Folks,
On Monday, June 13th, a historically significant event took place at the old McClellan AFB in Sacramento, California. The base is now an air park and home to the California Department of Forestry. On that day, an OV-10B, restored as an A, was flown to the CDF flight line for its first public appearance.
This airplane is owned by Rick Clemens, owner of Specline, an aircraft bearing manufacturer in Carson City, Nevada. Rick refers to his collection as the Cactus Air Force. Last year, he imported two former German Air Force OV-10Bs. The one you see pictured above is the first to be restored and is in the livery and configuration of a Marine OV-10A as seen in SEA in the late 1960s.
Rick plans to make appearances with this fine looking Bronco at air shows this summer, including Oshkosh. But, before he goes there, Rick will be bring his Bronco to Broncofest V July 15th-17th. One of our own members, Melvin Clouser has been instrumental in this restoration. We look forward to seeing this, the only US privately owned and flying OV-10, in person and you should too.
If nothing else, try to make it to our Founders Day lunch on July 16th to see this and many other FAC airplanes. (BroncoFest details can be found below.) The BBQ lunch activities will include the OV-10 mockup and Scooby F-4 dedications, a fly-in of vintage FAC aircraft, plus the Cactus Air Force OV-10. All of the activities of Founders Day will take place at the Vintage Flying Museum at Meacham Field in Fort Worth, Texas, 505 NW 38th Street from 1000 until 1600. Cost is $20.00.
Come join the fun!
Cheers,
Jim Hodgson
