The Politics of Building a Weapon: Early History of the A-10 Warthog

Close Air Support failed in the Korean War. It failed again in the Vietnam War. The Army had had it with the Air Force and its disdain for the land battle. So, Army leaders designed a super-helicopter that cost twice as much as any fighter jet of the time. This threatened Air Force budgets and so forced the fly guys to very reluctantly design America’s first and only Close Air Support attack jet. This fully illustrated presentation details the design considerations that resulted in the truly ugly and supremely effective Warthog.
Instructor: Ed Herlek : BS in Engineering and Political Science from the US Air Force Academy and MA in National Security Studies from California State University. Ed is a recognized authority on “near space” or stratospheric unmanned systems. He is a pilot (both military and civilian aircraft), and served in the Air Force Space Command developing unmanned systems.
Cost: Free class, but participants must register online starting November 2.
Thursday, December 19, from 10:10 am to 12:30 pm at PILLAR

About The PILLAR Institute
PILLAR Institute for Lifelong Learning is the only independent lifelong learning institute in the Pikes Peak region and southern Colorado. It is a volunteer-driven membership organization that is open to all.
For 25 years, PILLAR has created opportunities where adults can come to socialize, volunteer, and keep their brains active through curiosity and learning.
Lifelong learning class offerings change from trimester to trimester and range from topics in history, science, geopolitics, art, health, music, spirituality, and more. Classes may be held in-person at PILLAR’s location, at offsite locations, and/or virtually. Early registration is strongly encouraged to ensure a space in the class. For more details and to become a member, visit https://www.pillarinstitute.org/.