The Incredible Story of F-6D Mustang Pilot Elmer Pankratz

Elmer Pankratz, a nearly 102-year-old World War II pilot, shares his experiences as one of America's few remaining North American P-51 Mustang pilots and possibly the last F-6D Mustang pilot. Elmer, who fought in the skies over Europe, transitioned from yearning for wings during the Great Depression to facing the hard realities of wartime aviation. His journey into the U.S. Army Air Corps began with the change in their education requirements, which allowed him with just a high school diploma to pursue flight training and later pilot the iconic Mustang.

Meeting Elmer in 2007, the author Tom Laemlein helped bring his memoir "I Needed a War To Do It" to print. The tale covers Elmer’s trials and triumphs from initial nervous flights to overcoming vertigo and critical moments in basic training. His recollections extend through intense war scenarios like the Battle of the Bulge. Despite the harsh conditions, Elmer’s resolve saw him navigating the perils of reconnaissance missions, evading aggressive German flak, and helping to destroy high-value targets like German trains.

Elmer's remarkable story highlights the daring and bravery of reconnaissance pilots, providing invaluable tactical intelligence. Now retired, he remains active and surrounded by a supportive community aiming to get him back in a Mustang for his 105th birthday. His book, although out of print, remains a testament to his storied military career and experiences. For more, read The Incredible Story of F-6D Mustang Pilot Elmer Pankratz - The Armory Life.

Premier Body Armor Fortis Level III+ Loadout Review — One LEO’s Take

In the article "Premier Body Armor Fortis Level III+ Loadout Review — One LEO’s Take," veteran police officer Alan M. Rice reviews the Premier Body Armor Fortis Level III+ Loadout's effectiveness in providing protection against rifle threats. Rice points out the difficulties faced by officers from smaller, rural agencies who must often supply their own equipment, including rifle-rated ballistic plates. The review is based on Rice's professional experience, noting that while many departments issue ballistic vests, fewer provide rifle-rated plates and carriers, which are crucial for situations involving gunfire.

The review highlights the flexibility and practicality of the Fortis Level III+ plates and Alpha Carrier, which Rice has used for several months. He explains that the setup, which includes two plates and the Fortis Alpha Carrier, offers substantial protection while being significantly lighter than Level IV plates. Additionally, Premier Body Armor's plates are designed using Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight-Polyethylene (UHMWPE), making them multi-hit capable with edge-to-edge protection and reduced backface deformation, thereby minimizing blunt force trauma.

Rice emphasizes the importance of the Fortis Alpha Carrier's ease of use, especially in critical situations like an active shooter event, where quick deployment can save valuable time. He details how the carrier’s adjustable system ensures comfort and versatility, and praises its moisture-wicking properties that keep the wearer cool even during extended use. Concluding his review, Rice highly recommends the Fortis Level III+ Loadout for law enforcement officers, armed security personnel, and anyone needing reliable ballistic protection.

For the full detailed review, please read the original article: Premier Body Armor Fortis Level III+ Loadout Review — One LEO’s Take.

Premier Body Armor Fortis Level III+ Loadout Review — One LEO’s Take

In this article, Alan M. Rice, a veteran police officer, reviews the Premier Body Armor Fortis Level III+ Loadout. The review evaluates the armor's suitability for protection against rifle threats. Rice highlights that while body armor can resist ballistic threats, it does not offer absolute protection. Interestingly, he points out that officers in smaller rural agencies often need to provide their own equipment, including rifle-rated ballistic plates and appropriate carriers, which isn't always provided by their agencies.

The author shares his hands-on experience with the Fortis Level III+/RF1 Multi-Curve Loadout, which includes two plates and the versatile Fortis Alpha Carrier. Rice appreciates the setup for its lightweight yet substantial protection. He describes how the MAAP pouch, part of the gear, provides ample room for spare rifle magazines and medical gear. The armor's plates are made from Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight-Polyethylene (UHMWPE), making them multi-hit capable with edge-to-edge protection, and include Integrated Trauma Mitigation Technology to limit blunt force trauma. The review emphasizes the importance of officers possibly having to supply their own plates to stay protected from rifle fire.

Furthermore, Rice deems the Fortis Level III+ setup, including the carrying system, very comfortable for all-day wear. He tested the gear during a two-day instructor course and found it easy to put on and take off. The comfort level and ease of use make it a suitable choice for law enforcement officers who might need quick access to their gear during active shooter situations. Premier Body Armor offers a seven-year warranty on the Fortis rifle-rated plates and an eight-year warranty on their top-of-the-line Stratis plates. Overall, Rice's assessment highlights the practicality and essential nature of the Fortis Level III+ Loadout for law enforcement officers. For more detailed information, you can read the original article titled Premier Body Armor Fortis Level III+ Loadout Review — One LEO’s Take.

Training B-17 Flying Fortress Gunners for Masters of the Air

“Masters of the Air” is a significant series on Apple TV+ that illustrates the American World War II experience through the lens of the 8th Air Force, specifically focusing on the 100th Heavy Bombardment Group known as “The Bloody Hundredth.” This series is part of a trilogy that includes “Band of Brothers” and “The Pacific.” Capt. Dale Dye, a retired USMC officer, served as the Senior Military Advisor for the mini-series, ensuring authenticity in depicting the trials and tribulations of B-17 Flying Fortress air gunners. His work involved extensive research and training actors to accurately portray these gunners' challenging roles.

