug 3 Aug 8 – 10
The calendar on www.AirPowerTour.org is your best resource for specific dates and additional events. B-24 Ground School is currently planned for Saturday, April 12th. Lil should be ready to fly near this date, and allow us to appear at some local events in Spring. Thanks to all who work to Keep' m Flying, Al Benzing B-24 Go Team Leader 15
www.KeepDiamondLILFlying.org.
16
Member News January, 2014
The CAF B-29/B-24 Squadron welcomes these new members in January, 2014 Dan York of Flower Mound, Texas Greg Trebon of Heath, Texas Jeffrey Skiles of Oregon, Wisconsin Craig Simpson of Anna, Texas Kathyrn Scarborough of Fayetteville, Arkansas Justin Poe of Grapevine, Texas Dave Pasahow of Dallas, Texas Joseph Nycz of Dania Beach, Florida David Medders of Frisco, Texas John Lauritson of Sumerville, North Carolina Robert Koukol of Upland, California Kenny Kemp of Midvale, Utah Thomas Malone of Ijamsville, Maryland
B-29 / B-24 Squadron membership fees were due January 1, 2014. You can renew online at www.cafb29b24.org or mail a $75.00 check to Debbie Travis King, Squadron Adjutant and Personnel Officer:
Sam Huffman of Brentwood, Tennessee Dale Harmer of Tillamook, Wisconsin Alex Green of Gainesville, Florida Fred Fink of Memphis, Tennessee Kathy Dye of FairPlay, Tennessee Richard Chapman of Grandbury, Texas Walter Caprez of Winterthur, Zurich David Burr of Dallas, Texas Ronald Allred of Allen, Texas Carl McGuire of Coweta, Oklahoma Steve Buss of Midland, Texas Colonel Glenn Frazier of Mobile, Alabama James Murphy of Wichita, Kansas Lauran Paine of Salem, Oregon
For Squadron gear and merchandise, don’t forget to visit the Px!
If you have any membership questions, please feel free to contact me at: squadadjutant@gmail.com Dues and new member applications can be mailed to: Debbie King 13562 Braemar Drive Dallas, Texas 75234 B29/B24 Squadron Adjutant 469-688-1709
B-29 / B-24 Squadron PX http://www.b29b24px.org/ Find us on
17
2014 B-24/B-29 Squadron Meetings/Activities Schedule
MONTH
DAYS OF WEEK
MEETING DATES*
January
SPECIAL ACTIVITIES No meeting
February
Saturday/Sunday
Feb 8-9
Tour and B-29 Ground School
March
Saturday
Mar 15
Monthly Meeting
April
Saturday
Apr 12
B-24 Ground School
May
Saturday
May 17
Summer Tour Kick-Off/Cavanaugh Flight Museum Fly Days
June
Saturday
Jun 21
Monthly Meeting
July
No meeting
August
Saturday
Aug 23
Ice Cream Social
September
Saturday
Sep 20
Monthly meeting
October
Fri/Sat/Sun
Oct 3,4,5
CAF AirPower EXPO
October
Fri/Sat/Sun
Oct 10, 11, 12
CAF AirSho Midland
November
Sat
Nov 15
Annual Awards and Chili Cook Off
December
No meeting
*Subject to change. Check the www.cafb29b24.org or watch for announcements via the portal for updates.
