Visit to Springfield, MO Downtown Airport Yields Special Surprise

By Carmelo Turdo

A recent visit to the Springfield, MO area brought The Aero Experience crew to historic Downtown Airport. We were at the airport to photograph the F-84F on display in MO ANG colors when we were privileged to visit with Mr. Bill Johnmeyer, the VP and General Manager of Springfield Flying Service.  He also happens to be the owner of a beautiful Beech A45 (T-34A) Mentor, restored down to the red landing light  - extremely rare in current examples.  He graciously took time to meet with contributor Mark Nankivil, our friend Rich Dann, Captain USNR, and me to explain the details of the aircraft and the airport operations.  Along with a Citation, Stearman and numerous conventional light planes, Mr. Johnmeyer keeps his Mentor is pristine condition.  With the F-84F photos, I am glad to present some views of the EAA Warbird award-winning Mentor:

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