B-24H Liberator 42-7552 489th BG Assembly Ship “LIL COOKIE” 2 – color photo
Liberator, serial number 42-7552, nicknamed “Lil’ Cookie,” began its service with the 392nd Bomb Group but was transferred to the 44th Bomb Group before engaging in combat operations. Subsequently, it moved to the 67th Bomb Group and eventually became an assembly aircraft for the 489th Bomb Group.
Following its combat role, the plane retained its original camouflage pattern except for the nose and tail sections, which were painted a bright orange-yellow color, matching the engine cowlings. The vertical stabilizers were given a green base with a vertical white stripe, and distinctive “W”-shaped navigation lights were added to the fuselage. The aircraft’s original nose art and squadron markings remained intact.
However, after a single assembly mission, it was decided that “Lil’ Cookie” required a more easily recognizable appearance. To achieve this, the entire aircraft was covered in numerous yellow polka dots. The bomber continued its service in the United States, training B-29 aircrews, before its operational history concluded in November 1944.