What it took to get wings in WW II.

WHAT IT TOOK TO GET WINGS IN WW II (part one)

1. First apply. You would be given a physical and a written test. You could
pass the written test if you were a good high school student with good skills
in math, physics and the general sciences. The physical exam was a lot tougher.
The vast majority failed and never got into the cadet program.
2. If you got into the program you were sent to basic infantry training. Many
washed out due to the inability to meet the standards. Tests like the obstacle
course not made the required time was one cause.
3. If you made it through basic you were sent to CDT, a College Training
Detachment. I went to Kent State University in Ohio. Here there were two main
activities: flying and academic work. The flying consisted of 10 hours of dual
instruction in Piper Cubs. The academic work consisted of intense classroom
studies in math and physics. But these courses were custom designed to
concentrate on aviation applications. The math covered algebra, geometry, solid
geometry, trig and spherical trig, The physics concentrated on aero
applications and meteorology. Failure to meet academic standards resulted in
being washed out of the program. The washout rate in my class was about 10%
4. Those who survived this far went to classification in San Antonio Texas.
Here you took exams far more intensive than anything before. Intense physical
and exams in math and physics with psychological examinations to determine
emotional stability, determination and sense of commitment. The washout rate
here was greater than in any other steps in the process. Many washed out for
poor depth perception. Many were washed out on the Schneider Index, a very
critical set of physical standards. Some were washed out for being
psychologically unfit. The washout rate in my class was 90%. Those remaining
were then classified pilot, navigator, bombardier or bombardier/navigator..
5. You were then sent to the proper school, pilot,navigator or bombardier
school. I was sent to bombardier/navigator school at Big Spring, Texas.

MORE TO FOLLOW LATER

Arthur Kramer
Visit my WW II B-26 website at:
http://www.coastcomp.com/artkramer