"THE BEST PILOTS WHO EVER STEPPED INTO A COCKPIT
BELONGED TO THE F-86 SABRE PILOTS ASSOCIATION"

"One of the most successful jet fighters of all time was the North American F-86 Sabre, the scourge of MiG pilots in the Korean War and the first swept wing fighter to fly for America. The day fighter and all weather versions of the aircraft were used in almost all Western countries, remaining in front line service for almost 20 years. Under license, it was built in Canada, Australia, Japan and Italy. The first prototype flew on Oct. 1, 1947 but it had been under development since 1944. The Sabre was an immediate success and went into service in February, 1949. When the Sabres arrived in Korea to meet the MiG threat, the bandits never knew what hit them."

Sabre drivers were proud of their steed and in 1981 formed a "Fighter Jocks" organization called, not surprisingly, the "F-86 Sabre Pilots Association." Membership was limited to those jocks who have flown the F-86 aircraft. All F-86 Wings of the Korean war are heavily represented as were the units in CONUS, Europe, Far East, ANG and Reserves.

This membership in its prime hit over 1,700 members world wide.

They were an international association with members representing 7 countries. Three of their members became Chief of Staff of the Air Force for their respected countries.

It was a 'Jock's Club' so they made no effort to cater to the elite. They acknowledged and congratulated all on their achievements but retain the camaraderie shared by airmen. Without a doubt, it was a premier retired fighter pilots organization.

Their stated goals of the association at that time was to perpetuate the history of the F-86 Sabre, the units to which she belonged and the pilots who flew her. A second goal was to link old Sabre jocks with their buddies. The third goal was to perpetuate an accurate, patriotic portrayal of our national history and heritage. They conducted numerous projects to achieve these goals.

They would publish three issues of their magazine "Sabre Jet Classics" each year.

They had reunions in Las Vegas approximately every 2 years. In 1997, about 1,000 people participated at the reunion.
They showed all that they knew how to party.

By Senior Airman Kevin Tanenbaum, 99th Air Base Wing Public Affairs / Published May 05, 2017

NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. --
Throughout the storied past of Army Air Corps and the U.S. Air Force, many aircraft have laid the foundation for today’s fleet of air power.

The F-86 Sabre, or SabreJet, is one of the cornerstones upon which the modern Air Force was built since its inaugural flight on Oct. 1, 1947.

The F-86 Sabre Association met on April 24 on the flightline here to pay homage to this retired jet and the Airmen who flew it for the last time.

"The first forming of the association took place in 1981, when three of our pilots got together and realized we needed to have a reunion and an organization," said retired Lt. Col. J.R. Alley, F-86 Sabre Association president. "It started to grow and grow into the mid-90s and it became more organized. We grew in personnel from that small amount in the mid-90s to almost 2,000 worldwide."

The F-86 Sabre was originally designed as a high-altitude fighter, making it highly valued during the Korean War. Subsequently, it was redesigned as an all-weather interceptor and fighter bomber.

"In that era, (the Air Force) had 300 F-86s at that time," said Alley. "It was a different mindset of flying, very aggressive, and you had to do everything better, tighter and faster than the other guy."

The first Sabre arrived at Nellis for testing and training in 1949 and was assigned to the 3525th Aircraft Gunnery Squadron. By late 1950, an average of 27 F-86s were on base.

In early January 1952, after being sent back to the factory for modifications, the F-86 was fully implemented into the Combat Crew Training School. The Nellis training mission grew and implemented pilots from the Royal Air Force, becoming the pride of Air Training Command until the aircraft was removed from Nellis in June 1966.

Soon after the end of the F-86 at Nellis, production halted on the jet in December 1966.

The organization's members travelled to Nellis to have one last reunion before disbanding after 35 years.

"The average age of the group is now around 86 to 87 (years old), the World War II guys who flew in Korea are up in their 90s, and the ones who actually flew in the Korean War are in their late 80s," said Alley. "So this will be our last reunion, and we are going to stand down. It’s been tremendous to come out and have Nellis put this on for us."

While the F-86's operational days came to an end, the jet has found its home with the Air Force Heritage Flight, performing at air shows around the country.

"We always like to look back at our heritage," said Alley. "What we were and how we have come along the way. If you forget that then you start losing things."

 

Poem was given to my attention by Major Joseph Pogue. The background is an actual painting by Joe. He painted it in dedication to those fellow pilots that have "Gone West". It shows eagles flying over the ocean towards the sunset. He sent me poems on this website hoping to inspire other members to share poems as well.

