Alamo Liaison Squadron (ALS) participated in the annual Wings & Wheels Fly-in at Pleasanton Municipal Airport (KPEZ) on Saturday, September 26, 2026. Two aircraft made the short, 15.6-nm hop south from Cannon Field, including the group’s 1943 Taylorcraft L-2M and a privately owned Legend Cub. Upon arrival the guests were notified that all vehicles on the apron that day would be “judged,” automobiles and airplanes included.

Neal Tudor of ALS flew the L-2 over to Pleasanton.

It was warm on the black tarmac for all participants and attendees, however, the airport staff provided free water and some shade for relaxation. Scattered cumulus clouds imparted scenery and additional relief to the event. Aircraft were parked to the left of the airport’s air-conditioned terminal building, adjacent to its fueling station, along with the local fire truck and a conspicuous black helicopter. To the right was a motley variety of classic cars, trucks and restomods on four wheels.

A Legend Cub, a contemporary version of the Piper Super Cub and L-4, on the ramp at KPEZ.

Pleasanton is a town of approximately 12,000 residents, but is just 20 miles from San Antonio’s city limits. The town’s motto is “Birthplace of the Cowboy.” Hospitality was the design of the day; airport and city staff made sure of it. Many curious attendees showed up mid-day asking questions about the aircraft on display.

A stealthy looking Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, allegedly retired from military service and undergoing restoration.

While both car and plane enthusiasts have a passion for things that go fast, the awards were done in a more leisurely manner. First impressions and cleanliness potentially scored big points as the judges walked the event with clipboards in hand. The “cool” factor was sure to entice judges, all local residents and patrons of the event.

After announcing 3rd and 2nd place, the two ALS participants knew there was only one chance left to fly home with a plaque. With the Black Hawk placing third, the L-2 group, at that time consisting of Neal Tudor, Mike Taylor, David Ortega, and Chris Hiatt, was thrilled to hear the announcement. For some 20 years this L-2 has resided at Cannon Field participating in numerous events through the years. The ALS group has spent countless hours maintaining, repairing and restoring this and other L-birds.

Alamo Liaison Squadron’s 1943 Taylorcraft L-2M, earning 1st place at Wings & Wheels, Pleasanton, Texas, 2026.
(L-R) Mike Taylor, Chris Hiatt, David Ortega, Neal Tudor (ALS members). Hiatt and Ortega flew the Nord Stampe SV4C in the background, arriving en route from Bay City to Castroville for refueling. Following the awards ceremony the three aircraft—L-2, Legend Cub and Stampe—performed a flyover at KPEZ.
David Ortega, Castroville Airport Manager, refuels the Stampe while Tudor, Hiatt, and JJ Roberts, Pleasanton Airport Manager, look on.

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