The Mohawks flew pre-determined courses over friendly and unfriendly territory constantly scanning the desert for vehicle movements. Then we'd decide if we wanted to break track and get out of there. Exclusion from the headlines in its last campaign served only to strengthen the close-knit Mohawk fraternity. Its members became closer still when the OV-1's retirement came and went without fanfare. Elvis fans have their Graceland.
Film buffs head west to Hollywood.
Former Mohawk pilot Mike Langer, founder of the American Wings Air Museum, oversees a growing collection of aircraft used for reconnaissance, training, forward air control, and liaison, including 12 Mohawks in various stages of completion or restoration. The museum had three flyable Mohawks until a 90-mph wind gust severely bent one airplane's right main landing gear. A partially restored Mohawk procured through a chance encounter with a military surplus catalog rests in the museum's hangar. Langer, who had gained restoration experience working on a Beechcraft T-34 Mentor, submitted the winning bid and trucked the airplane to Minnesota. Seeking help from Grumman officials, Langer received technical manuals and drawings but was told that only a non-profit museum or foundation was likely to obtain new parts.