The "Van Nuys Collection" #10... An AT-6 Breakdown

AT-6 "Texan" Bits and Pieces

The ubiquitous "T6" World War II Advanced Trainer was easy to fly and just as easy to ground loop or flip over landing because the of proximity of the landing gear. But, if you passed in this trainer, you got to strap on one of those 2000 hp puppies. Although the US retired the T-6 from active duty by the end of the 1950's, several nations utilized "the pilot maker" as their basic trainer well into the 1970's. Today, over 350 T-6 Texans remain in airworthy condition. Most of those are based in North America and are a reminder of the importance of simplicity in training student pilots.

This one I sketched looked like a "skywriter" who best days of composing ads and love letters was well behind it, but you never know. It was, at least, not put out to the pasture. Maybe soon, it will be, once again, flying in formation at some July 4th airshow... or better yet, on the silver screen as an enemy Zero or Focke Wulf, ha!

The "Van Nuys Collection" #5...Bits and Pieces

I did an illustration, actually a few, of the B-25 Mitchell for class and then for the Air Force Art Program. At that time, I needed the details, but nowadays, you can get books that are pretty cherried up or go on line to find what you need. I have quite a few of these Mitchell breakdowns, but they are probably of interest, technically and visually, only to me. Still, something interesting in the layout of the page. Sometimes, even with a camera you can't capture what is needed because of the lighting of the day. These are always a nice addition when sunlight highlights one part and obscures another. Besides, it was fun to do and good practice especially since the subject wasn't going anywhere. You can even count the rivets!

Believe me, I have!