VOL. 53 NO. 37 SEPTEMBER 18, 2014
SERVING NAVAL AIR STATION OCEANA, DAM NECK ANNEX, AND NALF FENTRESS
JET
INSIDE
WOUNDED WARRIORS CELEBRATED AT 2014 AIR SHOW —Page 3
HORNET, SUPER HORNET DEMO, AIR POWER DEMO TEAMS BASED AT OCEANA —Pages 6 & 22
30TH ANNIVERSARY FOR SHOCKWAVE JET TRUCK —Page 8
BLUE ANGELS RETURN TO THRILL OCEANA AUDIENCE —Pages 12 -13
GREG SHELTON FLIES WHILE SAMANTHA ALBRECHT WALKS —Page 16
GEICO SKYTPYPERS LEAVING MESSAGES HIGH IN THE SKY —Page 21
2 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 3
Navy Wounded Warrior - Safe Harbor Program
OCEANA AIR SHOW
Program assists service members with range of injuries, illnesses BY CATHY HEIMER Jet Observer In a suite of offices in building 3, 7th floor of Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, the Navy Wounded Warrior - Safe Harbor program works to assist wounded and seriously ill Sailors and Coast Guardsmen of all ratings and ranks. The 2014 NAS Oceana Air Show will honor wounded warriors and recognize their sacrifices throughout this weekend’s show. But just as importantly, the event will bring attention to a program that assists not just service members who are combat injured, but also those battling serious illnesses such as cancer, multiple sclerosis or PTSD, or hurt in motorcycle or car accidents. Being recognized at a major military event such as the Oceana Air Show is extremely important to the program. “Up until last year, when we regionalized, most people didn’t even know who we were,” said Lt.Aileen Lott, recovery care coordinator for Navy Wounded Warrior - Safe Harbor at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth. Each service, along with the special forces, has their own wounded warrior program that provides nonmedical services to the military member and their family. While the numbers fluctuate, Lott said, as of early September, they were tracking 220 active duty members.The Portsmouth location is headquarters for Navy Mid-Atlantic Region, one of five program regions in the U.S.The Mid-Atlantic Region covers the area from North Carolina to Maine, and west to Illinois, with the exception of Naval District Washington, which is its own region. A common misconception about the program is that it’s only for combat wounded active duty service members.“We are for seriously ill, injured or wounded,” Lott stressed. When the program was initially stood up in 2006, Lott said they only worked with combat injured, but within a short time, the program was changed to be more inclusive.It has also changed names.Having started as Navy Safe Harbor in 2006, it was later changed to Navy Wounded Warrior - Safe Harbor. “A lot of people thought we were port operations, or in charge of tugs,” Lott said about the original name. “We’re a bridge to resources … We’re the one person they can call to deal with anything non-medical related, so they can focus on getting better … They can just call us and we will help them figure it out,” she said. The program can help with questions about navigating the medical retirement system, finding childcare,
Photo by MC1 Erik Wehnes YNC Javier Rodriquez Santiago and EODCS Austin Reese in their racing wheel chairs during the 2014 Navy Wounded Warrior Navy Trials in Norfolk June 3.
education, job training, legal assistance with a power of attorney, wills and more. Referrals for the program can come from anyone, including medical professionals, social workers, chaplains, the chain of command and even service members themselves. Once her office receives a referral, it’s screened by their doctor at the program’s headquarters in Washington D.C. “He makes the determination for every referral that comes through, whether they will be enrolled in our program or what we call an ‘assist case.’We don’t turn anyone away,” Lott said. Enrollment is based on the service member’s condition and how long it’s expected to last. Those with illnesses or injuries expected to last for more than a year or seriously affect their military service, will probably be enrolled in the program, which usually means for their entire life. If the Sailor or Coast Guardsmen is able to return to duty or are medically retired, a transition team in Washington D.C. takes over the case and provides follow-up. “In assist cases, initially they get the same level of care. We do an initial assessment, we identify their needs. The difference is once we have helped them with everything we’ve identified then we close their case,” said Lott. However, even if their case has been closed, they are encouraged to call if anytime they need something.
— See Wound Warrior Program page 22
AIR SHOW SECURITY INFORMATION Picture IDs are required of all spectators, 17 years or older. Guests without appropriate government decals/ passes must remain in the air show event area or designated parking lots. Do not leave pets in your car! Pets left in cars will be turned over to Virginia Beach Animal Control. In order to keep possibly dangerous items outside the flightline, ALL bags will be inspected as you come through flightline entry points, and all individuals are subject to search.
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE NOT PERMITTED ON THE FLIGHTLINE AND MAY BE CONFISCATED: Ice chests or coolers Large bags (bags larger than a small purse or fanny pack), duffle bags or briefcases All weapons (regardless of permit) including firearms, knives (including pocket knives and multitools), walking sticks (except for handicap use) and all other items that the security force deems dangerous. Any confiscated items will not be returned. Alcoholic beverages Pets (other than service animals) Glass containers Bicycles, roller skates, roller blades or skateboards •All authorized items will be inspected prior to entering the flightline. Oceana Security recommends that spectators
minimize the number and size of authorized items they bring with them to reduce the time required for inspection prior to access into the flightline area.
