CAF Minnesota Wing Member uses scholarship to fuel passion for aviation
South St. Paul, MN (August 23,2024) - For Tommy Hammonds, aviation isn't just a career—it's a legacy. Growing up in the backseat of his father’s vintage Piper Cub, Hammonds developed an early love for flight. With his grandfather also a pilot, aviation runs deep in his family’s roots.
That passion led Hammonds to pursue a vocation as an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic, a field that is crucial to the aviation industry. With the industry facing a significant demand for skilled A&Ps, he found no difficulty securing a job after completing his training at Minneapolis Community and Technical College. But unlike most of his peers, who gravitated toward commercial airlines, Hammonds chose a path that aligned with his love for historic aircraft and general aviation.
Hammonds' dedication to aviation extends beyond his professional life. At just 24 years old, he has already made significant contributions as a member of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Minnesota Wing. The active Wing based in South St. Paul, Minnesota, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing World War II aircraft and has been the perfect place for Hammonds to combine his technical skills with his passion for history.
Hammonds works as a mechanic and crew chief on various World War II aircraft. His commitment and expertise have not gone unnoticed. Recently, Hammonds earned his certification to serve as a flight engineer on B-25 Miss Mitchell, a medium bomber assigned to the Minnesota Wing. This role requires meticulous preparation of the aircraft for flight and serves as a crucial "third set of eyes" during missions, ensuring the bomber's safety and operational readiness.
Hammonds’ journey with the CAF is marked by a blend of hard work and an adventurous spirit. Earning certification in the B-25 wasn’t just about learning the technical aspects; it also involved understanding the historical significance and mastering all safety precautions and challenging training scenarios, like stalling a 36,000-pound aircraft mid-flight or shutting down an engine in the air. For Hammonds, these experiences are not just part of the job—they are a source of pride and fulfillment.
Hammonds’ dedication to aviation was recently recognized when he was awarded a scholarship by the Benson Airport's Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 745. The scholarship is given to young aviators who demonstrate a strong commitment to the future of aviation, and Hammonds’ impressive accomplishments and volunteer work with the CAF made him a standout recipient.
With his private pilot’s license in hand since the age of 19, Hammonds encourages others to consider a career in aviation, particularly in the A&P field. His ultimate reward would be to fly an aircraft built with his own hands—a dream he continues to pursue.
Learn more about the CAF Minnesota Wing on their website: https://www.cafmn.org.