Thanks Joe!

Sabre Jet Classics Magazines

F-86 Art

Is typing "http://sweetrose.yocumusa.com/sabrepilots/index.htm" too long? Try typing "tinyurl.com/sabrepilots" instead. Or of course, just bookmark us!

He flew in Korea during the last year of the war out of Osan AB.
Was raised in Clayton, LA
Studied Geology at LSU
Retired from Pennzoil.
Attended a number of F-86 Sabre Pilots Assn events

James "Jim" Sullivan was released from active duty on 24 Oct 1955
He flew 33 combat missions
He earned
Air Medal w/1 OLC 480 HQ 5th AF 17 Jul 1953
Korean Service Medal w/2 Bronze Service Stars
United Nations Service Medal
National Defense Service Medal

He passed away July 6, 2021 in Houston, Tx (age 91)
He is survived by his two children (Sherry and Shawn) and their children and grandchildren.

Info submitted by children of James.

Lt. Ward Hitt - 336th Rocketeers in 1951

Click here or on the photo below to view his Historical Archives pictures Volumes 01 to 09.

To view some of the photos in the volumes below larger - visit the source - Smithsonian Institution Virtual Archives at https://sova.si.edu/record/NASM.2012.0044.

Major Harry Cassleman - 336th Rocketeers in 1951

Click here or on the photo below to view his Historical Archives pictures Volumes 01 to 03.

Major Harry Cassleman by his F-86.

 

Special thanks to David Howman and the family of Cassleman for these archived historical pictures and information!

F-86 squadron in Germany

F-86 wtih white walls!

F-86's in flying formation over Germany

F-86 speeding!

Mixed photos from Bill Pickron. Thanks for the photos!!

A MEMORABLE EVENT

By Lloyd Tincher – January 11, 1954

I had joined the Air Force July 6, 1950 right out of High School. I completed basic training and Tech school and arrived in Germany in June of 1951. Only 5 more months and I would be finished with my enlistment and going home.

Life was very good. Stationed at one of the premier bases in Europe, I enjoyed the work as a GCA operator. I was very pleased to have attained not only Seven Level supervisory status, but I had also been promoted to the lofty grade of Staff Sergeant in minimum time. Rhein Main was a most desirable station for an air traffic controller because of the high level of activity. Not only did we direct U.S. and Allied military transport and fighter aircraft, but we also directed quite a number of foreign airlines as well.

This event began shortly after our crew--3 operators and 1 mechanic--assumed our duties for the 1600 – 2400 shift on January 11, 1954. It was one of those gloomy , low overcast January nights that are so common at Rhein Main Air Base, Frankfurt, Germany during that time of year. The weather was not bad with 600 overcast and visibility 4 miles. We expected an easy night of it. With such weather, most MATS (Military Air Transport Service) and airline aircraft would request an ILS with a GCA monitor only. Fighter aircraft did not have ILS equipment and would have to do a GCA approach.

Little could we know that within a short period of time, 3 F-86 aircraft would be lost and 1 pilot dead.

Frankfurt Approach was directly responsible for funneling aircraft onto the final approach course, utilizing a very large AC&W radar that was located atop the IG Farben building in downtown Frankfurt. Frankfurt Approach normally switched the inbound aircraft to the Rhein Main GCA final controller at 5 to 7 miles on final.

This evening I was working the final approach position. Technical Sergeant Ethiele Todd, the shift supervisor, was monitoring the surveillance position. Airman First Class Edmond Fisher was doing the elevation function. Sergeant Todd was informed by Approach Control that a flight of 3 F-86’s was inbound to the Offenbach radio beacon, having been cleared from 20,000 to 2,000 feet. Offenbach was the normal turnover point to our unit and was about 9 miles from R/M runway 25R. Approach Control also reported the flight to be LOW ON FUEL.

As the Final Controller I was monitoring the communications between the flight of fighters and Approach Control. I was also monitoring our surveillance radar that had a 30-mile range. Yet I did not see any aircraft on their reported course, so I informed Approach Control that I did not have any radar contact with the flight they were purported to be working.

Our GCA crew was now in a high state of anxiety. We had a flight of 3 aircraft, low on fuel, and we were expected to direct them for a safe landing, but we had no radar contact! Our radar mechanic quickly set to validating the integrity of our radar, and I began a new calibration of the final approach CRT.

