The clipper Woody refers to was the Clipper Ship Airplane, which was part of the early years of international air travel. The Boeing 314 Clipper was used by Pan American World Airways, BOAC, and the U. S. Navy. It ceased commercial operations with the advent of WW2.
Like all good comic characters, Woody was seen doing his patriotic best to help the home front during WW2. Though his antics might have been a bit outrageous, they provided much need humor to the troops serving in the conflict.