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE PERMITTED: PCS/cellular phones, pagers and FRS transceivers (may be asked to turn off/on) Handheld portable televisions, radios and scanners Small fanny packs and purses Cameras and camcorders (Owners may be required to open all compartments at security checkpoints.) Folding chairs and lawn chairs (Chairs in bags are subject to search.) Umbrellas and sunshades Wheelchairs Baby bags and strollers, if attending with an infant or small child (Strollers are not permitted in the grandstand area.Adjacent stroller parking is available.) All personal items must be attended to at all times; this includes all bags, camera pouches, lawn chairs, strollers, etc. Bear in mind the NAS Oceana Air Show is a family-friendly event that all visitors, young and old, should be able to enjoy. With that in mind, we would sincerely appreciate it if guests would avoid clothing with vulgar or inappropriate language. Thank you for your cooperation in complying with the security regulations at NAS Oceana.
4 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 5
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6 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 7
— Continued from previous page duties at VFA-106.All three aviators, including Krukar, are instructors for VFA-106’s Fleet Replacement Squadron, which trains new pilots and WSOs.They also have ground jobs and are required to travel as part of detachments. Instructor duty is rewarding to Krukar because“you see the students come in, day 1, knowing nothing of the Hornet or Super Hornet and how to fly it. Forty weeks later, when they end up leaving, they are qualified, day and nighttime in the CQ [carrier qualifications] environment
... It’s pretty cool to see them go from knowing nothing to being strike fighters.” All three aviators are excited to perform for the “home crowd” at the Oceana Air Show. “It’s still a privilege to learn the demonstration routine and perform for the public,”explained Miller.“It’s exciting to do the Oceana show and hopefully, this will kick if off for next year with some more shows,” Hoch said. “I’m proud of 106 to be able to get it started again and the support the base has given us. Hope the community enjoys what we’re putting on ... It’s an honor for the three of us to be able to fly this year,” said Krukar.
PHOTO LEFT: The East Coast’s F/A-18C Hornet Demo Team, based at VFA-106, practices over NAS Oceana last month. RIGHT: The Super Hornet, also known as the “Rhino” shows its capabilities during the demo practice. Both the Rhino and the Legacy Hornet will take to the skies for the NAS Oceana Air Show this weekend. Photos by Harry Gerwien
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8 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
OCEANA AIR SHOW
Photos provided The Shockwave Jet Truck, a triple jet engine Peterbilt Semi, performs at a show. Driving duties are shared between a father and son team, Chris and Neal Darnell.
It’s back ... Darnell Racing Enterprises will bring the 30th Anniversary Tour of Shockwave Jet Truck to the 2014 NAS Oceana Air Show. When Les Shockley created the Shockwave JetTruck in 1984, he had no idea the major impact this triple jet engine monster would have on not only the drag racing world, but also the air show industry. Many fans say they saw this truck perform when they were kids and even Chris Darnell, who shares the driving responsibilities with his dad Neal, got to ride in Shockwave at age 7 and now he’s in the drivers seat, a dream come true for him. With Darnell Racing Enterprises acquisition and rebuild of the famous Shockwave Jet Truck, the team had a very busy and successful 2013 season and also very exciting 2014 season so far. Darnell Racing Enterprises owns a fleet of three jet trucks that includes Shockwave and two Flash Fire Jet Trucks.
Shockwave Jet Truck
NEAL DARNELL As driver/pilot of the world’s fastest jet powered truck, Neal Darnell has been performing at air shows for 10 years.With a long career producing various types of motorsport events, Neal and wife Marilyn made the decision to turn over that business to son John in 1999. Neal then turned to real estate development, building a luxury subdivision in Springfield, Mo., but missing the adrenaline rush from the various types of racing he’d been involved in, it was time to jump back in. Always interested in jet engines, he thought why not put a military fighter jet engine in a Chevy pickup truck? With a little magic, a lot of money, a little luck, and lots of hard work, the Flash Fire Jet Truck was born. It’s a jet truck with over 12,000 horsepower and capable of speeds approaching 400 mph.After licensing with NHRA and a short drag racing stint, Neal decided it was time to start performing at air shows and soon he was developing a reputation racing and beating some very fast airplanes, even an F-16 in 2011 at Andrews Air Force Base near Washington D.C. With over 20 years in the show promotion business as the producer of over 400 major events Neal understands the importance of showmanship in everything he does. In 2005 Neal set an air show speed record of 375 mph at Tyndall AFB in Florida.This record still stands today, making the Flash Fire Jet Truck the “World’s Fastest Jet Powered Truck.” In 2011 and 2012, Neal performed with the Air National Guard Max Adrenaline Air Show Team. Starting in 2013, he and son Chris began sharing the driving duties of the Shockwave Jet Truck and the Flash Fire Jet trucks.