The series shines a spotlight on air gunners, who are typically overshadowed by pilots, navigators, and bombardiers. Dale Dye emphasized the need for accurate representation of these unsung heroes who operated heavy machine guns in arduous conditions, often at high altitudes and sub-zero temperatures. Training for the actors included basic military practices, handling .50-cal Browning M2HB machine guns, and dealing with flight-related challenges such as wearing oxygen masks and heated suits. This rigorous training aimed to provide actors with an authentic understanding of the gravity of these roles.

The actors portraying the B-17 crewmen went through extensive drills, wearing period-specific gear and operating in mock-up environments that simulated the actual cramped conditions of B-17 bombers. This preparation helped them deliver realistic performances, reflecting the real-life air gunners' experiences during missions. The series not only highlighted the technical and physical challenges faced by these airmen but also paid tribute to their bravery and skill, offering a long-overdue recognition for their contributions. For more details, read the original article: Training B-17 Flying Fortress Gunners for Masters of the Air - The Armory Life.

Training B-17 Flying Fortress Gunners for Masters of the Air

"Masters of the Air" is a historic World War II miniseries airing in 2024 on Apple TV+, serving as the third installment in a trilogy that follows "Band of Brothers" and "The Pacific". Captain Dale Dye, USMC (Ret), played a pivotal role as Senior Military Advisor, emphasizing the importance of accurately depicting the experiences of Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress gunners. Extensive research focused on the 8th Air Force in the European Theater of Operations, particularly the 100th Heavy Bombardment Group, also known as The Bloody Hundredth.

Training sessions for the actors entailed learning to operate the real Browning M2HB .50-cal. machine guns and simulating high-altitude conditions. The actors were equipped with oxygen masks, heated suits, and other period-specific gear to induce the authentic experience of air gunners' challenges. Such rigorous training aimed to ensure these actors could accurately portray the intricate tasks of air gunners, including recognizing enemy aircraft and maneuvering in cramped conditions. The article highlights how this thorough training impacted the filming, helping actors move seamlessly and confidently, much like the real air gunners in WWII.

Read the full article: Training B-17 Flying Fortress Gunners for Masters of the Air - The Armory Life

First Look: Springfield Armory Echelon 4.5F Comp

Springfield Armory has introduced the Echelon 4.5F Comp, a 9mm pistol designed for reduced recoil and faster target acquisition, enhancing shooting experience without drawbacks. This new model follows in the footsteps of the Hellcat Pro Comp and the Springfield Prodigy Comp, incorporating the latest technology from the Echelon pistol series. The Echelon 4.5F Comp features a 4.5-inch barrel, a Variable Interface System for optics, and a self-contained serialized Central Operating Group chassis for ease of customization and handling.

The Variable Interface System on the Echelon 4.5F Comp allows for direct mounting of over 30 popular red-dot optics without additional plates. It also provides a robust optic mounting solution, ensuring zero retention. The ergonomic Central Operating Group enables easy grip module swaps, offering flexibility in grip size and color. The Echelon 4.5F Comp boasts advanced features like an integrated compensator, Adaptive Grip Texture, ambidextrous controls, and robust slide serrations for easy manipulation under various conditions.

Jeremy Tremp describes a detailed testing session of the Echelon 4.5F Comp at the range, noting its reliability and performance benefits. The compensator effectively reduces muzzle rise, making the pistol easy to handle and allowing for faster follow-up shots. Various ammo types were tested, highlighting its consistent performance across different loads. The article concludes with strong recommendations for checking out the Echelon series, particularly the 4.5F Comp variant, for enhanced speed, accuracy, and confidence in shooting.

For more details, read the full article: First Look: Springfield Armory Echelon 4.5F Comp - The Armory Life

First Look: Springfield Armory Echelon 4.5F Comp

Springfield Armory has introduced the Echelon 4.5F Comp, a new 9mm chambered pistol, which aims to provide a flatter-shooting experience with reduced recoil. This model follows the steps of other Springfield variants like the Hellcat Pro Comp and Springfield Prodigy Comp. Featuring a patented Variable Interface System for optics mounting, and a serialized Central Operating Group housed in a polymer grip, the Echelon 4.5F Comp is advertised as one of the most advanced handguns available. The gun's significant innovation is an integral compensator designed to reduce muzzle rise and improve shooting accuracy.

Springfield Armory Echelon 4.5F Comp adds porting to the semi-automatic pistol to reduce muzzle flip during rapid fire. The handgun is chambered for the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge.

Jeremy Tremp, the article author, tested the Echelon 4.5F Comp with various ammunition types to examine its effectiveness and reliability. He praised the gun’s ability to return quickly to zero, making it easy to deliver fast, accurate follow-up shots. The test also highlighted the gun's adaptive grip texture and ambidextrous features for handling and reloading. The effectiveness of the built-in compensator in different ammo conditions showed its potential in enhancing shooting performance by significantly reducing muzzle rise and felt recoil.

Tremp also outfitted the Echelon 4.5F Comp with a Surefire X300 Turbo weaponlight and a Vortex Defender-ST red dot sight for his evaluations. Providing an enjoyable and productive range experience, the pistol, with its innovative compensating features, impressed Tremp. It showcased Springfield Armory's commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology in firearms and provided users with a high-quality, reliable option for training and duty use.

To read more about this detailed evaluation, check out the full article: