Los Angeles, CA
September 28
The Spirit of TWA, on its final journey home, had one more very important stop - Los Angeles International Airport. Captain Curt "Rocky" Walters who recently retired from American Eagle Airlines was being honored for his years of service. Also being honored was long time friend Captain Fred Petrada.
I would like to say Captain Curt is one of the finest pilots I have ever had the pleasure to fly with. Flying coast to coast in an aircraft that is over 70 years old, his attention to detail was impressive. Every fuel stop Curt would be out there with his paper towels, and cleaner, polishing "Ellie". It was so obvious every rivet was inspected, every joint properly oiled. In the air, 
Curt displayed competence, gracefully flying over mountain ranges, valleys, and weaving through gigantic thunderhead. Landings were as gentle as each take-off.
For those who are not aware, Curt and Ruth co-own the Lockheed Electra, Ellie. Captain Curt who accepted the challenge, transformed a very tired, well worn airplane into the grand dame she should be. With great attention to detail, a lot of love and red paint, the little Lockheed is the true Black Beauty story of aircraft.
Ruth and Curt are an impressive team. Working together, they have accomplished what most would think impossible. Their passion shines through as the graceful Lockheed once again proudly displays the grand name of TWA.
Captain Curt, congratulations on your recent retirement, now you are free to pursue all of your dreams. We all wish you the best.
Kaye
Photos
Captain Curt "Rocky" Walters retirement party at American Eagle, LAX. Photos courtesy of Jerry Barizo. Jerry has just finished a new book titled; "A SAAB Story, a Nostalgic Photo Journal of the SAAB340B Crew at LAX".
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American Eagle friends say farewell to Curt "Rocky" |
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