Celebrating 50 years in 2007, the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is a 501(c)3 history, education and preservation organization. Formed and dedicated to honoring and preserving America’s legacy of freedom through its educational programs and by dispatching its vintage fleet of 152 flyable warplanes to air shows, flyovers and gatherings, the CAF seeks to teach, entertain and inspire present and future generations about the lessons learned from the most significant military conflicts the world has ever experienced.
A major objective of the CAF, its museum and assets is to serve as an educational tool. War is not glorified; on the contrary, it is hoped that through its displays, programs, seminars, and most of all its aircraft, that these lessons of the past will encourage future generations to avoid a repetition of the same mistakes and seek out better means of preserving peace and freedom.
A “flying museum”, the CAF is member-based, approaching 10,000 members who are located in all 50 states and 25 foreign countries. Members come from all walks of life; one does not need to be a pilot or veteran. The only requirement is an interest in keeping these rare airplanes flying. The CAF’s classic flyable fleet is assigned to nearly 80 wings and squadrons in 30 states and 4 foreign countries. Unbelievably the 8th largest air force in the world, the fleet includes fighters, bombers cargos, transports, trainers and liaison aircraft. Featuring the world’s only airworthy B-29 Superfortress and Navy SB2C Helldiver, the CAF’s fleet can be seen all over the United States. through its popular brand AIRSHO.
Notwithstanding of the popularity of its AIRSHO circuit of shows around the United States, the CAF’s educational programs are a great source of pride in fulfillment of its non-profit mission objectives. National programs include the American Combat Airman Hall of Fame (ACAHOF) – inducting individuals and units into the hall of fame based on meritorious service; The American Airpower Heritage Museum – a nationally-accredited and Smithsonian-affiliated airpower museum; Aviation Boot Camp – a children’s interactive program; Aviation Heritage Cadet Academy – a comprehensive program designed for young adults to explore careers in aviation, plus many seminars, symposiums and series open to students, veterans and the public.
Formerly known as the Confederate Air Force, the name was changed in 2000 by a vote of the general membership to make this dynamic organization more universally appealing to a broader based audience. The former name did not accurately reflect the scope of civic activities engaged in or the mission statement of this educational entity.
If you agree, we urge you to read on and… ultimately help us (The CAF) stage the biggest patriotic rally the world has ever seen in Las Vegas, Nev. July 9-11, 2007, at Caesars.