The USS Hornet Museum in Alameda will unveil a new public exhibit on February 9 that focuses on the history of aerial firefighting in California. Museum visitors will have the opportunity to meet firebomber pilots who courageously combat wildfires from the air. The grand opening event begins at 1 p.m.
Last year CALFIRE responded to 7,605 fires that consumed 371,176 acres.
Published: February, 2008
USS Hornet Museum Honors Aerial Firefighters
The Aerial Firefighting in California exhibit provides an in-depth look at the history of fighting wildfires from the air by CALFIRE. Former United States Navy aircraft have provided the cornerstone of air-tankers, heli-tack and air-attack operations. A large number of the nation’s aerial firefighting pilots, many of whom are former naval aviators, will be onboard the USS Hornet for the grand opening.
Permanently displayed on the USS Hornet is the TBM Avenger that was used for firebombing at the end of its career and an US2B Tracker similar to those currently used by the fire services.
Former military aircraft have been the backbone of the state and national airtanker fleets since the 1950s. The nation’s fleet of airtankers also includes P-3 Orions, DC-4s, DC-6s, and P-2V Neptunes, most of which are owned and operated by private companies under contract with the Forest Service or state forestry departments.
From over 20 bases located statewide, aircraft can reach most fires within 20 minutes. Airtactical planes fly overhead directing airtankers and helicopters to critical areas of the fire for retardant and water drops. While both airtankers and helicopters are equipped to carry fire retardant or water, the helicopters can also transport firefighters, equipment and injured personnel. In 2007, CALFIRE responded to 7,605 fires that consumed 371,176 acres.
The USS Hornet aircraft carrier, which now serves as a floating museum, participated in two major events: WWII and the Apollo Moon Mission. Exhibits include Apollo spacecraft, Navy military aircraft and rescue helicopters ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and an authentic Apollo capsule. Also open for public tour are the ship’s flight deck, hangar deck, engine room, flight control, captain’s bridge, sick bay, pilot ready rooms, and combat information center.
The Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier.
A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. Visit
www.uss-hornet.org for more information or feel free to call (510) 521-8448.