CHRIS DARNELL
The jet trucks put on a fire and smoke show followed by a blistering 375 mph speed run down the runway at air shows. The Shockwave Jet Truck performs at an air show. It holds the Guinness World Record for fastest jet truck in the world.
Chris Darnell is the driver/pilot of the 2nd Flash Fire Jet Truck and the Shockwave Jet Truck. Chris has been involved in motorsports his entire life. He has many years of experience in the motorsports promotion business as well. Chris has competed in many different types of racing over the years from drag racing to circle track and beyond. He has literally done it all. Having experience on the production side of motorsport events as well as a performer/ competitor in motorsports goes a long way towards making each show a success. Chris also has a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing/Advertising and Promotions from Missouri State University. Following in his father’s footsteps, Chris is now driving the 2nd Flash Fire Jet Truck in the Darnell Racing Stables. Besides driving one of the fastest trucks in the world on the air show circuit, Chris also owns a truck accessory company called 4 Wheel Customs.
September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 9
Announcer Ric Peterson
OCEANA AIR SHOW W
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Photo provided Award-winning broadcaster Ric Peterson will be the announcer for the 2014 NAS Oceana Air Show.
The announcer for the 2014 NAS Oceana Air Show is Ric Peterson, an awardwinning broadcaster. Peterson is the voice of Fleet Week San Francisco, the Los Angeles County and California Capital Air Show, as well as the Canadian National International Air Show in Toronto. Peterson has traveled across the United States and Canada announcing at more than 100 such events over the past 26 years. He acts as master of ceremonies at the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) annual convention in Las Vegas, the Young Eagles Gala at AirVenture, Oshkosh, Wis. and is an honorary member of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds Jet Demonstration Team. He also serves as a race track announcer for The Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix, Indy Cart Mont Tremblant and NASCAR Montreal races. Peterson has written and narrated several television documentaries on aviation and is very active on the web, allowing air show fans
THANK YOU FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY I’m very excited to finally announce at a real fighter base and I can’t wait to explain what the men and women do here.” -Ric Peterson
to follow him on his travels and give them inside views of many performers by attaching his cameras to their planes. His videos have attracted thousands of viewers and you can follow his posts at www.allthingsaero. com. “I’m very excited to finally announce at a real fighter base and I can’t wait to explain what the men and women do here. I also hope to inspire you to stop dreaming and start flying and I plan to have a lot of fun doing it!” Peterson said.
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10 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
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September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 11
Justin Lewis & the FLS Microjet
Since its conception in the 1970s, the “World’s Smallest Jet”has been thrilling air show audiences all over the world. Using today’s advanced technology, the FLS Microjet features equipment that even James Bond couldn’t imagine. Former Navy pilot Justin Lewis will showcase the FLS Microjet’s high performance and aerobatic capabilities.
THE PILOT Born in Texas and raised in Virginia, Lewis started flying at age 14, and received his pilot’s license at 17. In 1999, he graduated from the University of North Dakota with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Studies, a Multi-Engine ComJustin Lewis is a former F-14 Tomcat pilot, who is currently a certified airline transport pilot and flying the A-10C through the Air National Guard.
OCEANA AIR SHOW mercial Pilot Certificate and a Flight Instructor Certificate. He built experience as a flight instructor for several years until he left for Navy Officer Candidate School. Upon completion of Navy flight school, Lewis was recognized as the top graduating tactical jet aviator in 2001. He was assigned the F-14D Tomcat and in 2004, he transitioned to the E-6B Mercury (a Boeing 707 variant). In 2007, he was assigned to train the next generation of Navy fighter and aircraft carrier pilots in the T-45 Goshawk.Today, Lewis is a certified airline transport pilot and currently flying the A-10C through the Air National Guard.
THE FLS MICROJET The FLS Microjet is a high performance, aerobatic, single seat, low-wing, all metal, jet-powered aircraft built from an amateur homebuilder kit. The design was originally developed in the 1970s by Jim Bede of Bede Aircraft, Inc. and designated as the BD-5. The BD-5 was dubbed “The World’s Smallest Jet”and quickly earned a reputation as James Bond’s jet when it was featured in the movie “Octopussy.” Unfortunately, Bede Aircraft, Inc. closed its doors after just a few years.
Photos provided Pilot Justin Lewis will bring the FLS Microjet to the NAS Oceana Air Show for the first time.
In 1992, Ed (“Skeeter”) and Richard Karnes started BD Micro Technologies, Inc. (BMT) and began a long journey to update the BD-5 with today’s technology, resulting in an aircraft line-up called the “Flight Line Series” or FLS kits, which debuted July 2 - 3, 2011, when the FLS Microjet made its first air show appearance.