Frankfurt Approach changed the aircraft to my frequency at Offenbach. I advised them “NEGATIVE RADAR CONTACT” and sent them back to Approach Control. Frankfurt Approach elected to give the flight a surveillance approach as the ceiling and visibility were sufficient. I continued to monitor the communications and search for an answer to why Frankfurt Approach had aircraft that we couldn’t see!

At surveillance minimums of 869 feet the flight reported “field not in sight” and executed a missed approach. Frankfurt gave the flight vectors back for another approach. The flight leader advised “VERY LOW ON FUEL, ENOUGH FOR ONE MORE APPROACH”.

Throughout this second approach we continued to try to ascertain why we didn’t have their targets on our radar while Frankfurt Approach did. I asked the coordinator at Frankfurt if it was possible that their big radar antenna was badly misaligned and the aircraft were elsewhere. They didn’t seem to think so, but they were as perplexed as we were! Again Frankfurt gave me the aircraft on final approach. I sent them back, and a second surveillance approach was given by Frankfurt Approach.

The flight completed the second surveillance approach with the same results. I sent another controller outside as they allegedly approached the runway. There was no sound! In my mind they were miles away. The flight leader gave the “bailout” call at 6,000 feet.! The flight leader’s chute failed to open; the other 2 pilots survived, unhurt!

An effort was made to explain what had happened. Our GCA Flight Facilities Officer, First Lieutenant Orville E. Weber was suspicious that there was an altimeter problem and that the aircraft were higher than reported to be. In the accident investigation, based on prevailing winds, he plotted a position of where the canopies would be for both a 6,000-foot and a 16,000-foot bailout. The canopies were found at the calculated position of a 16,000 bailout. In their statements the two wingman pilots said that they had never looked at their altimeters. The Accident Board ruled that in all probability the flight leader leveled off at 12,000 feet, thinking he was at 2,000 feet.

Our GCA surveillance radar, an MPN-1, had a maximum height of 8,000 feet, thus explaining the reason we never had a target. The big Approach control radar at Frankfurt had a maximum height of 50,000 feet plus. Because of the loss of life, this troubling incident of over 50 years ago is still fresh in my mind.

Submitted by Llyod Tincher

(GCA operator at Rhein-Main 1951 - 1954)

Thanks Lloyd for that excellent story!

Mixed photo collections from Stephen Tinius. His father was Lt. John O Tinius;

Click the above photo or here for the massive 5 volumes of pictures.

CLACKAMAS, OR, UNITED STATES
03.20.2020
Story by Master Sgt. John Hughel
Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office

CLACKAMAS, Ore. - The vivid sheet metal finish and the distinctive profile of the F-86 Sabre jet reflects a unique era in U.S. military aviation history. As the first swept-wing U.S. fighter jet used in combat, the Sabre was fully capable of opposing their swept-wing Soviet MiG-15 counterparts during high-speed dogfights over the skies of Korea from 1950 to 1953.

As the Oregon Military Museum is methodically preparing for its grand re-opening, one of the centerpiece exhibits will be an F-86 that was recently reassembled at the museum’s home at Camp Withycombe. The transonic jet, which has been in storage during renovations, will represent two distinct pieces of Oregon military history for visitors.

During the Korean War future NASA astronauts John Glenn, Buzz Aldrin, and Wally Schirra flew the airframe. In total, there were 40 Korean War ‘Aces’ and one of the last to earn this title was U.S. Air Force Capt. Clyde A. Curtin, assigned to the 335th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron and a native of Portland, Oregon.

The Oregon Air National Guard also flew the F-86 during the same period. On February 10, 1951, the 123rd Fighter-Interceptor Squadron was federalized and reassigned to the 325th Fighter-Interceptor Wing of the Western Air Defense Force.

Aircraft number 12892 has an interesting history. With a team of local volunteers overseen by the restoration team from Century Aviation, the jet was assembled over the last week of February of 2020. They specialize in working with museums as consultants to restore, install and handle aviation artifacts.

Oregon Military Museum Director and curator Tracy Thoennes was excited yet anxious seeing the aircraft reassembled. Watching the aircraft being reconstructed, she described its significance while describing key aviation details of the Korean War.

“Clyde [Curtis] recorded his 4th and 5th ‘Kills’ a week before the Armistice (July 27, 1953), and his aircraft was just a few serial numbers away from the F-86 we are restoring here for the Oregon Military Museum,” she explained. “Both this aircraft and the one Curtis flew were part of the same production series and were assigned to the 4th Fighter Wing, the most successful aviation unit during the war.”

