HELLCAT

In the early 60's the (Late) John Sandberg and his bother Jim Sandberg happened across a Hellcat located in Fergus Falls, MN.  As you can see by the photos it was a derelict aircraft.  She was pushed into the weeds and left to rot.  After spending numerous week ends up in Fergus Falls working on the aircraft; they were finally able to fly the aircraft home.  In 1965, John had an engine failure and landed in the industrial area in the New Hope district.  (Today it would be off of highway 169 and Bass Lake Road).  John and Jim rebuilt her and painted her in the black color scheme.  As of today the aircraft is still flying in Midland, TX.  Jack donated the aircraft to the CAF (at that time they were located in the Harlingen, TX area). 

She may not look good; but she got me home!

Yep, This is called flying by the seat of my pants!!

With a little bit of work she will be just like new!

Fegus Falls prior to accident in 1965

Yes, She does run.

We can do this!!

Will She Fly - I sure hope so. Fergus Falls, MN

Wind shield of the Hellcat when she was ferried home in the early 60's

I made it home from Fergus

The Hellcat now has instruments!

Taxing in

Flying after the first restoration

Hellcat accident in 1965

Accident in 1965

Accident of 1965

Hellcat accident of 1965

Restored Side Panel of Cockpit

John starting the Hellcat up in Crystal, MN

John ready for starting the engine

Ready for take off

More Testing

Restored Hellcat

Restored Hellcat after 1965 accident

John and the Hellcat grace the skies again

A "New" paint scheme

Minnesota skies

Enjoying the Flight

Showing off

She sure is "Pretty"

 

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