PRESS RELEASE
The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is thrilled to announce the totals for the 2024 12 Planes of Christmas annual fundraising campaign, which concluded on January 1, 2025. This year’s campaign raised over $435,854, including over $40,000 dedicated to the Restoration Grant Fund. Donations continue to roll in, underscoring the enduring passion for preserving aviation history.
With the support of more than 1,700 donors, multiple aircraft achieved or exceeded their fundraising goals, ensuring critical restoration projects can move forward. The funds raised will directly support the preservation and operation of historic aircraft, providing living history experiences for generations to come. The success of this campaign stems from months of preparation, beginning in the summer with a call for applications. The CAF’s American Airpower Heritage Flying Museum Board carefully reviewed submissions, selecting the featured aircraft for the campaign. From there, the CAF marketing team collaborated with Units and Sponsor Groups to craft compelling stories, social media posts, and videos to engage supporters.
“We are humbled and inspired by the outpouring of support,” said Alan Brooks, American Airpower Museum Flying Board Chairman. “Each year, the heartfelt comments from donors remind us that our work is deeply personal—honoring fathers, uncles, and heroes who served. This year was no different, and the impact of these contributions will be felt across our organization.”
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The campaign’s success highlights the power of coordinated efforts between CAF Units and CAF Headquarters. Many Units leveraged a synergistic marketing strategy, sharing updates and progress with local communities and national audiences through CAF’s various communication channels, including the magazine and email newsletters. Donors frequently cited their ongoing engagement with these communications as a key motivator for their contributions, often mentioning how they followed restoration progress and appreciated the transparency of the CAF’s efforts.
As the CAF turns its focus to 2025, the organization encourages its Units to continue showcasing their restoration work and achievements. CAF President/CEO David Oliver said “By engaging volunteers, supporters, and the public, we can ensure the stories of these iconic aircraft remain alive and inspiring. We truly thank everyone who participated in the 12 Planes of Christmas campaign. Together, we are preserving aviation history and honoring the legacy of those who flew before us.” For more information about the Commemorative Air Force’s 12 Planes of Christmas campaign and its ongoing restoration projects, visit 12planesofchristmas.org.
