Grumman TBF Avenger — The Navy’s Portly Hero

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The article "Grumman TBF Avenger — The Navy’s Portly Hero" by Peter Suciu provides a comprehensive look at the history and performance of the Grumman TBF Avenger, a crucial torpedo bomber used by the U.S. Navy during World War II. Known for its bulky and practical design, the Avenger wasn't built for grace but was highly effective in combat, delivering torpedoes and bombs from aircraft carriers. Introduced in 1941, the Avenger was a robust machine, initially built by Grumman and later by General Motors, producing nearly 10,000 units collectively. In its role, it had a crew of three and was equipped with both offensive armaments and defensive features which adapted and saw continuous use throughout the war and even into the early Cold War years.

One of the Avenger's significant moments came during the Battle of Midway, a crucial point in the Pacific Theater of WWII. Though initially unequipped to defend itself effectively, improvements over time made the Avenger versatile, taking parts in a variety of roles, from anti-submarine warfare to light transport. The Avenger's development was impressive, becoming more than just a torpedo bomber by incorporating different weapons like high-velocity rockets and being used across different international forces post-war. It was an aircraft valued for its durability and adaptability in challenging combat scenarios.

Notably, the article highlights how future President George H.W. Bush served as an Avenger pilot during WWII, surviving a close encounter which saw him shot down but successfully rescued, underscoring the risk and bravery associated with flying such an aircraft. Despite its unrefined aesthetics, the Avenger proved itself as a workhorse of the U.S. Navy, credited with downing numerous enemy ships and submarines. Today, the aircraft's legacy is honored with various surviving units displayed in museums across the United States, symbolizing its storied history and the valor of those who piloted it. This fascinating piece on military aviation history is explored in greater detail in full in the original article.

For more detailed insights and to read the complete story, please visit Grumman TBF Avenger — The Navy’s Portly Hero.

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