Get to know the history behind the aircraft at our museum. This week Pete Behenna, docent and WWII veteran, shows us the Grumman Hellcat F6F-5, Grumman Bearcat F8F, and the Douglas SBD Dive Bomber. The Palm Springs Air Museum depends on donations from our supporters. Thanks to our donors, we are able to maintain a world-class collection of warbirds and preserve history for generations to come. To donate, please visit palmspringsairmuseum.org/donate or support us by purchasing a membership at pal

The Grumman F6F Hellcat was the U.S. Navy’s ultimate fighter in the Pacific during WWII. Here’s why it was a legend: 🔥 Over 5,200 enemy planes destroyed—75% of all Navy air victories! 🔥 Known as “The Aluminum Tank” for its toughness, it took hits and still brought pilots home. 🔥 With a powerful 2,000-hp engine, it hit 380 mph and outflew the Japanese Zero. The Hellcat’s kill-to-loss ratio? A staggering 19:1. This beast ruled the skies and helped secure Allied victory. Want more WWII aviation?

The Grumman F6F Hellcat is fundamentally linked to the USS Yorktown (CV-10), having made its combat debut from this carrier in 1943. Today, a restored Hellcat is a centerpiece of the aircraft collection on the museum ship at Patriots Point in South Carolina. Historical Significance on CV-10 Combat Debut: The F6F Hellcat entered operational combat for the first time on August 31, 1943, during a raid on Marcus Island launched from the USS Yorktown. First Landing: Commander James “Jimmy” Flatley ma