AVG legacy

Air Classics, Nov 2002 by Goolsby, James E

The two-part article by Dick Rossi about his time spent with the American Volunteer Group gave us an excellent picture of the day-to-day struggle helping the Chinese people. These men were heroes then and deserve that title still.

They may not be aware of it, but their effectiveness and demeanor lasted for more years than they may realize. On the streets of Kunming was a twelveyear-old boy to whom these men made a lasting impression. This young man, Sushi Cheng, grew up to become one of China's top aircraft designers. He was instrumental in the design of the JJ-1 (a jet trainer), the CJ-6 (China's first designed and produced aircraft), and the Y-10 (a four-engine jet transport).

Last year at EAA AirVenture 2001, our Yak Pilots Association was able to invite Mr. Cheng to the US and meet the pilots of the popular CJ-6A Warbird trainer. I was honored to give him his first ride in the CJ-6. In the 42 years since the prototype flew, he never had the opportunity to fly in the craft.

In a speech to our association, Mr. Cheng remarked that the men of the AVG had a marked influence not only in his view of Americans but toward his passion for aviation. These men and their struggle first made him think about flying and soon his notebooks were filling with aircraft drawings.

So, who knows, Mr. Rossi, as you stood "surveying Kunming" with your mustache and goatee some 60 years ago, a young Chinese boy standing nearby was watching. Thus a seed was planted.

James E. Goolsby, Sr.

1717 CR 308

Crescent City, FL

32112