Flying in from Sproat Lake on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, a World War II-era plane called the Philippine Mars landed in Seaplane Lagoon at about 4 p.m. on Sunday, February 9. The Alameda Fire Department (AFD) as well as the Alameda Police Department (APD) played a small part in the landmark flight.
The flying boat was based at the old Alameda Naval Air Station when it was an active duty naval plane and flew cargo between Hawaii and the Pacific Islands during World War II. After the war, it became a firefighting aircraft in British Columbia.
Photos © Maurice Ramirez.
The Philippine Mars stayed in its former home base of Alameda for two days before taking off for its final destination, the Pima Air and Space Museum in Tucson, Arizona. The flying boat was previously set to make the journey back in December, but the flight was postponed due to engine issues.
AFD and APD assisted the historic aircraft with an escort from Seaplane Lagoon to the San Francisco Bay, using their department vessels. “A water salute was given to honor the aircraft’s long history of service to our country,” AFD told the Alameda Post in a statement.
AFD went on to explain the history of the water salute, which began in the 19th century and has been seen in both maritime and aviation uses. “This salute is a means to honor and/or welcome aircraft and maritime vessels throughout the years,” said AFD.
