One step closer!!!! Once received in Texas the Lincoln would have a small wiring issue addressed, and she received a mild audio upgrade including a Bluetooth set up allowing us to keep the original radio and classic look in place but allow the future drivers to listen to music while cruising the streets of MCAS Miramar by playing their favorite tunes from their selected audio device. Once that was complete the Lincoln underwent a full paint correction, ceramic coating, and application of the new livery. Once the new 4th Generation Livery was upon the Lincoln it was officially known once again as the Tanker Lincoln or more notably its squadron identifier as the RaiderMobile.
While these final steps were overseen in Texas the foundation had reached out to Marines from the Lincolns past, the command, and a few other supporters to put together the crew who would not only make the trip west to return the Raidermobile to the squadron but document the trip along the way. Just prior to the final leg of the trip out west, the Lincoln received a final safety check and road worthiness inspection in Houston Texas.
On March 14th all those who would take the journey west were in attendance along with friends, family, former Raiders and Marines that were within driving distance of Houston Texas for a pre-departure party and unveiling of the Raidermobile. Early the next morning at 0700 we departed west with the Lincoln in tow……..VFR Direct to MCAS Miramar. The “road trip” west took place over 5 days. The overall route was from League City Texas to San Diego California. It included stops in Dallas Fort Worth, Midland/Odessa, El Paso, Phoenix, Yuma, and a special planned stop back at MCAS El Toro for photos and stories shared back where it all started in 1986. Initial delivery to the squadron occurred on March 22, 2021. The restored car was presented to the squadron during an all-hands ceremony held at the Raider Country Hangar at MCAS Miramar.
After delivery of the Lincoln to the Marines of VMGR-352, there was still some unfinished work. The vehicle was loaded back up and headed east to Phoenix Arizona. For safety and usability, the suspension required an upgrade. The Lincoln was left in the care of Jason Bishop, a former Raider Flight Engineer, and from late March to late June the Lincoln was “put in the holding pattern” during a COVID induced delay for necessary parts. The Raidermobile was finally delivered to the shop who designed and installed the suspension upgrade, as well as did some required servicing. Upon completion in early July, the car was returned to the squadron on July 9th , 2021
Please continue to follow along with our progress by visiting our website at www.theraidermobile.com or our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/theraidermobilefoundation. The RaiderMobile Foundation would like to thank everyone involved with this project, and those who have helped in any way making this project become a reality.
Semper Fi
