Them Bones

Jim and I went to a place I’ve wanted to see since I knew it existed: The Davis-Monthan Air Force Base's  "Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group," also called the “Boneyard.”

The Boneyard is a four-square-mile parking lot of planes that will be restored, planes being used for parts, and planes waiting to be melted down and recycled.  It also stores vehicles confiscated in drug raids.  Tucson was selected as the site of the Boneyard because the climate (dry air and sparse rain) helps keep the planes/vehicles from deteriorating, the soil (it’s hard packed and planes can be moved around without miles of concrete), and because of its proximity to an Air Force base.

Planes lined up in military precision. Also at the Boneyard are the facilities needed to help repair and/or recycle the planes.

Engines waiting for something.

We can see this plane parked across the fence from our campsite.  It looks like Air Force One, but was actually a commander’s airborne base of operations.

Helicopters.  Windows and any openings that let in light or allow quicker deterioration are sprayed with three coats of plastic sealant.

All you can see of this stealth bomber are the wheels.  (Even the military has a sense of humor.)