Restoration updates at the NMUSAF

[Pat Carry]

Looks like they are starting work on a A-1H Skyraider and work has started up again on the A-25A www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/exhibits/rest ... /index.asp

[Misterg97]

I'm waiting for them to raise the 121 ...

[Pat Carry]

Hey Jerry, Why are the placing this Connie up on boxes?

[Misterg97]

Pat,

My guess is to give more room on the floor for the upcoming new exhibits .. While I do not believe the "Black Mariah" will be returned they will be brining in another Skyraider. The first phase of the renovation is scheduled for the spring when the "River Rats" hold a reunion at the museum. I'll try to keep you posted if I hear anything firm over the next month or so.

I will say, while some may disagree, the restoratyion of the Huey, Jolly Green and the Canberra came out super ...

Jerry

[groundpounder]

What they are doing with the Swoose and the Belle is nothing short of amazing ! Considering all of the aircraft that were destroyed during and after the war, to think that one day we will be lucky enough to be able to see two of the originals first hand is very fortunate indeed. Great job !!

[mustangdriver]

So is Black Mariah not on display, or do you think it will be on display?

[Misterg97]

The Black Mariah has been removed ... don't quote me Chris, but from what I heard there is no plans to put it back on display in the near future ... however, that might be hear say ... perhaps you can find out better than I ...

[mustangdriver]

I'll see what I can find out. She's over in restoration right now.

[Ken]

Be real curious to know the paint scheme chosen for the little A-1. As we don't know the true serial number, it's hard to know what units this bird served in or if NMUSAF has a particular tail they want to honor.

I'm a fan of the 6th SOS at Pleiku. Absent other ideas, the SQ CC's "Spad Dad" would be a worthy idea:

http://www.militaryspot.com/classifieds ... 32&page=38

By the way, although Spad is a long time nickname, the only AF A-1 unit to use SPAD as its actual radio callsign was the 6th.

Ken

[mustangdriver]

If this airframe has a good story to tell I hope they paint it in it's original markings. If they are going to do a rep. scheme with it, I am with Ken. Spad's Dad is cool!!
I think it would be a mistake to take Black mariah off display. I am hoping they are changing the interior around. I noticed she is still listed as being on display in the MFG with a note that it is in the shop. that leads me to believe they have plans on returning it. I will find out.

[Ken]

I had forgotten that Spad Dad is in the first 2 photos here. Note the colored fin.

http://www.skyraider.org/skyassn/otherp ... ludwig.htm