Copyright 2001 America Hurrah
Amelia Earhart
Six snapshots taken at
Wheeler
Field, Oahu, January, 1935 while
preparing for her historic flight Oahu to Oakland
Her journey began in Los Angeles when the Lockheed Vega NR 965-Y, was
put aboard the Matson Liner, SS Lurline in late December, 1934.
Amelia was accompanied by her husband, George Palmer Putnam;
her technical adviser, the noted film stunt pilot Paul Mantz; Mrs. Mantz, and
Ernie Tissot, her mechanic.
Amelia and Mrs. Mantz
National Geographic magazine, May, 1935
They spent two weeks in Honolulu, outfitting the plane with extra gas tanks in place of the seats and installing radio equipment.
The Six Snapshots
I have had them for many years, but do not remember where they came from. There is no identification on the backs. They appear to be typical snapshots and not the work of a professional. They have faded giving them a sepia appearance.
I appreciate the help of Major Steve Madson, Wheeler Squadron Commander
of the Civil Air Patrol, and Mike Blackford of Hawaii. They provided positive
identification the photos were taken at Wheeler and not at Oakland, as I once
thought. They recognized the Waianae Mountains
in Photo Five.
Bill Roddy,
America Hurrah