June 6, 2006 at 9:26 am
I need some help with this one. In early 1946 Robin Olds and ‘Pappy’ Herbst formed the first true jet aerobatic team albeit a duo. Both were attached to the 39th TRS which flew P-80s out of March Field. Sadly Herbst’s aircraft crashed while the pair were flying a display on July 4th 1946. Olds went on to form the first four man team in P-80s.
Does anyone have any information about Olds and Herbst’s team? even photos!
I’m presently researching early USAF jet photo squadrons hence the interest.
I’ve attached a photo below of four of the 39th pilots in May ’46 including Olds and Leon Gray the squadron commander. Apologies for the quality.
Doug Gordon