I had the honor and privilege of flying, as his co-pilot, with Captain Deford at the airline where we were both employed. Bob was one on the finest gentlemen and a consummate “Stick and Rudder” pilot I ever flew with. When Bob flew an airplane he didn’t get in the seat - he put the airplane on like a tailor made suit and flew it like he was a part of all those nuts and bolts. Sheer poetry and smooth as a baby’s behind. I was sorry to see him retire. All airline pilots always have a story about a guy like Bob that they flew with. We called them 5-strippers or legends. I have one Deford story I’ll share. One trip Bob and I were flying the 727 and descending to land. There were towering cumulus clouds between us and the runway we were using. Bob looked at me and asked if I wanted to do something fun. I was hesitant and skepitcal at first. Was he going to roll the airplane or shut the engines off and dead stick it in? Don’t laugh that happened at an airline. I prepared myself and said, “sure.” Bob ever so gently began to weave his way between the towering clouds like he was dancing with a beautiful woman holding her ever so genteelly. So smooth you barely felt a thing. Then he turned to me again and said, “Steve, now you do it.” I did perhaps not quite as smoothly, but I’d like to think as gracefully. He was laughing and smiling the whole time, hell, we both were. When we broke out the bottom he looked again and said, “ Steve, when you’re doing this flying you just have to have fun. You just have to.” When the passengers got off no one said a thing. It was a testament I guess to how smooth he was. I miss flying with Bob. I’d like to say to Bob. Captain Deford, right here, right now, “I’d pull up the gear for you, anytime, anyplace and anyhow” just for the privilege to do so. Well done Captain Deford, well done.
An awsome story! Thank you for sharing! It reminds me of one of my Dad's stories from when he worked for Air Canada out of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia as Ticket Agent and Cargo Agent, back when Air Canada flew DC-9's. He was headed to an Air Canada course being held in Halifax, Nova Scotia on a dead end flight back to Halifax. He got the ok from the flight crew and his boss to hop aboard that flight back to Halifax. About half way to Halifax, the pilot started doing steep baked turns and steep climbs and decents. Level off into straight and level flight for a bit. Then, repeat. (Mind you this was all done over unpopulated land, incase something happened with the airplane.) This continued on until arrival time into Halifax International Airport. My Dad was having a great time during that flight, since he also had his Private Pilots Licence. Dad was still wondering what was going on during the flight to Halifax when the DC_9 docked at its gate. When getting ready to disembark from the DC-9, Dad noticed the Captian getting out of his pilot seat and bent over to pick up his flight gear - seeing a huge split in the seat of the Captian's suit trousers. The Captian then noticed my Dad (whom the Captian forgot was on the aircraft) and applogized to my Dad for his flying actions to Halifax. The Captian explained one of the Stewardess' took and hid his suit jacket on him after he split open the seat of his suit trousers and would not give it back to him. The 'irregular flight maneuvers' was the Captian trying to convince the Stewardess to return his suit jacket back to him. He would ask the Stewardess if she would return the jacket when in straight and level flight. When she responded 'No!', the Captain would repeat the 'irregular flight maneuvers' over again, level out, then ask for his jacket back again. The Captain aplogized again and asked, hoping, Dad would not report on his 'irregular flight maneuvers' for it would cause trouble for the Captain. Dad replied laughingly to the Captain not to worry, that he really enjoyed the flight, and, that the Captain would get his suit jacket back before he got his aircraft.
And this is why we love you guys. My friend flew for United. He never failed to drop by on his down time to share some story. One time, he said he landed so smoothly that the squat switch failed to trip, and his copilot said, "Are we down?" Frank was as giddy as a school boy. Some of his life was pure chaos--but the cockpit was always the return embrace of a loved one.
As a retired RAF airframe technician I can appreciate the amount of skill and effort that it took to build this superb Spitfire replica - congratulations on such an achievement. Bob and Vern - what a team!
This Gentleman is just so lovely to listen to. What a tremendous, achievment to build such a wonderful aeroplane. Its quality is a testament to his passion and love of flying. Thankyou so mych for posting this. I loved every minute.
When this generation of men is gone, this world will be a little less valuable. God bless his honest, true spirit and soul. WOW ! = What an honor it was to watch/feel this video. THANK YOU author, kudos, and 1OO% well done sir. What a priceless passionate fantastic vision. Pure LOVE for his beautiful timeless mount. How can my life even compare as this gentleman's story, + this bird IS life's true success.
You are sadly so right. Although I feel that many of these men that made the ultimate sacrifice would cry at what our country & society has become. They dont make em like this anymore. This man is a legend!!!!
What a delightful man possibly the best 28 minutes I have spent on youtube in years. As an Australian aviation enthusiast that remembers the many Australians that fought in Spitfires in WW2 and the love those men had for their aircraft his enthusiasm for his beloved, beautiful aircraft is a pleasure to watch. Such a shame age has taken its toll on him and he has to sell her. A fine aircraft and a fine man.
@@laurentpenot2656 It’s the Allison V-1710 as used in Mustang A and Kittyhawk. It’s very similar to single stage Merlins as used before the Merlin 61 that had the two stage two speed high altitude engine. Higher power Alison’s had a turbo second stage compressor. Spitfires instead had the longer two stage “blower” Merlin.
I thought it was just me... feeling so good about seeing this project (and posting it on my Facebook page) - but then I started reading the endless Like / Comments. It is indeed endless ~ and growing.
Speaking as a builder of a Van's RV8, THIS project is off-the-charts....absolutely unimaginable the amount of work involved. Building ANY airplane is a massive undertaking but this one is on another level completely. Absolutely stunning!
Bob, simply amazing! I was on the Homebuilt Aircraft parking crew that helped you park at Oshkosh. I've been parking homebuilts there for over 30 years, and I've seen 'em all. I remember thinking "This is the most amazing homebuilt I've ever seen, or maybe will ever see". "Nuff said". Agree it should be worth $1M...... cheers!
I'm an English lass who loves Spitfire's and it's kinda in my blood, because one of my Grandma's (Dad's Mum) built Spitfire wings at Castle Bromwich during the war. She hardly talked about it, and passed on in 2002. How much I wish I could turn back time and talk to her about her experiences.
Used to live up the road from Castle Bromwich where they used to wheel the Spitfires across the road to the airfield to test them !. Learnt to drive on there too . Housing estate now 😢
People that lived through those dramatic days were and are often hesitant to talk about their own effort. I knew an older gentleman who flew Spitfires in UK during WW2. He never spoke about it and I didn't ask even though I was very interested and knowledgeable in aviation history. Many of his friends were killed and injured, and I felt it highly inappropriate to ask him.