The airplane served on the U.S. inventory until 1956 and then acquired by the Republic of Korea until 1963. For the next 20 years, number 12892 was retired before being acquired by the Oregon National Guard. Since 2012, it has been disabled and in storage as the Museum has undergone restorations.

In terms of presenting all facets of the Oregon Military, the F-86 represents a key link to aviation and the Air Force contribution during this period. With reverence to its history, the paint scheme on the airplane is in keeping with the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War and how the Oregon Air National Guard detailed the aircraft during the early 1950’s.

“Early on most of our acquisitions in the collection (for the museum) were Army pieces, Thoennes explained. “We are trying to make sure we tell the story of every military branch and this aircraft is an important part of that multi-branch story.”

The support for the restoration was funded by the Oregon Museum Foundation, Thonness said. “Eventually we hope to get some bids on having the canopy of the airplane restored and if there are other features needing to be addressed.”

The team from Century Aviation has worked on restoration undertakings all over the country to include projects at the Museums of Flight in Seattle and most nobility on the ‘Spruce Goose’ at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville, Oregon.

“We started our own business 28 years ago after working on the ‘Spruce Goose,' said Mark Smith. Along with his partner Karen Barrow, the company is based out of East Wenatchee, Washington but they spend a majority of time on the road.

The work they undertake is often threefold: from building replicas to disassembling and reassembling aircraft, and frequently working as consultants to larger projects.

“Our speciality is the beginning of flight with the Wright Brothers up to WWII; steel tube and fabric but as soon as I say that then we're working on an F-18 Hornet or like we are doing here with the F-86.”

For the F-86, they did not need to manufacture any of the parts as the airframe was well preserved during its time in storage. Like most local projects, they rely on a few skilled volunteers to help on the final assemblage of the airframe.

“Normally it’s nice to have about four or five volunteers on a project like this but often the word gets out that something exciting is happening so those numbers can swell pretty quickly,” Smith grinned. “With a project like this, sometimes you get more than enough ‘helpers.’

Some of the larger undertakings might last months and sometimes years compared the time it took to finish up the F-86 renovation, said Smith. “Each project has its challenges but that’s what keeps it interesting.”

One of those is a short-term project that they are about to begin is at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, before undertaking a much larger and long term undertaking in Washington, D.C.

“We’re heading off to work at the National Air and Space Museum at the Smithsonian,” he said. “Ultimately the existing area will be emptied and rebuilt with some items going back to their original place but new items added. It’s a six to seven year project.”

Still, both Smith and Barrow enjoyed working close to home in the Pacific Northwest on the Sabre jet and observing the transformation of the Oregon Military Museum.

“The preservation and restoration is important to any artifact that a museum has for its collection,” said Barrow. “Preserving that legacy can peak someone’s interest to know more about a particular period of time and what that article represents.”

With many unique pieces, presentations and exhibits, the Oregon Military Museum hopes to capture that same level of excitement when the renovations are all completed for the public.

“With all the different eras represented here, there will be so much to see and learn from: to the archives, library, and exhibits, when it comes to Oregon’s military history--there is going to be so much to look to at,” Barrow emphasized.

“When the museum opens, people will have a blast!”

Link: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/366698/air-force-f-86-sabrejet-reassembled-oregon-military-museum

Lt. Bob Strobach patch

Photo by: MSgt Paul Perron

James (Jim) F. Page Jr.

Photo by: MSgt Paul Perron

Click on the picture or here to view 72 photos from Capt. Richard "Dick" Thompson.

The photos were shared on Facebook by Jim Escalle. The were originally uploaded by Rick and Tommy Thompson in Honor of their father Capt. Ricahrd "Dick" Thompson; Maintance Officer at K-13 about (1951-1952). (51st Fighter Interceptor Wing Association)

Photos from Richard E. Wendell, submitted by his son Key. Thanks for the pictures Key!

1958/1959 Seymour Johnson Air Force Base 335th

This picture was submitted by Jim Wolf (496th FIS avionic tech, 1956-59). This picture goes well with the Tail Zap article of the Summer 2000 SabreJet Classics magazine (Vol 8/Number 2).

Thanks for the picture Jim!

Fighting Aircraft [F-86]

Nagoya Municipal Science Museum, early 1970's (photo credit: John B Clayton)

Dispatch submitted by Jim, son of James.

Photo submitted by Jim, son of James.

"Catherine Belle" photo submitted by Jim, son of James.

