On June 18, 2021 on the occasion of its 50th anniversary, Southwest unveiled its first specially-painted 737-800. All 50 stars and 13 stripes from the flag of the USA are featured on this tribute to the nation, its military and the Southwest employees. CEO Gary Kelly declared on the occasion: “Freedom is the essence of our country, and giving America the freedom to fly is the essence of our company. With 50 stars on the flag and 50 years of LUV, we dedicate our anniversary to Freedom.”
Freedom One was painted in Spokane, unveiled in Houston Hobby and flew to Dallas Love Field with a crew of veterans and military service members, to whom this livery is dedicated. "WR" in the registration are the initials of William "Bill" Rogers, a Southwest employee based in Renton (WA) who had passed 500+ aircraft deliveries when this aircraft was handed over to Southwest in 2014.
Images © Michael Carter (SNA & LGB)
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