CAF Warbird Tube

Few fighter squadrons of World War II have achieved the legendary status of the Black Sheep. In just four short months in late 1943, the Marines of VMF-214, led by Major Gregory “Pappy” Boyington, established, for themselves and the Vought Corsair, a reputation that would live on long after the war. That reputation was so formidable it led to the short-lived and controversial TV series Baa Baa Black Sheep in 1976. But where does the true history end and Hollywood begin?   

In this episode of Warbird Tube, we welcome aviation historian and author Stephen Chapis to explore how their wartim...

Join CAF Warbird Tube for a compelling examination of one of history’s most consequential air campaigns, the Battle of Britain.

Military aviation historian and author Andy Saunders explores the air war of 1940 from both sides of the English Channel, examining the aircraft, pilots, tactics, and rapidly changing conditions that shaped the battle.

At the center of the discussion is the Luftwaffe’s Messerschmidt Bf 109E. Although the formidable “Emil” possessed impressive firepower and performance, it faced one limitation that would prove critical over Britain: its restricted range.

The author of more than 20 books on...

During World War II, the PBY Catalina became one of the Allies’ most important long-range patrol aircraft—hunting enemy submarines, protecting convoys, and rescuing downed airmen. But few surviving Catalinas have a story as remarkable as PBY-5A BuNo. 2459.

Accepted by the U.S. Navy just weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor, BuNo. 2459 was among the first PBY-5A amphibians ever built. It was soon deployed to Iceland for combat operations over the North Atlantic, where it became the first PBY credited with sinking a German U-boat. By the end of the war, the aircraft had acco...

During World War II, thousands of young British airmen crossed the Atlantic to learn to fly in the United States. The first and largest of their American training schools was in an unlikely place: Terrell, Texas. 

Beginning in 1941, before the United States had even entered the war, Royal Air Force cadets arrived in North Texas to train under wide-open skies, far from the bad weather and dangers of wartime Britain. Between 1941 and 1945, more than 2,200 British and American cadets trained at the No. 1 British Flying Training School, forging a remarkable connection between a Texas community and the young m...

The de Havilland Mosquito was one of the most remarkable aircraft of World War II, yet today, not a single UK-built example remains airworthy. In this episode of Warbird Tube, we sit down with John Lilley, Chairman of The People’s Mosquito, to talk about the ambitious effort to change that—and return Britain’s legendary “Wooden Wonder” to the skies. To watch this video online, go to https://youtu.be/vrOx232_Whk.

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This is the remarkable story of one of America's pioneering women aviators. We sat down with Judith Stanford Miller, M.Ed., M.A., writer and producer of the documentary "Crosswinds: The Courageous Life of Cornelia Fort," to explore the life and legacy of the trailblazing pilot who, as a civilian pilot instructor, came nose-to-nose with a Japanese Zero as the Pearl Harbor attack began on Dec. 7, 1941.

To watch this show, go to https://youtu.be/u0L5bsvTee4.

General Robin Olds wasn't just a fighter ace—he became a legend. A triple ace with victories in both World War II and Vietnam, Olds flew the P-38 Lightning, P-51 Mustang, and F-4 Phantom while earning a reputation as one of the U.S. Air Force's most fearless and influential fighter pilots. 

In this special episode of CAF Warbird Tube, Robin Olds' daughter, Christina Olds, joins us for an intimate conversation about the man behind the famous handlebar mustache. She shares personal stories, family memories, and behind-the-scenes insights into one of military aviation's most iconic leaders. 

Di...

Get an inside look at the inaugural DC-3 Society Fly-In & Showcase coming to historic Flabob Airport in Southern California this August! On this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we sit down with Lyndse F. Costabile, Interim Executive Director and Director, Corporate Relations for the DC-3 Society, Andy Maag, on the Board of Directors, and Moreno Aguiari, President of the DC-3 Society Board of Directors, for a preview of this exciting event dedicated to one of aviation's most iconic aircraft. 

