The C-124C, a transport forerunner of today's massive C-5 and C-17 aircraft, is being washed and will soon receive a new paint job. She is also getting her "Pack Rats" patch repainted, emblematic of the 7th Logistics Support Squadron.
According to a museum press release, the "Pack Rat" depicted Mighty Mouse carrying a log forming the shape of a seven. Mighty Mouse was a 1940s cartoon character credited with super powers.
In the 1960s, the museum indicated, "thousands of 'Pack Rat' symbols blanketed Robins and other bases transited by the 7th LSS. It was their answer to (the) 'Kilroy was here' phrase of World War II.
The C-124 was the primary heavy lift aircraft for the U.S. military during the 1950s and early 1960s. It was powered by four large Pratt & Whitney piston engines and was capable of carrying 68,500 pounds of cargo including tanks, guns, trucks and other heavy equipment.
It could also carry 200 troops on its double decks or 127 litter patients.
It was uniquely configured for cargo with two large clamshell doors and a hydraulically-actuated ramp in the nose along with a cargo elevator under the aft fuselage.
The "C" model was a significant improvement over earlier versions, featuring more powerful engines and a weather radar. Combustion heaters were also affixed to the wingtips to heat the cabin and provide for tail and wing surface deicing.
According to a museum statement, restoration of the aircraft will take several months. It was last restored in 12 years ago when a group of former 7th LSS volunteers raised $10,000 to support the project.
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