The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver
was responsible for the destruction of more Japanese targets than any
other aircraft. It joined the US Navy in 1943 and along with the SBD
Dauntless, was the primary attack/bombing aircraft for the US Navy.
Over 7,000 were made and all but 26 went right into US Navy service.
Many foreign navies used the Helldiver post-war. This Helldiver,
operated by the Commemorative Air Force is based in Texas and is
currently the only flying example of the Helldiver. It was manufactured
in 1944 and is an SBC2C-5 model. It was a rare treat to see it in
California.
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