[Mark C.]

Mike, I watched the series and the repeats whenever possible.

"Also, check out the little "dash" that appears in each of the two engine's nosecones. For years I wondered what those were. They are pull handles to manually start the jet engine, just like a pull start on a lawnmower."

The little rings started "starter motors" then the jet engines were started from them.

Bill,

I'm with you, give me 909 anyday. I flew on her from Greeneville, SC to Cahrlotte, NC. I was privledged to fly with Robert "Dusty" Hoffman, the pilot who flew her in the ET back in 45. When they gave him the yoke, I could see him lovingly caressing it, like you would your best girl (get your minds out of the gutter guys). In the sense he was very gentle with her.

He in the back row third one fron the left.