The Grumman TBF Avenger flew for the first time seventy-three years ago today. Grumman’s Avenger (built by General Motors / Eastern Aircraft as the TBM) was the most important American torpedo bomber of World War II. Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor prompted Grumman officials to name their new aircraft the “Avenger” and it first saw combat during the Battle of Midway. Despite a poor beginning in that conflict, the Avenger was soon recognized as a potent combat aircraft. The Avenger had the strength and power to replace the Douglas TBD Devastator – it was faster, able to carry more payload and better equipped to defend itself against enemy fighters. The job of constructing the bulk of the Avenger order was subcontracted to the Eastern Aircraft division of General Motors, as Grumman was busy fulfilling large orders for fighters. Both companies combined to build a total of 9,839 aircraft; 7,546 were built by General Motors with the remainder coming from the Grumman “Iron Works.” In addition to torpedo bombing, the type also took on other roles including close air support, airborne early warning, photo reconnaissance, troop carrier and anti-submarine warfare missions! Sailors good-naturedly referred to the Avenger as the “turkey,” since it lookehttps://vintageaviationnews.com/wp-admin/post-new.phpd like an awkward bird with its wings wobbling from side to side and gangly landing gear hanging below as it approached the deck for landing.
Here is one of a photo of “Ida Red,” a TBM-3E Avenger at the 2011 Gathering of Eagles XV Air Show.
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Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
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