Korean War Memorial

A Tribute to The Forgotten War

The Korean War Memorial will be located in front of the Planes of Fame Air Museum. The memorial will commemorate the sacrifices of the 5.8 million Americans who served in the U.S. armed services during the three-year period of the Korean War. The War was one of the most hard fought in our history. During its relatively short duration from June 25, 1950 to July 27, 1953, over 36,000 Americans died in hostile actions in the Korean War theater. Of these, 8,200 are listed as missing in action, lost, or buried at sea. In addition, 103,284 were wounded during the conflict.

Click on the picture or here to view 103 photos from Capt. John A. Wagnon.

John was in Korea in 1953 with the 67th.

Thank you Robert (his son) for sharing these photos!

Eric George Smith

Eric George Smith S/L (Ret’d), loving husband of 65 years to Dinah Rosaleen (Cole), passed away peacefully March 30th, 2019 at the Ottawa General Hospital in his 99th year. He was a loving father to Erin Zintel (Smith) and a kind-hearted father-in-law to Bob Zintel. Eric was a proud and loving Grandpa to Sarah and Kristen Zintel. Eric will be remembered by his many nieces and nephews. Eric was a friend to so many who remember his sense of humour, storytelling and how he always had time to have a conversation. Predeceased by his parents George and Mary Ann Smith; his brother Sidney (Thelma); sisters Inez McFadden (William), Muriel Greenidge (Herbert), and Mavis Rothwell (Norman).

Born January 26th, 1921 in the town of Navan, Ontario, Eric was educated at Navan Continuation School, Vankleek Hill Collegiate and the Ottawa Normal School (Teachers College). Eric taught school in Carlsbad SS#12 when he was 19 years old. In 1940, Eric assisted the Police in apprehending John Miki who murdered police officer Harold Dent in Navan. On July 1st, 1941 Eric enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force. He reported to the Manning depot, Toronto on August 27th, 1941. He was then transferred to Trenton, Belleville, Portage La Praire and Camp Borden where he received his flying wings. Eric was commissioned on July 17th, 1942. In April 1945, Eric received the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). His citation reads as follows: “This officer has completed a large number of operational sorties. He is a pilot of exceptional ability who has never let either adverse weather or enemy opposition deter him from completing his allotted tasks. He has inflicted considerable damage on enemy lines of communication, mechanical transportation and rolling stock. He has at all times exhibited great determination, initiative and daring and set an inspiring example by his fine fighting spirit and devotion to duty”

In 1952, Eric began instructing on Sabre F-86 jets and was invited to participate in the Korean War as an exchange pilot with the U.S. Air force going up against Russian MiG’s. In 1952, the U.S. government decorated Eric with their U.S. Air Medal : “Squadron Leader Eric G. Smith distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial combat as a pilot of an F-86 aircraft, 4th Fighter interceptor Wing, Fifth Air Force, flying missions against enemies of the United States, from 10 September 1952 to 14December 1952. While flying combat air patrol and various other type missions deep into enemy territory, many times against a superior number of enemy aircraft, his dedication to duty and demonstrated skill were a magnificent contribution to the successful completion of the assigned mission. As a result of his fortitude and courage on these occasions he has brought great credit upon himself, the Royal Canadian Air Force and the United States Air Force.”

Eric was the Commander of Sqn. No 413 from January 12th, 1959 to February 2nd, 1961.
Over the course of Eric’s distinguished military career he was honoured and awarded the following medals:
• Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
• 1939-45 Star
• France and Germany Star
• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp
• Volunteer Service 1939-45
• Korea Medal
• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal for Korea
• United Nations Korea Medal
• CD Canadian Forces Decoration
• United States Air Medal
• Korean War Veterans Association Medal
• Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal
• French Legion of Honour at the French embassy in Ottawa.

In March 1953, while stationed in Chatham New Brunswick, Eric met Dinah Rosaleen Cole. They were married in Toronto on May 16th, 1953.

Eric retired from the RCAF in August 1968 and moved to a farm 7 miles south of Kemptville where he and Dinah took up farming. Eric sold real estate for Albert Gale Real Estate from 1971 until his retirement in 1991.
In May 2001, Eric and Dinah moved back to his home town of Navan.

Eric enjoyed both playing and watching hockey. Eric played hockey for the winning Navan team in the 1946 Bradley Cup in which he scored five goals. Eric’s other favourite sport was curling which he played up until 2015.

