Very cool. I met Mr Hoover at Airventure 2011 while they were filming this. If anyone hasn't yet read "forever flying", it's a fantastic read. http://www.amazon.com/Forever-Flying-High-flying-Barnstorming-Autobiography/dp/067153761X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=undefined&sr=8-1&keywords=bob+hoover

Thanks to both of you for the links. I signed up for the Hoover project mailing list, and bought the book.

Truly a living legend. All of us pilots owe a huge debt to Mr. Hoover and those who flew with him over the years.

My "introduction" to Bob Hoover was in the Fall of 1972, watching an 8mm film of him doing his Shrike Commander routine, including a shot of him pouring ice tea from a pitcher into a glass on the panel while inverted during a barrel roll. I've seen his routine in various airplanes over the years and watched him start the Reno Air Races one year, and finally a few years ago I was able to meet him briefly at OSH, after he had spoken at the Museum. Of course, he was surrounded by many fans, so if he remembered my name, I'd be shocked.

Two things other than his gentlemanly manner stood out: As he was standing there at the mic, he said, "You know, I'm 89 years old, and if you don't mind, I'd like to sit while I'm talking." Then during the Q&A afterwards, someone asked him if he was still doing much flying. In that slow, soft Tennessee drawl of his, he said, "Well, I do try to get out in the Extra two, maybe three times every week."

Great man, and a huge impact on aviation at all levels.

Cary

Two weeks ago at the Air Races Mr. Hoover in coat, tie, and straw hat in 80 degree sun, sat in the pit and signed his book. The line had at least 100 people in it when I passed by. Last year when I had him sign the book we talked about his injury years ago, a wreck in a go cart which nearly destroyed his leg. He said that he should stay in the air where it was safe. He was also at General Wayne Adams book signing booth for a while this year. They were instrumental with Bill Stead in beginning the Air Races in 1964.

I couldn't get a pic with Mr. Hoover and my son last year, I'm glad I was able to this year!

Also got his pic with Stevo!