By Senior Airman David Minor
20th FW/PA

October 28 2009 -- Shaw AFB S.C--Boy Scout Frankie Slemmer starts his project on the T-33 Shooting Star, but due to lack of material he hasn't started on the restoring part for his Eagle Scout project. Once the completion of his project he will receive the title of Eagle Scout.

Notable Scouts who have received the rank of Eagle Scout are Medal of Honor Receipt Leo K. Thorsness, Astronaut Neil Armstrong, and Former President Gerald Ford, Jr.

Mr. Slemmer became interested in planes when he joined the Civil Air Patrol in 2007. Upon joining he decided that he wanted to join the Air Force, and become an F-15 pilot. That passion led him to make many model airplanes, and play combat flight simulators on his computer. After taking a trip to Paris Island Marine Corps training center with Civil Air Patrol, his passion changed to the Marines.

"I still love flying, but I would like to fly for the Marines," said Frankie Slemmer. "I especially love helicopters, and I may become a helicopter pilot. I plan on making the military my career".

Restoring a T-33 will be a daunting task for Mr. Slemmer to accomplish. Painting, sanding and polishing are some of the things that will require him to complete his mission.

In hopes of completing his project he has teamed up with the Darlington County Airport Commission, the Celebrate Freedom Foundation, Boy Scout Troop 476, and Civil Air Patrol.

The Shaw Air Force Base Corrosion Control Department also pitched some guidance and assistance by giving the logistical list of what the aircraft will need for the restoration.

When finished, the aircraft will stay on static display at the Darlington County Airport.

"I decided that this would be a great contribution to all of the Air Force pilots past and present Mr. Slemmer said. "I think this would be a great way to honor those who are serving."

For those wishing to donate or would like to volunteer on the project please contact Frankie Slemmer at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 843-673-9262.