Pictures of the Bellanca 28-90

Very few photos exist of the model 28 in China. These were new to me. I had heard that assembled a/c were ferried across Europe and Asia to get into the fight. Not so, apparently. probably shipped from the west coast to a port in China. Most aircraft used by the Chinese AF to fight Japan were Russian. These were flown by some Russian and Chinese pilots and a lot of ex-pat contract fliers, from Europe and the USA. Russians and Americans fought on the same side as they did for the Spanish Republicans. Yes, US. aviators were fighting the Japanese long before "Flying Tigers" and the AVG.
For those interested in this bit of passed over history, google "Art Chin" and you will find a US ex-pat's story on the fight.
The Bellanca 28-70, "Flash" disappeared fighting for the Spanish Republicans. A US aviator's perspective on the aerial combat in the Spanish Civil War can be found in "Some Still Live," by Frank Tinker. He was the the first US pilot to command a Russian Squadron and shoot down a Messerschmidt.
All in 1937.
Tonight's mini history lesson is over..............
Dan
 
Dan, I just sent Larry L some pictures from the 30s, and 2 of them were of the Flash or Irish Swoop. I had never seen them before but you may already be familiar with them. Larry said he would forward them to you. Maybe you or Larry could post them here. I dont know how._____Grant.
 
I have been collecting books dealing with aviation in China, 1930-49. I finally found a reference to a Bellanca "bomber" landing at an airstrip and running over several coolies working on the strip.."I flew for China," by Royal Leonard.
 
Dan ! Keep up the good work. Long after you and I and many others on this forum are memories, this information will be of importance to someone. History recorded is not lost.____Grant.
 
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