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September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 13
12 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
HISTOR RY
Blue Angels Schedule The Navy’s flight demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels will be the NAS Oceana Air Show finale, performing at 3 p.m. on Sept. 20 and 21. You can also catch an introduction of the men and women of the Blue Angels Sept. 20, at the Beach Blast at 31st Street Park. Beach Blast begins at 6:30 p.m.
Photo by MC2 Andrew Johnson The U.S. Navy flight demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels, perform a practice flight demonstration over Pensacola Beach, Fla. July 12, 2011.
MISSION The mission of the United States Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron is to showcase the pride and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps by inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country through flight demonstrations and community outreach. A Blue Angels flight demonstration exhibits choreographed refinements of skills possessed by all naval aviators. During their performance, you will see the graceful aerobatic maneuvers of the four-jet Diamond Formation, in concert with the fast-paced, high-performance maneuvers of two solo pilots. Finally, the team illustrates the pinnacle of precision flying, performing maneuvers locked as a unit in the renowned sixjet Delta Formation. The team is stationed at Forrest Sherman Field, Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla., during the show season.The squadron spends January through March training at Naval Air Facility El Centro, Calif. In April 2013, following sequestration, the Navy announced that the remaining air show season was cancelled as one of many steps to ensure resources would be in place for forces who were operating forward deployed. With a fully-funded 2014 season, the Blue Angels are scheduled to fly 68 performances at 35 locations in North America during the 2014 season, making this the 28th year of flying the F/A-18 Hornet.
At the end of W World War II, the Chief of Naval Operations Fleet F Adm. Chester W. Nimitz, ordered the formaation of a flight demonstration team to keep the public interested in naval aviation.The Blue Ang gels performed their first flight demonstration leess than a year later in June 1946 at their hom me base, Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville, Floriida. Lt. Cmdr. Roy “Butch”Voris led the team, flyin ng the Grumman F6F Hellcat. Two months laater, on August 25, 1946, the Blue Angels transsitioned to the Grumman F8F Bearcat.The 1947 7 team, led by Lt. Cmdr. Robert Clarke, introduceed the now-famous “Diamond Formation.” By the end of th he 1940s, the Blue Angels were flying their first jeet aircraft, the Grumman F9F-2 Panther. In respon nse to the demands placed on naval aviation in the Korean Conflict, the team reported to the aiircraft carrier USS Princeton as the nucleus of Fiighter Squadron (VF) 191, “Satan’s Kittens,” in 1 1950. The team reorg ganized the next year and reported to NAS Co orpus Christi,Texas, where they began flying the newer n and faster version of the Panther, the F9F-5 5. The Blue Angels remained in Corpus Christi un ntil the winter of 1954 when they relocated to their t present home base at NAS Pensacola, Fla. Herre they progressed to the swept
Historical photo provided by the Blue Angels
wing Grumman F9F-8 Cougar. The ensuing 20 years saw the Blue Angels transition to two more aircraft, the Grumman F11F-1 Tiger (1957) and the McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom II (1969). In December 1974, the Navy Flight Demonstration Team began flying the McDonnell Douglas A-4F Skyhawk II and was reorganized into the Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron. This reorganization permitted the establishment of the first commanding officer (Cmdr. Tony Less) instead of a flight leader, added sup-
port officers and further redefined the squadron’s mission, to enhance the recruiting effort. On Nov. 8, 1986, the Blue Angels completed their 40th anniversary year when they unveiled their present aircraft, the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, the first dual-role fighter/attack aircraft, which is still serving on the nation’s front lines of defense. The 2012 show season brought out more than 11 million spectators and since 1946, the Blue Angels have performed for more than 495 million fans.
OFFICER RS A total of 16 o officers voluntarily serve with the Blue B Angels. Each year the team typically selects three tactical (fighter orr fighter/attack) jet pilots, two supporrt officers and one Marine Corps C-1 130 pilot to relieve departing membeers. The Chief of N Naval Air Training selects “Boss,” thee Blue Angels Commanding Officer. Boss must have at least 3,000 tacticcal jet flight-hours and have commaanded a tactical jet squadron. The co ommanding officer flies the Number 1 jet. Career-oriented d Navy and Marine Corps jet pilots with w aircraft carriPhoto by MC1 Eric Rowley er qualifications and a a minimum of The Blue Angels set up for the Vertical Break 1,250 tactical jet flight-hours are elmaneuver in a trail formation, during a flight igible for position ns flying jets Numdemonstration at the Air Power Arkansas 2012 ber 2 through 7. The Events Coorair show at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. dinator, Number 8, 8 is a Naval Flight Sept. 9, 2012.
Photo by MC1 Eric Rowley The Blue Angels fly the Diamond 360 maneuver at the Pensacola Home Show at NAS Pensacola, Fla. Nov. 3, 2012.
FAQ • Where did the name “Blue Angels” originate? The name was picked by the original team when they were planning a show in NewYork in 1946.One of them came across the name of the city’s famous Blue Angel nightclub in the New Yorker Magazine. • Where was the Blue Angels’ first air show? Craig Field, Jacksonville, Fla., on June 15, 1946.
