Airbase Georgia recently participated in the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum’s 35th Annual World War II Weekend, held June 5-7, 2026, in Reading, Pennsylvania. Widely regarded as the premier World War II living history event in the United States, the weekend coincided with the 82nd anniversary of D-Day, the Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944.
Representing Airbase Georgia were three iconic World War II aircraft: the North American P-51 Mustang, Douglas SBD Dauntless, and Bell P-63 Kingcobra. The aircraft joined an extraordinary gathering that included approximately 80 WWII aircraft, more than 200 military vehicles, and 1,500 reenactors, creating one of the largest and most immersive WWII commemorations in the nation.
Held annually at Reading Regional Airport, World War II Weekend brings together historic aircraft, military vehicles, living history encampments, veterans, educators, entertainers, and reenactors to preserve and share the stories of the World War II generation. Over more than three decades, the event has grown into one of America’s most respected public history experiences and is traditionally scheduled to coincide with the anniversary of D-Day.
The aircraft Airbase Georgia brought to Reading each tell an important chapter of the WWII story. The Douglas SBD Dauntless played a decisive role in the Battle of Midway, helping turn the tide of the war in the Pacific, while the North American P-51 Mustang became one of the most effective fighter escorts of the European campaign, contributing to Allied air superiority in the months leading up to D-Day and beyond.
“World War II Weekend is one of the most meaningful opportunities we have to share these aircraft with the public,” said Mark Richards, Airbase Georgia Leader. “When people see and hear these airplanes in person, history becomes real. Our participation at Reading directly supports the CAF mission to educate, inspire, and honor through flight and living history experiences.”
Airbase Georgia’s presence at Reading reflects the broader mission of the Commemorative Air Force: to educate, inspire, and honor through flight and living history experiences. By flying and displaying historic aircraft at major events across the country, Airbase Georgia helps ensure that the lessons, sacrifices, and achievements of the World War II generation remain accessible to future generations.
For many visitors, seeing the Mustang, Dauntless, and Kingcobra is more than an aviation experience. It is a tangible connection to the courage, innovation, and service that defined the World War II era.
Airbase Georgia is proud to represent the Commemorative Air Force at national events such as World War II Weekend and remains committed to preserving historic aircraft, honoring veterans, and inspiring future generations through aviation, education, and living history.