Learn what attendees can expect as DC-3 owners, crews, historians, restorers, and enthusiasts come together to celebrate the a...

The Women Airforce Service Pilots changed aviation history. Now, the National WASP WWII Museum is looking toward the future.

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, Dr. Rachael McClain shares her plans to build on the legacy established by WASP Deanie Bishop Parrish and Nancy Parrish while expanding educational programs and connecting new audiences with one of World War II's most inspiring stories.

Discover how the Museum at historic Avenger Field is ensuring the achievements of the WASP continue to inspire generations to come.

The Hiller UH-12, known to the U.S. military as the OH-23 Raven, played a vital role during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Used for observation, liaison, training, and medical evacuation missions, this versatile helicopter helped pioneer military rotorcraft operations while proving equally valuable in civilian service. 

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, guest Nick Infantino, founder of the Commemorative Air Force New England Wing, shares the story behind the Wing's newly assigned Hiller UH-12A. Assigned to the Unit in 2026, the helicopter represents an exciting new chapter for both the New England Wing and the C...

The AC-47 “Spooky” was more than a gunship during the Vietnam War—it became a symbol of protection, survival, and hope for troops on the ground in some of the war’s darkest moments. 

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we explore the restoration and future of "Spooky 86," the Commemorative Air Force’s AC-47 assigned to the Commemorative Air Force Gulf Coast Wing. Fresh from a major repaint and preparing for its first national touring season with the CAF, the aircraft is part of an ambitious mission to help preserve and share the stories of Vietnam veterans th...

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the world’s greatest aviation celebration—EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026! Join us on this special episode of CAF Warbird Tube as we welcome Rick Larsen, EAA’s Vice President of Communities and Member Programming, to give us an exclusive preview of what’s in store this July. 

From thrilling airshow performances and historic warbird displays to new features, special anniversaries, and can't-miss aircraft, Rick shares insider info on what aviation fans can expect at this year’s event. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned Oshkosh veteran, you won’t want to miss this exc...

Before dawn on D-Day, C-47 Skytrains filled the skies over Normandy carrying paratroopers of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions into occupied Europe. Months later, during the Battle of the Bulge, those same aircraft flew desperately needed supplies through brutal winter weather to surrounded Allied troops in the Ardennes. 

One of those aircraft still survives. In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we explore the restoration of C-47A Skytrain 43-15200—better known by its wartime nose art name, “Francis L.” Now undergoing restoration at the Museum of Aviation at Robins Air Force Base. 

This historic...

For decades, Gene Moran rarely spoke about what happened in the skies over Germany. 

In Tailspin, author John Armbruster brings that story to life—from a catastrophic fall from a shattered B-17 to the harsh realities of life as a prisoner of war. Along the way, the story becomes something more: a shared journey between two men confronting trauma, loss, and the challenge of telling the truth about war. 

In this Warbird Tube episode, we talk with Armbruster about the process of uncovering this story and why preserving these voices matters now more than ever.

More than 6,000 Handley Page Halifax bombers were built during World War II. Today, only a handful remain. 

At the Bomber Command Museum of Canada, an extraordinary team of volunteers, historians, and restoration experts is working to bring one of these legendary heavy bombers back from history—piece by piece. Using recovered wreckage, rare original parts, and components sourced from around the world, they are rebuilding a Halifax to honor the crews who flew them into combat over Europe. 

But this is more than a Canadian story. During World War II, more than 8,800 Americans crossed the bord...

For 53 brutal days during World War II, a small group of American servicemen fought to survive on a remote Pacific island with almost no food, constant danger, and little hope of rescue.

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we sit down with bestselling military historian and author John R. Bruning to discuss his gripping book, Fifty-Three Days on Starvation Island: The World War II Battle That Saved Marine Corps Aviation. This episode explores the desperate struggle faced by Marines and aviators during the Guadalcanal campaign, where starvation, disease, exhaustion, and relentless combat became part of daily...