I've had the privilege of knowing Bob for many years. I think I met him when I was just a kid, and that was over 60 or so years ago. He's a true gentleman and a great airman to boot.
A British guy who lives in Cairns, Australia built his own full size Spitfire in 8 years. He got the original plans off the UK MOD while on a holiday back to England. It is a 2 seater. There is only one other 2 seat Spitfire like it in the world and it is WW2 vintage. He finished his Spitfire in about 2008 and CASA gave him the OK to fly it after all the tests in about 2010. His is the newest Spitfire in terms of age. He flies it on weekends and is often asked to air shows and battle commemorations like ANZAC Day, VE and VP Day to do flight demonstrations. He will take you for a ride in it for a price. The Spitfire is painted in RAAF colours with letters KPOW as the ID. It sounds BEAUTIFUL when he opens the throttle at take off! Great job Bob on building your own Spitfire! All the best in the future.
If you see this Bob - My name is Russell Martin, Bob Martin’s son. I grew up as a little hangar rat in Prescott and always admired you so much! You, and all the guys from The First Composite Pursuit Squadron were my hero’s. Thank you for being so kind and good to see the old Ford. If it’s the same one, that’s how I learned to drive stick lol.
What a lifetime’s achievement to build your own full scale Spitfire, absolutely incredible. That one piece wing makes it incredibly strong and the lovely low revving Allison 1710 V12 is the icing on the cake. Looks like a Spitfire, sounds like a Spitfire and goes like a Spitfire. Bravo sir!😃
This gentleman reminds me of my father, who was an engineer with Lockheed and loved airplanes his entire life... Built models growing up, and built a Sonerai 2 when I was growing up... It was wonderful to be raised by a man who fulfilled his dreams, and I can still feel my father's joy for his own homebuilt in this man's love for his own...
My God the passion in this guy’s voice and his face. I would almost pay as much as I would for the plane just to be a companion for a while and listen to his stories and pass them on keep this genre of aviation going because without it none of us would be here not in this capacity anyway. Thank you for sharing this wonderful wonderful hobby
My father, during WW2, was an RAF mechanic who worked on the Spitfires. If he were still here, he would want to see your plane, and I bet you could talk for hours about the plane. I know that he loved what he did and was proud of his service. In 1947, he and his new bride came to the US because of the gratefulness he felt for the impact that this country made on the direction of that war. He taught me that we (British) owe this country a debt of thanks. Thank you for your enthusiasm for the Spitfire.
There's a few Spitfires in the UK now that have been rebuilt with original engines and history. In the 1980's I think there was only about two flying and one was a 2 seater that a women owned and one single seater, but now there's about 14 exact rebuilds flying. This guy is amazing, and his plane and story will live on forever!
@@googleuser2607 I sincerely hope this plane and its story live forever. My goal making these videos is to have them for other generations to be able to see in the future. Preserve these stories for posterity. 👍
@AviationAZRancher I remember there was a kid in the UK that built an exact replica of a spitfire in his back garden with all original parts. Ill have to find out what happened to it.
This is obviously not a real Spitfire. The "real" Spitfires were built as quickly as possible for military use. This is a work of art! No "real" Spitfire ever had this much love and time invested. Absolutely beautiful, and one of a kind.
I really take issue with your comment. The British people who built the Sptfires were working to the bone with all their love, grit, blood, sweat, tears and determination to save Europe. At the same time, americans were swanning around ignoring the situation for many many years until they happened to get hit by the Japs. This thing is a toy, and was built as such. Shame on you for your comment.
It’s ‘almost’ unbelievable what I am watching.. These 2 guys need to take a bow because this build is incredible.. & it flies!! 👏🏼👏🏼 As a huge Spitfire aficionado/nut, this is just amazing to me.. Just beautiful ❤🔥
If I could afford it, I would buy it and leave it with the guy until he passes. I would only request to fly it and take full delivery by contract only when he is no longer with us. He deserves it. What an amazing guy and amazing story.
Building a remarkable Spitfire replica is truly a labor of love and dedication to aviation heritage. It takes immense passion, skill, and likely years of meticulous effort to bring such a legendary aircraft back to life. Hats off to the craftsmanship and patriotism behind such a grand accomplishment-bravo!
Another 70+ English guy here. I thought when I found this, that I would be watching the story of building this replica. What I found I was watching was a love story, and it was beautiful. Following the fall of the Iron Curtain Spitfires became available from those that were sent east. But I think all that has dried up now. Beautiful story, beautiful aeroplane. Thanks & Bye!
I'm in the UK, my Grandfather was a wireless operator in a Lancasters, did a tour and a half, surviving the war, God bless. My Dad is 89 and I will send him the link to this - he will love it! I can't believe people are not prepared to pay what this aircraft is worth, but people are missing two points, so far. One - as you said, it is a full scale flying replica, not a 100% historic replica. Two - this is an engineering masterpiece, built from the ground up, to replicate the basic experience of flying a Spitfire. If any new owner wants to refine this, they have a blank canvas to work with. I am sure that the right person, with a suitable amount of disposable income, and a passion, will buy it. 🤞🏻 If I win the lottery this evening, it could even be me 🤣 Thank you so much for sharing! 😎
My tears are blinding me, what a wonderful video, my father was RAF 1938- 45... only an airframe fitter mostly on mosquito`s. he instilled in me a love of vintage aircraft. Thank you for sharing your passion of a lifetime.
This guy reminds me so much of my grandfather. WWII Luftwaffe pilot with 27 air to air victories. If you wanted to question him about his combat experience, he went silent, all he would say, human beings perished because of me and that is not something you brag about. If you wanted to know about aircraft and flying, he could talk your ears off and he would talk like this guy. After the war, he became an airline pilot, some of his close friends were the very people he flew against and he admired many planes on all sides. I wish more people would do what this guy did and build perfect replicas and this thing is gorgeous.
Bob is a true treasure! We met in Coolidge the first time and spent many hours enjoying his stories at OSH. We had planned to have him park with us, and when he landed they marshaled his Wooden Warbird / Faux fighter right to a place of prominence. He entertained thousands that year and I know he enjoyed every moment of it. Ask him about the time his Eastern Airlines Jet iced up the tail. He is a true American hero, and any time you can spend with him will forever be unforgettable! Pat Schmitz / C27
What a nice guy, and what a lovely aircraft. A huge achievement. I live about a mile from the site of the old Supermarine factory here at Southampton, England. The sight and sound of the Spitfire still gives me goosebumps!
Bob DeFord is a hell of a guy. He flew with my grandad in the airlines. I had the privilege of seeing the airplane in person at his hanger in Prescott. But my favorite part of the day was eating lunch with Bob at the airport cafe talking and spending time with him.
