You are very lucky to have had such an experience aboard the USS Intrepid! I've seen World War 2 aircraft in person before but only from a far distance at air shows. I can tell just by the picture alone that they are a lot bigger up close and personal. I don't know all the details about the Avenger planes, but I have heard stories about them taking a lot punishment and surviving. It certainly could absorb a lot more punishment than a Japanese Zero. The Zeroes had excellent speed and maneuverability, but a few shots usually sent it spiraling downward in no time. It's always great to see people enjoying history up close and not just merely from books and TV.