As many of you know I purchased Lockheed T-33A-1-LO #51-6546 from "woodsyairfield" (Leon) recently and am currently making arrangements to bring it back to the Toledo area probably in the spring. I've made a trip to Vermilion County airport by Danville Illinois to pick up all the original manuals and this past Sunday made a trip to Grissom to inspect the T-33 that is on the far northwest part of the property in the weeds. And in doing so, I spoke with folks there who stated that T-33 has been sitting in that same area since the mid 80's. They further stated that they've sent many letters/emails to the NMUSAF informing them that the T-33 was excess to their needs and wanted it removed from the property. It was also said that folks from Grissom over the years told people from the NMUSAF that there were people interested in the bird but was told by the museum they (NMUSAF) would handle any decisions regarding any of "their" aircraft. I've had some conversations with people from NMUSAF regarding what's left of the T-33 ( stripped down/out fuselage, complete wing sitting in front of the fuselage) and I was told that the remains could either be scrapped or put up for auction. I appreciate everyone who supplied leads/info on parts/pieces. I don't like asking people for anything but there has been a gofundme set up to raise funds so once it gets back to Toledo it can go straight into a hangar where the restoration can commence. Until such time I obtain wings, the restoration can proceed on the rest of the plane.
One of the goals is to track down as many instructors and pilots who trained in this bird and have them sign a piece of the original skin and once that's done put the piece of skin on display.We are also making a plaque and inscribing the names of folks who either donated time, materials, funds.
https://www.gofundme.com/jq6pynyc
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