John Glenn (NASA Astronaut) – John Glenn (May 2012)


Chapters

00:00:46 Aviation Centennial: Marine Aviation Retrospective
00:04:25 History of Marine Aviation and the Air-Ground Team
00:12:11 Marine Fighter Pilot Training During World War II
00:21:25 Military Preparations in the Marshall Islands
00:24:29 Experiences of War and Transition for Naval Aviator John Glenn
00:28:05 Post-War Assignments and Training
00:33:39 Marine Pilot's Transition to Air-to-Air Combat in Korea
00:35:43 Innovative Air-Ground Support Development in the Korean War
00:39:43 Korean War: John Glenn's Experiences of Close Air Support and Hits Taken
00:44:23 Air-to-Air Combat Experiences of John Glenn in the Korean War
00:48:07 Dangers and Delights of Test Piloting
00:54:42 John Glenn's Path to Becoming an Astronaut
01:03:02 Military Innovations for Modern Warfare
01:06:19 Aviation Innovations and Their Impact on Warfare
01:10:25 Impacts of Space Exploration on Earth
01:17:18 Early Aviation and Military Service

Abstract



“John Glenn: A Lifetime of Courage and Innovation in Marine Aviation”

Senator John Glenn, a celebrated Marine fighter pilot and astronaut, presented a compelling narrative at the 2012 Charles A. Lindbergh Lecture. The lecture focused on the rich history of Marine aviation over the past century, coinciding with the Centennial of Marine Aviation. Through his personal experiences, Glenn covered the evolution of air-ground combat, the role of technology in warfare, and the enduring significance of aviation in military and civilian life.

Main Ideas Expansion:

Early Marine Aviation and Air-Ground Team Concept:

– In the early years of Marine aviation, Alfred Cunningham’s leadership shaped the establishment of the Marine Corps’ aviation wing and the development of the air-ground team concept. Cunningham brought forth opportunities to refine this concept and employ close air support effectively during the Banana Wars and World War II.

John Glenn’s Fighter Pilot Journey:

– John Glenn’s journey from a Naval Aviation Cadet to a fighter pilot exemplified his determination and the spirit of seeking opportunities to excel. He pursued twin-engine experience, transferred to an F4F fighter squadron, and trained in the initial version of the F-4U Corsair. A memorable encounter with Charles Lindbergh led to a demonstration of the improved F4U-1D, which Glenn and his colleague were allowed to fly.

Wartime Experiences and Korean War Innovations:

– During World War II, Glenn served in the Pacific, transporting troops and supplies on a ship converted from a banana boat. The ship had large holds converted into living quarters for the soldiers, and Glenn spent most of his time on deck during the voyage to Hawaii due to the uncomfortable conditions below deck. He was part of a delayed invasion of the Marshall Islands, which were heavily fortified by the Japanese. Glenn’s squadron was the first to arrive in Majuro after it had been captured from the Japanese. The carrier anchored in the lagoon, and the planes were catapulted off at anchor, which was a new experience for Glenn and his squadron mates. On his first mission, his close friend and wingman, Monty Goodman, was lost, leaving a lasting impact on Glenn.

– In the Korean War, Glenn earned the nickname “MiG Mad Marine” for his eagerness in air-to-air combat and demonstrated bravery in a daring rescue attempt for his wingman. The conflict also brought forward innovations in air-ground cooperation and combat air patrol flights.

– Glenn, stationed at Otis Air Force Base, assumed responsibility for F-86 training. Each Air Force fighter interceptor squadron reserved a spot for a Marine pilot in Korea. The F-86s, renowned for their air-to-air capabilities, formed a protective screen against MiGs, safeguarding close support aircraft and ground forces. Eager to join the air-to-air combat, Glenn requested F-86 training before his deployment to Korea.

– Glenn commended the exceptional air-ground coordination achieved during the Korean War, surpassing standards set in World War II. Static front lines facilitated frequent attacks and counterattacks. To ensure precise airstrikes, Glenn’s squadron used white phosphorus (WP) grenades or mortar rounds to mark targets. Ground forces provided exact target coordinates, sometimes adjusting the strike location based on the initial impact.

MiG Mad Marine and Rescue Attempts:

– During the Korean War, Glenn’s pursuit of air-to-air combat earned him the nickname “MiG Mad Marine.” He recounted a daring rescue attempt for his wingman, John Girato, highlighting his courage and dedication to his fellow pilots. His reluctance to eject, fearing injury during the process, led to the Air Force naming his plane “MiG Mad Marine.” Glenn initially wanted to remove the nickname but later decided to keep it. He also progressed from wingman to element leader to flight leader, gaining experience in shooting positions. During checkout missions, if there were no MiGs in the air, they were instructed to conserve fuel and ammunition by flying low and targeting trucks and other ground vehicles.

