American Legion Post 227 visits the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum

From left Jerry Pickard, Justin Spielmann, Larry Fischer.

Text and photos by Jerry Pickard

On Tuesday, January 23, 2018 Post Commander Larry Fischer and Post Historian Jerry Pickard traveled to Paine Field to meet Education Coordinator Justin Spielmann at the Flying Heritage and Combat Armor Museum.

Commander Fischer had met docent Paul Miller, a twenty year Air Force veteran, at a Veterans Day event in Edmonds.

Mr. Miller invited Cmdr. Fischer to visit the Flying Heritage Museum to tour the facility during his Friday shift and take information as a Post presenter of the museum.

Russian trainer bi-plane (restored)

Mr. Miller set up a meeting with Justin Spielmann, Education Coordinator at the Museum.

Pratt and Whitney R-2800-79. Cut away training engine.

We met Mr. Spielmann at the entrance to the Museum. Commander Fischer exchanged paperwork with Mr. Spielmann, who then gave a tour of the facility.

Japanese Type 95 Ha-Go Tank (battle Damaged)

We saw many beautifully restored aircraft and combat armor pieces, some restored to new condition and some showing battle damage.

FQ-1D Corsair Fighter aircraft. Navy and Marine Corps flew these
very successfully against the Japanese in the Pacific War

The tour was very interesting with many aircraft restored to flight status and flown during the summer airshows. Many more were on static display.

Bell UH-1B Iroquois Gunship commonly known as a "HUEY" to the troops.

I highly recommend a visit to the Museum if you have an interest in aircraft and armor. There are many related pieces of equipment on display in two buildings. It can take a few hours to see everything.

They are located at 3407 109th St SW, Everett 98204. Their web address is FlyingHeritage.com