Warbirds Area to Feature New ‘WWII Training Command’ Display

North American T-6

The incredible airplanes that EAA Warbirds of America members bring to EAA AirVenture each year create one of the most popular areas of the convention. For 2006, warbird lovers can look forward to another great display area, “The World War II Training Command,” highlighting aircraft that helped prepare American aviation cadets from 1941-1945 (and beyond). Plans are to display primary, basic, and advanced training aircraft used by the U.S. Navy and Army Air Forces.

During that war’s difficult days, pilots had to transition quickly from one trainer to the next. Once they earned their wings, these thousands of pilots were sent to learn how to fly the front-line fighters, bombers, and transports, and then were dispatched overseas to defend our freedom and help our allies.

Some cadets made the grade, while others ‘washed out.’ The WW-II Training Command will help tell the whole story of this important chapter of American history.

“We’re very excited about this new attraction,” said Bill Fischer, executive director of EAA Warbirds of America. “Visitors will have a unique opportunity to learn how the United States, during WW-II, turned thousands of young men into military aviators in a matter of weeks.”

Boeing-Stearman PT-17

Pilots trained in Boeing-Stearman PT-17s, Vultee BT-13s, North American AT-6s, Beech AT-11s and even Piper J-3s. Aircraft confirmed for the display thus far are a PT-17 and an AT-6. Other aircraft will be announced as they’re confirmed, so stay tuned to the EAA AirVenture and Warbirds of America websites.

The WWII Training Command will open daily, July 24-30, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., located just a few short steps west of the Warbirds in Review area. Volunteers will be on hand to tell more about the aircraft and the pilots who flew them. Discover why certain aircraft were used, what the cadets learned, and how they trained. The volunteers will also direct visitors to other examples of trainer aircraft located a short walk away on the warbirds flight line.