C-47 “That’s All, Brother” Returns to the US After Historic European Tour

Following an unforgettable journey to Europe to mark the 80th Anniversary of D-Day and the 75th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, this iconic airplane is now heading home.

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PRESS RELEASE

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is proud to announce the triumphant return of the C-47 aircraft That’s All, Brother, to the United States. After an unforgettable journey to Europe to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of D-Day and the 75th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, this iconic airplane is on its way home.

That’s All, Brother is no ordinary aircraft. This C-47 led the main airborne invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, carrying paratroopers of the 101st Airborne Division into battle on D-Day. Its journey to Europe this year honored the brave individuals who served during these pivotal moments in history.

C 47 Placid LAssie and Thats All Brother Wiesbaden DC3 Berlin Airlift 41 copy
C-47 Placid Lassie and That’s All, Brother flew several sorties droping U.S. Army and Germany Army Rangers as well as the iconic candies with mini parachutes. Photo By Ugo Vicenzi

During its European tour with the D-Day Squadron, That’s All, Brother participated in numerous commemorative events, reenactments, and educational programs. These events were designed to honor the sacrifices of those who served and to educate new generations about the significance of D-Day and the Berlin Airlift.

A series of events in Normandy, France, marked the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. That’s All, Brother played a central role in these ceremonies, including participating in a commemorative flight over the Normandy beaches, reenactment jumps with paratroopers dressed in World War II-era uniforms, and a flight carrying five World War II veterans over Utah and Omaha beaches. These activities served as a powerful reminder of the courage and dedication of Allied forces during Operation Overlord.

Thats All Brother in Formation over France

Following the D-Day commemorations, That’s All, Brother continued its tour to Germany to honor the 75th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift. This humanitarian mission, which took place from 1948 to 1949, saw Allied aircraft delivering vital supplies to the citizens of Berlin during the Soviet blockade. The presence of That’s All, Brother in Germany was a tribute to the spirit of cooperation and resilience that defined the Airlift.

That’s All, Brother landed in Presque Isle, Maine, on Tuesday afternoon. From there, it will continue flying back to its San Marcos, Texas, home base. Upon its return to the U.S., the aircraft will be available for public tours, educational programs, and special events nationwide.

“We are thrilled to welcome That’s All, Brother back home,” said Deena Clausen, Wing Leader of the Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing. “This aircraft is a flying museum and a testament to the bravery of those who served during World War II. Its journey to Europe and back has allowed us to honor and remember their sacrifices in a profound way.”

About the Commemorative Air Force

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is the world’s largest flying military aircraft museum, dedicated to educating, inspiring, and honoring with flight and living history experiences. With over 65 years of operation, the CAF maintains an airworthy fleet of vintage military aircraft for people to experience firsthand. The organization boasts more than 11,000 members and a fleet of over 175 vintage military aircraft distributed throughout the United States. For more information, visit www.Commemorativeairforce.org.

D Day Squadron of RichCooper 3Ship
That’s All, Brother, Placid Lassie and Screaming Eagle flying in the “D-Day Veterans” formation. Photo by Rich Cooper

About the D-Day Squadron

Born from the 2019 mission to Normandy, the D-Day Squadron (DDS) is a large program of the Tunsion Foundation, an established 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Its focus is on DC-3 operators, WWII commemorations, education, and outreach programming. Programs that function under the DDS are education and outreach, a Young Historians Program and the membership arm of the DDS, the DC-3 Society. The overall purpose of the DDS is to promote DC-3 type aircraft airworthiness, serve members of the DC-3 Society and promote static and flying displays for future generations. The DC-3 Society was born to organize the collective efforts of enthusiasts, pilots, mechanics, and operators to involve the next generation in “FLYING FREEDOM.” In May and June 2024, the D-Day Squadron completed its second mission to Europe commemorating DDay80 and Berlin75.  For more information, visit www.ddaysquadron.org

Moreno-Aguiari

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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About Moreno Aguiari 3372 Articles
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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