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."
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.
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.
