PEACHTREE CITY, GA. (Aug.7, 2025) – Two restored World War II aircraft from Airbase Georgia will join a celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Navy and Marines Aug. 16-17 at Fagen Fighters WWII Museum in Granite Falls, Minn. Airbase Georgia is sending its FG-1D Corsair and its SBD-5 Dauntless dive bomber to the WWII Aircraft Reunion. Rides will be available on the SBD-5 during the morning and evening hours. Rides can be scheduled in advance here.
Airbase Georgia, based in Peachtree City, Ga., and one of the largest units of the CAF, recently completed an appearance at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in Wisconsin.
The FG-1 Corsair “530” is one of the original airframes that launched the Commemorative Air Force. Built by Goodyear, the aircraft has been painted to represent a Corsair flown by Marine Corps pilot 1st Lt. MO Chance, VMF-312, during the Battle of Okinawa in April 1945. “530” is a popular feature at airshow and events, sometimes participating in Navy Legacy Flight demonstrations.
The SBD-5 Dauntless, built by Douglas Aircraft, is one of only two still flying. The Dauntless is best known for its role in the Battle of Midway, where the aircraft sank four Japanese aircraft carriers, creating a turning point in World War II in the Pacific. The Airbase Georgia Dauntless paint scheme was in use at the time of “Marianas Turkey Shoot” which took place in June 1944.
Both the Corsair and Dauntless were flown by Navy and Marine Corps pilots.
“We are proud to be part of the Navy’s 250th anniversary celebration,” said Airbase Leader Joel Perkins. “This WWII Aircraft Reunion of restored warbirds will be a spectacular event, and we offer the added benefit of rides that give people an experience of a lifetime.”
This two-day event not only honors the brave individuals who served but also offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that will appeal to everyone in attendance. This will be a heartfelt tribute to defenders who stood strong at sea and on land.