In a rare appearance together, the Commemorative Air Force is bringing two unique assets to the Wings Over Miami Air Museum, located at Miami Executive Airport, to tell the inspirational story of the Tuskegee Airmen, America’s first black military pilots, along with the heavy bombers they supported.
Texas Raiders, a fully restored B-17G Flying Fortress, will be appearing along with the CAF Red Tail Squadron’s RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit, a mobile theater featuring an original film about the Tuskegee Airmen. This duo shares an important story that honors the history and legacy of these WWII aviators, and serves as an inspiration to current generations to RISE ABOVE obstacles in their own lives.
Beginning on Thursday, March 24 through Sunday, March 27, the public is invited to tour the cockpit of the Flying Fortress and step inside a world of living history, learning about the special relationship between the bomber pilots and their fighter escorts. Visitors are also encouraged to enjoy the RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit 53’ mobile panoramic theater. All ages are welcome to enjoy this immersive and exciting experience to learn about the Tuskegee Airmen.
Todd Silverman, a 90 year-old WWII veteran aviator and former radio man who is himself a volunteer at the museum said, “The B-17 was one of the most important bombers of WWII, and their contribution and those of the Tuskegee Airmen in WWII were simply incredible.” Mr. Silverman says he loves riding in the B-17 even today, and plans to be at the museum as much as he can during the visit.
Hours of the event are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and Noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. The Tuskegee Exhibit will be leaving early afternoon on Sunday.
Texas Raiders is tentatively scheduled to arrive around noon on Thursday. For a special treat, everyone is encouraged to look skyward as she makes her approach to the airport in Kendall.
Follow Wings Over Miami on Facebook for updates to the Texas Raiders flight schedule which can be affected by weather.
Admission for this special appearance is $10 for adults and $5 for youth under 18. Group rates are available. Call Wings Over Miami at 305-233-5197 for group reservations. There are special group rates for children’s groups on March 23rd to see the Tuskegee Exhibit and museum. Exhibit hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., extended hours may be available by request. Reservations for B-17 flights, which start at $475 may be made online through Texas Raiders website, www.B17TexasRaiders.org
For more information about the CAF and the Gulf Coast Wing go to www.B17TexasRaiders.org or www.CommemorativeAirForce.com. Wings Over Miami Air Museum may be found online at www.facebook.com/wingsovermiami.
