What began as an opportunity for TBM Avenger owners to meet and share mutual concerns regarding best operating practices related to the type, the annual TBM Gathering has fast become a hugely popular event on the air show calendar. TBM-owner Brad Deckert organized the initial three-day event at Illinois Valley Regional Airport (KVYS) in Peru, Illinois back in 2016. Ten TBMs took part – coming from as far away as Massachusetts – but an additional 200 aircraft ( including 52 warbirds) also flew in during the weekend, with a crowd of roughly 10,000 spectators on hand to witness the proceedings (see our 90 Tons of Turkeys Invade Illinois report). Given the overwhelming success and a strong, positive response from the public, it was only natural that Deckert chose to host similar events in subsequent years.
The Gathering seems to continually grow, with this year’s iteration featuring a full air show on each day of the event, scheduled to take place on Friday May 19th and Saturday May 20th at Illinois Valley Regional Airport in Peru, Illinois.
Presently, the owners of ten TBM Avengers have confirmed that their aircraft will attend. Several other warbird types are also scheduled to take part, including a P-40 Warhawk and P-51 Mustangs. Furthermore, the Tri-State Warbird Museum’s North American TB-25N Mitchell Yankee Doodle and CAF Airbase Georgia’s Douglas SBD-5 Dauntless will be making their debut appearances at the event this year. For those interested in taking a flight aboard the Dauntless, tickets are available for direct purchase from the link HERE.
Regarding this year’s event, Deckert stated: “We are excited to be back with the gathering and honor our Veterans. The event has grown tremendously in just a few years, and it has become a tradition for our small community. Thank you, everyone, for your support, and don’t forget to have May 19th & 20th marked on your calendars for the event….and May 20th and 21st for aircraft rides!”
Given the intimate nature and success of previous installments, the 2023 TBM Gathering seems destined to be a great experience for all who attend… one of the ‘best little air shows of the season’, so be sure to make your plans to join in the fun!
For more information about the event, please visit www.tbmreunion.org
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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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