WHITE PLAINS, NY — Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino welcomed the iconic Lockheed T-33 jet, known as the “T-Bird,” back to the Westchester County Airport after being restored for almost a year. Astorino was joined by Lt Col Joseph Wooley of the Civil Air Patrol and Group Commander from the Southeast Group of the New York Wing stationed at the airport and Peter Scherrer, manager of the Westchester County Airport.
“We welcome back the Westchester County Airport this icon of American strength and ingenuity,” said Astorino. “Most importantly, we re-dedicate this monument, re-affirm our gratitude and respect to the men and women who have served, and continue to serve in the New York Air National Guard.”
The T33, which was used as a training aircraft by the Air National Guard in WWII, was placed at the county airport in December of 1997. Of the 7,000 that were built, this jet is one of the few hundred remaining today. The monument, on loan from the U.S. Navy, is dedicated to the men and women of the New York Air National Guard and will continue to be maintained in all her glory.