The Military Aviation Museum is proud to host two remarkable World War II-era naval aircraft as part of the Navy to Victory Tour, a historic commemorative journey marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. From April 18th through 20th, visitors will have the rare opportunity to see the Douglas R4D-6S Ready 4 Duty and a TBM Avenger in North Atlantic livery up close.
Douglas R4D-6S “Ready 4 Duty” on Display and Offering Flights
Built in 1944, Ready 4 Duty is the U.S. Navy’s version of the iconic DC-3 and C-47 Skytrain. Operated by the Commemorative Air Force’s Dallas/Fort Worth Wing, the aircraft is embarking on an ambitious 12-week, 12,000-mile transatlantic journey from Texas to Europe. The Navy to Victory Tour pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of American and Allied sailors through appearances at more than a dozen aviation events across the U.S., the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, and Iceland.
As part of its mission, Ready 4 Duty carries an unprecedented traveling exhibit featuring artifacts from several surviving U.S. World War II warships—including the USS Yorktown, USS Laffey, and Battleship Texas. This marks the first time that such a collection of U.S. Navy WWII relics has toured together, offering a powerful tribute to the maritime legacy of the war. Visitors to the Military Aviation Museum will have the opportunity to tour the aircraft while it’s on display and may also purchase ride flights aboard Ready 4 Duty. Flight experiences are available for $300 per person ($250 for Museum members). Click HERE.
Special Ceremony on April 19
A commemorative ceremony will take place on Saturday, April 19th at 1:00 PM, honoring the veterans of World War II and highlighting the significance of the Navy to Victory Tour’s stop in Virginia.
TBM Avenger in North Atlantic Livery
Joining Ready 4 Duty will be a TBM Avenger from Vintage Flying Machines. Painted in its historically accurate white and grey North Atlantic camouflage, the Avenger will serve as a centerpiece for sharing the story of the Battle of the Atlantic—the longest-running campaign of World War II, fought in part within sight of Virginia’s shores. Aircraft like the Avenger played a critical role in detecting and defeating German U-boats that threatened Allied supply lines.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to connect with living history and experience the roar of real WWII aircraft in flight. For more information, visit militaryaviationmuseum.org or follow the museum’s social media channels. To book a ride, .Click HERE.
