The 104th Fighter Wing has donated an F-15C Eagle to the New England Air Museum as the unit transitions to the F-35A Lightning II. The aircraft, tail number 85-101, will be displayed at the museum as a static exhibit.
MSgt Adam Dempsey, 104th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron repair and reclamation supervisor, expressed his excitement over the successful completion of the exercise.
“When we were notified of the task to tow the aircraft to the museum, we were excited to take part in preserving a piece of Barnes’ history,” said Dempsey. “Utilizing our local CDDAR team and members of the CT ANG, we persevered through the challenges and successfully completed the mission at hand, and we look forward to seeing the aircraft on display at the NEAM for years to come.”
Col. Michael ‘Shot’ Glass, 104th Fighter Wing Operations Group Commander, flew the F-15 to Bradley Air National Guard Base before the aircraft was donated and transported to the museum for display.
(U.S Air National Guard Photos by Jay Hewitt)
Col. Michael Glass, 104th Operations Group Commander, piloted the aircraft on its final flight from Barnes Air Force Base to Bradley Air National Guard Base before its transfer to the museum. “The New England Air Museum does not currently possess an F-15C, so enshrining 101 at the New England Air Museum provides them with an amazing addition to their collection,” said Glass.
The donated F-15C is particularly significant due to its combat history. The aircraft carries a green star marking an air-to-air victory achieved by Capt. Rick Tollini during the Gulf War. Its inclusion in the New England Air Museum’s collection will allow visitors to learn about the F-15C’s role in shaping aerial combat.
The transition to the F-35A Lightning II represents a modernization of the 104th Fighter Wing’s capabilities, but the donation of the F-15C ensures that the legacy of this iconic aircraft is preserved for future generations.
For more information, hit the Source below
What aircraft was shot down by 85-101?
MiG-25