SUMMARY
Airbase Arizona members are working to raise funds for a spare replacement engine for its B-25, Maid in the Shade. Once funds are procured, this aircraft is slated to become the centerpiece for a program to engage local students in aviation.

HISTORY
Maid in the Shade is one of the CAF aircraft which has a combat history. This airplane participated in 15 combat missions during World War II as part of the 437th Bomb Squadron, 319th Bomb Group, 12th Air Force based in Serraggia, Corsica, bombing railroad bridges and marshalling yards. After the War it was sold as surplus and became an insect sprayer in the U.S. The aircraft was acquired by the CAF in the 1980s and was authentically restored over a 28-year period into its original combat configuration. It is now a leading attraction at Airbase Arizona’s Flying Legends of Victory Tour.

PROGRESS
Currently Airbase Arizona has a B-25 R2600-35 spare engine at a radial engine overhaul facility. The engine overhaul will take approximately four months to complete. Having this engine will ensure that the 2022 Flying Legends of Victory Tour could continue, with only a minor interruption to change out the engine should it be necessary.

TASKS AHEAD
Maid in the Shade is currently in flying condition with a very busy schedule. That means that its maintenance is extensive and constant. To help ensure that it continues to take to the sky, Airbase Arizona plans to repair a spare replacement engine. The cost of the engine is $80,000, of which the group hopes to generate $25,000 as part of this year’s 12 Planes of Christmas fundraiser.

VISION
The Airbase Arizona High School Expo invites students to submit projects for exhibition in the Airbase Arizona Flying Museum. Projects demonstrate some facet of history, technology, and/or the ability of Americans to work together. Outreach messaging in 2022 will target students to participate in the expo and members of the public who wish to support the program. B-25 Maid in the Shade directly supports this program by allowing students and guests to see and to be briefed on radial engines, flight control, electrical, and hydraulic systems, and their collective operation.