I dont comment often but have to say this guy is a legend, I would love to just sit down and listen to him talk about this plane all day and I bet he has many other stories to share!
Wow, Bob. I'm blown away. We all are. And when you said that you're 87? Well, that blew me away, too. You look great. Congrats on an amazing achievement, and for delivering a little happiness to us all.
@@AviationAZRancher Build a quarter scale (or 1/5th) FW190A8. You will be amazed about its inherent flight qualities. No tip stalls unlike Spitfire, low wing loading unlike BF109. Make sure you administer some washout on the wing tips like 1-2 degrees. Building a FW190D9 is even better because of its long nose moment. Anyways, I have been building since 8 (now I am 68). I have over 300 airplanes in the attic. I wish I had a hangar like yours. It would be full of RC airplanes ;-)) I thought about building a Fokker DR1 triplane at full scale that I can fly at one point, but then I decided to have my feet on the ground and the airplane in the sky when I am piloting. Again, great job!
I met Bob about 20 years ago, we were putting together a Focke Wulf 190D-13 in the museum at Boeing Field, with Dave Goss. What a gentleman and aviator!
Omg man that’s amazing I have the spitfire bug too. From Blackpool now Australia. I have a small squadron of dinky spitfires aside my train set What a thing you have done I can’t stop smiling 😊
Where I live in the UK, I am lucky enough to have two of these bad boys fly over most days in the summer, one of which is a restoration and the other is a "new build", both sound absolutely fabulous.
I recently retired from Rolls Royce motorcars after 21 years at Goodwood UK and I'd regulary hear and see the two 2 seat Spits that are stationed at Goodwood aerodrome,it;s a dream that I would one day take a flight in one,your tribute Spitfire is a testiment to the builder and to your vision,well done!
Congratulations, by the way. Do you retire earlier in the UK or this was just the place you worked for the past 21 years? We generally do around 30 in the USA, some more, some less, depending on the job. Cops and government workers can retire in 20. Me, I'll die at my desk lol..... No social security for my generation! I'll be glad if my folks can collect for a handful more years before it all goes "tits up".
@ workimg since I was sixteen,retired at 62 .5 RR being my last job,I’ll be living on my savings till 65 when I get my 4 company pensions then at 67 will get my state pension,my personal circumstances have given me the opportunity to retire early and enjoy my freedom.
I LOVE IT. Love from ENGLAND. She's Fantastic. I live near Stoke -On-Trent. Reginald's family house where he was born is still here. It's in a place called Butt Lane. Between Talk and Kidsgrove in Staffordshire. I'm sure. He would be very proud of you and your friends for doing this.👍👍
This is cool. I remember Bob in the 1990s when he was with the Arizona Wing of the CAF flying the B-17 "Sentimental Journey" and was lucky enough to have flown with him in SJ several times.
Well done Fellas its beautiful. As a kid in the 80's driving with parents we use to always drive past this quarry looking area few hundred yards off the highway , Asked what it was, And parents said it was an area where 8 spitfires were buried in grease they say .And the guy who then owned the land many years later was digging up areas of the land looking for them.
Respect, Sir. Your love and passion for the Spitfire was so warming to see. If I had the money, I would buy straight away. I hope you have and it has gone to a good home. Remembering and committing to something many with have forgotten or don't understand the significance of something so important in world history is sad.😢 So thank you for keeping the Spitfire alive. It maybe a copy, and a bloody good one. But that doesn't detract for what is a beautiful salute to the past. 🫡 🏴 🇬🇧
What a marvoulus story. I am really surprised that the Spit didn’t sell. So many good things like low maintenance etc. I was lucky to sit in a spitfire at the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar, so I can only imagine the joy of building and flying a spit for 28 years. For now I love my RC versions. Great story and great guy. 🫡
This delightful few minutes just came up on TH-cam. A very special Man, just talking about 18 years of His life. He stroked the plane like touching a much loved pet. He and a Master engineer, built a dream. I just sat in a chair, in my home in England, and smiled all the to the end. Im lucky, because in the summer I will hear the magical sound of a Merlin overhead. Our local airfield flies a pair of original Spitfires, in the same skies that they flew in, during the Battle of Britain of WW2.
To hear the story about someone who did what a lot would say isn't possible is heart warming.Wish you many years to enjoy your creation with good skies and fair winds.
I feel so sorry you have to sell this beautiful Spitfire you created. I sure hope it finds a home where it will be as loved and cared for as much as you have. You didn't just build "a plane" here, you created, and cared for, history. Best wishes to you, Bob. I wish there were more people in this world like you. ❤
Hi What a wonderful achievement. Just shows what you can do in retirement. It was great listening to this video and looking at that beautiful machine. I’m in my 70’s, living in the UK and recently found my father’s WW2 RAF logbooks - he flew spitfires (including the AB910, which is still airworthy), hurricanes, Blenheims and various others. Clocking up over 1000 flight hours between 1941-1945. Just sad that he never had a chance to know about your achievement and see this terrific video. Do hope that someone with passion, the right hands and cash can look after your ‘baby’ for you. 👍😊
@@mhouslay7281 Yes. This is my wish also. Hopefully by documenting this Spitfire here to many people worldwide we can make that happen! Thanks for the comment.
Spitfire obsessed Brit here, there’s plenty of homebuilt warbirds out there and they’re not bad but this is something much, much more. The others just don’t quite look right and certainly don’t sound right either, this one? Ticks the boxes all the way and it’s clear that this guy’s attention to detail is absolutely on the money. Great aircraft 👏👏👏
Was it 28 mins, it felt like 5 🙂 I often kick myself for the amount of time I spend on TH-cam, but not this time... Bob is even better than his aeroplane, and his aeroplane is magnificent! I salute you sir.
Wow that's a real beautiful build, when you see the light reflect off the canopy metalwork and elsewhere, jaw-dropping. 900k seems like a helluva deal!
This man is an enthusiast through and through and then there is this his dream that would not leave him taking a rest. Greatest respect from Germany, Sir👍👍👍
What a beautiful airplane! I went to the RAF museum back in 1981 and they let me into the archive library. All of the original Spitfire mechanical drawings were on microfiche. At the time, I was a B-52 crew chief and had grand ideas of building a Spitfire replica. This gentleman actually built one! Amazing!👍
At RAF Museum in London you can sit in a Spitfire (mk XVIe). When I was sitting in it I kept looking all around; wife asked ‘’What are you doing?’ I replied ‘Scanning for Heinkels’.
I love watching videos like these, seeing this guys with so much passion, skill and vision. Him and his friend did an amazing job, the majority of us can only dream of doing something like that.
