This is going to be part thank-you annd part introduction mostly the latter. I have been a member of this Forum since Oct. 25 06.
I started flying control line back in 1954 with my Dad and his "Zilch" with a Super Cyclone. Most of the time I was just the wing wiper but eventually he taught me to fly it.
I graduated to "Ringmasters and "Foxes" in the late 50's, I flew Combat for a while with a Midwest Hornet and a "Fox Blackhead". I never flew compitition on the Nats level only Local and not that often. I am Sport flier.
I did a stint in the Marines between 65 and 69, went to Nam in 68 and 69. Nuff said (BAD MEMORIES)
I started engine collecting in 69, don' know how many I have now, lost count a long time ago. Sophie, my wife, says if I buy any more she's going to leave me. I gonna miss her and there will be one heck of a custody battle for the dog.
The trip down memory lane that you guys and gals have taken me on with your posts is priceless. Most of the pictures of old and new planes I recognise, I grew up in awe of them. I grew up with the names of some of you, to numerous to mention here.
Watching the P-47 take shape has been inspiring.
I'm going to start flying again this year with Larry Richards Veco P-51 replica and an OS .35 that I have been saving.
It's nice to be back, it's stirred the old grey matter,something that hasen't been done in a while. I've met some new friends on the Forum.
THANKS for the trip back in time, I hope it never ends? May God bless you all.
Bill Gruby
