Although she is not as recognizable as the iconic B-17 Flying Fortress, the B-24 Liberator arguably had a larger impact on World War II. Liberator was flown by all branches of the United States Armed Forces, as well as the British Commonwealth and WASP. The aircraft was flown in all theatres and helped turn the tide in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. A testament to the impact is the large number constructed, more than 18,400, making the Liberator the most produced four-engine bomber in history. Of those, only two remain airworthy today. Removed from flying status in July 2015, the CAF B-29/B-24 Squadron's plan was to spend one year performing maintenance and restoration that included rewiring the airplane, wing spar X-ray and inspection and a historic restoration in the aft fuselage to replace the "radio room." Almost 14 months later, the airplane was deemed ready to return to the sky. Unfortunately, shortly thereafter circumstances were such that the airplane was grounded pending the purchase and installation of 3 new engines. That work was completed just a few months ago and the airplane has been returned to flying status – truly in better condition than ever before. The squadron’s next goal is to raise money for an endowment that will fund the ongoing care and maintenance the airplane requires. It is our hope Diamond Lil will be able to travel across America, providing Americans of all ages and from all walks of life the opportunity to experience history for years to come.