Mr. Deford, you have no idea on how lucky you are. I can not afford to build that icone Spitfire, i wish i could. Ever since i was a little boy, i was always looking at airplanes. Specially supermarine Spitfire, P-51 mustang, Hawcker Hurricane, Yakovlev Yak-9, just to name a few. Somehow these airplanes from the time of WW2 always facinated me, I have build and flown all of them as RC airplanes and still have the P-51 and Spitfire. I wish i could have done what you did, it's a dream i will never see come true. You really are a lucky man, i envy you lol.
This was absolutely great. I can identify with some of his feelings. He is 87 and just now, within just the last couple of years of having to hang it up. He has been blessed. I'm 72 and had to hang pretty much all of my extra enjoyment of cars and motorcycles, etc. up. We have to accept it, but it sure ain't fun. Flying with a Lancaster and a Mossy; Wow! Thanks.
So wonderful to listen to someone who loves the results of his efforts, totally shares the credit and infects us with his awe of what they accomplished. If I had the money that airplane would be mine. Someone tell me where all the real men have gone.
My word what an amazing replica, But what's more amazing is the gentleman himself. What a great guy isn't he.
Fully agree. The guy is fantastic.
He is
A gentleman and a true friend....the way "Merlin" pops out in the the narration is testament of a gtreat friendship...
Amazing falls short.
Couldn’t agree more.
I had the honor and privilege of flying, as his co-pilot, with Captain Deford at the airline where we were both employed. Bob was one on the finest gentlemen and a consummate “Stick and Rudder” pilot I ever flew with. When Bob flew an airplane he didn’t get in the seat - he put the airplane on like a tailor made suit and flew it like he was a part of all those nuts and bolts. Sheer poetry and smooth as a baby’s behind. I was sorry to see him retire. All airline pilots always have a story about a guy like Bob that they flew with. We called them 5-strippers or legends. I have one Deford story I’ll share. One trip Bob and I were flying the 727 and descending to land. There were towering cumulus clouds between us and the runway we were using. Bob looked at me and asked if I wanted to do something fun. I was hesitant and skepitcal at first. Was he going to roll the airplane or shut the engines off and dead stick it in? Don’t laugh that happened at an airline. I prepared myself and said, “sure.” Bob ever so gently began to weave his way between the towering clouds like he was dancing with a beautiful woman holding her ever so genteelly. So smooth you barely felt a thing. Then he turned to me again and said, “Steve, now you do it.” I did perhaps not quite as smoothly, but I’d like to think as gracefully. He was laughing and smiling the whole time, hell, we both were. When we broke out the bottom he looked again and said, “ Steve, when you’re doing this flying you just have to have fun. You just have to.” When the passengers got off no one said a thing. It was a testament I guess to how smooth he was. I miss flying with Bob. I’d like to say to Bob. Captain Deford, right here, right now, “I’d pull up the gear for you, anytime, anyplace and anyhow” just for the privilege to do so. Well done Captain Deford, well done.
Such a beautiful comment!
An awsome story! Thank you for sharing! It reminds me of one of my Dad's stories from when he worked for Air Canada out of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia as Ticket Agent and Cargo Agent, back when Air Canada flew DC-9's. He was headed to an Air Canada course being held in Halifax, Nova Scotia on a dead end flight back to Halifax. He got the ok from the flight crew and his boss to hop aboard that flight back to Halifax. About half way to Halifax, the pilot started doing steep baked turns and steep climbs and decents. Level off into straight and level flight for a bit. Then, repeat. (Mind you this was all done over unpopulated land, incase something happened with the airplane.) This continued on until arrival time into Halifax International Airport. My Dad was having a great time during that flight, since he also had his Private Pilots Licence. Dad was still wondering what was going on during the flight to Halifax when the DC_9 docked at its gate. When getting ready to disembark from the DC-9, Dad noticed the Captian getting out of his pilot seat and bent over to pick up his flight gear - seeing a huge split in the seat of the Captian's suit trousers. The Captian then noticed my Dad (whom the Captian forgot was on the aircraft) and applogized to my Dad for his flying actions to Halifax. The Captian explained one of the Stewardess' took and hid his suit jacket on him after he split open the seat of his suit trousers and would not give it back to him. The 'irregular flight maneuvers' was the Captian trying to convince the Stewardess to return his suit jacket back to him. He would ask the Stewardess if she would return the jacket when in straight and level flight. When she responded 'No!', the Captain would repeat the 'irregular flight maneuvers' over again, level out, then ask for his jacket back again. The Captain aplogized again and asked, hoping, Dad would not report on his 'irregular flight maneuvers' for it would cause trouble for the Captain. Dad replied laughingly to the Captain not to worry, that he really enjoyed the flight, and, that the Captain would get his suit jacket back before he got his aircraft.
And this is why we love you guys. My friend flew for United. He never failed to drop by on his down time to share some story. One time, he said he landed so smoothly that the squat switch failed to trip, and his copilot said, "Are we down?" Frank was as giddy as a school boy. Some of his life was pure chaos--but the cockpit was always the return embrace of a loved one.
@@busterdee8228I’ve experienced the same thing many times. I’m shocked you know what a “Squat Switch is and what it does.” Thank you.
@@Steve757-fl1hd Lol. Frank made sure I knew (actually, I did know before but have no clue why). Hats off to your skills.
This guy is still, after 28 years, lost for words about his plane and the friend who built it with him. Such passion, living the dream. What a life.
As a retired RAF airframe technician I can appreciate the amount of skill and effort that it took to build this superb Spitfire replica - congratulations on such an achievement. Bob and Vern - what a team!
@@dabrab Yes they are the dream team.
Be perfect if they have got the paint job correct.
This Gentleman is just so lovely to listen to. What a tremendous,
achievment to build such a wonderful aeroplane. Its quality is a testament to his passion and love of flying. Thankyou so mych for posting this. I loved every minute.
@@paulrowe-z1z Thank you. I always enjoy talking with Bob. He is a wealth of knowledge.
When this generation of men is gone, this world will be a little less valuable. God bless his honest, true spirit and soul. WOW ! = What an honor it was to watch/feel this video. THANK YOU author, kudos, and 1OO% well done sir. What a priceless passionate fantastic vision. Pure LOVE for his beautiful timeless mount. How can my life even compare as this gentleman's story, + this bird IS life's true success.
I can not agree more.
Yes! Wonderful story, beautiful Spitfire replica, and an absolutely charming man! My father owned a T28. Thanks for posting ❤️
You are sadly so right. Although I feel that many of these men that made the ultimate sacrifice would cry at what our country & society has become. They dont make em like this anymore. This man is a legend!!!!