Don’t forget when FIFI and Diamond Lil are in the hangar, maintenance is on-going. Come volunteer your time! Photo by Cindy Kirby
18
B-29 Ground School February 8-9, 2014 2014 B-29 Superfortress FIFI Ground School Schedule of Events: Saturday - February 8, 2014 Session #1 – Addison Conference Center Across the street from the Hangar All Participants 7:30 am - 8:00 am 8:00 am – 8:15 am 8:15 am – 8:25 am 8:25 am - 8:40 am 8:40 am – 9:00 am 9:00 am – 9:20 am 9:20 am – 9:30 am
Donuts & Coffee/Slideshow Introduction and Welcome Aircraft Update Tour Schedule & What's New in 2014 Vision & Purpose for 2014 Intro to AirPower History Tour Intro to Squadron Manuals
9:30 am – 10:00 am
Break
Session #2 – Addison Conference Center All Participants 10:00 am – 10:15 pm Squadron Policies & Procedures 10:15 am – 11:00 am Event Operations Media Ride Desk Banners Cockpit Tours 11:00 am – 11:15 am Safety Management System 11:15 am – 11:30 pm Checklist/Manual Changes for 2014 11:30 am – 12:00 pm CRM/TEM Presentation
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Kon Kelley Neils Agather Rick Garvis Allen Benzing David Olive Gerald Oliver David Oliver
John Flynn David Oliver Kim Pardon Jon Oliver Allen Benzing John Flynn John Flynn Allen Benzing David Oliver/ Allen Benzing
Lunch (Catered at the Addison Conference Center) - VIDEOS
Session #3 – Breakout Workshops Pilots – Addison Conference Center Flight Engineers – Addison Conference Center Scanners & APU – Squadron Hangar Pilots & FEs: 1:00 pm – 1:50 pm Special Presentation 1:50 pm – 2:00 pm Break 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm B-29 Systems Training Session 4:00 pm – 4:20 pm Break
Dr. Charley Rodriguez Various Instructors
19
2014 B-29 Superfortress FIFI Ground School (cont.) 4:20 pm – 5:00 pm 5:00 pm – 5:30 pm 5:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Flight Engineer Presentation Systems Test and Evaluation Emergency Procedures Round Table
Brad Pilgrim Bill Goeken ALL
Session #4 – Squadron Hangar Attendee’s: All Personnel Associated with the B-29 6:30 pm Joe’s Italian Village (All members invited)
Sunday - February 9th Session #5 – Breakout Workshops Pilots - Addison Conference Center Scanners & APU – Squadron Hangar Pilots: 9:00 am – 9:30 am 9:30 am – 10:00 am 10:00 am – 10:20 am
CAF Flight Regulation Training 6802 Kilo, Ride Program Training 6802 Kilo & CAF Regulation Written Tests
Mark Novak Mark Novak Mark Novak
10:20 am – 10:40 am
Break
10:40 am – 11:00 am 11:00 am – 11:30am 11:30 am – 12:00pm 12:00 pm
IFR Operations Round Table Flight Operations Policy & Procedure Question and Answer Dismissal
ALL David Oliver ALL
Session #6 – Breakout Workshops Engineers - Squadron Hangar Flight Engineers: 9:00 am – 10:00 am 10:00 am – 11:00 am 11:00 am – 12:00 pm 12:00 pm
Preflight & Paperwork Review Emergency Checklist 'talk-through' Review of Operational Issues Dismissal
Rick Garvis John Schauer Various FE's
Session # 7 - Specialization Training Classes Tour Leaders & Ride Coordinators – Addison Conference Center AED/CPR Training – Squadron Hangar 1:30pm – 3:30pm Tour Leader / Ride Desk 1:30pm – 3:30pm 4:00 pm
CPR/AED Training Dismissal
Gerald Oliver/ John Flynn/Jon Oliver Angie Whitney
20
Special Feature
“Making the Most of Your Tour Experience” by Robert Wickman The AirPower History Tour is an incredible mix of aircraft and people. It is fun, exciting and takes the hard work and efforts of a lot of people. So how do YOU get to participate on tour? Check out the schedule ahead of time so you can see the various tour stops and dates. Do some research on the tour stops to get to know what else will be there, perhaps a rare plane or a cool performer, like Matt Younkin. Whether it is Bikes, Blues, BBQ and Bombers or a day trip to support a fellow CAF squadron, each event is unique in its own way.
Flying FIFI.
