The Dashing Barnstormer

Over the horizon is heard the sputtering engine of an unusual bird.
Trailing a billowing plume of smoke, it looked so pathetically absurd!
Coming into view was an old Curtiss Jenny of World War One fame.
Used only as a trainer, faster, more stable planes put it to shame!

The dashing young pilot buzzed the field and waved to the crowd.
Distraught moms covered the ears of their kids to ease the din so loud!
He did a barrel roll and a loop and people thought the man insane!
He made a wobbly landing, alit, gazing about with haughty disdain!

Doffing his goggles, his oil-stained face looked like that of a raccoon.
The handsome interloper caused young ladies to gasp and swoon.
He smiled a smile that would light up the night and gallantly salutes!
He's so striking in his breeches, helmet, leather jacket and shiny boots!

He grandly announced, "For five bucks I'll take you for a ride,
In good old faithful Jenny here, my joy and my pride!
Now don't be shy, step right up!  How about you there, Dad?
Let me give the thrill of a lifetime to that there young lad!"

The young fellow with his Ma and Pa did earnestly plead.
Ma and Pa argued about it and Ma tearfully agreed.
That flight sparked a burning flame in the soul of that young boy!
He became a World War Two fighter ace much to his parent's joy!

Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
© All Rights Reserved
Copyright © | Year Posted 2012

Poem

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Debole Avatar
July 18, 2012 at 6:43 PM
Bob - Enjoyed reading your poem! The description in this poem is crystal clear and strong. Very interesting story. - Gail
Larison Avatar
July 16, 2012 at 3:44 PM
Wonderful poem. what a great work! laurel
Sweetheart Avatar
July 14, 2012 at 2:05 PM
we have lots of these in Summer at seashore..loud and louder.. a grand write Bob as I am recovering fro, my concussion..Ron is reading so,e [pems oit loud to me.. so I don't have to strain my eyes to enjoy..hope u and Vera are well luv..
Horne Avatar
July 13, 2012 at 1:58 PM
Yes, I just love those air shows - they flew a Tigermoth here once, which really impressed me. Love this wonderful write, Bob. Hope you both have a great weekend
Brown Avatar
July 12, 2012 at 11:52 AM
I have enjoyed reading your excellent poetry today Bob. I look forward to reading more of it as time permits. Love, Carol
Onclaud Avatar
July 12, 2012 at 9:57 AM
you remind me of my dad, bob.. he was an air force pilot and i enjoyed the plane shows as a child!.. so warmly written... you had me glued all over!..:) hugggs!
Susan Avatar
July 12, 2012 at 8:33 AM
That must have been some flight to influence him so much! Inspiring :)
Bauer Avatar
July 12, 2012 at 8:09 AM
bob, you've managed to capture both the boldness of the "dashing young pilot" and the excitement of the "young fellow" in such a wonderful way - i love this poem! i also like the way you took the story and let us know the consequences of that joyous ride. bravo!
Johnson Avatar
July 11, 2012 at 11:19 PM
Great poetry here Bob old mate, story told is is bloody great, and done with style
St.Cross Avatar
July 11, 2012 at 10:15 PM
‡ I Think We Had A Date Before I Knew That He Wasn't My Cup Tea, Sweet Beautiful Robert * John Was Right, Your Are A Gifted & Wonderful Writer * You Weave Some Lovely Poetic Tapestries Moments * I Enjoy Your Words & This Is Quite Beautiful My Friend; Truly * My Luv, Rachel ‡
Sivey Avatar
July 11, 2012 at 8:06 PM
This is a very proud write my friend! It kept me in its grasp all throughout the poem! I loved the thrill of the fun you wrote about! And I'm surly glad to hear how this young lad turned out! Wonderful poem Bob, Great Work!!
Pettit Avatar
July 11, 2012 at 7:59 PM
I saw an airshow with those old WWI vintage biplanes years ago. They were oldies but goodies. Another fine and enjoyable read Bob.
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