It Won't. They actually left plenty of Sons and Daughters, there are plenty of Incredible folks among them.
When we lose a legend, I always think: 'Argh! Now we'll have to live what they taught us.'
I think we should make you an honorary Brit! You are a true gentleman!!
👍
Hear hear! A thing of true grace and elegance.
Unbelievable. Well done. Its people like you that make America great. Dont let anyone steel it from you.
Great guy!!!
@@AviationAZRancherwhat an amazing gentleman. I could spend hours listening to his stories and just hanging out with him. ❤❤
As opposed to steal…
I wooden think of it!
@@CASHSEC it's aluminium actually 😆
What a delightful man possibly the best 28 minutes I have spent on youtube in years. As an Australian aviation enthusiast that remembers the many Australians that fought in Spitfires in WW2 and the love those men had for their aircraft his enthusiasm for his beloved, beautiful aircraft is a pleasure to watch. Such a shame age has taken its toll on him and he has to sell her. A fine aircraft and a fine man.
I couldn’t agree more. Thank you!
To have the money to bring this fine machine here
As a guy who limited to checking the fluids in his car .
Unbelievable achievment
@@SimonCox-d6r It truly is!
If it looks like a Spit, flies like a Spit and sounds like a Spit it sure isn't a duck 🙂 Absolutely awesome !
the merlin sound... in a replica 🤩
edit : dumbest comment of the day 🎉
A genuine Spit was recently doing loops near my home. Absolutely stunning to see. I live near Exeter, Devon England.
@@laurentpenot2656 It’s the Allison V-1710 as used in Mustang A and Kittyhawk. It’s very similar to single stage Merlins as used before the Merlin 61 that had the two stage two speed high altitude engine. Higher power Alison’s had a turbo second stage compressor. Spitfires instead had the longer two stage “blower” Merlin.
@Dave5843-d9m quite dumb comment I made 😬TY
You are right!
I’m so amazed. What a story. This story should become a documentary movie.
@@CraigOppedal That’s a good idea!!!
I'm English too .... this was a delight. HUGE credit to you sir, may many more Spits be built like this to perpetuate their memory.
@@mikehvirdis 👍
I thought it was just me... feeling so good about seeing this project (and posting it on my Facebook page) - but then I started reading the endless Like / Comments. It is indeed endless ~ and growing.
@@mikeoreilly7122 Yes.
Speaking as a builder of a Van's RV8, THIS project is off-the-charts....absolutely unimaginable the amount of work involved. Building ANY airplane is a massive undertaking but this one is on another level completely. Absolutely stunning!
As an owner of a RV8, could not agree more Brian.
They did a massive amount of work and an excellent job!!!
Bob, simply amazing! I was on the Homebuilt Aircraft parking crew that helped you park at Oshkosh. I've been parking homebuilts there for over 30 years, and I've seen 'em all. I remember thinking "This is the most amazing homebuilt I've ever seen, or maybe will ever see". "Nuff said". Agree it should be worth $1M...... cheers!
Good afternoon 🥰
Thanks for that story!!!
I'm an English lass who loves Spitfire's and it's kinda in my blood, because one of my Grandma's (Dad's Mum) built Spitfire wings at Castle Bromwich during the war. She hardly talked about it, and passed on in 2002. How much I wish I could turn back time and talk to her about her experiences.
Used to live up the road from Castle Bromwich where they used to wheel the Spitfires across the road to the airfield to test them !. Learnt to drive on there too . Housing estate now 😢
My Grandfather built the glass canopies at StHelens ( pilks), wish he was still here.
WOW! Great stories!!!
People that lived through those dramatic days were and are often hesitant to talk about their own effort. I knew an older gentleman who flew Spitfires in UK during WW2. He never spoke about it and I didn't ask even though I was very interested and knowledgeable in aviation history. Many of his friends were killed and injured, and I felt it highly inappropriate to ask him.
@ Yes. I agree.
I've had the privilege of knowing Bob for many years. I think I met him when I was just a kid, and that was over 60 or so years ago. He's a true gentleman and a great airman to boot.
A British guy who lives in Cairns, Australia built his own full size Spitfire in 8 years. He got the original plans off the UK MOD while on a holiday back to England. It is a 2 seater. There is only one other 2 seat Spitfire like it in the world and it is WW2 vintage. He finished his Spitfire in about 2008 and CASA gave him the OK to fly it after all the tests in about 2010. His is the newest Spitfire in terms of age. He flies it on weekends and is often asked to air shows and battle commemorations like ANZAC Day, VE and VP Day to do flight demonstrations. He will take you for a ride in it for a price. The Spitfire is painted in RAAF colours with letters KPOW as the ID. It sounds BEAUTIFUL when he opens the throttle at take off!
Great job Bob on building your own Spitfire! All the best in the future.
@@lwku77598 That’s super cool. I did not know about this Spitfire. They are an iconic aircraft that’s for sure. 👍
If you see this Bob - My name is Russell Martin, Bob Martin’s son. I grew up as a little hangar rat in Prescott and always admired you so much! You, and all the guys from The First Composite Pursuit Squadron were my hero’s. Thank you for being so kind and good to see the old Ford. If it’s the same one, that’s how I learned to drive stick lol.
Hey Russ! I hope you and Corrine are doing well. It has been a long time since last we spoke. The FCPS is still going strong here!
Thanks for that!!!
What a lifetime’s achievement to build your own full scale Spitfire, absolutely incredible. That one piece wing makes it incredibly strong and the lovely low revving Allison 1710 V12 is the icing on the cake. Looks like a Spitfire, sounds like a Spitfire and goes like a Spitfire. Bravo sir!😃
Couldn't agree more!
The world is a better place because of people like you and your mechanic friend. Thank you.
@@williamjames9515 Yes it is. Thank you.
This gentleman reminds me of my father, who was an engineer with Lockheed and loved airplanes his entire life... Built models growing up, and built a Sonerai 2 when I was growing up... It was wonderful to be raised by a man who fulfilled his dreams, and I can still feel my father's joy for his own homebuilt in this man's love for his own...
My God the passion in this guy’s voice and his face. I would almost pay as much as I would for the plane just to be a companion for a while and listen to his stories and pass them on keep this genre of aviation going because without it none of us would be here not in this capacity anyway. Thank you for sharing this wonderful wonderful hobby
@@jnmwtkns Thank you for watching!!!
Congratulations for your amazing work! Flying for 70years at the age of 87 and still sharp as a tack! Thanks you for your service! God bless! 🙏
@@CaptnGlenn Thank you!
