Ryan,
Thanks for posting the link. This footage was shot in 2006 at our first field maneuver at Massey
www.masseyaero.org. I did not approve of the production, but I am not the producer. There are other issues which I cannot discuss at this time regarding this film and its producer. When they are resolved, and if there is interest, I will post about them.
Glyn, in the three mawkish, slushy, rubbish field maneuvers we have accomplished at Massey, we have learned a great deal about what it was like flying ops at war with these aircraft. Each succeeding event at Massey has been good. Last year, we flew an artillery spotting mission complete with targets on the ground to find. I hate to report that out of 23 observers, only three found all the targets on a 20 mile flying course. This year, we will be flying a downed pilot search and rescue mission , which reflects an actual event in the 14th Liaison Squadron's history. If you feel field ops with liaison aircraft are mawkish and slushy rubbish, why don't you come out with us and show us how to make them more 'real'? We welcome your participation. The event is free except for food costs, but by invitation only. I am extending an invitation to you, Glyn. The only requirements to attend are correct period attire, completion of our observer course, attention to our safety briefing, and flying a mission as an observer in which you are graded on your performance. Sorry, no mawkish sentimentality here- if you screw up, a genuine Staff Sergeant pilot will chew your a##.
Now, for Taylor and Ryan. These two people have devoted their time to the preservation of Liaison aircraft history. Taylor and his family are putting serious effort into an L-5 restoration. Ryan, while he is not working and educating himself as an aviator, is a key player in the Alamo Liaison Squadron flying L-5 and L-2. I wanted to say that I truly appreciate both of your efforts in these endeavors. You have chosen a back water in aviation history, but critically important nonetheless. These two gentlemen should be complimented on their contributions to the warbird movement. Thanks very much also for recognizing my own humble efforts.
Now please excuse me as I go look for more ways to expand the mawkish, slushy, rubbish world of people who appreciate L-birds.