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Into a Rising Storm

First, the climb out of Munda into the building cloud formations had that eerie feeling when the young couple, on a dark and stormy night, decide to stop for help at the old decrepit mansion. The ancient wooden door creaks open and …

SWPAC2_AGGV_Out_of_Munda.jpg


The loud rumbling ride across to Rekata Bay proved to be uneventful. But the constant thunderclaps gave pause. The low pass and circle to land produced a normal fighter landing, save for the now common crosswind challenge.

SWPAC2_AGGV_Turn_into_Rekata.jpg


On the flight to AGGF, the lightning and thunder increased to a strobing pitch.
Then, suddenly, the Zero got caught in the bright lights!

SWPAC2_AGGF_Bright_Lights.jpg


Truth be told, the entire trip along Santa Isabel Island was an electrifying experience.

SWPAC2_AGGF_Electric_Santa_Isabel.jpg
 
From Meringe to Auki to Santa Anna. The first quick leg produced some ominous cumulus clouds which proved more benign than anticipated. No storms today.

SWPAC2_AGGA_Cumulus.jpg


Then into and out of Auki to cruise peacefully over the island of Malaita. The spectacular views encouraged this pilot to appreciate the natural beauty of the Solomons. Then a glance to the south, toward Tulagi and Guadalcanal, brought to mind the intense and deadly air battles around here in 1942-1943.

SWPAC2_AGGT_Guadalcanal.jpg


Finally, a steep descent over Makira (San Cristobal) Island as the late afternoon sun casts its luminescent glow on the ocean's surface.

SWPAC2_AGGT_Descent.jpg


And safely into Santa Anna to complete the final leg. The AM6 Navy Type 0 Carrier Fighter turned out to be a delightful aircraft – living up to its legendary status. Thanks to Aeroplane Heaven for their artistry and, of course, to Jiro Horikoshi.

SWPAC2_AGGT_Finale.jpg


Lots of fun in this event. Thanks to Paul for his great organizational efforts.
 
MM said:
Then a quick turn into finals at Jacquinot Bay (JCB).

SWPAC2_JCB_Finals.jpg
Click to expand...

Nice shots Mike! Here's apic of a A6M5 getting restored. Imagine the smell inside the cockpit when the guns are firing. :barf:
Looks pretty darn close to the model you flew.

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