The Republic P-47 Thunderbolt was one of the most powerful fighters of World War II—but keeping one flying today is a mission of passion, skill, and persistence. In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we go behind the scenes of the 

Commemorative Air Force’s P-47 restoration project at Airbase Georgia. CAF member Philip Beegle III and warbird pilot Doug Jeanes share what it really takes to bring this iconic aircraft back to life—from challenges in restoration to the deeper meaning of preserving history in motion. 

This is more than a rebuild—it’s a commitme...

The Avro Lancaster is one of the most iconic bombers of the Second World War, but keeping one alive today is no small task. In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, host Steve Buss sits down with Don Christopher to take you inside the remarkable Lancaster restoration project underway at the Canadian Aviation Museum. 

From tracking down rare original parts to solving major structural challenges, this is a behind-the-scenes look at the work required to preserve one of history’s most important aircraft. If you’re interested in aviation history, aircraft restoration, or the stories behind the machi...

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, filmmaker Zoë Lewin and writer-director Martin Hemingway-Moseley take us inside their award-winning short film A Memory Owed (2025), a deeply personal story that bridges two worlds. Set between a perilous 1944 RAF Bomber Command night mission and a present-day meeting between a 91-year-old veteran and his young caregiver, the film explores how the past continues to shape the present.

Inspired in part by Lewin’s own family history, A Memory Owed captures the emotional reality behind wartime service—moving beyond aircraft and missions to focus on memory, loss, and human connection. In this...

Country music star Aaron Tippin is widely known for patriotic hits like “You’ve Got to Stand for Something” and “Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagle Fly.” But beyond the stage, Tippin is also a passionate aviator with a deep appreciation for historic aircraft and the stories they represent. 

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, Tippin joins the conversation to talk about his lifelong connection to aviation, his experience flying warbirds, and why preserving historic aircraft remains an important mission. 

The discussion also explores Tippin’s new single, “American Sky,” a song that reflects on t...

The CAF AirPower History Tour is gearing up for another unforgettable season—and the big bombers are leading the way.

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we share the latest updates on the tour’s anchor aircraft, including the B-24 Liberator Diamond Lil and the B-29 Superfortress FIFI. Get the inside scoop on aircraft status, upcoming tour stops, and how to experience history firsthand with ride flights in these legendary WWII aircraft.

Whether you’re planning a visit, considering a ride, or just love seeing warbirds on tour, this episode is your go-to update straig...

One of aviation’s biggest events of the year is almost here.

 In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we sit down with Gene Conrad, CEO of the SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo, to preview what visitors can expect at the 2026 show in Lakeland, Florida. From incredible aircraft on the ramp to thrilling flying demonstrations in the sky, SUN ’n FUN has become one of the premier aviation gatherings in the world. Gene shares what’s new this year, highlights you won’t want to miss, and how the event continues to bring together pilots, aviation enthusiasts, warbird fan...

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we dive into the story of Brian Pierson, a self-taught aviation enthusiast who has spent thousands of hours hand-building a full-scale flight deck for a Convair B-36H Peacemaker — right in his West Virginia garage. From a makeshift cockpit to rivet-by-rivet fabrication, Brian’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and obsession with aviation history. 

This isn’t a restoration — it’s a scratch-built tribute to a Cold War legend, with Brian using photos, museum reference material, and sheer grit to bring the biggest piston-engine bomber ever designed back to life (at le...

In 1946, aviation stood at a crossroads, as the world shifted from global conflict to peacetime skies. Join CAF host Steve Buss as he explores how war-built aircraft, pilots, and technology helped shape the postwar aviation boom—transforming tools of combat into symbols of progress, innovation, and hope.  He examines how the legacy of World War II continued to shape aviation’s role in a newly peaceful world. You can watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/uq8iEkRCRKQ.

