Destined for TWA, DC–38–SIC3G c/n 11665 rolled off the assembly line instead, headed for the U.S. Army. It was redesigned as a C–53D–D0 42 – 68738 and assigned to the war in Europe, dropping paratroopers over Sicily, then thundering over Normandy on D-Day. Belonging to the 62nd troop carrier squadron, it also participated in dropping troops over the Netherlands during Operation: Market Garden.
When the restoration was complete. The name “D-Day Doll” was added to honor our service members. Today, it is an educational tool as well as a method of providing a legacy to the memory of all pilots and troops that flew these great birds.