MIssouri Wing Compass Newsletter
Content
COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE
The
C MPASS
M ISSOURI W ING
P.O. Box 637 • St.Charles, MO 63302 • St. Charles County Smartt Airport 636-250-4515 • Fax 636-250-4515 • www.cafmo.org
MISSOURI WING
NOVEMBER 2012
E XECUTIVE S TAFF
WING LEADER Col. Patrick Kesler 28 Confederate Way St. Charles, MO 63303 636-928-5687 636-250-4515 Wing [email protected] ADJUTANT / PIO OFFICER Col. Rick Rea 6854 Ardale Drive St. Louis,MO 63123 314-960-4927 [email protected] EXECUTIVE OFFICER Col. Bob Lawrence 111 W. Essex Ave. Kirkwood, MO 63122 314-494-7539 cell 314-894-3200 x103 work FINANCE Col. Steve Gossett 4 Limerick Lane O'Fallon, MO 63366 636-474-9763 314-306-5021 OPERATIONS OFFICER Col.Craig O'Mara 1085 Graywolf Court Fairview Heights, IL 62208 618-632-6113 home 618-558-7211 cell [email protected] MAINTENANCE OFFICER Col. Pat Fenwick 6 Heather Drive St. Peters, MO 63376 636-441-2856 SAFETY OFFICER Col. Chris Herrmann 309 Clearwater Drive Belleville, IL 62220 618-233-4782
Lest We Forget
As you know, November 11 is the day we set aside each year to pay special tribute to all the veterans who have served this great country. There is a multitude of ways that veterans are honored on this day and each one is special in its own way. In many of the towns and cities that we have been to this year, special tributes to veterans were a very large part of the event. I wanted to try to include some of the highlights from these but they 1were all very special in their own way and nearly impossible for me to choose a favorite. 2 While we were at Mt. Vernon last weekend, I had a chance to look at the great Veterans Honor Wall display in the terminal. Very impressive and emotional! As I was leaving to join the rest of the crew, I happened to notice a small two line plaque above the display. It blew me away! I would like to share this quote as we remember these men and women on November 11.
VETERAN'S DAY
“ They gave all of their tomorrows, so we could have all of our todays.”
Col. Bob Moore
CHRISTMAS PARTY
3
This years Christmas Party will be held December 8th, at Lambardo's Restaurant, 10488 Natural Bridge Road, South 4 of the Airport, Across I-70 next to the Drury Inn. Time will be 6:00 till 9:00 pm. Dinner, dessert, and cash bar will be followed by Meeting and Awards. Cost $25 Per Person. Coat & tie not necessary. Bring your spouse or girlfriend, best friend, neighbor, fishing buddy or whomever. Enjoy the camaraderie, the season, and just being away from the hangar for one night. More details will be given at the November meeting. Remember you can be a scrooge or you can come and enjoy the time of year. Lou Tacchi
View The Compass in color at cafmo.org
5
U PCOMING E VENTS
Nov. 10 Nov. 11 Dec. 8 Noon CHILI Contest General Meeting - 1:30 pm Florissant Veteran's Day Parade Wing Christmas Party HO! HO! HO!
Ramp at Camdenton, Missouri
Saturday - November 10 - General Meeting - 1:30 pm
WING LEADER'S REPORT
Ah! November… One of my favorite months - My birth month, Thanksgiving, the Chili Cook-off, the Macys Day Parade, lots of College and Pro Football, and flames in the fireplace. Many of the hectic Spring and Summer flying and outside ground activities have slowly down-sized to inside toils of aircraft annual maintenance inspections, general cleanup of the hangars and storage areas, and more casual times at the Wing. The cooler outside temps produce more inside activities and definitely generate more conversations of the previous year’s activities and how we can do things differently in the future. Sometimes good ideas actually materialize out of these brain-stormers. I do know more coffee and hot chocolate are consumed starting in November. Wing Staff elections for Wing Leader, Operations Officer, Adjutant, and Public Information Officer will be held at the November 10th meeting. To date, no one has thrown their name in the hat for any of these positions, but it’s never too late to toss your name out for consideration. Col. Rick Rea has informed me that he is not seeking re-election to the Adjutant or PIO positions, so we just might have to “wing it” until we can find that special someone to jump right in and become a Staffer. The WL and Ops Officer positions are also up. I know Col. Craig O’Mara has done an outstanding job with his important job and will be encouraged to do so if no one else is nominated/elected. He has been helped immensely by Col. Matt Conrad, the Assistant Operations Officer and Airshow/event scheduler/coordinator. As far as the WL slot – I’ve done it for 6 straight years now, would like to see a new face in my office, but would do it for another year if no one steps forward. Come on guys – you need to start prepping someone. I’m supposed to be retired. It’s a fun job, has good visibility, you get to meet great people, and you would even have a freshly painted office with new flooring right next to the CAF’s most illustrious, best looking, most intelligent Finance Officer… case closed. Meeting day will be busy. The B-25 will be doing a Veteran’s Day weekend flyover of the Quincy, IL parade and will most likely be flying an LHFE ride or two there as well as a possible Smartt Field LHFE ride in the afternoon. We will also have the annual Chili Cook-off beginning around Noon, followed by a short-butmeaningful Staff meeting which will be followed by the General meeting and numerous doses of anti-acids and Beano. Come prepared and bring your best chili and fixins. I would like to thank Cols. Nick Talarico and Rick Rea for all of the planning and coordination necessary for the October 27th Wing and Smartt Field Open House and Classic Car & Warbirds event. I’m writing this report prior to that date and sure hope all went well. I do know that the predicted high temperature of 50 degrees was probably an eye-opener, and do hope everyone had a good time and the Pumpkin Drops went well and were in the general vicinity of the target. If not – it was the target placement’s fault and not the result of poor piloting or bombardier technique. Remember – Everyone is encouraged to participate in the Florissant Veteran’s Day Parade on Sunday, November 11th. Everyone should meet at 0800 hours in the TBM Hangar. Any questions? Contact Col. Nick Talarico. Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 8th! That’s our annual Christmas Party where we’ll also have a short meeting and hand out a few awards and commendations. Col. Lou Tacchi is ramrodding it and has all of the particulars. Good food, good drinks, good camaraderie and good times will be consumed by all.
