Rocky Mountain Wing History

The Rocky Mountain Wing (RMW) was first formed, in 1981, as a Squadron of the Rocky Mountain Wing. When membership reached 25 Colonels, it became a Wing and began reporting directly to CAF headquarters in Harlingen, Texas in 1988.

In 1984 Wing Leader Col. Del Coulson requested of headquarters that TBM N53503 to be assigned to the Rocky Mountain Squadron. Once approved, the TBM was ferried from Mesa, Arizona. to Grand Junction, Colorado. Thus began a major restoration project taking over four years.

Money for the restoration came from several $3,500 sponsorships, and many smaller but equally important donations. Volunteer work partys happened every Saturday.

During this time, the RMW acquired a hangar that was to be demolished by the airport. This was moved to our new site with ample ramp space. After modification to accept the 16 ft tall tail of the TBM, the RMW had an indoor facility in which to work.

The TBM project was completed in 1989 and by this time the wing had grown to over 50 members. Air shows became the new source of revenue and member participation.

In 1996 the RMW acquired a Piper J-3 Cub, also known in the military as a "Grasshopper". The Wing grew in membership with this addition of another flying aircraft. This type aircraft had the military designation of L-4 in the Army Air Corps and NE-1 in the Navy

RMW's next project, in 98-99, was to expand the facility by building an "O" Club and meeting room with amenities. Again the membership grew to over 65 Colonels. This facility now houses a collection of WW II memorabilia and hosts many groups from the Grand Junction area.

In 2000 it was decided to give the J-3 Cub its own hangar. this building project was undertaken and completed by CAF volunteers.

On Armed Forces Day, in May the RMW holds an open house and "hangar sale" to raise public awareness of the CAF.

The TBM, J-3 Cub, SNJ and DHC-1 Chipmunk are available for fly-overs at local civic events.

The RMW has over 70 Colonels and 5 Cadets as members. Member meetings are held the last Saturday of each month

Rocky Mountain Wing Events/Activities:

Come see us in Grand Junction, Colorado. We are located on Walker Field (GJT) which is the main airport. Exit north off 1-70 onto Horizon Drive.. Go 1/2 mile north to airport entrance noted by an E-6 Intruder as gate guard. Turn right, eastbound, onto B Road which turns to the north becoming Eagle Rd. Then right on Navigator Way. Continue 100 yds to Heritage Way and turn left/north. The CAF building is on the right at 780 Heritage Way. All distances from airport entrance are very short, just a series of right, left, right, left. If flying in just ask for progressive taxi directions to CAF hangar.

The RMW facility and aircraft are open for public display every Saturday and by appointment. Groups are encouraged to visit.

You can always check out online event calendar which also includes other, non-sponsored events. However, each year includes:

• Participation in various airshows and memorials throughout the USA including the CAF AIRSHO
• Annual Open House and Rummage Sale
• Hangar cookouts
• Holiday Parties
• Fly-Days where the aircraft are flown
• Improving our museum, workshop, and PX
• Collecting artifacts for our museum
• Guided tours of our museum