One month ago, the exterior of one of three of the Navy Flying Club’s historic T-34 aircraft begged to be restored to its unique splendor. The Beechcraft’s once bold red, white and blue tones had faded to dull shades of gray and rain-splattered swirls.

Understanding the importance of the aircraft to the club, Manager John Humphries and the club’s board of directors put out the call for volunteers.

“The T-34 has a lot of meaning for Navy pilots. We have plenty of capable people on this base who keep aircraft looking great every day. Utilizing their expertise was the most sensible and professional way to restore the bird,” Humphries explained.

A fresh paint job and color scheme have given the piston engine plane new life, turning what was once an archaic piece of nostalgia into an iconic gem that now rarely remains on the ground. “Our members have been checking out that plane like crazy lately,” Humphries stated.

The popular makeover was made possible by the handiwork of AO3 Al Sealey, AM1 Tom Peppel, and AMAR Trevor Bates from VAQ-129, AM1 Mike Fraasch, AE2 Erik Murphy and AM Louis Garcia from FRCNW, plus many club members. In a process that took nearly 500 manhours to complete, volunteers sanded, sprayed and perfected final touches to make the sentimental warbird shine.

Volunteers were happy to put in the effort. “I thought it was fun. I had a good time,” said Sealey.

Peppel was completing yard work during a recent weekend when he saw the bright blue and gold plane fly overhead. He was gratified to see the plane’s new look and happy he was able to restore club members’ affection for the T-34.

“It’s nice to see the final product,” he concluded. 

All are welcome to see the transformed airplane and the rest of the Whidbey Island Navy Flying Club’s fleet during an open house on May 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For prospective members, intro flights (in which you fly with an instructor and actually take the controls) are $50 all day, with 50 percent off new membership fees and a barbecue from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Look forward to plenty of freebies and giveaways throughout the day. For more information or to book your introductory flight, call (360) 679-IFLY.