Have a great November and stay safe and warm… Come on out to your Wing and enjoy some great activities and war stories! With your help – We can Keep ‘Em Flying and have a great, rewarding time in life while doing so. It’s always great to make new memories – especially when they are associated with the memories of that Great Generation. Respectfully submitted, Col. Pat Kesler, Wing Leader
NEW FRONT OFFICE IS LOOKIN' GOOD
Don't forget: No Food, No Drinks, No Greasy Shoes/Clothes. Let's keep it nice.
ACTOR MORGAN FREEMAN ADMIRING OUR B-25 CLARKSDALE, MISSISSIPPI
Chris Herrmann with Morgan Freeman
Morgan Freeman chats with the crew of Show Me.
PUMPKIN DROP DAY
AT
SMARTT FIELD
MY FIRST TRIP
IN THE GLORIOUS B-25 Because I just turned 12, I signed up right away for a trip in the B-25. I am now the newest cadet member of the wing and I LOVE it! We traveled out to Mt. Vernon, IL, and had a great time. When we arrived, we hung out at the airport there and talked to a few people. One of them was Everett Atkinson. He told us about his WWII adventures. He was a B-24 navigator and worked in the famous B-29. We became fast friends and he even made me cookies! :) Everett is a really fun guy! On day 2, Bob Lawrence, Nick Talarico and I got to work in the PX. We sold things like build your own airplanes, airplane models, hats, t-shirts, posters, pins, military style dogtags, etc. I got to work the 1946 dogtag machine! Many people walked around the bomber, and we showed people how amazing it is and what a truly beautiful plane it is. On the way home, I clambered up into the nose. What a magnificent view! I saw fields and cities full of light and lots of trees and a train. I took pictures of all of them! It’s an honor to be part of the Show Me crew. I like flying in it and it is a neat experience. I really appreciate the opportunity! Hannah Thompsen
Mount Vernon, Illinois
A TRIP TO COTTON COUNTRY AND LAKE OF THE OZARKS - A SENSATIONAL WEEKEND!
Everyone was convinced my name on the crew list would jinx the Clarksdale, Mississippi trip scheduled to depart Friday, October 12…my track record was not good, having been listed for four previous trips, all of which had been cancelled for one reason or another! Two weeks before, we were all assembled to fly to Camdenton, MO for the Lake of the Ozarks Air Show where 20 World War II and Korean veterans were waiting to ride “Show Me” as part of the planned festivities. Our hard working mechanics had been toiling night and day to replace a defective cylinder but unfortunately the run up revealed further problems and Col. Pat Fenwick was compelled to wave us off at the last minute to the great disappointment of our crew and the Air Show folks and veterans in Camdenton. Through the efforts of our intrepid air show coordinator, Col. Matt Conrad, arrangements were made to add a Camdenton stop to our Clarksdale weekend and make good on our promise to the veterans. A clear blue sky greeted us when we arrived at Smartt the morning of October 12. Prior to takeoff, we were treated to a photo “shoot” of beautiful actress-model Jennelle Gilreath posing with our aircraft and vehicles (see accompanying story and photos). Our crew consisted of PIC Col. Conrad, copilot Chris Herrmann and crew members Col. Bob Moore, Col. Tim Dexter, Col. Bob Carmack, Col. Tom Wagoner and myself. Hey, you know what, we actually took off without a hitch and performed a dramatic fly by for the benefit of the folks who had seen us off! Flight time to Clarksdale, situated in western Mississippi near the Mississippi River, was abut one hour, 45 minutes…there were some considerable clouds en route which had to be circumnavigated but overall it was a most pleasant ride. On arrival, we knew we weren’t in Missouri anymore. There was cotton, cotton and more cotton as far as the eye could see. We were greeted by Missouri Wing member and Mississippi resident Mike Bond and the airport folks who treated us to a real Southern barbeque lunch at a local restaurant. We spent the afternoon chatting with local visitors about the aircraft when suddenly an airplane pulls up nearby and out comes Hollywood actor Morgan Freeman who had just arrived with his pilot from California…he lives nearby and frequently returns between movie shoots. Morgan chatted with our crew members, most notably Col. Carmack, and posed for some photos. There was a short flight for the local media later in the afternoon and in the evening we were treated to some true Southern hospitality at a fried catfish dinner attended by many Clarksdale area dignitaries. All in all, it had been a terrific day! The following day, Saturday, was warm (maybe even hot!) and sunny. Attendance at the airport open house was good though there was some grumbling that the Ole Miss football game in nearby Oxford had diverted some potential attendees. We had an opportunity to meet with many very friendly folks and tell them about our wonderful aircraft. Col. Moore, with the able assistance of Col. Carmack, was successful in signing up enough passengers for three LHFE flights…one passenger enjoyed his flight so much that he signed on for a second! Unfortunately, it came time to bid farewell to Col. Bond and all this fine Southern hospitality and leave for our next stop, Camdenton, MO. After an hour and a half’s delightful ride we arrived in Camdenton just ahead of a bit of rain. We were greeted by the airport manager Corey Leuwerke and our own Col. Brandon Bebow who had driven over from Jefferson City to join us. After securing the aircraft, the crew headed to Jake Culpeeper”s Cattle Company in Osage Beach for nourishment and much welcome liquid refreshment before retiring for the evening. Sunday dawned cool, bright and clear though some cloudiness developed later on but most importantly, it stayed dry all day. Upon arrival at the airport, we were met by Corey and his airport colleagues, members of the Chamber of Commerce and the nice folks from the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association as well as the first group of WWII and Korean veterans anxiously awaiting
