GETTING READY FOR CELEBRATION — Once this T-45 is painted it will be flown by Training Air Wing TWO student Naval Aviators. It’s in the process of being refurbished by L-3 employees at the Flash Jet facility with a paint scheme indicating it was a pre-World War II aircraft assigned to USS Wasp (CV 7). The “retro-painting” is part of activities being planned for the Centennial of Naval Aviation that will be celebrated throughout 2011. (Photo by Fifi Kieschnick) Two T-45 Goshawks recently painted aboard Naval Air Station Kingsville are not displaying their standard orange and white colors.

They are sporting pre-World War II tactical aircraft paint schemes, which featured a color coding system. This era of Naval Aviation was commonly refered to as the “Yel- low Wings” era.

“Prior to World War II, Squadrons were divided into six sections denoted by color,” said Capt. Rich Dann, Executive Director of Centennial Staff. “Also, different tail colors represented different carrier assignments.”

One of the trainers has been painted with a black tail indicating the aircraft was assigned to USS Wasp (CV 7).

Black section markings indicate the aircraft would have been assigned to the squadron’s fourth section. That T-45 will be flown here, aboard Naval Air Station Kingsville, by Training Air Wing TWO student Naval Aviators.

“The jet is looking great,” said Capt. Mark Brooks, Commander, Training Air Wing TWO.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the final roll out.”

Dann stated that each of the nine training command aircraft that are being painted will be unique. The paint schemes will demonstrate a cross-section of how Navalm aircraft had once been painted.

“The paints being used are the correct colors for the specs used ‘back in the day,’” he added.

He emphasized these historical paint schemes are being applied as the aircraft come up to existing maintenance periods and must be repainted anyway.

“The intent is to use the aircraft to teach Naval Aviation heritage in a unique way.

Each Centennial aircraft will carry a fact sheet about the paint scheme for teaching purposes,” Dann added.

The “retro-painting” is one facet of activities being planned celebrating 100 years of Naval Aviation.

The Centennial of Naval Aviation kicks off in January 2011, with a variety of events to be held throughout the year, including tactical demonstrations, air shows, flyovers and art exhibits.