JohnB wrote:
I have read, somewhere...of course I can't find it now... that the sole VC-121B was earmarked as a presidential transport for Dewey.
But as we know, Truman pulled off an upset and kept his Douglas C-118.
Anyone know why Dewey would have used a Lockheed? We know Eisenhower used Constallations (two VC-121As, one E) so was it a political thing?
That would be easier to believe if both Douglas and Lockheed weren't from the same state (California).
Here's what Baugher says:
Lockheed VC-121B Constellation
MSN 749-2600. Model 749-79-38.
Delivered to USAF Nov 1948 as VIP transport for possible presidential use.
That's backed up by Rene Francillon in his Lockheed aircraft book. But I do recall an author (I thought it was R.F.) directly stating that the planned use was cancelled after Truman was re-elected.
And there is this...when JFK was elected, he used a VC-118 (now on display at Pima) as his backup instead of Eisenhower's VC-121 as might be expected.
As to "Anyone know why Dewey would have used a Lockheed?"
Because this is how the system works. It hasn't changed. Lockheed offers their "assistance" getting a candidate elected, usually in the form of capital, in this case, a VIP aircraft and most likely campaign assistance. Then post election, Lockheed is "guaranteed" to win several no bid contracts. Usually the benefit to the contributor significantly outweigh the cost. Dewey didn't win the election, and Lockheed didn't have to make good on the deal. The system still works like this. You will get all the government that you pay for. If you want to influence legislation, that's going to take some significant coin. Alas, WIX is not a politico forum, and the mods will probably delete this post. but that's your answer in a nutshell.