The Naval Air Station Wildwood (NASW) Aviation Museum, located at the Cape May Airport, was proud to help a local veteran fulfill his 70th birthday wish of sitting inside a historic TBM Avenger Torpedo Bomber.
Mr. Bill Lesko has been flying planes for the last 20 years. Some of his extensive pilot experience came from his 23 years serving in the U.S. Army, U.S. Naval Reserve and the U.S. Coast Guard. Mr. Lesko never piloted a TBM Avenger during his time in the war, but has always been taken with this particular type of torpedo bomber. He has been building hand crafted models of these planes for years, always dreaming of getting his chance to be inside of one.
NASW Aviation Museum allowed Mr. Lesko and his wife to stop by for the chance to board a TBM Avenger and sit in the ball turret and cockpit. While most aircraft are accessible to guests, this is the first time that the museum has allowed anyone to enter the TBM Avenger since it was restored and displayed in Hangar #1. NASW was honored to accommodate Mr. Lesko for his 70th birthday and would like to thank him for his years of service.
