WEST MILFORD — More than 1,600 soldiers never returned home from the Vietnam War. The heroes who remain unaccounted-for are being honored on a Grumman Mohawk OV-1 where each of their names has been painstakingly applied to the fuselage of this now flying monument.
Guests attending the Greenwood Lake Air Show on Aug. 12 through 14 will be able to see this aircraft up close as well as watch it perform an aerobatic demonstration during the day.
Pilot Joe Masessa acquired the Mohawk nine years ago after encountering one at Teterboro airport. He became fascinated by this aggressive looking aircraft and decided to buy one of his own. After an extensive search, he managed to purchase and restore one of the lowest time Mohawk's flying today. In addition to restoring the aircraft, he had the names of the 1636 prisoners of war and missing in action applied.
The Mohawk OV-1 is a twin engine turboprop armed military observation and attack aircraft that was designed for battlefield surveillance with light strike capabilities. It was intended to operate from short, unimproved runways. The Mohawk was equipped with various cameras from the nose to tail and has flash pods to illuminate areas at night.
Masessa is not only pilot to this unique aircraft, but he is native to West Milford and is excited to be able to show off his skills in his hometown. His dermatology surgery practice has him traveling up and down the east coast but he still calls New Jersey home.
Tickets, show info, and more can be found at www.GreenwoodLakeAirShow.com.