The Curtiss AT-5 was the training version of the P-1 pursuit. This example, 27-239, is from Kelly Field. 239 crashed in 1931.

The Douglas O-43 was one of the slicker looking aircraft of the 1930’s. This bird of the 12th Observation Squadron sure is pretty darn nifty.

Taken during the late 1930’s.

This sign of the 3rd proudly hangs on my office wall at home.

The O-38 was ubiquitous in the 1930’s Air Corps observation squadrons. Later versions such as the E model this had fully enclosed cockpits as seen here.

P-36 forms the backdrop for Major Hal George and his boys in the summer of ’39. If I had a way-back machine, one of my time travel stops would be Air Corps Day 1939 at Wright Field.

PT-6 has just landed: engine is running, and there are weeds snagged in the tail skid. Check out the pilot 2nd from right.

---

Pilots pose with the famed Roscoe Turner, center.

---

Now this is what I call decor. Emblem of the 476th Pursuit Squadron “The Black Falcons” adorns the wall.

---

A Curtiss B-2 Condor of the 11th Bomb Squadron. The name “Rockwell Field” is painted on the oil drum like radiator atop the nacelle.

---

Airfields have improved since 1931. The Condor almost looks as if it was forced to land in the middle of Wyoming.

---

Officers of the 476th at March Field. The building is the officer’s club, and is still in use today as the “Hap Arnold Club”. The list of famous names who have bent an elbow at the bar is too long for counting. (Been there a time or two, and to Sally’s Alley out back.)

---

“And on the plane, we call these ‘wings’.” Some basic flying techniques are taught next to the Air Corps hangar at Long Beach. The oil rigs on Signal Hill in the background gave it the nickname “Porcupine Hill.”

The 476th was a reserve squadron stationed at Long Beach airport. These photos were taken there, and at March Field.

---