the first ride of the day. The rides for the veterans had been sponsored by local business organizations and the Chamber of Commerce. If one ever wonders why we CAF members do what we do, one need only attend a function such as this…the veterans were visibly moved by the experience. In all, Cols. Conrad and Herrmann, with Col. Wagoner performing the role of Safety Officer, flew four separate trips accomodating a total of 20 veterans. Prior to each flight, members of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association formed two lines, standing at attention with flags extended, between which the veterans passed as they approached the aircraft. Believe me, it doesn’t get any better than this! We are also pleased to report that all PX items supplied by Col. Bob Lawrence were sold, including many Challenge Coins. Plans are already underway for a return to Camdenton next year and more flights for veterans. Following the final flight, we said goodbye to Corey and Col. Bebow and headed back to Smartt. I think the entire crew was delighted with what was accomplished over the weekend. Thank you to our excellent pilots Cols. Conrad and Herrmann and the rest of the crew for helping make this a most memorable weekend for this old bird who was finally able to take to the air in 2012 in his favorite airplane! Col. Dick Hyde
B-25 Crew & Corey Lauwerke, airport manager, Camdenton, Mo.
ACTRESS/MODEL DOES PHOTO "SHOOT" AT MISSOURI WING
Crew members arriving at the Wing on Friday morning, October 12 for the flight to Clarksdale, Mississippi were surprised to see actress-model-singer-dancer Jennelle Gilreath of Chattanooga, TN doing various poses in and around “Show Me” and the other Wing aircraft and vehicles for a series of photos. The photographer was Kevin Owens, a local World War II reenactor and World War II enthusiast. Jennelle trained as a dancer with the Radio City Rockettes and has performed on stage in both musical and dramatic theater. She has received credits in film, television and radio. She is also a model and a singer and particularly enjoys modeling ‘40’s “stuff” and singing World War II vintage songs. Jennelle and Kevin plan to attend next year’s Hangar Dance and I have warned her that she may be asked to sing a song or two or more! Jennelle was thrilled at being able to model next to our genuine World War II airplanes…she had never had this opportunity previously. Thanks to Col. Bill Wehmeier for moving “Show Me” out of the hangar for Jennelle and Kevin and for guiding them around the premises. Kevin advises he took between 500 and 600 photos and he will provide the Wing with a disk Col. Dick Hyde containing the best ones.
Vets helping Vets. Camdenton, Missouri
MEDAL
OF
Frank Luke Jr. (May 19, 1897 – September 29, 1918) was an American fighter ace ranking second among US Army air service pilots after Captain Eddie Rickenbacker in number of aerial victories during World War I (Rickenbacker was credited with 26 victories, while Luke’s official score was 18). Frank Luke was the first airman to receive the Medal of Honor. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, a U.S. Air Force pilot training installation since World War II, is named in his honor. Between September 12 and September 29, Luke was credited with shooting down 14 German balloons and four airplanes: These 18 victories, which Luke earned during just ten sorties in eight days, was a feat unsurpassed by any pilot in World War I. On the evening of September 29th, Luke flew to the front to attack three balloons in the vicinity of Dun-sur-Meuse six miles behind the German lines. He first dropped a message to a nearby U.S. balloon company, alerting them to observe his imminent attacks. Luke shot down the enemy balloons, but was then severely wounded by a single machine gun bullet fired from a hilltop above him, a mile east of the last balloon site he had attacked. Luke landed in a field just west of the small village of Murvaux after strafing a group of German soldiers on the ground - near the Ruisseau de Bradon, a stream leading to the Meuse River. Although weakened by his wound, he made his way toward the stream, intending to reach the cover of its adjacent underbrush, but finally collapsed some 200 meters from his airplane. Approached by German infantry, Luke drew his Colt Model 1911 pistol and fired a few rounds at his attackers before dying. Eddie Rickenbacker said of Luke: “He was the most daring aviator and greatest fighter pilot of the entire war. His life is one of the brightest glories of our Air Service. He went on a rampage and shot down fourteen enemy aircraft, including ten balloons, in eight days. No other ace, even the dreaded Richthofen had Col. Tim Mohr ever come close to that.”
HONOR - WWI AVIATORS
COL TIM MOHR LEVELS OIL HOUSE FLOOR Through the 100 degree weather Tim persevered! A big thanks goes out to Tim for the warmth we're going to have this winter.
PUMPKIN DROP DAY
AT
SMARTT FIELD
Navions
Tim Mohr with leveled floor.
Unsightly barrels will be a thing of the past.
Twin Navion
The Fix: Now the barrels on pallets can be removed with a fork lift. What a relief! Thanks Tim!
OH, MY ACHING BACK....
