Sunday morning, show time, the Futurliner could be found parked on
the edge of the show field, dwarfing a Crosley.
|
With a little 110 electricity from a motor home just beyond the
trees they were able to raise the light bar. A most impressive
sight.
|
A pretty good contingency of restoration volunteers were on hand to
answer the many questions that were asked about the Futurliner.
|
Cameras and photographers were just about everywhere. Interviews
with the volunteers were in abundance. It was reported that Don
Mayton was interviewed over the phone by a Detroit radio
station who just happened upon them at a rest stop on the way over
from Zeeland.
|
The Futurliner was a most impressive site. A number of GM officials
stopped by, including General Motors Chairman Mr. Robert Lutz. Mr. Lutz was heard to say,
"You guys are heroes of GM." Many GM officials and employees
had thanked the restoration crew for saving and preserving a piece
of GM history.
|
Like a magnet the Futurliner drew a crowd. They lined up at the
driver's door to peek up into the cockpit. They scooped up all of the souvenir
items. It was said they even sold the cap off one of the display mannequins!
|
Many of the men hope that the Futurliner can become complete with
one of the original displays installed behind the viewing doors. While the
crowd was wowed with the vehicle the true purpose is lost on them
without the display.
|
A couple of the original Paraders shared a few memories. One said,
"When I look at the Futurliner, it's like 1953 all over again."
|