WarbirdsNews recently held a conversation with Sean O’Brien, Director of Operations for the B-17 Alliance Group. The organization, based in Aurora, Oregon is working to preserve the famous Gas Station Flying Fortress, B-17G 44-85790 known as “Lacey Lady”. The B-17 Alliance Foundation has set up a IndieGOGO campaing with the objective of raising US$30,000.
Click HERE to give a donation.
Your contribution will directly support the SAFE “Landing” of this B-17G the “Lacey Lady”. Originally saved by Art Lacey, three generations of Lacey’s, now Scotts, and many volunteers are leading the quest to restore this rare artifact to flying condition while showcasing authentic World War Two artifacts, memorabilia, photos, a WWII aviation library and a retail store in the “Alliance Building”.
The restoration team has already removed all four engines and transported them to a climate controlled hangar, lightening the Fort’s load by almost 12,000 lbs. The elevators and tail turret are currently under restoration. The restored nose section and ball turret are on exhibit in the B-17 Alliance Museum, awaiting the day when they can rejoin the fully airworthy “Lacey Lady”. As the team removes each component from the airframe, they take it indoors for protection and preservation.
After the “Lacey Lady” is safely brought to the ground the restoration team will prepare for her continued preservation and transport the components to a secure hangar. This portion of the restoration is expected to cost $50,000. The team has been working at this for sixteen years already, but recently, volunteers have made a big difference and the project is moving forward with renewed energy. They need your support to keep the momentum going though.
The B-17 Alliance is being fiscally responsible, and paying for all work as they go. They will not begin the careful recovery of “Lacey Lady” from her perch until they have accrued enough funding to complete the process, and are taking every precaution to ensure they accomplish this in a safe and secure manner. They have determined the budget for the recovery operation as follows:
The safe “Landing” Budget $50,000.
- Prepare “landing” site for security and protection = $2,000.
- Professional aircraft mechanics/engineers = $5,000.
- Estimated Hanger rent for one year. $1200/month = $14,400. This is a 100 x 60 foot steel constructed building with work shop capabilities, below the market price. With the funds in the bank we won’t worry about losing the site.
- Basic Capital Campaign Materials & office supplies: = $3600. Awareness and outreach is crucial to the survival of the project.
- Transportation, safety and specialized labor costs = $10,000.
- Necessary parts & accessories for this portion of restoration: Parts are rare and expensive, currently we have been given buyers choice to secure needed items. The sooner we can purchase them the better. = $10,000.
- Assemble a team and materials for educational curriculum focusing on the aviation and historical components in relation to this phase of the restoration. Collaborations with skill centers & schools to promote vocational opportunities will require transportation and materials for students. Providing education is also a means for sustainability for the project. = $5,000.
Jump on board the B-17 “Lacey Lady” Campaign Drive and help the B-17 Alliance get “Lacey Lady” out of the weather.
There are many ways to contribute:
- Help the B-17 Alliance spread the word – Together, we are LOUDER!
- Become a “CREW MEMBER” volunteer
- Donate money
- Help the B-17 Alliance connect with corporate sponsors
- Remember the B-17 Alliance in your planned giving
- Purchase items from their website
- Donate WWII artifacts, stories & aircraft parts
- Help the B-17 Alliance by using the Indiegogo share tool!
- Join an Alliance that embraces core American Values.
- Follow us on facebook
- Help us educate a new generation
Contact the B-17 Alliance Group and help them fulfill a common cause! www.b17allianceGroup.com
Contact: Terry Scott, Executive Director
Phone: 503-654-6491
The B-17 Alliance is a 501 c3 and all donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.
Click HERE to give a donation.
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
