EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES
10.11.2024
Story by Senior Airman Briana Beavers
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. — Aircraft static displays on military installations are a common sight, and like the aircraft that are currently in service, they still require routine maintenance.
A simple wash and re-paint can prolong the life of a jet to perform its designated mission.
From Aug. 23 to Sept. 25, 2024, Scott Elliot, a freelance contractor, worked independently to restore an F-15A Eagle legacy aircraft, which serves as a monument to the history of the 33rd Fighter Wing.
“Initially, I prewash the aircraft then address the galvanic corrosion and prime those spots,” Elliot explained. “After that process, I sand the aircraft, give it one last wash, and then I apply the paint and insignias.”
Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals are in contact with one another. This was the first restoration since 2015, and the first time corrosion had been treated since then.
Travis Workman, 33rd FW historian, said the reapplication of colors, markings, and insignia on static display aircraft should be accomplished every five years. Cleaning and other treatments can be done more frequently if necessary.
Considering the F-35A Lighting II is currently employed by the 33rd FW, many wonder why it’s not displayed at the entrance of Nomad Way.
“The F-15 static won’t be replaced by an F-35, but that doesn’t mean the 33rd FW won’t ever receive an F-35 static display in the future,” Workman said. “The current static is a huge piece of not only American history, but 33rd FW history as well.”
The 33rd FW employed F-15s from 1978 to 2009. On Jan. 17, 1991, while supporting Operation Desert Shield, the wing successfully deployed F-15s and returned home with many accomplishments.
In 1999, while it was still in service, Col. Felix Dupre, former 33rd FW commander, dedicated the static to all members of the wing.
“Dedicated to the men and women of the 33 FW, past, and present, who so selflessly gave their time, talents, and dedication to performing the mission at hand,” Dupre stated. “It will stand as a constant reminder that the pursuit of freedom is never free.”
