TBM TBM Originally crafted by Grumman-- (With an “F” at the end of its name)--- Would be a national savior – Low level attacking—its game. But the Navy had need of more fighters, (Grumman had made the F six)— So General Motors (hence came the “M”), Was melded into the mix. Though most of the bombers game out of G.M.— (That’s how it happened to play)— Most of the time-- its old name stuck— Was a “Grumman Avenger” they’d say. Regardless-- its birthing site— Did what it was sculpted to do— Planting torpedoes or dropping its bombs--- Enemies felt where it flew. Big and tall with aft folding wings— With a turret atop near the stern— A gun did jut from a belly site— (Enemies slowly would learn). It did lack grace in the transiting space— As its gear was seeking its nest— The wheels swung out from their inboard stance— To bays in the wings where they rest. The flight of another—to some came to mind— As this gear retraction occurred— The one most used-- that “November” kind- They called it the “Turkey” bird. Aviators who flew in this type— Have every right to be proud— Took skill and heart to do what they did— Low and slow and loud! Bill Woodall