Well written, Randy.
Though I do not like the sale of the TBM, I can see the organization's rationale... From the outside, it seems very similar to the sale of the WI Wings PV-2 Harpoon in order to obtain a (once) beautiful, flying PT-26. Sometimes a unit takes on too large of a project in a situation where a flying aircraft would produce more interest in the organization and increase the morale of the unit members. An aircraft the public can hear, smell, and see fly does more to raise awareness of the sacrifices made by the men and women who flew them in harms way, so from that perspective, this is the right move for the Wing. Having known most of the General Staff my entire life, I know their decision was not made lightly and had the organization's best interests in mind... However, I never want to see the day where the decision to sell a CAF aircraft becomes an easy one with the mindset of, "if it's broke, sell and downgrade"... This can be a slippery slope, so let's be careful (CASA ME-109, JU-52, C-46, B-23, PV-2, TBM, Ercoupe, parts on "the hill", etc.). I sincerely hope the TBM ends up with someone who will finish her right and, from the listing price, that person will get a heck of a deal. I just don't want it to end up like the PV-2 and be housed at a good home, but disassembled in longterm storage. We often claim it's the "best thing for the aircraft", so I hope this is a case like Tinker Belle where she finds a good home...
Randy,
Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend Midland this year as I have made prior flying commitments, but tell everyone at HQ hi for me and I hope the weather is nice, the O-Club is full, and everyone has a great time!
By the way, for those interested in supporting a CAF aircraft/project here is the current list of aircraft up for assignment:
http://commemorativeairforce.org/?page= ... uresID=278Take care,
Taylor
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