As October is National Spinal Health Month, the irony of recent events in the Herrmann Household, and the coming decorating / inspection season, it was inevitable that I choose back health as this month’s safety topic. What is your plan for a healthy back?? At the CAF, our annual aircraft inspections are looming. We will soon be hangaring and working on all three planes. On the home front, the holiday season is rapidly approaching and it will soon be time to dig decorations out of storage, haul them around the house or office, and decorate to help us enjoy the season. An understanding of how your back works; what can go wrong; and techniques / tips for protecting your back may help prevent or you deal with a back problem. It is a lot easier to prevent back injuries than it is to correct potential back problems down the road. Your back is working 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You use your back every time you sit, stand, bend, lift, or even lie down. It is not surprising that 70% of all back problems result from the ageing process rather than a specific injury. This means that over a number of years a poor posture, lack of exercise, excessive weight, and disregard for back saving techniques will probably lead to back problems. Let me remind you of proper lifting techniques to help get you through the coming months without injury. 1. Plan ahead before lifting. Knowing what you’re doing and where you are going will help prevent you from making awkward movements while holding something heavy. Clear a path, and if lifting something with another person, make sure you agree on the plan. 2. Lift close to your body. You will be a stronger and more stable lifter if the object is held close to your body rather than at the end of your reach. Make sure you have a firm hold on the object you are lifting, and keep it balanced close to your body. 3. Feet shoulder width apart. A solid base of support is important while lifting. Holding your feet too close together will be unstable, too far apart will hinder movement. Keep the feet about shoulder width apart and take short steps. 4. Bend your knees and keep your back straight. Practice the lifting motion before you lift the object, and think about your motion before you lift. Focus on keeping your spine straight— raise and lower to the ground by bending your knees. 5. Tighten your stomach muscles. Tightening your abdominal muscles will hold your back in a good lifting position and will help prevent excessive force on the spine. 6. Lift with your legs. Your legs are many times stronger than your back muscles—let your strength work in your favor. Again, lower to the ground by bending your knees, not your back. Keeping your eyes focused upwards helps to keep your back straight. 7. If you’re straining, get help. If an object is too heavy, or awkward in shape, make sure you have someone around who can help you lift. 8. Wear a belt or back support. If you are lifting in your job or often at home a back belt can help you maintain a better lifting posture. Tips: 1. Never bend your back to pick something up. It’s just not worth the damage that improper lifting technique can cause. 2. Hold the object close to your body. You are a much more stable lifter if you’re not reaching for an object. 3. Don’t twist or bend. Face in the direction you are walking. If you need to turn, stop, turn in small steps, and then continue walking. 4. Keep your eyes up. Looking slightly upwards will help you maintain a better position of the spine.
Irony - Webster’s Dictionary defines irony as “an incongruity between the actual result of a sequence of events and the normal or expected result”. It is ironic that during National Spinal Health Month, both Angie and I suffered back problems that caused hospital visits and missed work. While some back problems are not preventable, take a lesson from us and the information provided and make a plan to protect YOUR back. Col. Chris Herrmann
L-3S REMEMBERED
During the Scott Air Base show the L-3 crew was privileged to meet Mr. Joe Przada. He shared with us that his father, Julian, was an observer on an L Bird during WWII European theater of operations. As customary, he was assigned to the 39th Field Artillery Battalion. Joe Przada and his brothers John and Jim visited our Wing on October 13th. We were honored to accept a framed photo of their father, Julian, standing by his L Bird, and copies of two Bronze Star citations he received for service during 1944 and 1945 in Italy and Germany. We will display these in our museum to honor the service of Julian Przada who flew in the L Birds our L-3 is intended to “remember”. A fascinating story was related to us, that during his service in Italy, they were flying low over the olive orchards, and noted tracer rounds flying past their L-3 from behind. Due to the airspeed difference it didn’t take long for the German fighter to whiz past them. As they were down amongst the olive trees seeking to avoid the enemy fighter plane, Julian is reported to have heard the pilot say “Oh no!”. This was followed by a sharp break to the side to avoid a large hill. A couple seconds later they heard a large explosion, and there was no longer any tracer rounds going past them, and no more German fighter. It certainly took special kinds of airmen to fly these little airplanes in combat. Col. Bob Cushman
Joe helping clean the T-33 after the 1993 flood.
We are sad to report the passing of JOE SHEA, a longtime member of the CAF and the Missouri Wing. His military service was in the U.S. Army. Joe passed away at his home in Perryville, Missouri on October 19, 2012. In addition to his love of aviation, he was active in the Boy Scouts for 62 years. He was also a member of the American Legion and the Knights of Columbus 4th degree. Besides flying, his hobbies included hunting, fishing, and spending time with his wife and family. Joe was a pharmacist for 50 years. Joe is survived by his wife, Vivian, whom he married in 1959. He leaves behind 5 daughters, 1 son, 14 grand children, and 6 great grand children.
GONE WEST
Lest We Forget
COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE
MISSOURI WING P.O. Box 637 St. Charles, MO 63302-0637
NOVEMBER 2012
Happy ng! ksgivi Than
Ordnance being loaded aboard “Show Me” for pumpkin drop with Korey Tacchi at the ready for saboteurs!
Due to safety concerns the drone was taken down.
