Seventh Annual TBM Gathering Set for May 19-20, 2023

Brad Deckert taxiing out during the 2017 TBM Gathering. To appreciate the true size of the TBM, consider that each teardrop-shaped drop tank is larger than a 55-gallon barrel. (Photo by Jay Selman)
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As a reminder, the TBM Avenger Reunion and Salute to Veterans is on for 2023! This great event, which seems to grow in strength with each iteration will take place at Illinois Valley Regional Airport in Peru, Illinois on Friday, May 19th and Saturday, May 20th, with a full air show each day. In addition to the usual large gathering of TBM Avengers, numerous other warbirds will likely attend as well. The Friday evening display will see the return of several favorites, including the always spectacular Matt Younkin Airshows‘ Night Airshow, the TBM Night Time Flame Show, a beer garden, food, and live music! Saturday will feature the Salute to Veterans Parade and Veterans Flag Missing Man Flight (more on this later) along with the traditional air show.

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Two TBM Avengers tuck in tight to the camera plane in the skies over northern Illinois during the 2017 TBM Gathering. In the foreground is TBM-3U Bu.69325 (NL325GT) flown by Darrell Berry. Based: Benton Co. Regional Airport (0M8) in Camden, TN. In the background is TBM-3E Bu.91521 (N4171A) flown by Rick Siegfried. Based: Erie-Ottawa Int’l Airport (PCW) in Port Clinton, OH. (Photo by Jay Selman)

Brad Deckert, who owns TBM-3E Bu.85632, initiated the gathering back in April, 2016 as an effort to bring TBM owner/operators together for training and the discussion of mutual concerns. While the original event wasn’t an air show, per se, it proved so popular that the local community embraced the idea and has helped fund and promote the gathering ever since. The show involves much more than Avengers now, of course, although the type is still a major component.

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 & 2ost marked on your calendars for the event….and May 20th and 21st for aircraft rides!”

This year’s event is bound to be a great experience for all who attend… one of the best little air shows of the season, so be sure to make plans to attend!

For more information about the event, visit www.tbmreunion.org

TBM Gathering 2016 Photo by Greg Morehead

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 3374 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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