HAGERSTOWN, Md. (DC News Now) -- A centerpiece of western Maryland's aircraft manufacturing heritage was warmly welcomed home Monday at the Hagerstown Aviation Museum.

The A-10 "Warthog," affectionately referred to as a "flying tank," was a hallmark of aircraft manufacturing in the region for decades.

"After 50 years, it is finally being retired," said John Seburn, president and executive director of the Hagerstown Aviation Museum. "Fairchild-Republic Aviation built this plane and more than 700 of them rolled off the assembly line."

Lt. Col. Ralph Cunningham, who piloted the A-10, said, "It handled like a Cadillac. It was easy to fly with a big cockpit, very comfortable."

Pennsylvania resident William Prietro took the day to welcome the A-10.

"When I was in the service, the A-10 was o

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