Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia supporters again have demonstrated extraordinary generosity, raising $110,693 from 125 donors for the restoration of the organization’s P-47N Thunderbolt through the 2025 12 Planes of Christmas campaign. Airbase Georgia results are among the highest of all CAF units nationwide for this year’s campaign.
This marks the fourth year Airbase Georgia donors have contributed $100,000 or more to the P-47N restoration, an achievement driven by a strong year-end surge of support.
The 2025 campaign began with a modest goal of $25,000. The response far exceeded expectations, underscoring broad commitment to preserving one of America’s most iconic World War II fighters and returning it to the sky.
“This outpouring of support genuinely surprised and humbled us,” said Airbase Leader Mark Richards. “Finishing as a leader among all CAF units isn’t about a ranking. It’s a visible statement that our members and supporters are deeply committed to seeing this P-47 fly again. We are incredibly grateful.”
More than 15,000 P-47 Thunderbolts once took to the skies during World War II. Today, only about 13 remain airworthy in the United States. Airbase Georgia’s P-47N is among the most historically significant survivors because it is one of the original aircraft acquired by CAF founder Lloyd P. Nolen. Built in 1945, it last flew in 2006 and entered full restoration in 2022 after Airbase Georgia assumed stewardship.
“Returning this aircraft to flight will preserve a vital chapter of American aviation history and support the CAF mission to Educate, Inspire, and Honor through living history,” Richards said.
Thanks to donor generosity, volunteer craftsmanship, and support from the Ray Foundation, Airbase Georgia has achieved major restoration milestones since 2022, including:
- Cataloging thousands of original components
- Repairing wing damage and machining complex fittings
- Working with AirCorps Aviation to fabricate and replace major structural elements
- Restoring cowlings, belly skins, cowl flaps and other parts
- Installing the engine mount and sourcing rare N-model brakes
Donors have contributed more than $450,000 over four years, transforming what was once a collection of parts into a steadily advancing airframe. Inside the hangar, thousands of skilled volunteer hours continue to turn history back into flight, piece by piece, bolt by bolt.
“Every donor is now part of this aircraft’s story,” Richards said. “These gifts are helping ensure future generations won’t just read about the P-47, they’ll hear it and see it fly.”