First Air Force One

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First Air Force One

Preserving The Past. Inspiring The Future. Columbine II is a Lockheed Constellation that served as the first Air Force One aircraft under President Eisenhower.

Since 2006, this aircraft has been sitting derelict in Marana, AZ awaiting a new home in museum or some place where she can be appreciated. She now has a home! in 2015 Dynamic Aviation of Bridgewater, VA purchased the aircraft and plan to restore her to her original beauty.

09/09/2026

On September 9, 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Civil Rights Act of 1957 into law, the first federal civil rights legislation enacted since Reconstruction.

The legislation strengthened the federal government’s role in protecting voting rights and created the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. It came during a pivotal year in Eisenhower’s presidency, just days before he sent federal troops to Little Rock to enforce the desegregation of Central High School.

Together, these events reflected a defining moment in Eisenhower’s presidency and the nation’s evolving approach to civil rights.

09/07/2026

By the time Dwight D. Eisenhower entered the 1952 presidential race, he was already one of the most recognized figures in the country.

After a distinguished military career and serving as president of Columbia University, Eisenhower entered politics with the memorable “I Like Ike” campaign. On November 4, 1952, he defeated Adlai Stevenson and became president-elect.

On January 20, 1953, Eisenhower took the oath of office and began his first term as the nation’s 34th president.

08/31/2026

We wouldn’t be where we are today without our volunteers.

Tim is one of the many people who has found a way to put his experience to work on Columbine II. Whether they’re restoring cockpit details or taking on jobs behind the scenes, our volunteers play an essential role in moving the project forward.

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who continues to give their time, skills, and experience to help bring the First Air Force One back to life.

If you have time, knowledge, or skills you’d like to put to work on Columbine II, we’d love to hear from you. Visit here to get in touch: https://www.firstairforceone.org/contact-us

08/28/2026

Restoration update: Russell Christian, a dedicated member of the Columbine II restoration team, continues the careful work of preserving the aircraft’s original systems and historic details.

Inside the cabin, original furniture pieces have been rediscovered, including seating and interior components that provide a valuable reference as the team works to recreate the aircraft’s interior with the same character and craftsmanship found in its early days.

With many original records and photos no longer available, discoveries like these offer a rare glimpse into Columbine II’s past and help guide the restoration process with accuracy and respect for her history.

08/25/2026

The First Air Force One Foundation is restoring and relaunching Columbine II, President Eisenhower’s original Air Force One, so future generations can see, hear, and feel the aircraft that helped define the modern presidency.

We are here to preserve the values of Eisenhower’s leadership and the history of an aircraft that played an important role in our nation’s story. Through restoration and education, we hope to keep that history alive for generations to come.

Join our mission at https://www.firstairforceone.org/

08/22/2026

Restoring an aircraft that’s nearly 80 years old doesn’t always come with an instruction manual.

For Columbine II, some of the original plans are incomplete or damaged, so the restoration team has had to piece things together from historical photographs, surviving documentation, and other Constellations.

It’s a painstaking process, with every detail requiring research to make sure the restoration stays as true to the original as possible.

Donate to the Columbine II restoration today: https://www.firstairforceone.org/donate

08/20/2026

Restoring a Lockheed Constellation is a massive undertaking, and Bataan gives us a great example of what that work can look like.

Bataan has already undergone an extensive restoration, making its journey especially relevant to the work underway on Columbine II. Seeing another C-121A brought back to life gives our team valuable perspective and plenty of inspiration as we take on our own restoration.

The work by the team at Lewis Air Legends shows what’s possible when it comes to preserving these remarkable aircraft. We’re grateful to be able to learn from their experience as Columbine II’s restoration continues.

08/18/2026

In 1952, Dwight Eisenhower was faced with a decision that would change the course of his life and Mamie’s with it.

The two had built a comfortable life in France, and neither was eager to return to the demands of public life. But as Ike considered a run for president, Mamie found herself facing a new role of her own.

She became an important part of the campaign, navigating the attention, criticism, and demands that came with Ike’s political ambitions.

08/13/2026

Inside the rear of Columbine II is a piece of equipment that once kept the electronics running while it sat on the tarmac. It was the first restoration project for Russell, who found it as a rusted-out unit and rebuilt it part by part.

It won’t operate again, but it will remain on display for what it represents.

08/10/2026

Every rivet line and panel fit tells a story of craftsmanship.

Restoring Columbine II is not just about returning an aircraft to form, it is about preserving the skills and standards that built an era.

Follow the restoration story at https://www.firstairforceone.org/news

Address

1402 Airport Road
Bridgewater, VA
22812

Telephone

(540) 828-6070

Website

https://www.firstairforceone.org/

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