My father, during WW2, was an RAF mechanic who worked on the Spitfires. If he were still here, he would want to see your plane, and I bet you could talk for hours about the plane. I know that he loved what he did and was proud of his service. In 1947, he and his new bride came to the US because of the gratefulness he felt for the impact that this country made on the direction of that war. He taught me that we (British) owe this country a debt of thanks. Thank you for your enthusiasm for the Spitfire.
@@CaseyEff Thanks for watching. Glad you enjoyed the video. 👍
Big congratulations !!! You followed your dream to the finished . The world now has now beautiful Spitfire
Yes! Thank you!
We need more of these kinds of guytt "I'm gonna build an spitfire, I don't know how" That's magnificent
we don't need more of these guys, we need to be more like him
Mr Mitchell the original designer he probably said the same thing😊
@@blackcountryme I’m sure glad he tried. And succeeded!!!
There's a few Spitfires in the UK now that have been rebuilt with original engines and history. In the 1980's I think there was only about two flying and one was a 2 seater that a women owned and one single seater, but now there's about 14 exact rebuilds flying.
This guy is amazing, and his plane and story will live on forever!
@@googleuser2607 I sincerely hope this plane and its story live forever. My goal making these videos is to have them for other generations to be able to see in the future. Preserve these stories for posterity. 👍
@AviationAZRancher I remember there was a kid in the UK that built an exact replica of a spitfire in his back garden with all original parts. Ill have to find out what happened to it.
@ That would be great to know and a great story. I hope you find out more. Thank you for that information. 👍
This is obviously not a real Spitfire. The "real" Spitfires were built as quickly as possible for military use. This is a work of art! No "real" Spitfire ever had this much love and time invested. Absolutely beautiful, and one of a kind.
@@DannyNeal-g8y 👍 Yes
All of the remaining spitfires are loved and cherished beyond comprehension.
@ Yes.
I really take issue with your comment.
The British people who built the Sptfires were working to the bone with all their love, grit, blood, sweat, tears and determination to save Europe.
At the same time, americans were swanning around ignoring the situation for many many years until they happened to get hit by the Japs.
This thing is a toy, and was built as such.
Shame on you for your comment.
@@procatprocat9647 Not only by their owners.
That it is homebuilt makes it the most beautiful Spitfire ever built! Just a super-human, magnificent accomplishment!
I've never been so 'in awe' of a You Tube video as I was watching this. Absolutely brilliant !
@@nearlypastit2385 Thank you!
I could listen to the gentleman for hours , Much admiration for you Bob from an RC builder !
@@Codge5 Yes.
Words fail me. What a wonderful gentleman, and a wonderful video. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it
I’m really glad you enjoyed it. Thanks
It’s ‘almost’ unbelievable what I am watching.. These 2 guys need to take a bow because this build is incredible.. & it flies!! 👏🏼👏🏼
As a huge Spitfire aficionado/nut, this is just amazing to me.. Just beautiful ❤🔥
Couldn't agree more!
passion,vision,determination a little cash and a true aviator......he is a member of a very small and exclusive club...respect..!!!!
Exactly!!!
If I could afford it, I would buy it and leave it with the guy until he passes. I would only request to fly it and take full delivery by contract only when he is no longer with us. He deserves it. What an amazing guy and amazing story.
He is an amazing man and an inspiration.
Building a remarkable Spitfire replica is truly a labor of love and dedication to aviation heritage. It takes immense passion, skill, and likely years of meticulous effort to bring such a legendary aircraft back to life. Hats off to the craftsmanship and patriotism behind such a grand accomplishment-bravo!
@@fighterbomberMiG27 Thank you.
@@AviationAZRancher Absolutely
Another 70+ English guy here. I thought when I found this, that I would be watching the story of building this replica. What I found I was watching was a love story, and it was beautiful. Following the fall of the Iron Curtain Spitfires became available from those that were sent east. But I think all that has dried up now. Beautiful story, beautiful aeroplane. Thanks & Bye!
@@davidberesford7009 Glad you liked the video. 👍
You can just feel the love this man has for his airplane. So amazing. Thank you so much for sharing!
@@scottroberts1854 Glad you enjoyed it.
I'm in the UK, my Grandfather was a wireless operator in a Lancasters, did a tour and a half, surviving the war, God bless.
My Dad is 89 and I will send him the link to this - he will love it!
I can't believe people are not prepared to pay what this aircraft is worth, but people are missing two points, so far.
One - as you said, it is a full scale flying replica, not a 100% historic replica.
Two - this is an engineering masterpiece, built from the ground up, to replicate the basic experience of flying a Spitfire.
If any new owner wants to refine this, they have a blank canvas to work with.
I am sure that the right person, with a suitable amount of disposable income, and a passion, will buy it. 🤞🏻
If I win the lottery this evening, it could even be me 🤣
Thank you so much for sharing! 😎
@@trevorbarrett9971 I am so glad people are enjoying this video.
My tears are blinding me, what a wonderful video, my father was RAF 1938- 45... only an airframe fitter mostly on mosquito`s. he instilled in me a love of vintage aircraft. Thank you for sharing your passion of a lifetime.
@@maryanandmichael6739 ❤️❤️❤️
`If you can dream it, you can make it`. Made by two amazing people. What a beauty!
Yes
This guy reminds me so much of my grandfather.
WWII Luftwaffe pilot with 27 air to air victories.
If you wanted to question him about his combat experience, he went silent, all he would say, human beings perished because of me and that is not something you brag about.
If you wanted to know about aircraft and flying, he could talk your ears off and he would talk like this guy.
After the war, he became an airline pilot, some of his close friends were the very people he flew against and he admired many planes on all sides.
I wish more people would do what this guy did and build perfect replicas and this thing is gorgeous.
@@Diemerstein Thank you for watching and liking the video!
I don't know what is more magnificent. the owner or the airplane. What a story and what a life. To Bob, my very best of wishes!
@@432b86ed Great airplane. Great man.
@@AviationAZRancher ... and you are apparently not so bad yourself. 🙂Thanks for sharing that interview.
Bob is a true treasure! We met in Coolidge the first time and spent many hours enjoying his stories at OSH. We had planned to have him park with us, and when he landed they marshaled his Wooden Warbird / Faux fighter right to a place of prominence. He entertained thousands that year and I know he enjoyed every moment of it. Ask him about the time his Eastern Airlines Jet iced up the tail. He is a true American hero, and any time you can spend with him will forever be unforgettable! Pat Schmitz / C27
th-cam.com/video/pzkoTulqA1U/w-d-xo.htmlsi=BsQGsxp-65tSa46M
This is the reason I’m making these videos. I’m trying to preserve these stories they deserve it and the world needs it. Oh yeah…and I love it. 😀
Coolidge AZ?
