Colonel Bob Murphy, USA (ret) was kind enough to send us some photos of his Grumman TBM-3 Avenger BuNo 53757 (N3969A). This aircraft is currently based at Fernandina Beach, FL and the Bob flies to many shows in the Southeast.
Here is a brief history of his plane:
” Built in 1945, Avenger 53787 served on the USS Block Island and later used for fleet training at NAS Jacksonville. In 1958, 53787 was sold to be a fire bomber, first in Montana and then in Canada until 2008 when It was sold and flown to the US where it has been restored and is flown by Col. Bob Murphy (USA ret.) who in four Vietnam combat tours was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, two Legions of Merit, five Bronze Stars and 14 Air Medals. “
i wonder if someone can tell me how to contact Col Bob Murphy. He’s my long time friend … when he was in HI. My name is Char M Villaver (407) 730-6821. Thanks