Eric was a proud member of the RCAF, SPAADS, Branch 632 Canadian Legion, Orleans, 410(William Barker VC) Wing RCAFA, Knights of the Round Table, Masonic Lodge Maitland Chapter, Tunis Shriners, Legion of Honour and the Navan Curling Club.

The family would like to thank the Ottawa General 5th floor nurses and doctors and Eric’s family doctor – Dr. Bujold. The family would also like to thank the care at home from SE Health/Access Care and Champlain LHIN.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the St. Laurent Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 1200 Ogilvie Road (at Aviation Parkway), Ottawa, on Friday, April 5, 2019 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm. A Funeral Service will take place at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, 3480 Trim Road, Navan, on Saturday, April 6, 2019 at 11 am.

As an expression of sympathy, donations to St. Mary’s Anglican Church would be greatly appreciated by the family.

Click this photo or link to view many photos of the North American Sabre: F86 Photos

The photos were placed on Facebook by Laura Postaltrip Cidoncha.

Michaels ride: "Yosemite Sam" at Chitose.

Click this link to view the photo collection: Michael Adams Collection

Michael Adams Collection - submitted from Michael Adams

334th - Chitose

 

2 Squadron (Flying Cheetahs) was one of the four Squadrons making up the 18th Fighter-Bomber Wing in Korea. The other three squadrons were numbers 12, 39 and 67 of the United States Air Force. The Flying Cheetahs completed 10 597 fighter-bomber (air-to-ground) sorties using Mustangs.

The Squadron exchanged its Mustangs in 1953, for the American F-86F-30 Sabre. 39 Squadron (USAF) was withdrawn and the remaining two USAF squadrons in the Wing also converted to Sabres. The Sabre was also used as a fighter-bomber. The Cheetahs flew another 899 operational sorties with Sabres, and lost only one to ground-fire. Another four were lost in accidents, but the South Africans managed to hand back 17 when hostilities ceased.

2 Squadron's Sabres were numbered 601 to 622 and each pilot had a Sabre allocated to him. As with the Mustangs, many pilots also "named" their aircraft. The Officer Commanding of the Cheetahs, Commandant Ralph Gerneke, had Sabre 601 - Code letter "A". He named his aircraft SHERDANOR II - after his wife Sherry, and his sons Dane and Nord. Nord is well known in Pretoria, being the Bossman at JIX. When Ralph returned home, his Sabre - 601 "A" was renamed RENKINS by an unknown pilot. Sabre 602 "J" - named IMP VIII, was flow by Stan Wells, and 604 "K" - BLACK DICK, was flown by Hank Ludick.
The following table contains the Numbers, Codes and Names of SAAF Sabres in Korea, which have been photographed or written about. The list is not complete. Where known, the pilot's name also appears.

No. CODE AIRCRAFT NAME PILOT
601 A SHERDANOR II/RENKINS RALPH GERNEKE/??

602 J IMP VIII STAN WELLS
603 B RUTH II/MISS CLOUDEYES ??/??
604 K BLACK DICK /BEVKENEVE HANK LUDICK/??

605 C SHARONNE ED PIENAAR
606 L TOMTIT/LITTLE PHYLLIS ??/??
607 D JUST JOAN MIKE GEDYE
608 M (Unnamed) Crashed 28 Feb 53 RODNEY V ROOYEN (E)

609 E MALOBOLA ??
610 N CARLYNEVE/GLOW WORM LIONEL DIXON
611 F DANNY BOY ??
612 O STARDUST JOHN KOEKEMOER
613 G PRECIOUS POEKSIE Crashed 21 Apr 53 JOHN ROBERTS (E)

614 P VALERIE Crashed into sea 28 Aug 53 MIKE BOTHA (K)

615 H KEVRIC Crash landing 19 Apr 53 – W/off PIET VISSER
616 Q LADY OF LORETTE Shot down 21 Jul 53 GEORGE THOM (pow)

617 I HELEN ??
618 R GAY JANE III AL RAE
619 M MONKEY IV Crash landing 19 May 53 W/off JOHN COETZEE

620 H KEVRIC II PIET VISSER
621 G BEVKENEVE ??
622 Q (Unnamed) ??

Information was submitted by Buskruit Burger on facebook page: F-86 Sabres of the Korean War

335th Fighting Eagles

Another Newbie website like the 334th.

Released earlier than what I wanted, but thought it would be good to get the names out in the web.

Will be a long Winter project as well with the 334th.

Click the image or here. It's a fresh website. Please let me know if any errors.

