From neighborhood detailer to the Air Force One detailing team
Anthony Marquez, a dual-certified automotive detailer from The Detail Pros in Rancho Cucamonga, has recently achieved a significant milestone in his career. Marquez, a San Bernardino native, made his debut with the prestigious Air Force One Detailing Team at Seattle’s Museum of Flight. His involvement in this annual event marks a notable achievement in the world of aircraft detailing, highlighting his skills and dedication to preserving aviation history.
A Prestigious Engagement
The Museum of Flight in Seattle is home to the original Air Force One presidential jet and a collection of other historic aircraft. This location presents unique challenges due to Seattle’s humid climate, which can accelerate wear and tear on these valuable pieces of history. For over a decade, the Air Force One Detailing Team has been tasked with the intricate job of restoring and maintaining the paint and brightwork of these aircraft, ensuring their appearance and preservation.
The Air Force One jet, a Boeing 707-120 known as SAM 970, is a prominent feature of the museum’s Aircraft Pavilion. This aircraft, which served as the presidential transport for Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon, is affectionately referred to as the “Flying Oval Office.” Maintaining such a historic and high-profile aircraft requires meticulous care, including a rinseless wash, towel drying, and the application of a six-month surface protectant called Defender.
Marquez’s role on the team involved several critical tasks. He was responsible for polishing the all-aluminum fuselage and tail of a WWII B29 bomber, which had not been polished in years. “By the time we finished polishing it, it was like a mirror,” Marquez recalled. His duties also extended to detailing the WWII B17 “Flying Fortress” bomber, the first-ever Boeing 727, and a 1978 Concorde on loan from British Airways.
A Personal and Professional Milestone
For Marquez, joining the Air Force One Detailing Team was a dream come true. “This was my first year on the team, and it’s something I have aspired to as a member of the Detail Mafia,” he stated. “It was a lot of fun, but more than anything, it is an important responsibility. It gives me a higher level of skill in terms of polishing paint and brightwork, which benefits my local customers.”
Marquez’s participation in this prestigious event is a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication to his craft. His work with high-end aircraft not only enhances his professional reputation but also directly benefits his local clients in Rancho Cucamonga and San Bernardino, where he is known as a veteran detailer and paint correction specialist.
Leadership and Expertise
The Air Force One Detailing Team is led by Renny Doyle of Detailing Success in Big Bear, California. Doyle initiated the restoration of the Air Force One jet 21 years ago and has since overseen the team’s growth and development. The team’s expertise in handling multi-million-dollar museum projects has been crucial in preserving the historical value of these aircraft.
Marquez, who is certified by the International Detailing Association and Detailing Success, is also a valued member of the renowned Detail Mafia. This elite group of detailers is known for their high standards and commitment to excellence. Marquez and his fellow team members volunteer their time and expertise each year, selected by Doyle based on their skills and experience.
Conclusion
Anthony Marquez’s recent experience with the Air Force One Detailing Team represents a significant milestone in his career. His involvement in maintaining and restoring some of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history underscores his exceptional skills and dedication to the art of detailing. As Marquez continues to build on his reputation in the Rancho Cucamonga and San Bernardino areas, his experience with the Air Force One Detailing Team serves as a testament to his commitment to excellence and his contribution to preserving aviation heritage.
