01/22/2007. Remarks by Jack McKillop: "This DC-9-33RC (RC = Rapid Change convertible passenger/cargo version) was originally delivered to Spain's Iberia Airlines of Madrid on August 29, 1972 registered EC-BYL and named 'Ciudad de Albacete'. It was sold back to McDonnell Douglas on April 18, 1990, registered N538MD, and sold to the US Navy on July 12, 1990.

The aircraft was based at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, assigned to the Fleet Logistics Support Squadron Sixty One (VR-61), Fleet Logistics Support Wing, Naval Air Reserve Force and named 'City of Everett'. The aircraft was subsequently transferred to VR-57 at NAS North Island, San Diego, California, and coded 'RX' until being transferred to the AMARC in April 2006."