PEACHTREE CITY, GA. (Dec. 20, 2024) – For the third consecutive year, Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia has met its goals for the annual ‘Twelve Planes of Christmas’ fundraising program to help restore its Republic P-47N Thunderbolt fighter. The online campaign has raised $11,200 to date for the P-47N. The addition of a $50,000 grant from the Ray Foundation pushed donations over the original $50,000 goal, helping ensure the purchase of rims and new leading edges for the wings for the rare and historic aircraft.
“This fundraising campaign is essential in helping us restore the Thunderbolt,” said Airbase Leader Joel Perkins. “We sincerely thank all of the individual donors this year, and especially the Ray Foundation for its continued generous support of what will be a beautiful example of an iconic World War II fighter. We have now set a stretch goal of $70,000 with 11 days left in the 2024 campaign.”
The Ray Foundation, Inc. was co-founded by James C. Ray, a distinguished World War II pilot who believed that American youth could benefit from the lessons learned in aviation.
When completed, the P-47N will be one of 13 Thunderbolts flying in the world. The P-47N is one of the original aircraft acquired by CAF founder Lloyd P. Nolen in 1963.
The “Twelve Planes of Christmas” online fundraising campaign also is raising funds for a Boeing N2S Stearman Kaydet trainer dedicated to “Rosie the Riveter,” the women who worked in factories and shipyards during World War II. The Stearman is nearing completion of fabric work, awaiting an engine. Last year the campaign raised $15,185 for the Stearman; this year’s goal is $10,000.
The 12 Planes of Christmas campaign to date has raised more than $300,000 for Airbase Georgia projects over the past three years, with funds earmarked solely for the restoration of specific aircraft.
To support the two projects, please click HERE for the P-47N Thunderbolt and HERE for the N2S Stearman.