Diamond Lil Departs

Diamond Lil has arrived!

People head to get a closer look at the B-24.

The CAF B-24 bomber Diamond Lil has arrived at Martin State Airport.  It floated down from partyly cloudy skies to a welcome from scores of fans. The plane will be  open for tours 9 AM to 5 PM Wednesday and Thursday.  There will be no rides offered.
The museum will be open extended hours both days

For a look at Diamond Lil's arrival:

Visitors Wednesday get look at nose gun.

http://youtu.be/YQWT6frCF9w

New exhibit opens

Two of the original Rosie the Riveters check out images at the new exhibit, They Answered the Call, which chronicles the story of Martin Company employees in World War II. The women are standing in front of a quilt made by several women workers.  The Rosies who attended the preview on May 7 were thrilled that their contributions to the war effort are recognized after all these years.

The show features many photographs from the Museum archives that have not been on public display before. Artifacts donated for the exhibit range from tool boxes to sports uniforms. The exhibit is open during regular Museum hours and will be evolving as more items becomes available.

Harvey visits the museum

Harvey Hodgin, the Museum's oldest(?) member and one of its biggest supporters, visited on the eve of his 98th birthday.  Harvey gave a big thumbs up to the new exhibit, They Answered the Call, the story of Martin workers in World War II.  Harvey regaled those present with stories of both his life (he got his first plane ride in 1919) and work for Glenn L. Martin.  He fondly recalled his talks with Mr. Martin and the time he spent working on various projects for the company.  He is looking forward the the centennial of the company in August.

A pleasant trip to Dover

Even the clouds and threat of rain couldn't dampen the day as nearly 50 members and guests took the bus ride to the Air Mobility Command Museum at Dover AFB on Saturday, May 5.

Visitors board "Air Force Two"

The volunteers and staff at the museum could not have been nicer as they led the group through the extensive outdoor and indoor displays.

They opened the VC-9C especially for the group. "Air Force Two" transported vice presidents, first ladies, and heads of state during its working life from 1975 until 2011.  People commented that passengers enjoyed first-class accommodations.
Several other planes were also open for inspection, with the sheer size of some craft inspiring admiration.

After a box lunch, the group was led through the indoor displays. People commented on the level of  restoration that the planes received. Especially impressive were the restored B-17G Flying Fortress and C-47A Skytrain.

When the group reached the Berlin Airlift exhibit, it was especially appropriate that Museum member Fred Hall, a veteran of the Airlift, added some of his personal reminiscences. The Museum is fortunate to have members who have a personal story to tell about our historic aircraft.

The Museum is already looking at possibilities for group bus trips.  If you have a suggestion, please let us know. 

We would like to extend thank yous to the Dover volunteers who showed the group around, Just Class Motorcoach for a smooth ride, and Subway Sandwiches in White Marsh for the early morning delivery.

The 123-K Provider, built by Fairchild, gets a closer look.