CAMERON PARK, [October 12, 2023] — In the heart of Cameron Park’ Airpark Chuck Wahl’s life revolves around planes and a deep-seated passion for aviation. Chuck, the owner of Vultures Row Aviation, has made it his life’s mission to breathe new life into the relics of the past by restoring iconic World War II warbirds. This is not just a business for Chuck; it’s a calling, a legacy steeped in family tradition.
“My grandfather flew in WWII, and my dad flew in Vietnam,” Wahl says, his eyes gleaming with pride. “I grew up around the Navy and had an aviation career. It’s just in my blood.”
Cradled within the 15,000 square-foot hangar at the Cameron Park airport lies a treasure trove of history. Every nook and cranny is crammed with the remnants of a bygone era, lovingly collected and meticulously restored. These aren’t just machines; they are living remnants of an era where valor soared through the skies.
Chuck Wahl’s commitment to preserving history is unwavering. Vultures Row Aviation is one of the select few shops in the United States dedicated to restoring these legendary World War II warbirds. He emphasizes the gravity of his mission, saying, “This is as good as it gets. This is rare to have all of these types of fighters under one roof with the history of some of the planes that are in here. It’s a big deal.”
Modern technology meets the craftsmanship of yesteryears under the same roof. Wahl utilizes advanced machinery to produce replacement parts for these vintage planes, some of which lack instruction manuals. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of the individuals who, in the 1940s, worked tirelessly to churn out planes in vast numbers to ensure victory in World War II. “Every single one of those men and ladies who worked on these airplanes were craftsmen,” Wahl adds. “They knew how to make things and how to build things without computers and without calculators. They built a heck of an airplane.”
These planes have their own tales, and each is a tribute to the courage of those who flew them. One such aircraft has an illustrious history, having been piloted by Francis Ferry. He enlisted at the tender age of 22, during the peak of World War Two, and rapidly ascended the naval ranks to become one of the military’s elite pilots.
“I’m amazed when I look at some of those War World Two planes with the open cockpit,” said Janet Fielder, Ferry’s daughter, reflecting on her father’s feats. “It’s scary enough to have coverage over you, but to be open and nothing above you like that. He was very fortunate. There was one mission it wasn’t this one where he had like 86 holes in his plane, but he himself was not hurt.”
One April day in 1945, Francis Ferry etched his name in history. Battling harsh weather conditions, he led a daring assault on the Japanese battleship Yamato, the largest battleship ever built. He executed four perilous dives on the ship and scored a hit in the stern, playing a crucial role in its eventual sinking.
Ferry lived to the ripe age of 102, his remarkable journey ending last December. But this was not the end of his legacy. When he passed away, Chuck Wahl was entrusted with the task of honoring his memory. In a touching tribute, Wahl organized a flyover during Ferry’s interment, involving three period planes. This included the missing man formation, a poignant and symbolic farewell to the aviator who left a mark on history.
The enduring friendship between Wahl and Ferry was evident in their shared passion. “He visited the shop three times,” Wahl recalls fondly. “He loved coming in here, bringing his logbooks, sharing his notes, and talking about the airplanes. We would just sit here for hours and talk about his experiences, and it’s just mind-blowing to hear those personal stories.”
It’s a testament to the profound impact of these warbirds and the enduring connections they forge. Chuck Wahl’s unwavering dedication to preserving this history is not just about planes; it’s about honoring the courage and spirit of those who soared through the tumultuous skies of World War II. His mission keeps their legacy alive and vibrant.