Officer (NFO) who meets the same criteria as Numbers 2 through 7. Career-oriented officers specializing in maintenance, administration, aviation medicine, public affairs and supply fill support positions. The Blue Angels base their selection of officers on professional ability, military bearing and communication skills. Blue Angels officers are wellrounded representatives of their fleet counterparts. Demonstration pilots, the Events Coordinator, Maintenance Officer, Flight Surgeon, Administrative Officer, Supply Officer, and the Public Affairs Officer serve two years with the squadron. The other officers serve three years with the team. Blue Angels officers return to the fleet after their tours of duty.
• Have any Blue Angels become astronauts? Cmdr. Chuck Brady, flight surgeon, 1989-90. • What is the average age of a Blue Angels pilot? The pilots’ average age is 33 years old. • What is the closest distance that the jets fly to each other? The closest the jets will fly to each other is 18 inches during the Diamond 360 maneuver. • What are the fastest and slowest speeds flown during an air show? The fastest speed is about 700 mph and the slowest speed is about 120 mph, both flown by the solo pilots during the show. Photo by MC1 Rachel McMarr The Blue Angels Commanding Officer and Flight Leader Cmdr. Tom Frosch completes take off checks prior to a practice flight demonstration over NAS Pensacola, Fla. Nov. 19, 2012.
• What is the weight of an F/A-18? An F/A-18 weighs about 24,500 pounds,empty of all ordnance and aircrew.
14 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
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OCEANA AIR SHOW Since 1973 1973, Ke Kent Pietsch has performed his incredible aerobatic routines for millions of people at more than 400 shows that have taken him to quality venues throughout the United States, including Oceana, where he will be performing at the 2014 NAS Oceana Air Show Sept. 20 - 21. Pietsch fell in love with flying when he was 4 years old. Five decades later, his passion has not waned. Pietsch grew up in Minot, N.D., where every day after school, he’d find a way to get to the airport, and do whatever it took to get into an airplane. While most aerobatic performers have one basic program,Pietsch executes three storied acts that leave spectators mesmerized. These include a dead-stick (turning the engine off) routine from 6,000 feet and a rooftop landing on a moving RV. However, Pietsch is best known for a comedy act that features a detached aileron (wing flap) and a mesmerizing wingtip-scraping pass down the runway that you must see to believe. When Pietsch is at the controls of his plane, it is impossible not to watch him perform. Pietsch loves to fly, but the audience is always his number one priority. “If you can’t entertain, you have no
Kent Pietsch
Kent Pietsch in the cockpit of his aircraft.
business being out there,” he said. “The gratification is in knowing that people are enjoying themselves.” Pietsch’s humble nature and willingness to interact with fans make him a crowd favorite wherever he performs. He flies an 800-pound Interstate Cadet with a 37-foot wingspan.The plane’s horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine can generate 90 horsepower and a G-force ranging from -3 to +5. Pietsch is a recipient of the Bill Barber Award for Showmanship, the Art Scholl Showmanship Award, as well as an honorary member of the Canadian Snowbirds.
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Photos provided Pietsch’s flying routine includes a dead-stick (turning the engine off) routine from 6,000 feet and a rooftop landing on a moving RV. Pietsch will bring his Interstate Cadet aircraft to the annual NAS Oceana Air Show Sept. 20 - 21.
September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 15
Dan McLaren & Mach I Productions
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Dan McLaren has been providing professional air show sound and communications fulltime for more than 24 years. In 1988, Molson Breweries of Canada was organizing an air show program, including a state-of-the-art support vehicle that would tour North America. Inside the unit were a VIP lounge area and a mobile sound system capable of handling large outdoor events. McLaren applied for the position with the Molson Canadian Air Show Tour, was accepted and managed the program until it ended in 1993.At the start of the 1994 season, he purchased the sound equipment from Molson and formed Mach 1 Productions. During his tenure with Molson, McLaren gained extensive knowledge of the air show industry. He became widely recognized within the industry for his dedication to perfection and his ability to adjust to rapidly changing events. McLaren obtained his pilot’s license at the Brampton Flying Club in 1992. Since obtaining his license, he has been able to y with various performers to get a ďŹ rsthand feel of air show performing. Flying aircraft, such as the Extra 300, DC-3 and Russian L-39 jet, has given him an even greater appreciation for aviation and air show performers. He has own in aircraft with the U.S. Army Golden Knights, Canadian Skyhawks, British Red Devils and U.S. Navy SEAL parachute teams, and watched, from a totally different perspective, their precision displays. He was made an honorary member of the Canadian Forces Skyhawks Parachute Team by the commanding ofďŹ cer of the Canadian Airborne Center. This was followed by an appointment to the position of honorary colonel in the Rhode Island National Guard. Most recently, McLaren was appointed as a member of the Honorary Snowbirds Society by a panel of former Snowbird team leaders.The Snowbirds are Canada’s world famous military air demonstration
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Photo provided Dan McLaren will provide professional air show sound and communications for the NAS Oceana Air Show. A licensed pilot himself, McLaren has flown in aircraft with the U.S. Army Golden Knights, Canadian Skyhawks, British Red Devils and U.S. Navy SEAL parachute teams.
