TULSA, Okla. - Missouriar -- A remarkable chapter in American aviation history will begin anew as the legendary A-26 "Lady Liberty" arrives at the Tulsa Air & Space Museum, where she will spend the rest of her days inspiring future generations.

After decades of service and preservation, Lady Liberty suffered a catastrophic nose gear failure that caused damage beyond what could reasonably be repaired for flight. While her flying days have come to an end, her story is far from over. Instead, she is coming home.

During World War II, A-26 Invader bombers were manufactured just across the runway from today's museum at Tulsa's historic Douglas Aircraft Plant, where thousands of Oklahomans helped build the aircraft that would help secure victory for the Allied forces.

"Lady Liberty represents far more than an airplane," said Tonya Blansett, Executive Director of the Tulsa Air & Space Museum. "She represents the men and women who built these aircraft in Tulsa, the crews who flew them into danger, and the generations of Americans who believed freedom was worth defending. We are honored to preserve her story and ensure that it continues to inspire every child who walks through our gates."

More on Missouriar

• Columbia: Go COMO Blue Route to detour beginning Aug. 24 due to Clark Lane roundabout construction
• The Golden Jazz Fest Shuttle Returns for 2026
• Statement from mayor, City Council and city manager of Columbia on downtown public safety
• Columbia: Elevators temporarily out of service in Short Street, Plaza parking garages
• Columbia: Solid Waste Utility hosts second recycling drop-off event

Transporting an aircraft of this size is an enormous undertaking. Lady Liberty must be carefully disassembled, loaded onto multiple semi-trailers, and meticulously reassembled at the museum beginning July 20.

The public will have an opportunity to celebrate Lady Liberty during her official dedication on September 26, 2026, as the centerpiece of a nostalgic 1940s World War II Hangar Dance, featuring a live swing orchestra, vintage atmosphere, and a community celebration honoring the Greatest Generation and Tulsa's rich aviation heritage.

To make this historic project possible, the museum urgently needs community support.
Funding is still needed to cover the costs of specialized transportation, heavy cranes, restoration materials, and exhibit preparation. Every contribution helps preserve an irreplaceable piece of American history.

The museum invites the public to become part of Lady Liberty's next mission.

More on Missouriar

• KeysCaribbean Resorts Offer Savings On Vacations Through Aug. 31, Preview Exceptional Select Fall Rates of Less Than $200/Night
• New Book Offers Adults Over 40 a Natural, Evidence-Based Path Off the Prescription Treadmill
• Fit Body Boot Camp Launches Nationwide 'Fit Body Forever' Workshops to Help Adults 60+ Rebuild Strength and Prevent Falls
• Canadian Aerospace Defence Talent Expo (CADTE) Launches National TalentThread Initiative to Strengthen Canada's Future Workforce
• 5.6 Million EUR in Q1 Project Awards for Integrated IoT Solutions / Data Analytics Subsidiary of Smart City Developer: Affluence (Stock Symbol: AFFU)

Donations to the Lady Liberty Heritage Squadron will directly support the transportation, restoration, and permanent preservation of the aircraft. Contributions to the museum's STREAM Education Fund help provide scholarships and field trip grants so every child—regardless of financial circumstances—has access to inspiring educational experiences.

To donate or learn more, visit www.TulsaMuseum.org.

Together, we can ensure that Lady Liberty's final landing becomes the beginning of a new mission—honoring the past while inspiring the future.
Mission: Honoring the Past. Inspiring the Future.