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USS Intrepid’s Fighting Squadron 18 was one of the highest-scoring U.S. Navy fighter units of World War II—and its story is packed with skill, leadership, and raw combat power. Join Warbird Tube host Steve Buss as he sits down with author Mike Fink to explore VF-18: Flying High with Harris’ Hellcats. From the fearsome F6F Hellcat to ace Cecil “Speedball” Harris, this episode dives into how VF-18 dominated the skies and helped shape naval air combat in the Pacific. You can watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/OR6s64yUgmM.

Aired on: Januar...

What does it take to command bombers separated by half a century of technology? In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, host Steve Buss sits down with Mark Novak—one of the rare pilots to have flown both the supersonic B-1 "the Bone" and the legendary B-29 Superfortress. With more than 1,000 hours in the B-29, Novak shares what leadership, responsibility, and precision look like across generations of bomber aviation. From Cold War muscle to World War II icons, this is a rare, firsthand look at what it means to command the biggest aircraft ever built. Watch the full episode at...

Before they became aces, bomber pilots, or instructors, thousands of World War II aviators took their very first flights in a Boeing PT-17 Stearman. In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we visit the Commemorative Air Force’s Indiana Wing to explore their beautifully restored PT-17—an aircraft that trained the heroes who won the skies. Learn what makes the Stearman such an enduring favorite and how this classic biplane continues to inspire new generations of pilots today. You can watch this episode as a video at https://youtu.be/nFTISJyTQSU.

The Vultee BT-13 Valiant—nicknamed the “Vultee Vibrator”—was the backbone of pilot training during World War II. Nearly every U.S. Army Air Forces combat pilot first learned to fly in this trainer, including thousands who trained at Walnut Ridge Army Airfield in Arkansas.

 In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we spotlight the Razorback Wing’s ambitious ground-up restoration of their 1941 BT-13A. Discover how volunteers are working to return this aircraft to its iconic blue-and-yellow pre-war colors, honor the legacy of the 4,600 cadets who graduated at Walnut Ridge, and inspire new generations with the roar of a l...

Built in 1943, the SNJ-5 Texan N7300C trained generations of Navy pilots at Pensacola Naval Air Station. Nicknamed “The Pilot Maker,” the Texan earned its reputation for being both challenging and deeply rewarding to fly. Its powerful Pratt & Whitney engine, responsive controls, and forgiving nature taught aviators the finesse and confidence they needed to master combat aircraft. Today, this gleaming veteran—now operated by the Commemorative Air Force Gulf Coast Wing in Conroe, Texas—remains a favorite among pilots who appreciate its perfect balance of performance, history, and nostalgia. Climb into the cockpit, and you’ll understand why the Texan cont...

Eighty-five years ago, the North American P-51 Mustang took flight for the very first time—ushering in a new era of fighter aircraft. Known for its speed, range, and unmistakable roar, the Mustang became one of the most decisive aircraft of World War II and a symbol of American airpower. In this special anniversary episode of Warbird Tube, we commemorate the Mustang’s first flight and explore how the Commemorative Air Force keeps this icon soaring today. Join CAF Mustang pilots, Larry Lumpkin and Doug Rozendaal, as they discuss the wartime innovation of the P-51 and its continued presence at a...

The Curtiss P-40 Warhawk remains one of the most recognizable fighters of World War II. In this episode of Warbird Tube, we examine the current condition of the Commemorative Air Force’s P-40, a regular performer in the exciting TORA! TORA! TORA! Airshow Act. Join guests Taylor Stevenson and Parker Rathbun, both CAF pilots of the Warhawk, as they share behind-the-scenes insights into what it takes to keep this legendary aircraft flying and inspiring new generations. Want to watch this online in a video format? Go to https://youtu.be/7fGfoumAYWA.

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we’re joined by the Mid Atlantic Air Museum to explore their remarkable restoration of the Northrop P-61 Black Widow—a WWII-era night fighter designed specifically for after-dark missions. This twin-engine aircraft was equipped with onboard radar, four 20mm cannons, and four .50 caliber machine guns, making it one of the most formidable interceptors of its time. 

