CAF Helldiver Squadron Takes Flight

HOUSTON, TX (January 27, 2026) — The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) proudly announces that, effective January 1, 2026, the West Texas Wing has officially become the CAF Helldiver Squadron, a name that reflects both the Squadron’s mission and the rare, historic aircraft it exists to preserve and fly

The Helldiver Squadron supports one of the world’s only airworthy Curtiss-Wright SB2C Helldivers, the U.S. Navy’s last purpose-built dive bomber and a decisive weapon in World War II. Although the aircraft has sometimes been misunderstood, history tells a far more compelling story: SB2C Helldivers sank more enemy ship tonnage during World War II than any other Allied aircraft, playing a critical role in the Pacific victory.

A Name That Reflects Reality—and Purpose

Originally chartered in January 1978 in San Angelo, the West Texas Wing was once the largest Unit in the CAF, with more than 500 members at its peak. Over time, as aircraft assignments evolved and the SB2C Helldiver became based in the Houston area, the unit’s name no longer reflected its aircraft, location, or primary mission. After thoughtful discussion and a member vote, the decision was made to align the Squadron’s identity with the aircraft it proudly represents

While the West Texas Wing name now takes its place in CAF history, the mission continues—preserving rare warbirds, honoring those who served, and educating the public through living history.

About the SB2C Helldiver

Often compared to other naval aircraft of the era, the SB2C Helldiver stands on solid historical and technical ground. The SB2C-4 variant boasted higher cruising speed and greater range than the TBM Avenger, significantly outperformed the earlier SBD Dauntless, and came remarkably close to the performance of the famed F6F Hellcat. Among its contemporaries, only the F4U Corsair exceeded its speed—and did so at the cost of range.

Today, the CAF Helldiver is one of only three airworthy Helldivers in the world, offering audiences a rare opportunity to see, hear, and experience a true naval dive bomber in flight. At airshows, the aircraft performs dramatic demonstrations including dive-bombing profiles, rocket attack simulations, and strafing passes. Between performances, the crew remains with the aircraft to answer questions and provide guided tours of this exceptionally rare warbird

Looking Ahead: A Growing Nationwide Presence in 2026

With its new identity, the Helldiver Squadron is preparing for an active 2026 season, with several major aviation events already on the calendar. More appearances are in the works and will be announced in the coming weeks, ensuring that this rare warbird will reach even more communities nationwide.

* Wings Over Meridian – NAS Meridian, MS March 27–29, 2026

* World War II Weekend– Mid-Atlantic Air Museum, Reading, PA June 5–7, 2026

* The Greatest Show on Turf – National Warplane Museum, Geneseo, NY July 11–12, 2026

Join the Helldiver Squadron

The CAF Helldiver Squadron invites aviation enthusiasts, historians, veterans, and volunteers to become part of this next era. Preserving and flying one of the rarest warbirds in existence takes passion, dedication, and people—and the Squadron is eager to welcome those ready to help keep this remarkable aircraft flying For more information, visit cafhelldiversquadron.com.