Warbird Radio – Details, episodes & analysis

WARBIRD RADIO - Over the years we've had the honor of hosting many aviation legends, but few have left as lasting an impression as the late General Clarence "Bud" Anderson. Known for his incredible missions during World War II, where he became a triple ace, Anderson frequently graced our airwaves with tales of his aerial dogfights and his deep wisdom.

While his heroic exploits are well-documented in his book, "To Fly and Fight," and numerous interviews, it was his life lessons and mentoring moments that truly stood out to us. Those were the golden nuggets he shared, providing insights that went far beyond the battlefield.

As we celebrate his well-lived life, we are thrilled to share a special, previously unbroadcast conversation from our archives. This recording, made during a quiet moment at a bustling aviation convention was our last interview with General Anderson. At the time, many believed these might be some of his final days. Yet, true to form, Bud Anderson defied expectations, continuing to inspire and surprise us all.

This unedited conversation between Bud Anderson and his daughter, Kitty, offers no great war stories but is rich with the wisdom and warmth that defined him. It’s a testament to his enduring spirit and the lessons he imparted to all who knew him.

General Bud Anderson flew west on May 17th, 2024, at the age of 102. His legacy, however, lives on. You can still purchase his book, "To Fly and Fight," available in print, digital, and audio formats at toflyandfight.com.

Join us as we honor the memory of a true American hero and share in the timeless wisdom he left behind.

#warbirdradio #budanderson #toflyandfight #p51 #357fg

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WARBIRD RADIO - We're thrilled to announce a special guest appearance by John "Skipper" Hyle from the Museum Of The Forgotten Warrior. Skipper joins host Matt Jolley to share exciting updates about the museum’s upcoming airshow appearances, summer projects, and valuable insights for warbird operators new to the airshow scene.

The Museum Of The Forgotten Warrior is dedicated to remembering and educating the next generation about the unsung heroes of World War II—those service members who didn’t always make the headlines but were essential to the war effort. From instructors and maintenance crew to those who supported on the home front, these individuals played crucial roles in securing victory.

During his appearance on WARBIRD RADIO, Skipper will provide a sneak peek into the museum’s plans for the summer, including airshow schedules and new exhibits. He will also share practical tips and advice for warbird operators looking to break into the airshow circuit, offering his wealth of experience and expertise.

Tune in to hear Skipper’s stories and learn more about the mission of the Museum Of The Forgotten Warrior. You can find them online at themofw.com and on social media. Don’t miss out—download this episode and get inspired by the legacy of those who quietly but heroically contributed to winning the war.

Stay tuned to WARBIRD RADIO for more updates and interviews that bring history to life.

WARBIRD RADIO - Warbird Radio Downunder Hosts Dave and Grant talk about Grant's visit to Hastings, near Napier in the North Island of New Zealand, during which time he caught up with Jan and Jerry Chisum at their hangar home on Bridge Pa aerodrome. Jan and Jerry own the 1920s de Havilland DH60 Gipsy Moth that Jan's father (Stan White) purchased in England and then flew down to Sydney, Australia before shipping it to New Zealand. 

Fascinating as that story is, for this episode, Jan talks about their Gardan Minicab aircraft, some of the history of Bridge Pa aerodrome, and the other aircraft they've had in their hangar. And Jerry talks about his experiences flying the P-51 Mustang and B-25 Mitchell before discussing his Bucker Jungmann and the long project he's got to restore it back to flight. It's a great chat, and we thank Jan and Jerry for inviting Grant into their home which is full of aviation memorabilia.

NOTE: You can hear more of Jan and Jerry's story, including the history of the Gipsy Moth and Jan's father's story, and bush flying in Boeing 737s, in episode S02E014 on the Plane Crazy Down Under show at: 

https://www.planecrazydownunder.com/2024/01/22/bush-flying-737s-in-alaska-a-long-haul-gypsy-moth-more-of-the-steve-padgett-story-s02e014/

#warbirdradio #gipsymoth #bridgepa #history #aviation #hastings #newzealand #napier #hangarhome #warbirds #p51 #b25 #jungmann

WARBIRD RADIO - Long-time warbird owner/operator Rick Siegfried talks about the upcoming National Warbird Operator Conference in Coco Beach, Florida.

QUICK LINK: https://www.warbirdradio.com/post/national-warbird-operators-conference-soars-into-cocoa-beach-florida-for-2024

#warbirdradio #warbirds #nwoc #aviation #airshows

WARBIRD RADIO - Warbird Radio Downunder Hosts Dave and Grant speak with Matt Henderson, who with his wife Kaz moved to Tocumwal airport's airpark in New South Wales in 2017, and then in 2019 they set up the Tocumwal Aviation Museum there. 

Matt has researched the fascinating history of Tocumwal, which was one of he biggest aerodromes in the world when it was built by the Australian Government for the US Forces in WWII. By the time the construction was completed the war situation had changed, and the USAAF no longer required it. It was therefore handed over to the Royal Australian Air Force who made it into a massive repair and maintenance base for the RAAF Consolidated B-24 Liberators and other aircraft, as well as a paratroop training school, and more.

As well as the museum, and the popular cafe, Matt and Kaz also run airshows at Tocumwal, their third such event having just taken place in September 2023.