Look at your own schedule and see what dates and locations work best for you. The Squadron tour has something for everyone! There are long legs of the tour where the planes will swing through several cities and be away from Addison for a month or more. You don’t have to volunteer for the whole tour leg, but volunteering for at least one week on a tour is encouraged. There are weekend excursions where you can have an opportunity to fly out on one of the planes for a 1-3 day weekend event and be back in time for work on Monday. And, there are local events where you can drive out to the airport, volunteer all day and sleep in your own bed at night. A chance to visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial outside Kitty Hawk, NC while on tour.
Contact the tour leader as soon as you know what particular stop(s) or date range for which you’d like to volunteer. This will increase your chances of being selected as part of the standard crew. At this time, crew scheduling is managed informally but there are various factors that dictate being selected as a standard crew member. For more information, consult the B-29/B24 Squadron Ops Manual. Remember you are always welcome to volunteer on your own at any tour stop and assist without being a member of the standard crew, but the Squadron may not provide any assistance i.e, 21 hotel room, transportation or meals.
A Standard Crew compliment consists of 12 volunteers for the B-29, 8 volunteers for the B-24 and 2 volunteers for the C-45 and/or T-6. (See chart on the next page for a list of the specific positions and who determines the scheduling for the specific position on the crew.) Figure out how you will get there and back. Decide where you will join and leave the tour and coordinate it with the tour leader. Your plans will help you determine whether you can fly out or return on a CAF plane or if you need to make any personal travel arrangements. Airline flight costs are your responsibility. Lodging for standard crew is covered by the tour and is double occupancy. You can pay out of pocket for a single room but make your tour leader aware of these arrangements in advance. Once out on tour, remember FIFI and Lil are rock stars on the air show circuit. At every stop, they attract large crowds. Many people visiting the aircraft have an emotional connection to the planes. Their father, grandfather, other family member or friend may have been a pilot or crewmember or served as ground support. Be courteous and hear their stories. Remember you represent the CAF and are an ambassador and caretaker for these planes. Tour stops are also great opportunities to recruit new members. Keep a CAF brochure and membership application handy.
Meeting the legendary aviator, Bob Hoover.
Another priceless conversation with a WWII veteran.
Please be polite and attentive. Help make the visit a positive experience for everyone coming out to see the planes. People may wait in long lines or hot temperatures just for an opportunity to spend a few minutes aboard the aircraft. If you see a long line of people waiting to tour the airplane, go through the line and engage them in conversation. Thank them for coming out to see the aircraft and answer their questions. Provide some history and tell them about your role. Ask them if they are interested in a ride. Do not be surprised if interacting with them leads to someone purchasing a seat aboard FIFI, Lil or BOB. Our guests waiting for a cockpit tour will appreciate the information, plus quality time spent with you will help pass the time they wait in line. 22
Plan on working hard. The hours are long, the conditions can be brutal at times and there is a lot to be done but everyone chips in and works together. It sure beats working at the office! The Tour Leader coordinates work assignments. There is usually a briefing first thing each morning to discuss the day’s events and ensure everyone knows what to do. Be on time, in uniform and ready to go. A “can do” attitude and a willingness to pitch in for anything needed goes a long way towards making the day go smoothly. Photo by Mark Russell
Plan on playing. Touring is a great opportunity to get to know fellow Squadron members better. There are many interesting people in our Squadron. They are generous, friendly and interesting to say the least. Ask them to tell you their background stories and past tour experiences. I encourage you to hang out together after the planes are buttoned up for the night. Just remember not to over do it after hours or it could impact your mental and physical readiness the next day. Most importantly - Have fun! It is the experience of a lifetime. STANDARD CREW POSITION DUTIES
