Tag: Cumberland County

McDonnell Douglas T-45 Goshawk

This photograph from the 2011 Millville Wings and Wheels Airshow is a profile of a McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing) T-45 Goshawk military trainer. The T-45 Goshawk is framed against a background tableau of Americana, complete with the Stars and Stripes fluttering in the background. Its nose is painted in vivid orange with the number '303' prominently displayed.

This T-45 Goshawk was a mainstay of the United States Navy for training purposes. The sharp contrast of the orange and white livery is not just for aesthetics; it ensures high visibility during training exercises. This colour scheme is often associated with training units, where visibility is paramount for safety. The T-45 Goshawk, a derivative of the British Aerospace Hawk, was introduced in the 1990s.

The cockpit canopy hides the sophisticated controls that have guided pilots through rigorous training regimens. The words 'U.S. NAVY' along the fuselage declare its service, while the 'Hawk' moniker on the engine cover suggests the agility and prowess—attributes essential to training aerocraft that prepare pilots for the challenging environments of combat.

The letters L.COR "ELF" Kibler is written on the side, perhaps suggesting its current trainer.

The text 'Hawk' over 'CVN AIR INTAKE' suggests the aerocraft's compatibility with aeroplane carrier operations, pointing to the 'CVN', the hull classification symbol for nuclear-powered aerocraft carriers. This detail highlights the Goshawk's role in naval aviation, providing an important link between ground-based training and the complexities of carrier operations.

North American Aviation SNJ-5

The SNJ is better known as the Army AT-6 Texan or the British Harvard.

This is another set of photographs I captured at the 2011 Millville Wings and Wheels Airshow. In the photograph is a trio of well-preserved aircraft, North American Aviation SNJ-5s from World War II. These 1943 SNJ-5s, also known as the AT-6 Texan or the British Harvard, are showcased in pristine condition beneath the expansive New Jersey sky.

Each aircraft in the lineup bears a distinctive number—'98' and '40'—with their radial engines resting silently. The open cockpits, arranged in tandem seating, invite spectators to envision taking command, gripping the controls, and taking flight.

The foremost aircraft, distinguished by its silver fuselage, reflects the daylight brilliantly. It features a bold red nose and wingtips, drawing attention to the U.S. Navy insignia—a star encircled by a blue ring—an emblem of service and courage.

North American Aviation SNJ-5, USAF T-6 Texan, USAAF AT-6
North American Aviation SNJ-5 · 29 May 2011 · Nikon D40 · AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-300mm F/4.5-5.6G IF-ED

Though stationary in the photo, the propeller seems ready to slice through the air, illustrating the aircraft's eagerness to soar again. Adjacent to the propeller, a service label provides a connection to its operational history, with faded instructions serving as a reminder of the procedures that kept this aircraft flying.

Etched on the aircraft's side is interesting information: "U.S. Navy SNJ-5, Serial No. 91008." Beneath this, a commendation reads "U.S.S. Intrepid 1945," indicating its service aboard this aircraft carrier during World War II.

North American Aviation SNJ-5, USAF T-6 Texan, USAAF AT-6
North American Aviation SNJ-5 · 29 May 2011 · Nikon D40 · AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-300mm F/4.5-5.6G IF-ED

With its canopy retracted, the cockpit reveals traces of a pilot's presence, waiting for his return. The name "Pilot Buzz Cortese" pays homage to its former pilot, while "In memory of Bob Baranaskas" adds a poignant note of remembrance, perhaps for a friend.

These aircraft invite visitors to walk among these living works of engineering, touch the riveted metal, and sense the weight of decades of flight and the spirit of those who once piloted them.

North American Aviation SNJ-5, USAF T-6 Texan, USAAF AT-6
North American Aviation SNJ-5 · 29 May 2011 · Nikon D40 · AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-300mm F/4.5-5.6G IF-ED

The shining metal exteriors, the symmetrical designs, and the unwavering strength of these warbirds inspired my reflection and reverence for the craftsmanship and bravery they represent.

North American Aviation T-28 Trojan

This photograph captures the intricate details of a North American Aviation T-28 Trojan, photographed at the 2011 Millville Wings and Wheels Airshow. The image provides a close-up view of the trainer aircraft's cockpit and its robust radial engine, which played a significant role in shaping pilots during the 1950s and beyond.

The fuselage is prominently adorned with a crisp white paint finish, featuring the Chinese characters "??" (hero), paying tribute to the brave individuals who once ruled the skies. Adjacent to these characters are the call signs 'T&G Wenger' and 'CWO LAIRD,' likely denoting the pilots or caretakers associated with this specific aircraft.

The engine's cowling, characterized by its dark and polished appearance, catches the sunlight, reflecting the aircraft's illustrious history. Even at rest, the propeller hints at the latent power it possesses, ready to propel the Trojan through the skies once more.