Pat Kesler (1) • Karl Hering (1) • Steven Newcombe (2) • Tim Dexter (3) • Alvin Kaser (7) November Betty Pearce (12) • Robert Cushman (13) • John Coffey (14) • Julieann Smith (19) Birthdays! Brandon Bebow (26) • Jim Pearo (27) • Kyle Racine (30) • Jim Hatcher (30) Compass Deadline: December Newsletter - Need info by November 23 January Newsletter - Need info by December 27
The
C MPASS
M ISSOURI W ING
P.O. Box 637 • St.Charles, MO 63302 • St. Charles County Smartt Airport 636-250-4515 • Fax 636-250-4515 • www.cafmo.org
MISSOURI WING
NOVEMBER 2012
E XECUTIVE S TAFF
WING LEADER Col. Patrick Kesler 28 Confederate Way St. Charles, MO 63303 636-928-5687 636-250-4515 Wing [email protected] ADJUTANT / PIO OFFICER Col. Rick Rea 6854 Ardale Drive St. Louis,MO 63123 314-960-4927 [email protected] EXECUTIVE OFFICER Col. Bob Lawrence 111 W. Essex Ave. Kirkwood, MO 63122 314-494-7539 cell 314-894-3200 x103 work FINANCE Col. Steve Gossett 4 Limerick Lane O'Fallon, MO 63366 636-474-9763 314-306-5021 OPERATIONS OFFICER Col.Craig O'Mara 1085 Graywolf Court Fairview Heights, IL 62208 618-632-6113 home 618-558-7211 cell [email protected] MAINTENANCE OFFICER Col. Pat Fenwick 6 Heather Drive St. Peters, MO 63376 636-441-2856 SAFETY OFFICER Col. Chris Herrmann 309 Clearwater Drive Belleville, IL 62220 618-233-4782
Lest We Forget
As you know, November 11 is the day we set aside each year to pay special tribute to all the veterans who have served this great country. There is a multitude of ways that veterans are honored on this day and each one is special in its own way. In many of the towns and cities that we have been to this year, special tributes to veterans were a very large part of the event. I wanted to try to include some of the highlights from these but they 1were all very special in their own way and nearly impossible for me to choose a favorite. 2 While we were at Mt. Vernon last weekend, I had a chance to look at the great Veterans Honor Wall display in the terminal. Very impressive and emotional! As I was leaving to join the rest of the crew, I happened to notice a small two line plaque above the display. It blew me away! I would like to share this quote as we remember these men and women on November 11.
VETERAN'S DAY
“ They gave all of their tomorrows, so we could have all of our todays.”
Col. Bob Moore
CHRISTMAS PARTY
3
This years Christmas Party will be held December 8th, at Lambardo's Restaurant, 10488 Natural Bridge Road, South 4 of the Airport, Across I-70 next to the Drury Inn. Time will be 6:00 till 9:00 pm. Dinner, dessert, and cash bar will be followed by Meeting and Awards. Cost $25 Per Person. Coat & tie not necessary. Bring your spouse or girlfriend, best friend, neighbor, fishing buddy or whomever. Enjoy the camaraderie, the season, and just being away from the hangar for one night. More details will be given at the November meeting. Remember you can be a scrooge or you can come and enjoy the time of year. Lou Tacchi
View The Compass in color at cafmo.org
5
U PCOMING E VENTS
Nov. 10 Nov. 11 Dec. 8 Noon CHILI Contest General Meeting - 1:30 pm Florissant Veteran's Day Parade Wing Christmas Party HO! HO! HO!
Ramp at Camdenton, Missouri
Saturday - November 10 - General Meeting - 1:30 pm
WING LEADER'S REPORT
Ah! November… One of my favorite months - My birth month, Thanksgiving, the Chili Cook-off, the Macys Day Parade, lots of College and Pro Football, and flames in the fireplace. Many of the hectic Spring and Summer flying and outside ground activities have slowly down-sized to inside toils of aircraft annual maintenance inspections, general cleanup of the hangars and storage areas, and more casual times at the Wing. The cooler outside temps produce more inside activities and definitely generate more conversations of the previous year’s activities and how we can do things differently in the future. Sometimes good ideas actually materialize out of these brain-stormers. I do know more coffee and hot chocolate are consumed starting in November. Wing Staff elections for Wing Leader, Operations Officer, Adjutant, and Public Information Officer will be held at the November 10th meeting. To date, no one has thrown their name in the hat for any of these positions, but it’s never too late to toss your name out for consideration. Col. Rick Rea has informed me that he is not seeking re-election to the Adjutant or PIO positions, so we just might have to “wing it” until we can find that special someone to jump right in and become a Staffer. The WL and Ops Officer positions are also up. I know Col. Craig O’Mara has done an outstanding job with his important job and will be encouraged to do so if no one else is nominated/elected. He has been helped immensely by Col. Matt Conrad, the Assistant Operations Officer and Airshow/event scheduler/coordinator. As far as the WL slot – I’ve done it for 6 straight years now, would like to see a new face in my office, but would do it for another year if no one steps forward. Come on guys – you need to start prepping someone. I’m supposed to be retired. It’s a fun job, has good visibility, you get to meet great people, and you would even have a freshly painted office with new flooring right next to the CAF’s most illustrious, best looking, most intelligent Finance Officer… case closed. Meeting day will be busy. The B-25 will be doing a Veteran’s Day weekend flyover of the Quincy, IL parade and will most likely be flying an LHFE ride or two there as well as a possible Smartt Field LHFE ride in the afternoon. We will also have the annual Chili Cook-off beginning around Noon, followed by a short-butmeaningful Staff meeting which will be followed by the General meeting and numerous doses of anti-acids and Beano. Come prepared and bring your best chili and fixins. I would like to thank Cols. Nick Talarico and Rick Rea for all of the planning and coordination necessary for the October 27th Wing and Smartt Field Open House and Classic Car & Warbirds event. I’m writing this report prior to that date and sure hope all went well. I do know that the predicted high temperature of 50 degrees was probably an eye-opener, and do hope everyone had a good time and the Pumpkin Drops went well and were in the general vicinity of the target. If not – it was the target placement’s fault and not the result of poor piloting or bombardier technique. Remember – Everyone is encouraged to participate in the Florissant Veteran’s Day Parade on Sunday, November 11th. Everyone should meet at 0800 hours in the TBM Hangar. Any questions? Contact Col. Nick Talarico. Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 8th! That’s our annual Christmas Party where we’ll also have a short meeting and hand out a few awards and commendations. Col. Lou Tacchi is ramrodding it and has all of the particulars. Good food, good drinks, good camaraderie and good times will be consumed by all.
