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Hap Arnold was honored on this 1988 stamp. His role in Alaska developing aviation is overshadowed by his many contributions nationwide. Supporting Mitchell nearly cost him his career. But he eventually became a 5 star General of the Army. Then, after the U.S. Air Force was established in 1947, he became the only person ever to hold the 5 star General of the Air Force rank.

Hap Arnold and his son Lt. Bruce Arnold in 1945

'Offense is the essence of air power.'

'A modern, autonomous, and thoroughly trained Air Force in being at all times will not alone be sufficient, but without it there can be no national security.'

'Strategic air assault is wasted if it is dissipated piecemeal in sporadic attacks between which the enemy has an opportunity to readjust defenses or recuperate.'

'It’s got to be done and done quickly, so let’s get it done.'

'No man expects to live for ever. But the man in perfect physical condition will live longer, especially in combat.'

'The WASP proved that they could fly wing tip-to-wing tip with their brothers in a time of critical need in this country.'

'When the question comes up of whether we use the atomic bomb or not, my view is that the Air Force will not oppose the use of the bomb, and will deliver it effectively if the Commander in Chief decides to use it. But it is not necessary to use it in order to conquer the Japanese without the need for a land invasion.'

-- General H. H. 'Hap' Arnold, USAAF.

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Great Airpower Thread, SAM.

The statement that Arnold AFB, TN is the only USAF base without a flying unit is probably not correct. I don't believe Goodfellow AFB, TX, Brooks-City Base, TX or Bolling AFB, DC have active runways. Peterson AFB, CO, Falcon AFS, CO, Schriever AFB, CO and Onizuka, AFS, CA are Space Command bases and provide satellite control and early warning.

As I recall, the B-29 used Wright R-3350 engines, engines later used in Lockheed Constellations, C-119s, and Douglass ADs, the famous "Spad" of Viet Nam.

The R-3350 was never as reliable as the Pratt R-2800 used in the F4U, P-47, and Douglass DC-6 even after post war development. I have read Spad stories of sudden loss in oil pressure, requiring getting out immediately.

The late reciprocating air liners had fairly routine engine failures, requiring prompt action to prevent engine fires. When I was a lad the recip air liners on the USA - Japan run went down in the ocean pretty often, maybe once a year.

As is obvious, I have a soft spot for the big radials. I ran across a website for aficionados such as myself, but these lads collect them, get them in good shape, store them in their garage, and start them up in their driveway when they feel like doing so.

I have been discussing this hobby with my wife, who has been encouraging me to find a suitable pastime, so that I will be less in her hair, and for some reason she is not enthusiastic. Be just the thing for those sleepless nights.

One thing is for sure, the earthquake start and awesome roar of a Pratt R-2800 (my personal favorite!), would get my neighbors off to a fine early start to their days!