Flying Into America’s 250th: A Message for the CAF Family
Dallas TX, (January 12, 2026)– As we begin a new year at the Commemorative Air Force, I can’t help but feel a real sense of excitement about what’s ahead.
2026 is a special year for our country. America is marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and that milestone feels especially meaningful for an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing America’s military aviation history. If you’re reading this, you’re already part of the CAF family, and you’re in a great place to experience this historic year.
Throughout 2026, CAF aircraft and crews will be taking part in America250 commemorations across the country. These events give us a powerful opportunity to help tell the story of a nation shaped by courage, innovation, and service. Our airplanes are not static displays. They are living history, and they will be out front helping communities reflect on where we’ve been and what it means to be American.
This year also marks the CAF’s 69th year of honoring those who served and inspiring future generations. There is a lot of momentum across our organization, and you can feel it.
You’ll see the CAF represented in a big way at major aviation events like SUN ’n FUN and EAA AirVenture. We’ll be hosting member-only gatherings at both shows, and if you’ve never joined us at one of these events, 2026 is a great year to do it. (Not a member yet? - click here to join)
You’ll also see progress across our fleet. Thanks to the success of last year’s 12 Planes of Christmas, we are on track to see nearly ten CAF aircraft return to flight in the months ahead. Each one brings another powerful story back into the sky.
We’re also expanding how we tell America’s aviation story. In 2026, we’ll be putting more emphasis on our post World War II aircraft. These airplanes help connect modern generations to the Cold War, Korea, Vietnam, and beyond, chapters of history that continue to shape the world we live in today.
Education remains at the heart of everything we do. Many of our programs are not new, but they deserve more attention. This year, we’ll be shining a brighter light on CAF education initiatives and scholarship opportunities that introduce students and lifelong learners to aviation, leadership, and service.
Our CAF footprint continues to grow as well. We will continue establishing new Units in previously underserved areas of the country, bringing our mission to even more communities. (Interested in forming a CAF Unit in your town? click here) As we step into this new year, and this historic moment for our country, I encourage you to make 2026 the year you get more involved in what you care about most.
That might mean volunteering, attending events, sharing CAF stories, supporting a restoration, or simply bringing a friend out to the ramp. Every action helps us educate others about our nation’s history, inspire future generations, and honor the men and women who keep our country safe and free.
Thank you for being part of the CAF family. I look forward to seeing you in 2026, whether it’s on the ramp, at an event, or somewhere out there across this great country. Here’s to an exciting and meaningful year ahead.
David Oliver
President, Commemorative Air Force
