At the second annual fly-in of the Sport Aviation Association (SAA) this weekend I met Pete Heins. Pete told me that his father, Major Edison D. Heins, was part of a unit that was housed at a French airfield sometime in 1944. They found a cream/red Jungmeister on the field that was in flying condition. Permission was obtained to fly the Bucker, but only on condition that it was painted with Olive Drab paint, and wore American "Stars and Bars" markings.
From the colors and the marking on the cowling, it is thought that this may be one of the aircraft flown by none other than Albert Falderbaum. (see here)
Pete is going to see what other information is available in his family, but in the meantime, here are the first few pictures.
Thanks Pete!
I continue to be impressed by the SAA. It does not compete with the EAA, most members belong to the EAA too, but it does concentrate on the lighter, "do it yourself" side of aviation, and is careful to avoid any and all politics. No million $ "kits", no reenactments of Pearl harbor, all volunteer, and all fun. Check out the most recent newsletter here.