04/25/2026
In the fall of 2024, Ranger Airfield was offered the incredible opportunity to become the caretaker of this Bobcat, a beautiful and increasingly rare aircraft. More than 5,000 “Bamboo Bombers” were built during World War II, yet today fewer than ten are still flying.
Over the course of seven months, I worked on the acquisition for Ranger, even traveling to inspect it in person. By the time the owners finally chose Ranger, another opportunity had come along, an aircraft so significant that it simply could not be passed up. With limited time, space, and resources, the decision had to be made carefully. In the end, it became clear the Bobcat’s best path forward was with a team that could give it immediate attention and return it to the skies without delay.
When the bill of sale arrived transferring ownership to Ranger, I signed it over immediately to another team, no money and no strings attached. An airplane that could have been parted out, sold off, or left to sit was instead given the chance to fly.
That team was Someday, also here in Texas. Thanks to their dedication, the Bobcat made it to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, where it quickly became a crowd favorite and was photographed by the Experimental Aircraft Association air to air team. Connor Madison took the cover shot and Hal Bryan wrote the story.
Giving the Bobcat a home and receive the attention it deserves has been deeply rewarding for me personally. Ranger Airfield has always been about preserving history and making sure these aircraft are not only saved, but shared and celebrated.
And while the Bobcat’s journey continued elsewhere, Ranger Airfield’s story is only gaining momentum.
Today, Ranger Airfield’s future is secure, the vision is stronger than ever, and something truly extraordinary is on the horizon. Soon, Ranger will welcome an aircraft with a direct connection to one of the most remarkable chapters in the airfield’s history, a rare flying machine, one of only two survivors.
We are not ready to share all the details just yet, but we can say this: the best days for Ranger Airfield are still ahead, and there is a lot to be excited about.
Sometimes the greatest victories are not in holding on, but in making the right decisions that open the door to something even greater. That is exactly where Ranger Airfield stands today, and the future has never looked brighter.
If what Ranger Airfield stands for resonates with you, preserving aviation history, keeping these aircraft flying, and building something meaningful for the future, you can be part of that story. By joining as a Ranger, you help support the continued growth and preservation of this special place for generations to come.
To learn more and join the cause: https://www.rangerairfield.org/join
