A newly restored aircraft will be welcomed to the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia fleet at 4:30 p.m. Sept. 24, 2026, with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce.
After six years of painstaking restoration work by Airbase Georgia members, a 1941 Boeing N2S Stearman biplane is complete and will be honored. This type of aircraft was instrumental in the initial training of World War II pilots.
The Stearman restoration follows Airbase Georgia’s award-winning restorations of a rare Bell P-63 Kingcobra, an LT-6 Mosquito and a PT-19 Cornell used to train Tuskegee Airmen. The restorations reflect the organization’s commitment to preserving historic military aircraft and the stories of those who built, maintained, and flew them.
“Our Stearman is especially significant because we decided to complete it in honor of all Rosie the Riveters of WWII,” said Airbase Leader Mark Richards. “Even further, several of our women members actually worked on the restoration, learning to do much of the critical fabric work that covers the entire aircraft. We can’t thank the entire team enough for the outstanding, dedicated work they have done to bring this aircraft to life.”
“We have some steps to complete before this airplane will be offering rides to the public, but we can promise the experience will be unforgettable,” Richards said.
The restoration also highlights the importance of Airbase Georgia’s planned hangar expansion. At its upcoming Moonlight Swing gala on Oct. 17, Airbase Georgia will announce its expansion plans, which will provide additional facilities to help ensure its historic aircraft can be properly housed, maintained, and preserved for future generations. The expansion also will support the Airbase’s growing educational mission and community engagement.
As part of the Sept. 24 celebration, a pair of tickets to Moonlight Swing will be raffled, offering the winner the opportunity to attend the Airbase’s signature fundraising event.
Following the ribbon-cutting, the Chamber will celebrate the winners of the Citizen’s Choice Awards, recognizing outstanding businesses and organizations selected by the community across more than 40 categories. From local favorites to community staples, these awards shine a spotlight on the people and businesses that help make Fayette County a great place to live, work, and do business.