Riverside, CA — This C-53D “D Day Doll,” built in 1943 by Douglas, flew three combat air drops on June 6, 1944 with the 101st Airborne Parachute Division.The twin-engine aircraft, on each of three missions, carried 28 paratroopers, many of whom never came back.
The airplane is maintained in remembrance of all the airmen — those who returned and those who didn’t.
Still boasting its “D Day Doll” logo, the airplane now makes its home at Riverside Municipal Airport, where it is part of the nonprofit Inland Empire Wing Commemorative Air Force there.
Retired Tsgt. Randy Kim, a Vietnam veteran who served 20 years as an Air Force crew chief and flight engineer, is part of a volunteer team looking forward to the 23rd annual Riverside Air Show on Saturday. Randy, 66, does maintenance work on the “Doll,” which he calls the star of the show.
“Many IE people don’t know they have the opportunity to see, touch, smell and even fly at this historical aviation museum in their own backyard,” Said Kim.
The airplanes at this flight museum are not only on display, they are available for rides as well — except during the Air Show event when the skies will be filled with aerobatic demonstrations, skydivers, and other aerial performers.
These days, the D Day Doll is grounded, waiting for an engine replacement.
“The historic World War II airplane needs a new engine for her to continue flying to teach younger generations about her service to our country,” said Kim, who was stationed at Norton and lives in San Bernardino.
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