FIFI Firing All 4 Engines

This Memorial day I was lucky enough to watch as the Commemorative Air Force ran up all four engines on “FiFi”, the B-29 Bomber. It’s been a few years since she’s seen the skies due to her age. Fortunately, as an airplane, new-er parts can replace those which failed, but she still maintains the integrity of what she was built for 60+ years ago.

I was lucky enough to witness the nearly 1,000 motorcycles that took to the highway from a Vietnam Memorial to a WWII Memorial several towns over. To see so many riders, many of them Veterans themselves, on the road as a way of recognizing those who’ve passed and those who serve, was an overwhelming feeling. The freedom to be on the road myself, on my own two wheels, feeling the wind rush around me… I am thankful.

Our histories tell our stories. Someone, somewhere in your life, was in a battle. The uncle who never talks about what he saw, but wears his unit patch with pride. The cousin who jokes about all the weapons he’s trained on, but you don’t hear from him for months. The grandfather who flew a B-24 in Italy, once down to two engines coming over the Alps, unsure he’d ever make it back, but so thankful he did. The friend who worked in the trauma units, repairing wounded soldiers, now who savors the quiet ease of a home-town doctor’s office. You yourself may have a story to share. Your experience, your thoughts, your actions.

It’s the day after now. We keep moving forward and try not to forget.

The Reveal

Ralph and Knockout Motorcycle Company polish up the last remaining details on the custom motorcycle that has now become known as Gunfighter. One last test to make sure everything works and the engine rumbles before taking the bike to Las Vegas.

The Gunfighter Motorcycle is unveiled to an awed crowd at the Commemorative Air Force 50th Anniversary celebration held in Las Vegas. In 28 days he pulled off this fantastic bike.

Stay tuned for more behind the scenes build video and upcoming promotions.

Prepping For Flight

Did you know:

• The P-51 Mustang Fighter became the first single-engine airplanes to attack the Germans in their own homeland when they carried out strafing raids on Dortmund
• On escort missions with bombers, the bullet spitting fighters not only protected their “big brothers”, but added their own firepower in strafing attacks on the enemy.
• Versatility has been the most useful of all Mustang attributes, enabling the Army Air Forces to use this single design on fighting, dive bombing, escort and reconnaissance work.

- Notes from “SuperFighter- The Mustang” by the Editors of Air News, 1945

Legend has it that the Mustang nickname was chosen for the sleek and powerful fighter because it reminded them of the small and quick war horses that Native Americans were fond of for battle. It maneuvers well, carries a large capacity, has amazing range and top speeds – there’s very little this war plane could not do.

The P-51 Mustang known as Gunfighter is getting ready for the 2010 Air Show performance schedule, you can find dates and locations via the Commemorative Air Force Great Plains Wing.

She’s been a member of the CAF fleet since 1977 when she was acquired with the help of USAF General (Ret) Regis Urschler. Gunfighter came off the Inglewood, CA line in March of 1945 – and might I say she looks damn fine for 65 years old!