Have a great November and stay safe and warm… Come on out to your Wing and enjoy some great activities and war stories! With your help – We can Keep ‘Em Flying and have a great, rewarding time in life while doing so. It’s always great to make new memories – especially when they are associated with the memories of that Great Generation. Respectfully submitted, Col. Pat Kesler, Wing Leader
NEW FRONT OFFICE IS LOOKIN' GOOD
Don't forget: No Food, No Drinks, No Greasy Shoes/Clothes. Let's keep it nice.
ACTOR MORGAN FREEMAN ADMIRING OUR B-25 CLARKSDALE, MISSISSIPPI
Chris Herrmann with Morgan Freeman
Morgan Freeman chats with the crew of Show Me.
PUMPKIN DROP DAY
AT
SMARTT FIELD
MY FIRST TRIP
IN THE GLORIOUS B-25 Because I just turned 12, I signed up right away for a trip in the B-25. I am now the newest cadet member of the wing and I LOVE it! We traveled out to Mt. Vernon, IL, and had a great time. When we arrived, we hung out at the airport there and talked to a few people. One of them was Everett Atkinson. He told us about his WWII adventures. He was a B-24 navigator and worked in the famous B-29. We became fast friends and he even made me cookies! :) Everett is a really fun guy! On day 2, Bob Lawrence, Nick Talarico and I got to work in the PX. We sold things like build your own airplanes, airplane models, hats, t-shirts, posters, pins, military style dogtags, etc. I got to work the 1946 dogtag machine! Many people walked around the bomber, and we showed people how amazing it is and what a truly beautiful plane it is. On the way home, I clambered up into the nose. What a magnificent view! I saw fields and cities full of light and lots of trees and a train. I took pictures of all of them! It’s an honor to be part of the Show Me crew. I like flying in it and it is a neat experience. I really appreciate the opportunity! Hannah Thompsen
Mount Vernon, Illinois
A TRIP TO COTTON COUNTRY AND LAKE OF THE OZARKS - A SENSATIONAL WEEKEND!
Everyone was convinced my name on the crew list would jinx the Clarksdale, Mississippi trip scheduled to depart Friday, October 12…my track record was not good, having been listed for four previous trips, all of which had been cancelled for one reason or another! Two weeks before, we were all assembled to fly to Camdenton, MO for the Lake of the Ozarks Air Show where 20 World War II and Korean veterans were waiting to ride “Show Me” as part of the planned festivities. Our hard working mechanics had been toiling night and day to replace a defective cylinder but unfortunately the run up revealed further problems and Col. Pat Fenwick was compelled to wave us off at the last minute to the great disappointment of our crew and the Air Show folks and veterans in Camdenton. Through the efforts of our intrepid air show coordinator, Col. Matt Conrad, arrangements were made to add a Camdenton stop to our Clarksdale weekend and make good on our promise to the veterans. A clear blue sky greeted us when we arrived at Smartt the morning of October 12. Prior to takeoff, we were treated to a photo “shoot” of beautiful actress-model Jennelle Gilreath posing with our aircraft and vehicles (see accompanying story and photos). Our crew consisted of PIC Col. Conrad, copilot Chris Herrmann and crew members Col. Bob Moore, Col. Tim Dexter, Col. Bob Carmack, Col. Tom Wagoner and myself. Hey, you know what, we actually took off without a hitch and performed a dramatic fly by for the benefit of the folks who had seen us off! Flight time to Clarksdale, situated in western Mississippi near the Mississippi River, was abut one hour, 45 minutes…there were some considerable clouds en route which had to be circumnavigated but overall it was a most pleasant ride. On arrival, we knew we weren’t in Missouri anymore. There was cotton, cotton and more cotton as far as the eye could see. We were greeted by Missouri Wing member and Mississippi resident Mike Bond and the airport folks who treated us to a real Southern barbeque lunch at a local restaurant. We spent the afternoon chatting with local visitors about the aircraft when suddenly an airplane pulls up nearby and out comes Hollywood actor Morgan Freeman who had just arrived with his pilot from California…he lives nearby and frequently returns between movie shoots. Morgan chatted with our crew members, most notably Col. Carmack, and posed for some photos. There was a short flight for the local media later in the afternoon and in the evening we were treated to some true Southern hospitality at a fried catfish dinner attended by many Clarksdale area dignitaries. All in all, it had been a terrific day! The following day, Saturday, was warm (maybe even hot!) and sunny. Attendance at the airport open house was good though there was some grumbling that the Ole Miss football game in nearby Oxford had diverted some potential attendees. We had an opportunity to meet with many very friendly folks and tell them about our wonderful aircraft. Col. Moore, with the able assistance of Col. Carmack, was successful in signing up enough passengers for three LHFE flights…one passenger enjoyed his flight so much that he signed on for a second! Unfortunately, it came time to bid farewell to Col. Bond and all this fine Southern hospitality and leave for our next stop, Camdenton, MO. After an hour and a half’s delightful ride we arrived in Camdenton just ahead of a bit of rain. We were greeted by the airport manager Corey Leuwerke and our own Col. Brandon Bebow who had driven over from Jefferson City to join us. After securing the aircraft, the crew headed to Jake Culpeeper”s Cattle Company in Osage Beach for nourishment and much welcome liquid refreshment before retiring for the evening. Sunday dawned cool, bright and clear though some cloudiness developed later on but most importantly, it stayed dry all day. Upon arrival at the airport, we were met by Corey and his airport colleagues, members of the Chamber of Commerce and the nice folks from the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association as well as the first group of WWII and Korean veterans anxiously awaiting
