The CAF’s A-26 Invader, which has gone by many names, most recently Lil Twister, is set to return to the skies on November 1. This aircraft has been in restoration for about 21 years. Volunteers are very excited to finally see the warbird in the air but will err on the side of caution and safety to ensure the airplane, the flight crew, and the weather are all ready to go before take-off.
A-26 Invaders didn’t enter use until later in World War II but have the unique prestige of serving in three combat wars, as they saw action in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The aircraft is also well known for its speed and use in night missions. The CAF has three A-26s in the fleet: the A-26B SN# 43-7140 “Night Mission” operated by the Invader Squadron out of Fort Worth Meacham Airport, Fort Worth, TX . The Lady Liberty Squadron operates the oldest flying Invader, the 130th one produced, being accepted in Aug, 1944, at Long Beach, CA. Douglas A-26C Invader 44-35643 Lil Twister, operated by the Sierra Hotel Sponsor Group of Guthrie/Edmond Oklahoma Municipal Airport, was built in Oklahoma. This Invader has an interesting combat record, actually having served with the French Air Force in Indochina during the mid-fifties. The French returned her to the US Air Force by 1955, and the she was on the civilian market by 1957.
The Sierra Hotel Sponsor Group volunteers are hopeful to get the aircraft in the air on Sunday, November 1, 2020, weather permitting.
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Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
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