We’ll dive into the aircraft’s development, combat role, and the meticulous restoration work being done to return it to flight. Don’t miss this chance to learn more about the P-61’s legacy and th...

Abandoned on an Alaskan sandbar for more than four decades, the B-25 Sandbar Mitchell is rising again. In this episode, we’re joined by Patrick Mihalek, Museum Director and Head of Restoration at the Warbirds of Glory Museum, to hear how his team recovered this once-lost bomber and is bringing it back to life—preserving history, inspiring youth, and keeping the legacy of WWII aviation alive. You can also watch this episode at https://youtu.be/9RiOThq4tBE. 

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Join us at EAA AirVenture 2025 as we catch up with the Lewis Air Legends crew of the legendary C-121 Constellation, Bataan. Step inside this award-winning warbird, recognized multiple times by Warbirds of America for its meticulous restoration and stunning appearance. Hear firsthand from the passionate team behind Bataan as they share stories, restoration insights, and why preserving this iconic piece of aviation history matters.

Want to watch this video? Go to https://youtu.be/fQ7H4gGrPZI

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Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight.

Join us on CAF Warbird Tube for a fascinating conversation with Scott Culver, author of Nine Yanks and a Jerk, the gripping true story of a B-24 Liberator crew during World War II. Discover the history behind this remarkable bomber, hear Scott’s insights, and learn more at sonofagunnerb24.com. 

Want to watch the video? Go to https://youtu.be/FT0PmW8OPfM

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Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history t...

Join us for a special episode of CAF Warbird Tube as we dive into the extraordinary life and legacy of Major Richard Bong, America's top fighter ace with 40 official victories, not just of WWII but all aerial conflicts. Our guest, acclaimed author and historian Bruce Gamble, brings his deep expertise to the conversation, sharing rare insights and compelling stories about Bong’s service in the Pacific Theater, his legendary P-38 missions, and the man behind the medals. Learn more about our guest, Bruce Gamble, on his website at www.brucegamble.com.

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Join us for an inside look at the ongoing restoration of the iconic B-17E Desert Rat, one of the rarest surviving early-model Flying Fortresses. In this episode, we’ll share exciting updates from the restoration team, including the latest milestones, challenges, and what’s next for bringing this historic aircraft back to life. Learn how dedicated volunteers are preserving a key piece of World War II aviation history as the Desert Rat takes shape once more. You can watch this show on YouTube at https://youtu.be/2vSSLpyG0Gg. 

Join us for a special episode of CAF Warbird Tube as we honor the 80th anniversary of the FG-1D Corsair "530," a proud member of Airbase Georgia’s historic fleet. Discover the story of this iconic warbird, from its acquisition to its current assignment at Airbase Georgia and current work with the Navy Legacy Program. We'll explore the Corsair's design, its combat legacy, and the dedicated work that keeps "530" flying today. Celebrate the craftsmanship and history behind this formidable aircraft as we mark eight decades of flight and heritage! Watch the episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/i0Js...

Join us for a thrilling dive into aviation history as we explore the world’s first operational jet fighter—the Messerschmitt Me 262. Our guest, Keegan Chetwynd, Director of the Military Aviation Museum, will share the story of how the Museum's replica was constructed, what effort was needed to get it back in the air, and how the Museum plans to continue to operate the aircraft into the future. Also discussed will be the flying characteristics of the replica, and the design and development history of this revolutionary jet during World War II, this episode is a must-see for any warb...

Often referred to as the "Forgotten Battle," the Aleutian Islands Campaign witnessed some of the harshest conditions of World War II. In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we welcome historian, author, and Alaska historic trip leader Karen Abel to explore the aircraft that braved the treacherous Aleutian skies. From P-38 Lightnings to B-24 Liberators, we’ll discuss the role of these warbirds in one of the most challenging theaters of the war. Follow more at http://www.floridabeachestotheberingsea.com/. 

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