SELECTION OF THE CREW
23
Book Review The Airmen and the Headhunters By Judith M. Heimann *reviewed by Squadron Member, Al Benzing
Konley Kelley and I have recently been working on a presentation to tell the history of the B-24, it's crews, their missions and that of Diamond Lil. As part of the research I've read the following books - all of which I highly recommend. The Crash of Little Eva, by Barry Ralph The Airmen and the Headhunters, by Judith M Heimann The Ploesti Raid, Through the Lens, by Roger A Freeman Into The Fire, by Duane Schultz B-24 Combat Missions, Martin W Bowman Jimmy Stewart - Bomber Pilot, by Starr Smith One More Mission, by Jesse Pettey Shady Lady (Documentary), Directed by Tristan Loraine I found that each of these books, and the documentary, helped paint more of the picture that is the incredible story of the B-24 and it's crews. All of these included detailed research and were very well written. The Airmen and the Headhunters, by Judith M Heimann. www.marinnerbooks.com A book review by Allen Benzing 12/31/2013 Judith M Heimann, a former Diplomat who is better known for her intriguingly titled book "The Most Offending Soul Alive", spent 11 years researching the story of "The Airmen and the Headhunters". This is a story of a B-24J crew, based on remote Morotai Island in the southwest Pacific. The story really begins with a last minute target change which headed a formation of 54 B-24's toward an 'easy' target - to bomb a Japanese Aircraft Carrier off Borneo. Ponder for a moment what wartime experiences would create the mindset that flying a thousand miles round-trip to bomb an aircraft carrier would be considered a milk-run. The reality was anything but routine, as Intel failed to detect an entire Japanese fleet, just back from the Leyte battle with the American fleets. The bombing mission disintegrated when an inexperienced Mission Lead failed to adjust to the new reality and continued with the original profile, which had assumed light resistance. Flak and fighters soon wreaked havoc, killing crewmen and downing aircraft. The 'Coberly Crew', named after their Pilot, Tom Coberly did not fare well. The pilot and co-pilot were wounded, another crewman killed and two engines were knocked out. A mighty struggle to stay aloft ensued, which lasted over an hour, while turning away from Japanese strong-holds. Escape was not to be, as they were forced to bail-out over the rain-forest of Borneo. The survival struggle that followed was nothing like I anticipated when I opened this book. It is was a remarkable series of events, with acts of immense courage and cunning by Malay Administrators of the area and Dayaks (tribal Headhunters) to fend off the brutal Japanese and hide the Americans.
24
The Dayak, who had been converted to Christianity in the 1930's by Protestant Missionaries, made few concessions to modern life. Growing some rice in mountain mud patches as a food staple and some trade, and giving up Headhunting – for Sport – were about it. They still hunted for food with poison blow-guns and were experts at surviving on the jungle habitat. Most interesting to me was that they lived in 100 foot long 'Long Houses', sturdily built of wood, on stilts, to keep out the multitude of lethal creatures. Multiple families lived together in a structured and orderly fashion, with great respect for each other. Young and old were well cared for, and integrity was held as a high principle. The integrity of this Dayak civilization made it possible for the Americans to be fed, cared for and hidden in multiple locations for many months. Equally surprising was the welcoming, friendly and nurturing attitude of the Dayak, which was extended to these Crewmen even though their presence caused great danger and significant hardship. I won't give away more of the story or it's ending, only saying it is a most intriguing tale. I was very impressed with this book, the research done to uncover the story and the manner in which it was told. Give it a go – you'll be glad you did. More about the Author: Judith M. Heimann Independent Writing and Editing Professional Washington D.C. Metro Area Writing and Editing Senior Advisor Political Section Embassy Brussels US Department of State 2001 – 2004 (3 years) http://www.harcourtbooks.com/airmenheadhunters/interview.asp An Interview with Judith Heimann,
From The Flyer Editor: If you are a Squadron member and enjoyed a movie, book, documentary or anything else tied to our aircraft and would like to share it with the membership in The Flyer, please e-mail konartist@verizon.net Thanks!
