GOLDSBORO, N.C.—A fighter jet that has become a historic symbol of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base is restored and ready to be placed in downtown Goldsboro again.
The F-86 Sabre was on display outside the Goldsboro Police Dept. for several years until February 2014, when it was transported to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base for refurbishing.
"If you consider it a skeleton, we basically had to bolster the skeleton and then we primarily concentrated on the skin of the aircraft, remaking skins and attaching it and the final step was the beautification part,” said Tech Sgt. Kelvin Lewis with the 4th Fighter Wing.
The next step included applying protective coating and decals, making the aircraft look good as new and avoid corrosion.
"We had to cut out a lot of damage and make a lot of flush patches because we wanted this aircraft to look as best as we could make it because it's going downtown,” said Airman 1st Class Joshua Evans.
The jet will be placed in a new location, which is behind the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base wings on the north side of the East Ash St. traffic circle.
Longtime Goldsboro residents say the symbol represents the service of airmen.
"We are proud of our base and the people out there and they are a big part of our economy,” said Darryl Johnson.
The F-86 Sabre was considered the F-16 of the Korean War and while this aircraft is retired, airmen said it was a special opportunity to work on a piece of history.
"I know when I drive by it, I'll be happy to see that I worked on it and my work contributed to the community,” said Airman 1st Class Don Saddler.
While the jet will remain grounded, Tech Sgt. Lewis said it could encourage others to take flight.
"There maybe a young youth out in the city who may be inspired to enlist and join the Air Force because of this aircraft,” he said.
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base officials say the restoration project took 644 total man hours and cost nearly $31,000.
The F-86 is expected to be placed back in downtown Goldsboro in early September.