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stands for the Government.
  After the War his health was of major concern and all thoughts of re-entering the private aircraft business had to be abandoned. For a time Babcock again worked in electronic developments, but in 1946 became interested in boats. As a result he built a powered catamaran which developed into the original cabin-type KATTU and Polynesian Clipper boats. While interested in marine projects he also designed and built the first successful neutral, forward and reverse gear unit for outboard motors.
  Following retirement Babcock operated a small fishing rod and reel repair shop in the rear of his home in DeLand, Florida, enjoyed fishing, occasionally taking on a small design and development project that might interest him. After the death of Mrs. Babcock in early 1970 he lived alone, lonely and in gradually failing health resulting in his death on February 13th, 1972 at age 82. He was survived by two daughters. Mr. Babcock was a member of the famed Early Bird organization. 
  Early Bird, Flying Pioneer Vearne C. Babcock richly deserves exceptional recognition for his many worthy contributions to American aviation history. Starting with balloons he was one of the very first to assist in the early development of the aeroplane. Endowed with unusual mechanical and engineering ability, he built planes and taught himself to fly them at a very early data, and had devoted his entire lifetime of hard work and sacrifice to the design, construction and test of many successful aircraft. Many times deprived of ultimate business success just when his dreams seemed within reach, his love of the game, and the will and determination to continue, always inspired him to carry on. His long lifetime of worthy contributions to the industry are his rich reward. 
[[Stamped at bottom of page:]] FROM THE FLYING PIONEERS BIOGRAPHIES OF HAROLD E. MOREHOUSE