Anyone with pictures of the 335th, please email me at eric@yocumusa.com - I will include any given. Thank you!

334th Fighting Eagles

This is my most recent "Work In Long Process". Making a directory of the 334th during the Korean and post-Korean war. This will go along with my previous 336th (4th Fighter Wing), and future 335th website.

All fourth fighter wing section.

Click the image or here. It's a fresh website. Please let me know if any errors.

Anyone with pictures of the 334th or future website 335th, please email me at eric@yocumusa.com - I will include any given. Thank you!

"The Pirate of Suwon"

Darby Perrin

"The base was originally established during the Korean War as Suwon (K-13) Air Base and hosted the 36th Fighter Bomber Squadron. The base was used for the staging of F-86 patrols along the Yalu River and MiG Alley. Darby Perrin's print depicts maintenance troops on a busy flight line preparing F-86F, “The Pirate” for another flight as a C-124 departs." - Aviation Art Hanger

Click this link to view the photo collection: Keith Hanna's Collection

Keith Hanna Collection - submitted from him son Andrew.

311th Fighter-Bomber Squadron

Click this link to view the photo collection: Jason McKeon's Collection

Jason McKeon Personal Collection

Korean War, Canadian Air Base

Korean War:Missing in MiG Alley

(full documentary) HD

Click this photo or link to view many photos of the F-86 production: Production Photos

The photos were placed on Facebook by Laura Postaltrip Cidoncha.

Click the link below to view his seven voulmes of historical photos about Kimpo Air Force base, 1953.

Lt. James Thompson Historical Archive

Thank you James for your tributes and service to our country!

Click this photo or link to view many photos of the F-86 production: Production Photos

The photos were placed on Facebook by Laura Postaltrip Cidoncha.

He is currently 83 flying a Vans RV-3M. He noted he had the tail number changed to "86HF", put bullet hole decals on it and named it Sabre 2th (tooth). Amazing!

"I retired through the DELANG, I flew their F-86s, C-97 & C-130. My retirement orders said I had over 40 years, but that is because one has to be 60 years old to receive retirement status as a reservist. I was an airman before I went into Aviation Cadet Corp for pilot training,(class 56-T) Trained at Lackland, AFB, Malden, AB; Bryan,AFB & Williams, AFB ( for Advanced Combat/Gunnery training). I grew up in Wilmington and moved to Texas in 1975. We live in The Woodlands,TX."

Joe

THE BROTHERHOOD

Ye Brothers of clouds, sky and space,
Spirits of wind, stars and grace,
Soar with me now in God's loving heaven.

We are The Brotherhood.

Born with adventure in our soul,
Camaraderie we extol,
Knights of the sky one and all.

We are The Brotherhood.

We climb and join those gone before,
Where pain and trouble are no more,
On golden wings not made by man.

We are The Brotherhood.

Time and space may take their toll,
But the bond is in the soul,
So for eternity we ascend.

We are The Brotherhood.

Maj. Joseph M Pogue USAF Ret.

The fighter pilot is an independent and fiercely competitive individual. But few interpersonal ties are stronger then that between fighter pilots. The "discipline”, at times, requires an indifference to ones death in order to maintain the integrity of the "flight" and thereby the success of the mission and survival. This poem is dedicated to this brotherhood--The Brotherhood.

Is It Sunset Or Is It Dawn?

Is that a Sunset or a Dawn that I see at the end of this journey long?
Am I going East or going West on this vast ocean of life's test?

Is it Sunset, or is it Dawn?

My Navigator knows the way, been with me every day,
has always pulled me thru; the storms and life’s calms too.

Is it Sunset, or is it Dawn?

The closer to our journey’s end the clearer it begins to be, that we
were meant to be here now and for all eternity.

Is it Sunset, or is it Dawn?

Do not fear the end of day, for the “Sunset of life” makes way
for the “New Dawn” to come today.

Is it Sunset, or is it Dawn?

Now it has become quite clear, this Sunset is a Dawning Sphere and
only God could make it so, to raise us up from below, to complete
the rest of His life's test.

It IS a Sunset, AND a Dawn.

Maj. Joseph M Pogue USAF Ret.

"This poem has to do with end of life but was inspired by all of the long flights over the oceans when we were extremely tired and the sun would be on the horizon. In the fog of fatigue one would have to stop and remember if we were going East or West and whether we were seeing the sun set or rise." - Joe

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The Sky Has Called Me

Did you ever want to fly a plane, be it high wing or be it low,
Just weaving in among the clouds, nice and easy nice and slow?
Did you want it fast and high or something slow and low?

