Two Block Fox

Wings of Gold, Spring 2002

Fred "Crash"

Blechman of the Two Block Fox squadron submitted this report:

It turned out to be a "triple-header" at a recent meeting of the Two-- Block Fox Squadron in the San Fernando Valley, California. Not only was this "Flight Jacket Night," but honored guests were NROTC Midshipmen from two local schools, and the guest speaker was a Navy captain from nearby Naval Base Ventura County.

While the Two-Block Fox Squadron usually meets high in Granada Hills at The Odyssey Restaurant overlooking the entire San Fernando Valley, the February meeting was held at the 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant, adjoining the Van Nuys airport runways.

Most of the squadron members are WWII or Korean War veterans, and once each year many dig out their flight jackets or uniforms (most of which no longer fit!) or flight suits, adorned with squadron patches and ribbons - an excuse to relive some past tales of daring.

Also on flight jacket night an attempt is made to introduce some local midshipmen from the area to the world of Naval Aviation, since they face career choices as they complete their education. After the fine served dinner, the midshipmen, all in dress whites, and their COs from USC and UCLA, were introduced by Two Block Fox CO, Pete Prieto.

Guest Speaker for the evening was CAPT Mark J. Swaney, an ANA member and Vice Commander of the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division at China Lake. Swaney has over 2,000 flight hours and over 300 arrested carrier landings. He is also a private pilot building his own airplane! He narrated a colorful presentation on the enormous number of activities that take place at NAWCWD.

A raffle ended the evening, with about two dozen donated prizes, including several bottles of member (and former Corsair pilot) Dan Polino's award-winning wine.

Gathered in the photo are squadron members clad in flight jackets and uniforms. In flight suit, front center, is CAPT Swaney.

Official Navy Photo by Adolph A. Mitchell