10th of July, 2021
John Tashjian served with VMF-441 (U.S. Marine Corps Fixed Wing Squadron) during World War II as a Corsair pilot. In 1944, VMF-441 was operating out of the Marshall Islands on Roi-Namur, an island in the north portion of the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshalls. Thanks to Mr. Tashjian's records, as well as those of a Mr. Ferrill Perdy (now-deceased) and a Mr. Edward McAleer (also deceased), we know that the Museum's F4U-1A Corsair was with them at this time. Mr. McAleer flew our Corsair six times, Mr. Perdy flew it twice, and Mr. Tashjian flew it once.
Mr. Tashjian retired from USMC service with the rank of Major.
Mr. Tashjian is turning 100 years old on Saturday, July 10, 2021 and his birthday wish was to visit the Planes of Fame Air Museum in Chino, CA and see the aircraft he flew when he was just 23 years old.
Planes of Fame Air Museum is hosting a birthday celebration for Mr. Tashjian which includes refreshments (cupcakes and shaved ice treats) for those in attendance. The Museum's F4U-1A will also fly for Mr. Tashjian. Engine start is scheduled for 12:00 noon. The aircraft will fly over the Museum for approximately 20 minutes.
Guests are invited to attend this special event and are asked to bring a birthday card for Mr. Tashjian.
Discounted admission prices are in effect. Doors open at 10:00am. The event kicks off at 10:30am and lasts until 12:30pm.
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