Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the aviation or World War II buff in your life? It’s one thing to learn about World War II aircraft in books and classrooms or to even see WWII collections at museums, but Camarillo’s Commemorative Air Force takes the experience one step further by inviting you to climb aboard a fully-restored WWII aircraft and fly back in time with the Warbird Ride program.
Camarillo’s Commemorative Air Force volunteers work tirelessly to bring pieces of WWII history to life through the diligent, detailed restoration of warbirds. The United States produced nearly 300,000 aircraft during the war but by the 1960s, very few remain in flying condition. The majority were scrapped or abandoned, having been decommissioned and stripped of armament and instruments.
Veterans, history buffs, and retired aviation professionals have dedicated endless hours to restoring Camarillo’s fleet. They firmly believe that history should not only be read or listened to but felt. They want to show you the 1940s at their best from the seat of a P-51 Mustang (or others like it) in the sky.
Yes, it’s about the thrill of the flight. But it’s also about the connection to those who built, serviced, and flew these warbirds that serve to reinforce lessons learned from defining moments in history.
You and your loved one can jump aboard a P-51 Mustang, one of the most important aircraft in aviation history. Let your hair blow in the wind on a ride aboard the PT-19. Find out why they call the SNJ Texan “The Pilot Maker” or experience the world’s only flying U.S. Navy/Marine B25-PBJ Bomber.
Grab your boarding passes to history and feel good knowing all proceeds from the Warbird Ride program fund the continued maintenance, restoration, and operation of the War World II warbirds in Camarillo’s Commemorative Air Force collection.
Give the gift of living history this holiday season by booking a flight at www.cafsocal.com or visit them at 455 Aviation Drive, Camarillo, CA 93010.