team. In August 2001, after a long association with the unit, McLaren became an associate member of the 419th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron. The year 2000 brought a change of location for McLaren and Mach 1 Productions. Dan and Martina Chapman, an air boss and air operations coordinator, moved to a new home in the country just outside of the city of Hamilton and in 2001 saw the completion of a new maintenance facility and shop at their acreage in Troy, Ontario, Canada. He is a long time member of the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS), serving on their board of directors from 2001 until 2012. McLaren was the chairman of the board for the 2010-2011 season. He is also a life member and past president of the North East Council of Air Shows or NECAS.
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About the company
Mach 1 productions
Mach 1 Productions has supported air shows and other special events in 23 U.S. States and 8 Canadian Provinces.
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16 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
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September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 17
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18 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 19
Bill Leff & the T-6 Texan
OCEANA AIR SHOW This is the greatest air show in the country! You’ve got jets, you’ve got Navy jets. It’s just cool,� -Bill Leff
Bill Leff, a crowd favorite, will be returning to perform in the 2014 NAS Oceana Air Show, taking place Sept. 20 - 21. Leff has own a wide variety of aircraft since earning his pilot’s license at age 15 in his hometown of Dayton, Ohio. As the hometown of the Wright Brothers, it is considered the birthplace of aviation. He has served as a helicopter crew chief in the National Guard, worked as both a corporate and instructor pilot, among other jobs in the aviation industry. He went on to obtain his instrument, multi-engine, single-engine sea and airline transport rating to go with his single-engine land, glider and ight instructor ratings. Since then, he has obtained Beechcraft 300, Cessna Citation, Learjet, Westwind, Saberliner, DC-3 and DC-9 type ratings. He is also an airframe and powerplant mechanic with FAA inspection authorization certiďŹ cation. Leff’s aviation career includes more than 30 years of corporate ying, several years as president of an internationallyknown corporate aircraft maintenance company and ight instructor for Trans World Airlines. He also now does test ying for defense-related research projects, as well as initial and recurrent training in Aero Commander aircraft. Leff has own more than 170 different types of aircraft, from warbirds to airline transport aircraft,and has well over 20,000 hours of ying time, including more than 4,000 hours in the T-6. Leff has been in the air show business since 1976. Leff purchased and authentically re-
stored his T-6Texan in 1975. His Texan was manufactured in 1943 as an AT-6C and saw service with the Army Air Forces at Victoria Army AirďŹ eld at Victoria,Texas. In 1951, the plane was “re-manufacturedâ€? as a T-6G and ďŹ rst assigned to Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas and then Malden AFB in Missouri. It was used as a trainer until 1955, when it was retired from service to make way for a new era of ight training that prepared pilots to y jet aircraft. In 1959, the plane was sold as surplus for $771.11. This T-6 was restored to its original Korean Conict military conďŹ guration with the help of the Air Force Orientation Group at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Leff’s hometown of Dayton. Leff has made improvements to the aircraft to accommodate its new job as an air show plane.These improvements include an inverted oil system, modern radio and navigational systems for long cross-country ights and a smoke system. A regular performer at Oceana for many years, during an interview several years ago at the air show, Leff immediately listed several reasons he returns to perform here year after year. “This is the greatest air show in the country! You’ve got jets, you’ve got Navy jets. It’s just cool,â€? he laughed. “On top of that, the air show is just so well organized; the facility is so nice and so well managed.The enlisted people and ofďŹ cers here take such good care of you. Everybody knows what they’re supposed to do and where they’re supposed to do it,â€? he added.
Photos provided Bill Leff flies a T-6 Texan that he purchased and authentically restored in 1975. It’s been improved to accommodate its new job as an air show plane. Leff gives a “thumbs up� before a flight.
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20 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 21
GEICO Skytypers
The GEICO Skytypers will leave their messages high in the sky during the 2014 NAS Oceana Air Show.
AIRCRAFT • The aircraft used by the GEICO Skytypers are the North American SNJ-2s originally built in 1940 and 1941 during World War II. • Called the T-6 Texan by the Army Air Corps,the Harvard by the RAF,and affectionately known as“The Pilot Maker”by its crews,the SNJ was designed to transition from basic trainers to first-line tactical aircraft. • There are only 11 remaining aircraft of this type in the world, of which the team utilizes six.The planes have been fully restored and specially equipped with modifications for skytyping missions.