– Glenn’s plane was damaged during the mission to rescue Girato, forcing him to make a 108-mile glide back to base with no power. This dangerous maneuver, now prohibited for pilots in swept wing jets, demonstrated Glenn’s exceptional piloting skills.

Test Pilot Training and Project Bullet:

– Glenn’s transition from combat to a test pilot demonstrated his adaptability and skill. His successful cross-country speed record in the FHU Crusader exemplified the advancements in aviation technology and his personal achievements. After the Korean War, Glenn applied for and was accepted to test pilot training, where he served for about three and a half years. As a test pilot, he flew various high-performance attack and fighter aircraft, identifying and resolving issues with their equipment and armament, ensuring their safe and effective use in combat.

– Glenn flew the supersonic FHU Crusader at the Naval Air Test Center in Patuxent River, Maryland, working to resolve serious deficiencies in the aircraft. He proposed Project Bullet, a sustained high engine run on the FHU Crusader while attempting to break the cross-country speed record from Los Angeles to New York. The plan required three in-flight refuelings, but the Navy and Marine Corps lacked capable jet tankers. Glenn requested assistance from the Air Force but was denied due to operational commitments. Undeterred, Glenn successfully completed the cross-country flight, breaking the speed record despite using the less capable AJ tanker. During the flight, atmospheric conditions allowed a sonic boom to reach the ground, startling his mother and neighbors in New Concord, Ohio.

Astronaut Selection and Space Exploration:

– Following rigorous tests, Glenn was selected as an astronaut. He discussed the significance of space exploration and expressed regret over the cutback of the shuttle program. The transition to commercial space travel was also touched upon. Glenn’s experiences as a test pilot and his achievements, including the speed record, prepared him for the astronaut program. He applied as it was announced and underwent various physical, psychological, and background tests. Selection criteria included physical fitness, height limitations, and tolerance to heat, sound, isolation, and centrifuge conditions. Glenn shared an anecdote about Pete Conrad, a fellow astronaut candidate, during a psychological interview. Conrad responded wittily to a psychologist’s request to describe a blank piece of paper, turning it upside down and pointing out the error. Conrad did not make it into the first group of astronauts but was eventually selected in the second group and later landed on the moon.

Future of Aviation and War’s Nature:

– Glenn shared his insights into the future of aviation, emphasizing the continued role of technology and the importance of maintaining ground forces. He also reflected on the emotional toll of war and advocated for the avoidance of conflict.

– John Glenn emphasizes the importance of a military force capable of limited warfare operations, with a focus on immediacy and rapid response. He highlights the Marine Corps and its supporting arms as particularly valuable in this context, due to their ability to provide comprehensive support in a timely manner.

– Glenn discusses the shift from government-to-government conflicts to conflicts involving smaller non-government forces. He emphasizes the difficulty in controlling these non-government forces and the threat they pose, as seen in events like 9-11. He points to the ability of groups like Al-Qaeda to relocate and operate across borders, making traditional government-to-government warfare strategies less effective.

– Glenn acknowledges the impact of new equipment and technology on warfare, particularly in the area of close support and the air-ground team. He mentions the shift towards greater use of helicopters and vertical envelopment, enabling more efficient movement of personnel. He highlights the Osprey’s capabilities, such as carrying twice as many people twice as far and twice as fast as helicopters, as a significant advancement.

Aviation Passion and Legacy:

– Tracing his love for aviation back to his childhood, Glenn’s lecture celebrated the 100th anniversary of marine aviation and his own lifelong dedication to flying. He spoke of his early days in a Taylor Craft plane and his experience flying modern jets as a Senator.

Early Aviation and the Importance of Winning Wars: John Glenn emphasizes the significance of winning wars and the continuous development of new equipment, tactics, and air-ground teams to maintain national capabilities. He highlights the 100th anniversary of marine aviation, attributing its contributions to the nation’s ability to achieve victory.



Senator John Glenn’s 2012 Charles A. Lindbergh Lecture paid tribute to the Centennial of Marine Aviation and reflected on a lifetime of courage, innovation, and resilience. Through his personal experiences, he explored the history of Marine aviation, highlighted technological advancements, and shared his thoughts on warfare and space exploration. His profound insights left a lasting impression, underscoring the enduring impact of aviation in shaping the past and future of military and civilian life.


Notes by: Alkaid