The tornado that wreaked havoc on Rome in July also picked up and moved an iconic B-52 bomber.

The bomber has been a staple at Griffiss Business and Technology Park for years, reminding visitors of the area’s past as an Air Force base.

What You Need To Know

  • The tornado that wreaked havoc on Rome in July also picked up and moved the an B-52 bomber

  • It was lifted off its pedestal, taken below the hill it was sitting on and damaged

  • There is a long road ahead, and likely thousands of dollars needed in order to restore the Bomber to what and where it was

The 170,000-pound bomber, the first B-52 aircraft stationed at Griffiss, still stands tall, but not in its same spot following an EF-2 tornado.

“It sheared the mounts right off the foundation. The top gear wheels came right off, dragged them," said B-52 Committee Chairman Michael Grogan.

It was lifted off its pedestal, taken below the hill it was sitting on and damaged.

“The engine cowling, the landing gear. One of the external tanks got damaged. That's all we can see. Actually, one of the tip gear-left tip wheel went through the upper top of the wing," Grogan said.

The nearby Henry P. Smith Post 24 maintains the aircraft as it's on loan from the United States Air Force Museum. The post itself was affected by the tornado, so officials have a lot on their plate.

“We're busy, and mainly I'm focusing on the B-52 to get it back up on its pedestal and then the repair work," Grogan said.

Many people have reached out to help, but there is a long road ahead, and likely thousands of dollars needed.

“I wish I had a number to give, but I don't currently. Still in the process of assessing all the damages, and we're still working on how we're going to lift it and get it back to its original spot," said Grogan.

Despite everything Rome and the bomber went through the day of the tornado, Grogan said he noticed all the flags around the bomber were still flying.

Henry P. Smith Post 24 in Rome can use donations. They have a fund specifically to support the B-52.

People are encouraged to contact the post at (315) 336-2680 to make a donation.