@@jcheck6- Yes, he had a ‘winter’ hangar there for quite a while in the quonset hut hangars.
28 years to honour those airmen that defended our skies and RAF. Such a beautiful full-scale replica and incredible build story
@@AW-ServicesEverything about it is amazing to me and get to look at it almost every day.
He's justifiably proud. Beautiful aircraft.
Beautiful aircraft. Great stories.
What a fantastic guy!, thank you for all that you have done!
What a fabulous story. Your Spitfire is definitely a labor of love. Your hangar is a place I could spend hours in. A nice tribute to your friend Vern.
What a nice guy, and what a lovely aircraft. A huge achievement.
I live about a mile from the site of the old Supermarine factory here at Southampton, England.
The sight and sound of the Spitfire still gives me goosebumps!
@@nicholasbell9017 That sound has always given me goosebumps…still does. I just love it. 👍
What an honor being invited to form up his beautiful Bird with a Lancaster and a Mosquito!
Thank you for sharing, Captain Deford. 🤎🇺🇲👍👋😎
@@barrysimmons5489 Yes. A big honor!!!
Bob DeFord is a hell of a guy. He flew with my grandad in the airlines. I had the privilege of seeing the airplane in person at his hanger in Prescott. But my favorite part of the day was eating lunch with Bob at the airport cafe talking and spending time with him.
@@rdspeedfab You were very fortunate to be able to do that!!!
Thing of beauty well built.
@@TheFoxOfThredneedleStreet It truly is.
Great Video...
Thank you Sir for your dedication to building this MAGNIFICENT AIRCRAFT..
YOU DID GOOD!!
🐦 ❤
Glad you liked it!
I dont comment often but have to say this guy is a legend, I would love to just sit down and listen to him talk about this plane all day and I bet he has many other stories to share!
@@martinnilsson1594 Yes. He is amazing to just sit and listen to.
Wow, Bob. I'm blown away. We all are. And when you said that you're 87? Well, that blew me away, too. You look great. Congrats on an amazing achievement, and for delivering a little happiness to us all.
@@JimmyTheBoomer Bob definitely is delivering happiness to all. 😎
I built a 1/5th scale RC Spit Mk. 14. It took me a couple of years from start to ready to fly. I cannot imagine building a full scale. Beautiful job!
@@windsurfingphd Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it.
@@AviationAZRancher Build a quarter scale (or 1/5th) FW190A8. You will be amazed about its inherent flight qualities. No tip stalls unlike Spitfire, low wing loading unlike BF109. Make sure you administer some washout on the wing tips like 1-2 degrees. Building a FW190D9 is even better because of its long nose moment. Anyways, I have been building since 8 (now I am 68). I have over 300 airplanes in the attic. I wish I had a hangar like yours. It would be full of RC airplanes ;-)) I thought about building a Fokker DR1 triplane at full scale that I can fly at one point, but then I decided to have my feet on the ground and the airplane in the sky when I am piloting. Again, great job!
@ Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it.
You did a fantastic job, excellent work and craftsmanship, beautiful
Thank you very much!
Story like this restores my faith in humanity. Brilliant - thank you
@@RoryInside You are welcome.
Gorgeous scale spitfire, Bob is just as amazing what a lovely ole fella. The world is richer for having him.
Yes.
I met Bob about 20 years ago, we were putting together a Focke Wulf 190D-13 in the museum at Boeing Field, with Dave Goss. What a gentleman and aviator!
very cool
Nice!
Omg man that’s amazing I have the spitfire bug too. From Blackpool now Australia. I have a small squadron of dinky spitfires aside my train set
What a thing you have done I can’t stop smiling 😊
Very cool
The fit and finish of your Spitfire is absolute perfection. It is a work of art. It seems under priced at $700K. Great job sir.👍
Where I live in the UK, I am lucky enough to have two of these bad boys fly over most days in the summer, one of which is a restoration and the other is a "new build", both sound absolutely fabulous.
Yes, like you I probably see two or three a week in the summer. 👍
I recently retired from Rolls Royce motorcars after 21 years at Goodwood UK and I'd regulary hear and see the two 2 seat Spits that are stationed at Goodwood aerodrome,it;s a dream that I would one day take a flight in one,your tribute Spitfire is a testiment to the builder and to your vision,well done!
Congratulations, by the way. Do you retire earlier in the UK or this was just the place you worked for the past 21 years? We generally do around 30 in the USA, some more, some less, depending on the job. Cops and government workers can retire in 20. Me, I'll die at my desk lol..... No social security for my generation! I'll be glad if my folks can collect for a handful more years before it all goes "tits up".
@ workimg since I was sixteen,retired at 62 .5 RR being my last job,I’ll be living on my savings till 65 when I get my 4 company pensions then at 67 will get my state pension,my personal circumstances have given me the opportunity to retire early and enjoy my freedom.
If I only had the money Bob I would be there this afternoon! That beauty will be flying soon Godspeed Bob!
I LOVE IT. Love from ENGLAND. She's Fantastic. I live near Stoke -On-Trent. Reginald's family house where he was born is still here. It's in a place called Butt Lane. Between Talk and Kidsgrove in Staffordshire. I'm sure. He would be very proud of you and your friends for doing this.👍👍
Thank you
Just wow, what an awesome Job! wich show us what is Possible to live your Dream.
You got it!
This is cool. I remember Bob in the 1990s when he was with the Arizona Wing of the CAF flying the B-17 "Sentimental Journey" and was lucky enough to have flown with him in SJ several times.
@@stephenjohsz6251 Great stories of a great man, Thanks.
What a work of art. Not sure why but I got emotional listening to Bob speak about the experience of building it. Great video Mr Rancher.
Thank you.
I would love to get the paint right, such a beautiful build and the paint lets it down.
You can tell that these guys were DEDICATED to do ANYTHING to make this thing look authentic. Its amazing.
Yes they were.
Well done Fellas its beautiful. As a kid in the 80's driving with parents we use to always drive past this quarry looking area few hundred yards off the highway , Asked what it was, And parents said it was an area where 8 spitfires were buried in grease they say .And the guy who then owned the land many years later was digging up areas of the land looking for them.
@@epoh8698 Wow!
Fantastic achievement indeed ! Thanks a lot. Colin ( England )
@@colvinator1611 Colin, Glad you enjoyed it.
Respect, Sir.
Your love and passion for the Spitfire was so warming to see.
If I had the money, I would buy straight away.
I hope you have and it has gone to a good home.
Remembering and committing to something many with have forgotten or don't understand the significance of something so important in world history is sad.😢
So thank you for keeping the Spitfire alive.
It maybe a copy, and a bloody good one.
