Flight Test Museum
Edwards’ Flight Test Museum ongoing restoration efforts have been powered by the dedication and generosity of craftsmen from various units around the flightline. These Airmen have been volunteering their personal time and trade expertise to work on the restoration. In return, the Museum has leveraged its resources to assist the units whenever possible, passing along the kindness.
Recently, the Museum was able to provide a T-39 Sabreliner, an excessed aircraft slated for disposal, to the Edwards AFB Fire Department for training purposes. This collaboration culminated in a multi-day training event for firefighters from the 812th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire and Emergency Services Flight.
Todd Amon, the Museum Restoration Curator, along with Tom Grindle, volunteer, facilitated this unique opportunity for firefighters to practice their skills on an actual aircraft. The firefighters eagerly accepted the offer, recognizing the chance to enhance their training.
The Edwards firefighters’ primary mission is to protect the airfield and its extensive assets, including responding to emergencies both on and off-base. While they regularly train on emergency ingress and egress procedures, hands-on practice with aircraft is limited.
Over the last few years Edwards FES has “gone green” regarding power tools and equipment, switching from gas powered tools to battery operated saws, Jaws of Life and other cutting tools. It’s not every day that firefighters can test the capabilities and limitations of these tools. Over the course of the multi-day event, they practiced cutting through the aircraft's skin and fuselage structure, gaining access to the cabin and cockpit from both ground and elevated surfaces. This hands-on experience was invaluable, offering insights into the capabilities and limitations of their tools and techniques.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to support our colleagues at Edwards AFB Fire Department, and we appreciate their efforts in advancing the skills of our young firefighters,” said Todd Amon. “This collaboration not only strengthens our partnership but also enhances their ability to respond effectively to emergencies,” he added.
REdwards' Flight Test Museum was able to provide a T-39 Sabreliner, an excessed aircraft slated for disposal, to the Edwards AFB Fire Department for training purposes. This collaboration culminated in a multi-day training event for firefighters from the 812th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire and Emergency Services Flight. REdwards' Flight Test Museum was able to provide a T-39 Sabreliner, an excessed aircraft slated for disposal, to the Edwards AFB Fire Department for training purposes. This collaboration culminated in a multi-day training event for firefighters from the 812th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire and Emergency Services Flight. REdwards' Flight Test Museum was able to provide a T-39 Sabreliner, an excessed aircraft slated for disposal, to the Edwards AFB Fire Department for training purposes. This collaboration culminated in a multi-day training event for firefighters from the 812th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire and Emergency Services Flight.