CAF Airbase Georgia will celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary on July 4 by participating in a series of patriotic flyovers across metro Atlanta, while also looking ahead to a special fundraising event this fall that will support its growing youth education programs. Based at Atlanta Regional Airport–Falcon Field in Peachtree City, the unit will launch several of its meticulously restored historic aircraft to accompany Independence Day celebrations in Peachtree City, Newnan, and Tyrone. Spectators can expect to see the Airbase’s Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bomber, Fairchild PT-19 trainer, LT-6 Mosquito, and Beech T-34 Mentor flying in formation alongside other invited World War II-era aircraft. The local flyovers are part of a nationwide initiative by the Commemorative Air Force to mark the United States’ semiquincentennial. “There could be as many as 100 WWII aircraft participating across the country,” said Airbase Leader Mark Richards.
Adding to the day’s celebrations, Airbase Georgia member Maj. Gen. (Ret.) George Harrison will serve as Grand Marshal of the Peachtree City Independence Day Parade. Harrison remains an active pilot and volunteer with the organization. Later this year, Airbase Georgia will continue its America 250 commemorations with its “Moonlight Swing” dinner and dance on Oct. 17. The event will transform the Airbase’s hangar into a 1940s-themed venue featuring live music by the Peachtree Jazz Edition, a catered dinner inspired by the era, and a silent auction showcasing aviation and warbird artwork.
Proceeds from the evening will benefit Airbase Georgia’s expanding educational outreach programs, which serve students from elementary school through high school while promoting careers in aviation. “We couldn’t think of a better opportunity to celebrate our nation’s history and ensure that it will be carried forward for the youth of today and tomorrow,” Richards said.
CAF Airbase Georgia, based at Atlanta Regional Airport -Falcon Field in Peachtree City, Ga., was founded in 1987. The Airbase is one of the largest units of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). The group maintains and flies seven vintage military aircraft including a P-51 Mustang, an FG-1D Corsair, an SBD Dauntless, an LT-6 Mosquito, a P-63A Kingcobra, a PT-19 Cornell and a T-34 Mentor. Under restoration are an N2S Stearman and P-47 Thunderbolt. The Airbase, composed of more than 300 volunteer members, is a founding partner of the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail launched in 2021. The Airbase is part of the CAF, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization that relies on contributions of time and funds to conduct its mission. For more information, go to https://airbasegeorgia.org/.
(Image credit: Photo by Charles Burcher)