And they have just taken possession of a new addition to the museum, an ex-RAAF Macchi 326, A7-083, handed over by the Air Force on the 20th of October 2023. This episode was recorded two weeks earlier but was embargoed till the handover had happened. 

#warbirdradio #tocumwal #warbirds #aviation #airmuseums

WARBIRD RADIO - Ray Fowler, The Chief Pilot for the Liberty Foundation talks about their B-25's new paint scheme, and their future plans for a museum home. Also, learn the latest on their B-17 restoration and future tour stops. Take a listen...and please subscribe!

#warbirdradio #libertyfoundation #b25 #b17 #djangostudios

WARBIRD RADIO - CAPT Robert "Bob" Batterson not only survived the December 7th surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, he continued to serve his country as a fighter pilot in the United States Navy. This is his incredible story and one we were blessed to record. Take a listen!

Here's the backstory:

Captain Robert E. "Bob" Batterson was a man of honor, courage, and unwavering dedication. Born in the rolling hills of West Virginia, his journey through life would take him from the coal mines of his hometown to the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, and later, into the service of the Church.

In the late summer of 1939, as war clouds gathered over Europe, a young and determined Bob enlisted in the United States Navy. His commitment to serving his country was unwavering, and he would go on to prove his mettle time and time again.

Bob's thirst for knowledge and his drive to excel were evident from the very beginning. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Ohio State University and further honed his skills with a Master's Degree from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. These achievements were just the start of a remarkable career that spanned decades.

His first assignment took him to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, where he underwent recruit training. But fate had grander plans for him. Soon, he found himself stationed aboard the USS Philadelphia, CL-41, as part of the Pacific Fleet. It was here, in the vast blue waters of the Pacific, that Bob would come to understand the profound significance of his service.

Eight months before the infamous December 7th attack on Pearl Harbor, Bob was transferred to Naval Station Pearl Harbor. He would witness the horrors of that day and the United States' entry into World War II. But rather than deter him, the attack steeled his resolve to do all he could to protect his country.

When the opportunity arose for enlisted personnel to apply for flight training, Bob seized it. His determination soared as high as the aircraft he would come to master. In September 1944, he earned his wings as a Naval Aviator, becoming a guardian of the skies.

After completing fighter training in the formidable F6F Hellcat at Daytona Beach, Bob was assigned to Fighter Squadron ONE aboard the USS Bennington, CV-20. He served with distinction until the end of the war, earning respect and accolades from his fellow servicemen.

Bob's commitment to service didn't end with the war's conclusion. He transitioned to the Supply Corps and continued to serve his country in various capacities until his well-deserved retirement in 1974. His military career was marked by unwavering dedication, integrity, and a deep love for his nation.

In retirement, Bob found another calling, one of spiritual significance. He dedicated a decade of his life to serving the Diocese of Corpus Christi as the Fiscal Officer under Bishops Drury and Gracida. His tireless work earned him the Papal Medal Pro-Ecclesia Et Pontifice in 1984, a testament to his devoted service to the Church.

But Bob's heart was not just in the church; it was also on the sea. For over three decades, he volunteered on the USS Lexington Museum, where he was one of the original volunteers. His passion for naval history and his love for the museum's mission were evident in his commitment to preserving the legacy of those who served.

On Friday, August 11th, 2023, Captain Robert E. "Bob" Batterson passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion. His memory lives on in the hearts of those he served, both in the Navy and in the Church. Bob's journey from the coal mines of West Virginia to the skies of World War II and the halls of the Church is a testament to the extraordinary impact one person can have when they dedicate their life to the service of others. He will forever be remembered as a true American hero and a man of deep faith.

#fighterpilot #navalaviation #pearlharborattack #hellcat #f7f #worldwartwo

#warbirdradio #mattjolley

WARBIRD RADIO - In this episode, a recording of a presentation Peter made to an audience in 2014, he takes the listener on a bomber mission, describing all that was involved for the average bomber crew member on an average operational sortie. He also talks about the poor treatment by the British Government and the media of Bomber Command's leader, Sir Arthur Harris, and gives a perspective of 'Bomber' Harris as viewed from one of the men who flew in Bomber Command.

He delves into the baffling controversies that have been generated in recent decades about Harris and the bombing of Dresden, and other topics. And he presents some statistics that detail the losses, and other casualties, in RAF Bomber Command. A sobering topic indeed.

QUICK LINK: https://cambridgeairforce.org.nz/WONZShow/2015/12/woa-peter-isaacson/

WARBIRD RADIO - Zane Adams is back with an all new episode of the Texas Warbird Report. On this episode he checks in with Kelly Mahon from the Mid America Flight Museum.

QUICK LINK: https://midamericaflightmuseum.com/

#warbirdradio #texaswarbirdreport #midamericaflightmuseum

WARBIRD RADIO - The MCAS Miramar Airshow is one of the largest military airshows in the USA. Airshow Director, Christopher Van Stelle joins Matt Jolley with a preview of the 2023 event happening September 22-24. Ken Ashmore, from Pacific Airshow also joins in with a look at the unbelievable modern military line-up happening the following weekend in Huntington Beach September 29th - October 1st.

Buy your tickets now, and go to both shows!

QUICK LINK: https://miramarairshow.com/

QUICK LINK: https://pacificairshowusa.com/

#pacificairshow #miramarairshow #warbirdradio #airshowannouncer