25
Voluteer Spotlight
Steve Rabroker by Konley Kelley (special thanks to Toni Rabroker for pics and content)
Steve Rabroker was born on July 6, 1951 in Dallas. He is the third of six children. Steve’s father worked for the County Extension Services and his mother was a homemaker raising their large family. Throughout high school and college, he did construction and later worked 20 more years in the home building industry. The last 23 years, Steve has worked in the fire protection business. Quite a view and all smiles..
“Trooper” comfortably on board.
Besides the personal thrill of owning and experiencing the magic of flying, Steve and Toni love to give back to the community through a non-profit organization called Challenge Air. Through this organization, they take children with special needs up in their plane to experience flying.
His passion has always been aviation beginning with making paper airplanes as a very young boy. He began taking flying lessons in 1988 and received his private pilot’s license in 1989. He got his instrument rating in 1998. After renting for years, he and his wife, Toni, decided to buy their own plane. In 2003, they purchased a Cessna 182. Today they fly it to vacation destinations and to see family and grandkids. Often along for the ride is “Trooper,” their pet Chihuahua. He even has his own headset.
Steve with Challenge Air kids.
Pinning wings on a passenger.
26
Steve always knew about the CAF but did not know there was a Squadron in Addison until five years ago when he met Rick Garvis while servicing the fire bottles aboard Diamond Lil (Ol’ 927 back then). Rick gave him the grand tour and Steve was sold after that. He enjoys doing just about anything he can do to be around the aircraft from turning wrenches to cleaning the hangar floors. He especially enjoys the people that work at the hangar. Every Volunteer Spotlight now includes a “throwback” picture ☺
Steve is honored to have recently qualified to be a Flight Engineer on Diamond Lil. He is also a Lead Scanner on FIFI. At our 2013 Squadron Awards Ceremony, Steve received the Golden Wrench Award for his maintenance skills and volunteerism. As part of the new Squadron Safety Management System, he is our new Safety Coordinator for the Addison hangar. Now that he has Toni signed up as a Squadron member, he is eager for her to pass Ground School and looks forward to touring with her. They both work full-time but are eagerly looking for tour opportunities they can fit into their schedule. One last thing – Steve now has to fold his own clothes at home. After years of claiming he was lousy at it, Toni caught him folding t-shirts one day for Gerald in the Px. Oops! Thank you Steve and Toni for your dedication to the Squadron!
Steve, Trooper, Toni and their Cessna 182.
27
Editor’s Corner Lady Eve Nose Art Mark Turcotte, featured in the story “Sons of Crew 86” in the November, 2013 issue of The Flyer, asked a friend of our Squadron, Gary Velasco, to paint the nose art for his father’s B-29. As he did with Diamond Lil, Gary created another masterpiece for Lady Eve.” Mark is very pleased with the results!
B-24 Presentation at Richland College Squadron members, Al Benzing and Konley Kelley will be making a 90 minute presentation to the Richland College Emeritus Program in Dallas on February 26. The presentation will encompass the history of the B-24 Liberator and Diamond Lil. For more information about the presentation, please contact Kon Kelley at konartist@verizon.net
Irishman’s Shanty in Plastic Over the holidays, Konley Kelley had the pleasure of building a model of Irishman’s Shanty for his friend and filmmaker, Alex Mena. Alex’s Dad was a Radio Operator on this B-24. Watch for more news about the documentary CREW 713 in future issues of The Flyer.
THE FLYER WANTS YOU! You are welcome to contribute a story, photographs and artwork for this decades-old newsletter. If you are a veteran, please tell us your story. Squadron members continually meet veterans at the hangar, on tour and in everyday life – let us know their stories. We’re also looking for contributors for “This Month in History” and news spotlighting our aircraft and members. Thank you and “Keep ‘Em Flying!” Konley Kelley THE FLYER editor konartist@verizon.net
28
Photo by Rocky Smith
B-29 / B-24 Squadron Addison Airport 4730 George Haddaway Drive Addison, Texas 75001 www.cafb29b24.org 972-387-2924 (Hangar) 432-413-4100 (Ride Desk) 29