L-19/O-1 Bird Dog
The "Bird Dog" was originally ordered by the US Army after WWII to replace the various liaison aircraft that had been used and worn out during that conflict. Cessna delivered 2,486 L-19’s to the Army between 1950 and 1954, of which 60 were diverted to the US Marines. A few saw duties during the Korean conflict, but it was in Vietnam that the O-1, as it was then designated, saw considerable duty. Acquired by the Air Force from the Army, it was used extensively in the early stages of the American involvement as a forward air control aircraft until being replaced by faster aircraft later in the war.
The L-19 shown here is owned by Bill and Debbie Finney of Muncie, IN. They are past participants at the show and are always willing to talk to you about their "Bird Dog".
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Be sure to come early and enjoy the multitude of exhibits and displays as well as an expanded food & drink selection, exhibits, and many static displays of airplanes you can see up close and personal.
Performers, Schedule & Events are subject to change.
