The T-34B was built as a Naval flight training aircraft, counterpart to the Air Force’s T-34A. This aircraft was originally assigned to the Pensacola Naval Air Station.

The Navy replaced the T-34B with the T-34C in the 1970s, and this aircraft was subsequently used for fire patrol and as a technical school maintenance training aircraft.

“Wilma” was purchased by current owners Russell and Sue McDonald of Nappanee, Indiana in 1996. They have flown the aircraft in every state in the Union except Hawaii, crossing the US from coast to coast 23 times. Currently the lead pilot of The Gray Hared Hooligans Formation Flight Team, Russ has flown the airplane in formation demonstrations for 125 airshows, military memorials including the Vietnam Moving Wall, and various racing events including starting the Busch Grand National race at Michigan International Speedway. “Wilma” has also appeared on magazine covers, local and national TV and UPI stories all over the United States.

This airplane has been modified from its original Continental O-470-4 engine of 225 HP and Beech 2-bladed propeller by STC SA1864SW for increased speed and performance. Russ says, “Of all the Beechcraft I have owned, this airplane has been the most fun to fly.”

The McDonalds placed the aircraft on loan to the Baron Bonanza Museum in 2006.