What about a Piper Cub or bi-wing Stearman trainer.
There are many others but none that are much plainer.

Perhaps more like a soaring bird you would prefer to be,
Something like a sailplane, that's my choice you see.

You can soar among the lofty clouds for all the day long.
I guarantee that deep within will arise a heavenly song.

For I have been there flying high, fast, low and slow,
Have soared with eagles and the hawks so this is what I know.

The sky has called me since a child to join the clouds and birds.
I’ve enjoyed so many adventures that I can’t find all the words.

Maj. Joseph M Pogue USAF Ret.

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FLIGHT’S MYSTIQUE

Like the mariner of the sea
the aviator oft will be
enthralled by siren song.

Something in my soul sings
when I soar on rnan-made wings
through God’s blue sky,

Where the eagle and the hawk
long dominated there to stalk
their prey below.

There is the danger and the grace
and the thrill of combat chase
that few have known.

There is peace and there is freedom
high in this part of God's kingdom
shared only with His creation, man.

I think the thrill of flight may be
man's reflection on his ancestry
and promise of what future brings,

When from the sea then to the land
and on into eternity
one day he may abandon Earth

And seek the mystery beyond…

Beyond into the universe.

Maj. Joseph M Pogue USAF Ret.

William flew out of Suwon, Korea with the 35th FBS. He was shot down by small arms fire June 19, 1953. He passed away on January 16, 2013.

Westfield International Air Show 2001
Celebration of Freedom-Barnes Municipal Airport

North American F-86 Saber Jet
Owned by Ed Shipley
Previously Owned by Colonel Frank Borman

Click on the photo or here to see David Grasmicks' fathers historical photos from the Korean War. He was a part of the 334th. If anyone recognizes any of the other people or places, please email me. Thanks.

Click on the photo or here to see Marlyn Acker's historical photos from the early 50's. He was a part of the 334th. His son David, shared them with us. If anyone recognizes any of the other people or places, please email me. Thanks.

Aircraft Portrait by Jack Young

"The Mig Hunters is a painting from my private collection. This painting is of Captain Bob Love and captain Cliff Jolley, aces and friends flying their F-86 Sabres in Mig Alley Korea.

Bob furnished me with the aircraft marking details for this painting. When it was finished, I met him in his hangar where he kept his P-51 at the Livermore, California airport. There I presented him with some 8 x 10 photos and set the painting up for his viewing. He looked at it very quietly, and then with a show of emotion, told me, "you have brought back a lot of memories". This was in the early 1980's. His response was and always will be a pleasant memory for me."

Link: http://aeroclassics.us/hunters.html

Four Air Force F-86A Sabers were entered in the "J" Division of the Thompson Trophy Race but one was unable to start due to engine trouble. The three flew the five mile course at such high speeds that it was estimated that they actually flew 25 miles each lap. During the second lap Captain Vernon Henderson pulled out of the race after a high "G" turn broke the bolts holding the seat in place. Captain Vernon was able to control the jet while in a crouching position to make a safe landing. Captain Johansen also had a problem when a 10 x 16 inch inspection door flew open on the left wing causing considerable drag, Johansen had just taken the lead when a check of his fuel supply required him to throttle back thereby losing his lead. When he landed he did not have enough fuel left to taxi to the hangars. Captain Cunningham was doing well until he made the last high speed turn, that's when most of his elevator was torn off causing him to consider ejecting the aircraft.

Gene Fentress October 24, 2017

Click on his name to view larger pictures of Gene, and a wonderful family video of him.

Eight pages of photos from Ward "Spider" Hitt, Jr. recorded at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

Air and Space Museum link

Kimpo Airfield, Seoul Korea

Link to larger version: here

National Archives Catalog

To view the final SabreJet Classics (Volume 24, Number 2), click on the above photo.

Published on Jul 22, 2016

The Planes of Fame Air Show 2016 featured a sunset solo aerobatics performance by Tommy Williams in the Planes of Fame Air Museum F-86F during the Friday performance.

Planes of Fame Air Museum
Where Warbirds Fly
http://www.planesoffame.org

Sabre Pilots Association

S/N 52-2854 "Stardust" Website

All information is listed for historical and educational purposes. The F-86 Sabre Pilots Association will stand down after being organized 35 years ago.My mission is to return this website to preserve the history of the F86 Sabre jet and the men who flew them for current and future generations.