The intent of this restoration is to create a PBR reenactment Club. Members of this exclusive club would gather several weekends a year to organize and execute various reenactments, i.e. Waterborne guard post, river patrol... Other activities will include conducting static displays and demonstrations and the numerous veteran reunions and organization functions. We will put on one hell of a show that I'm sure will make a River Rat's eye water.

My dream of someday restoring a Navy PBR is finially here! In May 2003 I located my first hull suitable for this project (31RP7334). In the summer of 2005 I was fortunate to acquire a second hull (31RP7331) to serve as a cover boat. Both PBRs are currently dry-docked in Mississippi awaiting hull repairs and painting. Since returing to CONUS in 2007, I was able to transport some of the parts I had in storage to begian initial repairs and restorations. I still need to locate many more parts, resources, and establish contacts for this project. I will also need much technical assistance to complete this project.

That's where you come in. volunteers and assistance will be needed to make this all happen. I'm primarily looking for retired "River Rats" that know these boats inside and out from the wiring to hull repair.

The Restoration

Periodically I will post updates here so you can follow along with the progress by clicking on the links below. These pages will also be a great reference for molders who want to "super detail" their 1/35th scale Tamiya "Pibber." I broke the restoration sequence down by major station or component and once I have started on those sections I will make those links live.

Hull

Forward Gunners Position

Radio Room

Bridge

Coxswain Station

Engine Compartment

Aft Cockpit

Waterjet Pump Compartment

Parting Thoughts

This project can only be successful with your help. If you live near Atlanta, GA and would like to help restore these boats please contact me by E-mail below.

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