OCEANA AIR SHOW SKYTYPING • Flying in a line-abreast formation (side-by-side in a straight line), the GEICO Skytypers’ lead aircraft carries a custom-designed computer.The computer transmits specialized radio signals to each specific aircraft at the appropriate time to release puffs of smoke. • The incoming radio signal causes a valve to release a non-polluting solution into the manifold which is then steam compressed and forced out of the engine exhaust.The moment the steam hits the cold air at 10,000 feet, the white “dot-matrix” clouds appear. • The aircraft fly approximately 250 feet apart to create letters 1,000 feet in height (or as tall as the Empire State Building) and spanning six to eight miles long. • The messages are visible for 15 miles in any direction and can be seen for approximately 400 square miles. • Skytyping is 17 times faster than skywriting.A single letter is created every four seconds.
AIR SHOW PERFORMANCE
Photo courtesy of GEICO Skytypers Four of the team members demonstrate the vertical diamond. The aircraft have been fully restored and specially equipped with modifications for skytyping missions.
• The Skytypers perform a low-level, precision flying demonstration that has thrilled spectators all over the United States. • The demonstration features maneuvers and formations utilized during World War II. • Through expert energy management and steady hands, the expert pilots extract every ounce of performance possible from the World War II antique aircraft. For the most current list of performers and the most up-to-date information on the NAS Oceana Air Show, visit www.oceanaairshow.com.
Fast Facts about the GEICO Skytypers • The GEICO Skytypers are a flying unit based in Long Island, N.Y. • The team is comprised of 10 pilots who fly World War II-era aircraft. • The GEICO Skytypers are the only flying unit in the world to type giant skytyped messages and perform in air shows across the United States.
Photo by Chris Parypa The North American SNJ-2s were originally built in 1940 and 1941 during World War II. Six of the 11 remaining aircraft are utilized by the Skytypers. The Skytyper pilots pose in front of one of their SNJ2s. Photo by Scott Snorteland
22 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
OCEANA AIR SHOW
Fleet Air Power Demonstration
Local aviators to demonstrate air power this weekend BY CATHY HEIMER Jet Observer Aviators from Oceana are playing a major role in this year’s air show.Ten aircrew with a narrator from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32, VFA-106, and Fighter Squadron Composite (VFC) 12 will showcase some of the very maneuvers used in combat during the Fleet Air Power Demo on both Saturday and Sunday. The demonstration will showcase the capabilities of the F/A-18 Super Hornets, four of which will be flown by VFA-32 pilots and one from VFA-106, as well as the F/A-18A+ Hornet,flown by VFC12, a Navy Reserve squadron. The jets will demonstrate air-to-air capabilities during a simulated dogfight, where one plane will go against another,explained Lt. Matt Gottschalk who serves as the flight lead and demo coordinator. There will also be an air-to ground portion “that will consist of some pop attacks, a bombing run. We’re going to be doing that as a mirror image, which is two airplanes doing it simultaneously. We’re going to be doing two different attacks with that,” said Gottschalk.
Their final demonstration will showcase the air support they provide overseas, to ground troops in combat zones, such as Iraq and Afghanistan. “If we had guys on the ground that were calling in air support … and us rolling in with our 20mm cannons to take out whatever threats are on the ground,” said Gottschalk about the air show demo. The demonstration includes formation flying and in-flight refueling, with one of the planes “bringing out the hose so one guy can plug up and actually start getting gas,” explained Gottschalk.
honored at air show Unfortunately the Navy’s program is sometimes confused with the Wounded Warrior Project, a non-governmental organization which provides support for injured warriors.The longer they are in existence and the more outreach they provide, Lott said their mission will be clearer and the less the two programs will be confused. The program helps enrollees apply for
Photo by MCSN Kayla King
Photo by MC3 Timothy Daughton
coordination of more than 100 aircraft maintainers, Gottschalk explained “who are a huge vital role, just to make sure the jets are up and good for the show.” They also work with the Oceana Air Show committee, the Oceana’s Air Traffic Control Tower and the FAA, among others. “It’s a lot of coordination with all of those entities for a 25-minute demonstration,” he said. Gottschalk will be joined by aviators from VFA-32 include Commanding Officer Cmdr. Pete Hagge, Lt. Cmdr. Jason Simon. Lt. Cmdr. Bryan Pinckney, Lt. Ryan Moore, Lt. Stephen Huffman, Lt. John Wake, Lt. Ryan Moore and Lt. William Carey, as well as Lopes and Lt. Cmdr. Kristin Greentree from VFC-12, and Lt. Nate Miller from VFA-106.
ized. The Navy covers travel and lodging expenses for up to three family members so they can be bedside for the patient. That family member assistance is especially invaluable for patients with traumatic brain injuries or PTSD because“we communicate a lot with family members,”said Lott. They also work closely with other Navy services, such as Fleet and Family Service Center which provides many resources for spouses and children. Much of their family support is on a case-by-case basis. The team works with the service member’s medical team, especially the nurse case manager. They also work with a liaison in Millington,Tenn. to assist seriously
ill service members, particularly single Sailors, leaving Hampton Roads to move back home to be close to family. Lott encourages service members and their families to learn more about Navy Wounded Warrior – Safe Harbor, and for those eligible, to not feel guilty about taking advantage of their services. “We would rather get referrals for people who don’t necessarily meet our criteria than have wounded warriors not get our services and not know about us,” she said. To learn more, visit http://safeharbor. navylive.dodlive.mil or call 855-NAVY WWP (628-9997) or email navywoundedwarrior@navy.mil.
