VA-86 "Sidewinders" Squadron-mate Reunion Interviews Part 1

[@steveanderson2930]

Very pleased to see this video. Especially since I remembered the names but not the faces 50 years later. I checked in as an Airman apprentice with VA174 and after Fam training checked into VA86 just after the cruise in ‘73. Worked as plane captain AJ410 later AF/TS during the America and Nimitz cruises. As Plankonwer on Nimitz I brought the first flyable fixed wing aircraft aboard by crane.. Loved/hated 86 but was a great foundation for a 50+ year aviation career AMS2 Steve Anderson FAA Master Mechanic

[@browntr4]

It was such an inspiring visit we had with VA-86 and all the guests that visited us here at the Fort Worth Aviation Museum. We can't thank them enough for sharing their experiences and stories with us. Such dedications ... of these crew ... Officers and Enlisted men ... that came together because of a common respect and the ordeals they endured to share with us. We were happy they chose us to have their VA-86 Reunion for the day. They also visited our archives of materials, equipment, memorabilia, technical publications, which is available as well to all open quests upon request. Thanks again for sharing your stories and times with us. Salute....

[@barryhendrix9101]

Great testimony from Avionics Master Chief Larry Mullen and three Vietnam combat Aviators (Art, Dave, and Roy)! The A-7 was a true light attack workhorse on US Navy carriers from 1967 -1991. The Navy A-7C/E (USAF A-7D) was the first military tactical aircraft with a Head Up Display (HUD) and a digital solution weapon system controlled by the AN/ASN-91 NAV WEPS Delivery Computer with OFP software developed by IBM, Vought/LTV and Navy China Lake). Many vital mission functions were put under control software over 50 years ago. Aviators and maintainers loved the A-7 Corsair II. It was indeed ahead of its time.