Signed T-6 propeller stolen from Conroe museum

CONROE, Texas – A distinctive and “priceless” piece of aviation history, central to a community fundraising effort, has been stolen from outside the Lone Star Flight Museum in Conroe, prompting an investigation by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.

Sometime between Sunday, June 9th, and Monday, June 10th, thieves made off with a three-bladed aluminum propeller, painted black and measuring over eight feet across, from the museum’s property. This wasn’t just any propeller; it was a key artifact in the restoration project of a historic T-6 Texan aircraft by the Commemorative Air Force’s (CAF) Texas Raiders squadron.

The propeller’s unique and irreplaceable value stems from its hundreds of signatures, penned in silver and gold Sharpie by donors who contributed to the Texan’s static display restoration. Each signature represents a piece of the community’s support for preserving the WWII-era trainer.

“This propeller isn’t just metal; it’s a monument to the generosity and passion of our supporters,” said Gene De Marco, Museum Director at the Lone Star Flight Museum. “Every signature tells a story of someone who believes in preserving aviation history. To us, it’s absolutely priceless, far beyond its material worth.”

The monetary value of replacing such a propeller could exceed $15,000, but the sentimental and historical significance of the inscribed artifact is considered immeasurable by both the museum and the CAF Texas Raiders. The T-6 Texan, a single-engine advanced trainer aircraft used to prepare pilots for combat during World War II, holds a special place in aviation heritage.

“We are devastated by this theft,” stated Colonel Mike ‘Buzz’ Moyer, Commanding Officer of the CAF Texas Raiders Squadron. “This propeller was to be the centerpiece of our restored T-6 Texan, a symbol of the hard work and dedication of countless volunteers and donors. The inscriptions cannot be replicated.”

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the incident. Deputies responded to the report of the theft and are reviewing any available security footage from the museum grounds and surrounding areas. Given its significant size and the unmistakable hundreds of signatures, authorities believe the propeller would be incredibly difficult to conceal or sell without drawing attention.

“We are asking anyone who might have seen something suspicious over the weekend near the museum, or who comes across this highly distinctive propeller, to please contact us,” said Lieutenant Scott Spencer, a spokesperson for the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. “Due to its unique markings, we are hopeful someone will recognize it and help us return it to its rightful place.”

Officials are appealing to the public for assistance, urging anyone with information to contact the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at 936-760-5800 or Multi-County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-392-STOP (7867). The museum and squadron hope that, given its irreplaceable nature, the propeller will be returned, no questions asked.

The Lone Star Flight Museum is located at 11551 Aerospace Avenue in Conroe, dedicated to the preservation of Texas aviation history and offering educational programs to the public. The Commemorative Air Force, with squadrons like the Texas Raiders, is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and flying historical aircraft. More information about the museum can be found at [Lone Star Flight Museum website] and about the CAF Texas Raiders at [CAF Texas Raiders website].