the first ride of the day. The rides for the veterans had been sponsored by local business organizations and the Chamber of Commerce. If one ever wonders why we CAF members do what we do, one need only attend a function such as this…the veterans were visibly moved by the experience. In all, Cols. Conrad and Herrmann, with Col. Wagoner performing the role of Safety Officer, flew four separate trips accomodating a total of 20 veterans. Prior to each flight, members of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association formed two lines, standing at attention with flags extended, between which the veterans passed as they approached the aircraft. Believe me, it doesn’t get any better than this! We are also pleased to report that all PX items supplied by Col. Bob Lawrence were sold, including many Challenge Coins. Plans are already underway for a return to Camdenton next year and more flights for veterans. Following the final flight, we said goodbye to Corey and Col. Bebow and headed back to Smartt. I think the entire crew was delighted with what was accomplished over the weekend. Thank you to our excellent pilots Cols. Conrad and Herrmann and the rest of the crew for helping make this a most memorable weekend for this old bird who was finally able to take to the air in 2012 in his favorite airplane! Col. Dick Hyde
B-25 Crew & Corey Lauwerke, airport manager, Camdenton, Mo.
ACTRESS/MODEL DOES PHOTO "SHOOT" AT MISSOURI WING
Crew members arriving at the Wing on Friday morning, October 12 for the flight to Clarksdale, Mississippi were surprised to see actress-model-singer-dancer Jennelle Gilreath of Chattanooga, TN doing various poses in and around “Show Me” and the other Wing aircraft and vehicles for a series of photos. The photographer was Kevin Owens, a local World War II reenactor and World War II enthusiast. Jennelle trained as a dancer with the Radio City Rockettes and has performed on stage in both musical and dramatic theater. She has received credits in film, television and radio. She is also a model and a singer and particularly enjoys modeling ‘40’s “stuff” and singing World War II vintage songs. Jennelle and Kevin plan to attend next year’s Hangar Dance and I have warned her that she may be asked to sing a song or two or more! Jennelle was thrilled at being able to model next to our genuine World War II airplanes…she had never had this opportunity previously. Thanks to Col. Bill Wehmeier for moving “Show Me” out of the hangar for Jennelle and Kevin and for guiding them around the premises. Kevin advises he took between 500 and 600 photos and he will provide the Wing with a disk Col. Dick Hyde containing the best ones.
Vets helping Vets. Camdenton, Missouri
MEDAL
OF
Frank Luke Jr. (May 19, 1897 – September 29, 1918) was an American fighter ace ranking second among US Army air service pilots after Captain Eddie Rickenbacker in number of aerial victories during World War I (Rickenbacker was credited with 26 victories, while Luke’s official score was 18). Frank Luke was the first airman to receive the Medal of Honor. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, a U.S. Air Force pilot training installation since World War II, is named in his honor. Between September 12 and September 29, Luke was credited with shooting down 14 German balloons and four airplanes: These 18 victories, which Luke earned during just ten sorties in eight days, was a feat unsurpassed by any pilot in World War I. On the evening of September 29th, Luke flew to the front to attack three balloons in the vicinity of Dun-sur-Meuse six miles behind the German lines. He first dropped a message to a nearby U.S. balloon company, alerting them to observe his imminent attacks. Luke shot down the enemy balloons, but was then severely wounded by a single machine gun bullet fired from a hilltop above him, a mile east of the last balloon site he had attacked. Luke landed in a field just west of the small village of Murvaux after strafing a group of German soldiers on the ground - near the Ruisseau de Bradon, a stream leading to the Meuse River. Although weakened by his wound, he made his way toward the stream, intending to reach the cover of its adjacent underbrush, but finally collapsed some 200 meters from his airplane. Approached by German infantry, Luke drew his Colt Model 1911 pistol and fired a few rounds at his attackers before dying. Eddie Rickenbacker said of Luke: “He was the most daring aviator and greatest fighter pilot of the entire war. His life is one of the brightest glories of our Air Service. He went on a rampage and shot down fourteen enemy aircraft, including ten balloons, in eight days. No other ace, even the dreaded Richthofen had Col. Tim Mohr ever come close to that.”
HONOR - WWI AVIATORS
COL TIM MOHR LEVELS OIL HOUSE FLOOR Through the 100 degree weather Tim persevered! A big thanks goes out to Tim for the warmth we're going to have this winter.
PUMPKIN DROP DAY
AT
SMARTT FIELD
Navions
Tim Mohr with leveled floor.
Unsightly barrels will be a thing of the past.
Twin Navion
The Fix: Now the barrels on pallets can be removed with a fork lift. What a relief! Thanks Tim!
OH, MY ACHING BACK....
