The Eleventh Annual TBM Avenger Reunion and Salute to Veterans is confirmed for 2026 and promises to be one of the strongest editions yet of this now-renowned warbird gathering. The event will return to Illinois Valley Regional Airport (KVYS) in Peru, Illinois, on Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16, featuring a full air show program on both days. Here is the Facebook event page to stay up to date.
What began as a modest owners’ gathering has evolved into one of the must-see warbird events in the United States. At the heart of the show remains the Grumman TBM/TBF Avenger, with approximately ten examples expected to attend, forming the largest gathering of the type anywhere in the world. Alongside the Avengers, a wide variety of other historic military aircraft from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam are anticipated, including appearances by the newly renamed Team Titan, formerly known as Team Aeroshell.
Friday evening will once again feature crowd favorites, including the dramatic TBM Nighttime Flame Show, complemented by a beer garden, food vendors, and live music. Saturday’s program will include the Salute to Veterans Parade and March, followed by the Veterans Flag Missing Man Flight, in addition to the traditional daytime air show showcasing flight demonstrations, formation flying, and simulated torpedo and bomb runs.
The TBM Avenger Reunion traces its origins to April 2016, when TBM-3E owner Brad Deckert (BuNo 85632) organized the initial gathering to bring TBM owners and operators together for training and to discuss shared operational challenges. Although the original event was not intended to be an air show, its popularity quickly drew the support of the local community, which has since played a vital role in funding, promoting, and expanding the event. While the Avenger remains the centerpiece, the show has grown to encompass a broad and impressive collection of warbirds.
The 11th Annual TBM Avenger Reunion and Salute to Veterans Airshow will take place May 15–16, 2026, at Illinois Valley Regional Airport in Peru, Illinois. Additional information will be released as the event approaches. For updates and details, 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.
