American Legion’s A-4 Arrives At It’s New Home
By Dale Piper
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After over three years of waiting, the Middlebury American Legion's A-4 attack aircraft display has arrived at Legion headquarters, where it will await mounting on a pedestal. On Wednesday afternoon, March 1, the aircraft made its way slowly on back roads from the Middlebury State Airport, where it had arrived in June and was painstakingly restored. Towed on its own wheels by a pickup truck, it made its way over snow covered and often-potholed roads for the hour and a half trip to its new home. The only touchy moment came when it had to make a right-hand turn onto Cady Road, where it had to pass between two road signs, which were the same distance apart as the plane's 27-foot wingspan. A little careful maneuvering brought it around the corner and it continued on its way.
The aircraft was obtained on loan from the United States government after a lengthy and complex process spearheaded by Legion member Jim Kater, who flew planes likes this one for the United States Marine Corps. Other members contributed their talents, knowledge and contacts to complete the process and have the plane moved to Middlebury.
It was necessary to wait for a cold spell to freeze the gravel roads before the plane could be towed. Because of this winter's above-average temperatures, this caused quite a delay. However, all that remains now is for the aircraft to be permanently mounted on the stone pedestal that has been erected at the American Legion post to create a display honoring our nation's veterans and the military.