A remarkable chapter in warbird preservation history unfolded early on August 20, 2026, when the world’s only three airworthy Curtiss SB2C Helldivers flew together over Colorado Springs, Colorado. Taking advantage of a beautiful morning along the Front Range, the aircraft departed at 6:20 a.m. for the long-awaited formation and air-to-air photography mission. The flight brought together the Fagen Fighters WWII Museum’s SB2C-5, the Commemorative Air Force’s SB2C-5, and the National Museum of World War II Aviation’s SB2C-1A.
(Image credit: Dave DeVore)
(Image credit: Dave DeVore)
At the controls were Ray Fowler in the Fagen Fighters Helldiver, Ed Vesely in the CAF aircraft, and Charlie Hainline in the National Museum of World War II Aviation’s Helldiver. Together, the three aircraft represented both early and late versions of the famed U.S. Navy dive bomber. The National Museum of World War II Aviation’s North American B-25 Mitchell In the Mood served as the photo ship. Philippe Barker piloted the B-25, with Scott Klaers acting as co-pilot, while renowned aviation photographer Paul Bowen and videographer Scott Guyette documented the three Helldivers in flight. The mission marked the first time in decades that three airworthy Helldivers had flown together. It was also the culmination of years of restoration work and extensive coordination among the three participating organizations.
For many years, the CAF’s SB2C-5 was the only flying Helldiver in the world. That changed when the Fagen Fighters example returned to the air in July 2024 following a 17-year restoration. The National Museum of World War II Aviation’s aircraft subsequently returned to flight in 2025, bringing the worldwide population of airworthy Helldivers to three. Bringing the aircraft together required aligning maintenance schedules, pilot availability, weather conditions, and the operational commitments of each organization. Their successful early-morning flight over Colorado Springs provided a sight few aviation enthusiasts ever expected to witness and celebrated the dedication of the restorers, pilots, mechanics, volunteers, and supporters responsible for keeping these rare naval aircraft flying. The photographs and video captured during the mission will preserve this historic occasion while introducing new audiences to the Curtiss SB2C Helldiver and its important role in U.S. naval aviation during WWII.
The pilots and crew involved in the historic Helldiver flight over Colorado Springs on August 20, 2026. From left: videographer Scott Guyette, photographer Paul Bowen, National Museum of World War II Aviation pilot Charlie Hainline, Fagen Fighters pilot Ray Fowler, CAF pilot Ed Vesely, B-25 co-pilot Scott Klaers, and B-25 pilot Philippe Barker.
(Image credit: Fagen Fighters WWII Museum)
