Cessna L-19/O-1 Bird Dog

The Cessna L-19/O-1 Bird Dog, was the first all metal fixed wing aircraft ordered for and by the US Army, since the US Army Air Force separated from the army in 1947, becoming its own branch of service, the United States Air Force. The US Army was searching for an aircraft that could adjust artillery fire, as well as perform liaison duties, and preferably be constructed of all metal, as the canvas covered Liaison airplanes used during WWII (primarily Stinson and Piper products) had a short service life. In 1950, the US Army found a civilian light plane that fit its needs perfectly, a Cessna 170. With modifications to fit the needs of the military, the Cessna 170, was used by the US Army, designated the (Liaison) L-19, fighting its first war in Korea from 1950 through 1953. It was developed as the winner of a 1950 competition for a new two-seat, single-engine observation plane.