In the early days of manned flight

the “Aviator” was required to be the Pilot, Navigator, Ground Crew, Mechanic, and in many cases the Designer.

As time progressed and nations fought over ideology, religion and resources the aircraft industry was rushed into competitive advancements creating an environment that also required the Aviator to assume the role of soldier and focus on “Kill or be killed”.

Today the modern Aviator is supported by high tech defense armament, computer aided systems effecting decisions on flight configuration, enemy acquisition and weapons choices. All of these advancements are required to maintain effective air superiority.

While this new breed of pilot is a requirement of modern society - it is easy to forget the different breed of Aviator who once took to the sky. The Aviator of old relied solely on a level of arrogance that in many instances proved to be the only difference between success and failure in unproven, underpowered combinations of stretched canvas and aircraft flying wires.

This site and my hobby both find a foundation and dedication to the soles of early aviators. (The ones who had nothing and everything was expected)