What an awesome and mighty sight that must have been!
That it indeed was! We (and everyone else) were completely mesmerized.
More than just healthy planes were flying in. Many had engine trouble, some leaving a smoky trail behind them, many coughing and wheezing toward the runway.
Though these were few in overall number, they certainly provided high drama, as several had to make emergency landings in the 'off runway' desert, because they could not stay 'in line' for their scheduled landing.
We kids laid on our backs in the shade under the edge of giant mesquite bushes all day long, watching 'the show.' It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that became 'totally unforgettable' - as they say in today's vernacular.