RESTORATION OF A MILITARY ICON

November 2024 Update:

I am happy to report that fund-raising for the “Restoration of the Mighty Warrior” (P-2) made great strides in 2024. Through social media, in-person events, and the 2024 NASB Reunion, we were able to raise enough funds (approximately 50K) to complete the restoration project beginning in the spring of 2025. In case of cost overruns and unknown contingencies, we continue to need more donations. Any monies donated above the amount needed will be placed in a fund for the continued maintenance for the P-2 and P-3 aircrafts. We also had a donor install a great looking fence around the perimeter of the aircraft. We are anticipating a completion date in late summer or early fall of 2025. We gratefully thank all supporters, donors, and volunteers in helping to complete this worthy project!

RESTORING A WEARY WARRIOR

1969 began the placement of a Lockheed P-2 Neptune on guard at the front gate of the then Naval Air Station of Brunswick, Maine. After it arrived at the base in late 1969, the harsh New England winter set in, and the task of moving the retired patrol plane was delayed to the following spring. Fast forward 53 years, and this faithful, proud, yet aged warrior continues to stand guard.

Today, as the former NAS Brunswick continues to evolve from a military base to a civilian community, the piece of land that the P-2 Neptune has called home for the past 5+ decades will be developed. With over 75 years of service (military & static display), the P-2 needs to be relocated and restored. A combined committee of Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority (MRRA) members, Retired Navy Veterans & Brunswick Naval Aviation Museum volunteers have been working together to relocate and restore the P-2.

After much research by various entities, it has been determined that the P-2 is NOT structurally sound to move. However, we are still planning to perform metal repair, strip, prime, repaint, and add decals back on the plane. We estimate the cost of this project around $55,000.

Due to the elements, this weary warrior has served our country in patrol after a patrol of antisubmarine hunting during the Cold War. Numerous deployments to various locations throughout the world during the Korean & Vietnam Wars need your help to be restored to the full military glory that it once was.

The P-2 Neptune is on loan from the U.S. Navy & MRRA is its local custodian.

Any funds raised beyond our goal (and not needed for any hidden issues unknown at this time) will be donated to the WHEELS UP Campaign at the Brunswick Nava Aviation Museum. BNAM is a nonprofit 501(3)(c) organization. They are dedicated to preserving the history of Naval Aviation in Maine.