Douglas R4D-3 N763A facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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US Army Aircraft C-53-DO-41-20124
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 Location in Illinois
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1.25 miles (2.01 km) E of junction of IL 9 and IL 5, Bloomington, Illinois |
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| Built | 1942 |
| Architect | Douglas Aircraft Company, Inc. |
| Architectural style | Passenger/Light Cargo/DC-3 |
| NRHP reference No. | 96000857 |
| Added to NRHP | August 1, 1996 |
The US Army Aircraft C-53-DO-41-20124 is a special airplane from World War II. It's a type of plane called a Douglas DC-3, and it has been fully restored. This historic aircraft is privately owned and is currently based in Marathon Key, Florida.
This plane was once part of the United States Army Air Force. Its original serial number was 41-20124. Later, the United States Navy also used it, calling it an R4D-3 with serial number 05078. Today, it is registered for civilian use as N763A. Because of its important history, this aircraft was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 1, 1996. This means it's recognized as a significant part of American history.
Building a Warplane: The C-53 Skytrooper
This specific C-53 aircraft was built a long time ago, on March 11, 1942. It was one of many planes made by the Douglas Aircraft Company in Santa Monica, California. Douglas built 399 of these planes.
From Factory to Flight
Right after it was built, this plane went straight to the US Navy. It was used by a unit called VU-1 and was known as an R4D-1. The C-53 model was officially named the "Skytrooper." It was designed for the U.S. Army Air Force to carry passengers and light cargo. These planes were very important before and during World War II. They helped move soldiers and supplies where they were needed most.
