In the late 30s and 40s, any aviator would instantly know what you were talking about if you mentioned a Goose. It was an important, groundbreaking plane in its day and was often written up in aviation and popular mechanical journals. They could also be seen flying all over, particularly in cities that had airports on the waterfront that catered to amphibious planes or flying boats such as the Clipper.

Northrop Grumman Corporation, based in Los Angeles, is a leading designer, systems integrator and manufacturer of bomber, fighter and surveillance aircraft as well as commercial and military aerostructures, precision weapons, electronic countermeasures and information systems. Northrop Grumman was formed this year when Northrop Corporation acquired Grumman Corporation. Northrop Grumman employs more than 43,000 people. In 1993, Northrop's net sales were $5.06 billion, and Grumman's sales were $3.25 billion. The acquisition unites two advanced technology companies with established legacies in aircraft design and manufacturing, defense electronics and advanced systems integration, and information systems and services. By the end of 1994, Northrop Grumman will be organized into five divisions: B-2; Military Aircraft; Commercial Aircraft; Electronics & Systems Integration, and Data Systems & Services.