As October is National Spinal Health Month, the irony of recent events in the Herrmann Household, and the coming decorating / inspection season, it was inevitable that I choose back health as this month’s safety topic. What is your plan for a healthy back?? At the CAF, our annual aircraft inspections are looming. We will soon be hangaring and working on all three planes. On the home front, the holiday season is rapidly approaching and it will soon be time to dig decorations out of storage, haul them around the house or office, and decorate to help us enjoy the season. An understanding of how your back works; what can go wrong; and techniques / tips for protecting your back may help prevent or you deal with a back problem. It is a lot easier to prevent back injuries than it is to correct potential back problems down the road. Your back is working 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You use your back every time you sit, stand, bend, lift, or even lie down. It is not surprising that 70% of all back problems result from the ageing process rather than a specific injury. This means that over a number of years a poor posture, lack of exercise, excessive weight, and disregard for back saving techniques will probably lead to back problems. Let me remind you of proper lifting techniques to help get you through the coming months without injury. 1. Plan ahead before lifting. Knowing what you’re doing and where you are going will help prevent you from making awkward movements while holding something heavy. Clear a path, and if lifting something with another person, make sure you agree on the plan. 2. Lift close to your body. You will be a stronger and more stable lifter if the object is held close to your body rather than at the end of your reach. Make sure you have a firm hold on the object you are lifting, and keep it balanced close to your body. 3. Feet shoulder width apart. A solid base of support is important while lifting. Holding your feet too close together will be unstable, too far apart will hinder movement. Keep the feet about shoulder width apart and take short steps. 4. Bend your knees and keep your back straight. Practice the lifting motion before you lift the object, and think about your motion before you lift. Focus on keeping your spine straight— raise and lower to the ground by bending your knees. 5. Tighten your stomach muscles. Tightening your abdominal muscles will hold your back in a good lifting position and will help prevent excessive force on the spine. 6. Lift with your legs. Your legs are many times stronger than your back muscles—let your strength work in your favor. Again, lower to the ground by bending your knees, not your back. Keeping your eyes focused upwards helps to keep your back straight. 7. If you’re straining, get help. If an object is too heavy, or awkward in shape, make sure you have someone around who can help you lift. 8. Wear a belt or back support. If you are lifting in your job or often at home a back belt can help you maintain a better lifting posture. Tips: 1. Never bend your back to pick something up. It’s just not worth the damage that improper lifting technique can cause. 2. Hold the object close to your body. You are a much more stable lifter if you’re not reaching for an object. 3. Don’t twist or bend. Face in the direction you are walking. If you need to turn, stop, turn in small steps, and then continue walking. 4. Keep your eyes up. Looking slightly upwards will help you maintain a better position of the spine.
Irony - Webster’s Dictionary defines irony as “an incongruity between the actual result of a sequence of events and the normal or expected result”. It is ironic that during National Spinal Health Month, both Angie and I suffered back problems that caused hospital visits and missed work. While some back problems are not preventable, take a lesson from us and the information provided and make a plan to protect YOUR back. Col. Chris Herrmann
L-3S REMEMBERED
During the Scott Air Base show the L-3 crew was privileged to meet Mr. Joe Przada. He shared with us that his father, Julian, was an observer on an L Bird during WWII European theater of operations. As customary, he was assigned to the 39th Field Artillery Battalion. Joe Przada and his brothers John and Jim visited our Wing on October 13th. We were honored to accept a framed photo of their father, Julian, standing by his L Bird, and copies of two Bronze Star citations he received for service during 1944 and 1945 in Italy and Germany. We will display these in our museum to honor the service of Julian Przada who flew in the L Birds our L-3 is intended to “remember”. A fascinating story was related to us, that during his service in Italy, they were flying low over the olive orchards, and noted tracer rounds flying past their L-3 from behind. Due to the airspeed difference it didn’t take long for the German fighter to whiz past them. As they were down amongst the olive trees seeking to avoid the enemy fighter plane, Julian is reported to have heard the pilot say “Oh no!”. This was followed by a sharp break to the side to avoid a large hill. A couple seconds later they heard a large explosion, and there was no longer any tracer rounds going past them, and no more German fighter. It certainly took special kinds of airmen to fly these little airplanes in combat. Col. Bob Cushman
Joe helping clean the T-33 after the 1993 flood.
We are sad to report the passing of JOE SHEA, a longtime member of the CAF and the Missouri Wing. His military service was in the U.S. Army. Joe passed away at his home in Perryville, Missouri on October 19, 2012. In addition to his love of aviation, he was active in the Boy Scouts for 62 years. He was also a member of the American Legion and the Knights of Columbus 4th degree. Besides flying, his hobbies included hunting, fishing, and spending time with his wife and family. Joe was a pharmacist for 50 years. Joe is survived by his wife, Vivian, whom he married in 1959. He leaves behind 5 daughters, 1 son, 14 grand children, and 6 great grand children.
GONE WEST
Lest We Forget
COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE
MISSOURI WING P.O. Box 637 St. Charles, MO 63302-0637
NOVEMBER 2012
Happy ng! ksgivi Than
Ordnance being loaded aboard “Show Me” for pumpkin drop with Korey Tacchi at the ready for saboteurs!
Due to safety concerns the drone was taken down.
Pat Kesler (1) • Karl Hering (1) • Steven Newcombe (2) • Tim Dexter (3) • Alvin Kaser (7) November Betty Pearce (12) • Robert Cushman (13) • John Coffey (14) • Julieann Smith (19) Birthdays! Brandon Bebow (26) • Jim Pearo (27) • Kyle Racine (30) • Jim Hatcher (30) Compass Deadline: December Newsletter - Need info by November 23 January Newsletter - Need info by December 27
