United States Army

Fixed Wing Aircraft

Bird Dog

{ L-19 }

The O-1G is a two-place observation and liaison aircraft developed from the
commercial Cessna Model 170 in 1949. Originally designated as L-19s, "Bird
Dogs" were used by the USAF, Army, and Marines for such tasks as artillery
spotting, front-line communications, medical evacuation, and pilot training.

In Vietnam, O-1s were used by forward air controllers (FACS) for reconnaissance.
A "FAC", often an experienced fighter pilot, was assigned to a specific
geographical area, so that he could readily identify enemy activity. If a FAC
observed enemy ground targets, he marked them with smoke rockets so they
could be easily attacked by fighter-bombers. The FAC remained on the scene to
report bombing results.

The USAF ordered more than 3,200 "Bird Dogs," most of which were built as
L-19As between 1950 and 1959. The O-1G on display was transferred to the
Museum in 1971.

SPECIFICATIONS
Span: 36 ft.
Length: 25 ft. 10 in.
Height: 9 ft. 2 in.
Weight: 2,400 lbs. loaded
Armament: Generally none except smoke rockets
Engine: Continental O-470 of 213 hp.
Crew: two
Serial number: 51-11917

PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed: 150 mph.
Cruising speed: 115 mph.
Range: 530 miles
Service Ceiling: 20,300 ft.