VFC-12 is happy to be part of this year’s demo.“We’ve done it in years past. It’s just a matter of being here with our aircraft at the right time,” explained Cmdr. D.J. Lopes. The Fleet Air Power Demo involves the VFC-12 pilots Cmdr. D.J. Lopes (l) and Lt. Cmdr. Kristin Greentree (r) pose for a photo with AZ1 (AW) Andrew Mercy, AO2 (AW) Turisha Griffin, PR1 (AW) Heather Craver and AD3 (SCW) Michelle Hazen, some of the maintainers responsible for keeping the F/A-18A+ aircraft flying.
WOUNDED WARRIORS: To be — Continued from page 3
“Swordsmen” Lt. Josh Martin, Lt. Cmdr. Jason Simon, Lt. Stephen Huffman, Commanding Officer Cmdr. Pete Hagge, Lt. Matt Gottschalk and Lt. William Carey, are among the VFA-32 aviators who are members of this year’s Air Power Demo Team for the NAS Oceana Air Show.
benefits, find childcare, financial assistance, adaptive athletic programs, apply to receive a service animal, and among others. For those transitioning out of the military, Lott said they provide assistance with Tricare options, education and employment opportunities after the military, and coordinate with VA. Navy Wounded Warrior – Safe Harbor can also assist with the family’s travel expenses if the service member is hospital-
September 18, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 23
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Int/Ext Painting y Pressure Washing Preservation y Restoration and Design TURNING A JOB TO DO INTO A JOB WELL DONE.
757-123-1234
24 JET OBSERVER • September 18, 2014
2010
LEXUS GX 460 PREMIUM 59k
Navigation Rear Entertainment LOADED
MILES
22007 ACURA
2008-2010 JEEP 20
Credit Union Financing Available
OVER 200 VEHICLES IN STOCK FULL SERVICE DEPARTMENT 2005-2008
2009-2011 NISSAN 2009-
BMW
RO OGU UE
TL
WRA ANGLEER 6-Speed, A/C 2- & 4-Door
328, 335, 535, X3 & Z4 7 to Choose From!
S & SL AWD 3 to Choose From!
2010 TOYOTA 20
2008-2013 DODGE 200
2007-2012 CHEVROLET 2007-2
2008-2012 NISSAN
TUN NDR RA
CH HAR RGEER
IMPALLA
SR-5 Double Cab V-8 Au Tow Package Auto,
SE, SXT, R/T 7 to Choose From! M Miles Start at 30,000
LS, LT & SS 8 to Choose From!
2- Door & 4-Door 5 to Choose From!
2010 INFINITI 20
1969 CHEVROLET
2012 MITSUBISHI 20
2004 CHEVROLET
G3 35
CHEEVEELLLLE SS
LAN NCEER
TA AHO OE
MILES
AWD, Leather PWR Sunroof Navigation
MUST! SE E
27,000
MILES
EVOLUTION MR Auto, A/C, Leather Roc Rockford Fosgate Stereo
ALLTIM MA
76,000
MILES
LTZ 4WD, 3rd Row Sunroof
2007-2009 HONDA 2007-2
2008 FORD
ACC COR RD
F150 0 XLT
CR RV
CIV VIC
EX & LX 5 to Choose From!
4-Wheel Drive
Power Sunroof CD Player
2- & 4-Door 8 to Choose From!
2011 NISSAN 20
2010 & 2013 CHEVROLET 20
20092009-2010 DODGE
2007 CHEVROLET 200
MAXIIMA S
CAMAR RO
JJO OUR RNEY
MON NTEE CA ARLO
Power Sunroof Leather
Blue & Black Miles Start at 10,000
SXT Third Row PWR Sunroof
SS Auto, A/C, LOADED
2008 FORD
2008 MINI
2011 MERCEDES-BENZ MERC
2012
F35 50
COOP PER RS
E55 50
MAZZDA A6
LARIAT Diesel, 4WDr
CLUBMAN Auto, A/C Anti-Theft
MILES
MUST! SE E
ZERO ZE ERO D DOWN! OWN!
Leather Power Sunroof 68,000
34,000
ALL MILITARY APPROVED ALL RANKS
22009 HONDA
2006-2012 HONDA 2006
75,000
MILES
VADLR
FFREE REE S SHUTTLE HUTTLE To and From Dealership!
Auto, Anti-Theft, Navigation
76,000
MILES
30,000
A/C, CD Leather
MILES
1.800.605.9258
5151 SHORE DRIVE
VIRGINIA BEACH
View Our Full Inventory Online at www.autohmc.com