“The So Cal Aviation Industry from 1939 to 1945” –
Mike Smith
Speaker – Mike Smith, Docent and Community Outreach Coordinator, Planes of Fame Museum –
Mike Smith’s presentation is about the aviation industry in Southern California during the period of 1939 through 1945. During these six years, the region was the epicenter of aircraft production for the allied war machines of WWII. The allies (United States, Great Britain, the Soviet Union and 45 other allied nations) produced 296,429 combat aircraft over this six-year period. Forty-two percent of these were designed and built by companies headquartered in Southern California. Using rare photographs and commentary, Mike’s presentation will look at the plants, the planes, and the people working at seven of the major Southern California aircraft producers during this time.
The Planes of Fame Air Museum was founded in 1957 and is dedicated to preserving aviation history, inspiring an interest in aviation, educating the public, and honoring aviation pioneers and veterans. It currently houses its collection of over 150 vintage and historic aircraft in two locations, including at Chino Airport. Mike Smith has been a volunteer with the museum for the past six years and coordinates all the docent activity, including guided tours and other presentations for the museum. After serving three years in the U.S. Army, Mike worked 17 years at Northrop Aviation, five years at Rockwell Collins, and five years at Courseware Inc. in San Diego. He has lived in Claremont since 1985.
Introduction: Larry Fox
Fellowship: Don McDonald
Greeter: Peter Boniface