But that doesn't detract for what is a beautiful salute to the past. 🫡 🏴 🇬🇧
@@andrewtaylor3330 Thank you
Nice video.Spitfire is the most beautiful plane .Huge respect for building this beautiful plane.👌
@@UNIONSTEVEMUSIC Bob and Vern did a wonderful job!!!
Building an airplane is cool. Building a Spitfire... What's beyond cool? Because that's what this is.
@@wyanddubs 👍
What a marvoulus story. I am really surprised that the Spit didn’t sell. So many good things like low maintenance etc. I was lucky to sit in a spitfire at the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar, so I can only imagine the joy of building and flying a spit for 28 years. For now I love my RC versions. Great story and great guy. 🫡
@@DadsRCHangar Glad you enjoyed it
Wow! Homebuilt or not, that plane is impressive!
Yes it is. Thanks
This delightful few minutes just came up on TH-cam. A very special Man, just talking about 18 years of His life. He stroked the plane like touching a much loved pet. He and a Master engineer, built a dream. I just sat in a chair, in my home in England, and smiled all the to the end. Im lucky, because in the summer I will hear the magical sound of a Merlin overhead. Our local airfield flies a pair of original Spitfires, in the same skies that they flew in, during the Battle of Britain of WW2.
@@jonathanryan933 Wow! You are truly blessed to get to see that at home. I can’t get enough of those V12s flying by. Thanks for the comment.
To hear the story about someone who did what a lot would say isn't possible is heart warming.Wish you many years to enjoy your creation with good skies and fair winds.
Thank you so much!
I feel so sorry you have to sell this beautiful Spitfire you created. I sure hope it finds a home where it will be as loved and cared for as much as you have. You didn't just build "a plane" here, you created, and cared for, history. Best wishes to you, Bob. I wish there were more people in this world like you. ❤
You and me both!
Beautiful plane sir. How could you not want to fly that plane all the time!👍
Good question!
Hi
What a wonderful achievement.
Just shows what you can do in retirement.
It was great listening to this video and looking at that beautiful machine.
I’m in my 70’s, living in the UK and recently found my father’s WW2 RAF logbooks - he flew spitfires (including the AB910, which is still airworthy), hurricanes, Blenheims and various others. Clocking up over 1000 flight hours between 1941-1945.
Just sad that he never had a chance to know about your achievement and see this terrific video.
Do hope that someone with passion, the right hands and cash can look after your ‘baby’ for you.
👍😊
@@mhouslay7281 Yes. This is my wish also. Hopefully by documenting this Spitfire here to many people worldwide we can make that happen! Thanks for the comment.
Your a natural story teller and I loved listening to your story.
@@93med1 Thanks.
Spitfire obsessed Brit here, there’s plenty of homebuilt warbirds out there and they’re not bad but this is something much, much more. The others just don’t quite look right and certainly don’t sound right either, this one? Ticks the boxes all the way and it’s clear that this guy’s attention to detail is absolutely on the money. Great aircraft 👏👏👏
@@TheFatNumpty Really glad you enjoyed it!!!
by far the best 28 min. 11 seconds i spent all week, thank you for that :)
Thanks!
@@AviationAZRancher I'll second that. What an amazing guy & a great accomplishment.
Thanks for letting us see this.
Was it 28 mins, it felt like 5 🙂
I often kick myself for the amount of time I spend on TH-cam, but not this time...
Bob is even better than his aeroplane, and his aeroplane is magnificent!
I salute you sir.
Ubetcha! I was expecting a scaled version but full size?
Wow that's a real beautiful build, when you see the light reflect off the canopy metalwork and elsewhere, jaw-dropping. 900k seems like a helluva deal!
@@alphasportstv Yes. It seems like a deal to me.
You and your friend are just amazing building this amazing spitfire i loved the video
@@chrisybradshaw8594 Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it.
This man is an enthusiast through and through and then there is this his dream that would not leave him taking a rest. Greatest respect from Germany, Sir👍👍👍
@@christianfischer3267 Thank you
You built a beautiful Spitfire Bob, I too would hug the prop every chance I could.
Thanks for sharing.
@@sniddley Yes indeed. ❤️
What a beautiful airplane!
I went to the RAF museum back in 1981 and they let me into the archive library. All of the original Spitfire mechanical drawings were on microfiche. At the time, I was a B-52 crew chief and had grand ideas of building a Spitfire replica. This gentleman actually built one! Amazing!👍
❤
At RAF Museum in London you can sit in a Spitfire (mk XVIe). When I was sitting in it I kept looking all around; wife asked ‘’What are you doing?’ I replied ‘Scanning for Heinkels’.
@@alanholck7995 Lol. C'mon folks, give this guy some 'likes'
@@alanholck7995 ❤️👍
I love watching videos like these, seeing this guys with so much passion, skill and vision. Him and his friend did an amazing job, the majority of us can only dream of doing something like that.
@@ecotts TRUE
Lovely story about a lovely man and his passion. Thanks for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it
Living your passion is the best life there is!
That's amazing Bob. Vern deserves a lot of credit. She's beautiful. I'm sure it was a lot of work, but it was worth it.
I think so too!
What a treasure this man is. Very nice aircraft and a wonderful video. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it
Mr. Deford, you have no idea on how lucky you are. I can not afford to build that icone Spitfire, i wish i could. Ever since i was a little boy, i was always looking at airplanes. Specially supermarine Spitfire, P-51 mustang, Hawcker Hurricane, Yakovlev Yak-9, just to name a few.
Somehow these airplanes from the time of WW2 always facinated me, I have build and flown all of them as RC airplanes and still have the P-51 and Spitfire. I wish i could have done what you did, it's a dream i will never see come true. You really are a lucky man, i envy you lol.
@@stephandevriesere3667 Yes. Bob is an inspiration to us all!!!
This was absolutely great. I can identify with some of his feelings. He is 87 and just now, within just the last couple of years of having to hang it up. He has been blessed. I'm 72 and had to hang pretty much all of my extra enjoyment of cars and motorcycles, etc. up. We have to accept it, but it sure ain't fun. Flying with a Lancaster and a Mossy; Wow! Thanks.
Bummer wmden. I am 75 and still flying but did give up motorcycles years ago due to increased traffic.
@@wmden1 Age catches up with us all.
So wonderful to listen to someone who loves the results of his efforts, totally shares the credit and infects us with his awe of what they accomplished. If I had the money that airplane would be mine. Someone tell me where all the real men have gone.
I don’t know where the real men have gone Bob is definitely one of them!!!
28 years of your life 🙂 very very well spent !!!! 🙂🙂🙂 Fantastic !!!!
My feelings exactly!!