ATHENS, GA. (Sept. 26, 2025) – The ramp at Athens–Ben Epps Airport came alive with the sights and sounds of World War II-era aircraft as CAF Airbase Georgia hosted a highly successful Warbird Rides Day. The event brought hundreds of visitors to the historic airport, many experiencing living aviation history up close for the first time.
By day’s end, the Airbase’s volunteer crews had flown over 30 passengers, some traveling from as far away as Pennsylvania, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Atlanta, to experience flights in legendary aircraft such as the P-51 Mustang, SBD Dauntless, LT-6 Mosquito, T-34 Mentor, and PT-19 Cornell.
“Bringing these aircraft to Athens allowed us to showcase American aviation history in the same community where so many young pilots once trained for World War II,” said Joel Perkins, Airbase Georgia Leader. “We were honored by the turnout and the heartfelt gratitude from visitors who came to see, touch, and fly in these remarkable machines.”
Community Spirit Takes Flight
Visitors lined the ramp throughout the day for guided tours and photo opportunities with the aircraft. Countless guests expressed appreciation for Airbase Georgia’s efforts to bring vintage warbirds to their local airport.
A Volunteer Effort Worth Celebrating
Behind the scenes, Airbase Georgia’s maintenance team ensured each aircraft was flight-ready for the trip to Athens. Other volunteers drove from throughout the metro area to serve as docents. Perkins noted that such events remind the team how extraordinary it is for the public to “see, smell, hear, sit in, and sometimes fly in” genuine wartime aircraft, a living connection to the Greatest Generation.
Honoring Athens’ Aviation Legacy
The event carried special historical resonance. During World War II, Athens–Ben Epps Airport served as a support facility for the U.S. Navy Pre-Flight School at the University of Georgia, helping train thousands of naval aviators through the Civilian Pilot Training Program (CPTP). Hosting Airbase Georgia’s warbirds at the site 80 years after the end of the war offered visitors a vivid way to honor that legacy.