CAF Warbird Tube

Join us for a riveting episode of CAF Warbird Tube as we chat with Steve Church, author of Fighter Combat World War Two: Stories and Tactics 1939-1945. Discover the secrets behind fighter tactics, the art of gunnery, and how pilots used strategy and skill to dominate the skies. From historic dogfights to groundbreaking insights, Church brings these stories to life with vivid detail and expert analysis. A must-listen for aviation en...

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, Steve Buss will take us deep into the final year of World War II. Join us as we explore the major conflicts in 1945 that brought the war to a dramatic and decisive close. From the brutal battles in Europe to the Pacific campaigns, Steve will break down the key events, strategies, and turning points that shaped the war's end. Along the way, we’ll reflect on the immense sacrifices and lasting...

Join us for an engaging episode of CAF Warbird Tube as we sit down with John Mollison, the renowned aviation artist, historian, and creator of Old Guys and Their Airplanes. Through his distinctive artwork and storytelling, John captures the spirit of aviation history and the extraordinary individuals who shaped it. We'll explore his creative process, his passion for preserving the stories of aviation legends, and how he uses a...

**Warning - This video contains discussions about combat events that took place during World War II, specifically aviators who carried out suicide attacks. Sensitive viewers should be advised.** In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we explore the haunting legacy of the kamikaze airfields in Kyushu, Japan. These airfields served as the launch points for many of the kamikaze missions during the final months of World War II, where pil...

In this episode, historian Chris Kolakowski of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum joins us to discuss the Battle of the Bulge, one of World War II’s most brutal and decisive clashes. During the frigid winter of 1944, a desperate German offensive ambushed Allied forces in Belgium's dense forests. Kolakowski shares insights into the battle’s strategic impact, the soldiers’ resilience, and the extreme conditions that defined this conf...

**Warning - This video discusses actual combat events during the Vietnam War. Sensitive viewers should be advised.**

• This special episode delves into the legendary AC-47 Spooky Gunship, the latest addition to the Commemorative Air Force fleet and proudly operated by the Gulf Coast Wing. Known for its iconic role in the Vietnam War as the original gunship, the AC-47 “Spooky” brought powerful close air support to protect ground f...

An in-depth look at one of the most devastating periods of World War II—Black Week. Our special guest, Nathan Huegen, Vice President of Education for the Commemorative Air Force, will guide us through the harrowing events of this pivotal week in October 1943. The 100th Bomb Group flew several critical missions over Germany, targeting heavily defended industrial cities and key aircraft production facilities, including Bremen, Münste...

In this episode, we take you on an exciting journey through the history and restoration of one of the rarest WWII fighters still flying—the CAF’s P-39 Airacobra. Known for its unconventional design with a mid-engine layout and nose-mounted cannon, the Airacobra played a significant but often overlooked role in the war. Join us as we explore the story of this unique fighter, its combat history, and the challenges of preserving such ...

Dive into the remarkable history of the Grumman TBM Avenger, one of the most iconic torpedo bombers of World War II. Built for power and endurance, the Avenger played a critical role in naval battles. In this episode, we explore the legendary aircraft's design, development, and combat legacy, now proudly preserved and operated by the Commemorative Air Force Missouri Wing in St. Charles, Missouri. Learn about the Avenger's...

We are taking a closer look at the CAF’s F8F Bearcat in this week's Warbird Tube. Members of the Southern California Wing join host Steve Buss, to discuss the impressive history, importance, and current maintenance status of the Bearcat. Find out what improvements they’ve made since being assigned the powerful Navy fighter back in 1991. You can watch this on YouTube at https://youtu.be/f6m5utSmfkQ.

Aired on: September...

In this episode, we welcome back Ross Sharp, a renowned expert on the De Havilland Mosquito, to explore the fascinating history of the U.S. and the "Mossy." Although Mosquitoes are known as RAF aircraft, the versatile and innovative aircraft played a crucial role for the U.S. in various missions, from reconnaissance to bombing, and became an icon of aviation history. You can watch this on YouTube at https://youtu.be/eV80z...

Join us for an intimate journey into the life and legacy of one of America's greatest aviators, Chuck Yeager, through the eyes of his wife, Victoria Yeager, author of "Chuck Yeager: What a Ride." Victoria shares personal stories, untold anecdotes, and reflections on Chuck's extraordinary career, from breaking the sound barrier to his profound influence on aviation history. Whether you're an aviation enthusi...

In this captivating episode, we dive into the incredible story of the 1st Air Commandos of World War II with special guest Ralph Van Wagner, author of the acclaimed book "Any Place, Any Time, Any Where." Discover the daring missions, innovative tactics, and heroic feats of these airmen who played a pivotal role in shaping modern air warfare. Ralph Van Wagner will share insights from his extensive research, shedding light ...

Step into history with our riveting interview with the legendary World War II aviator John “Lucky” Luckadoo. Join us to explore Luckadoo’s journey from his enlistment after Pearl Harbor to piloting the B-17 Flying Fortress in the 8th Air Force. Discover the harrowing experiences of the "Bloody Hundredth," where Luckadoo was one of just four survivors from a squadron of 40 pilots after completing 25 missions. The story of ...

Explore the enchanting realm of aviation nose art with acclaimed painter Gary Velasco. With decades of expertise, Velasco's iconic designs grace renowned aircraft like the B-24 Diamond Lil and B-25 Show Me. Join us as Velasco unveils the inspiration and intricacies behind his timeless creations. Delve into the challenges of painting on aircraft surfaces and gain insight into the fusion of art and history. Whether you're a...

Explore the rich aviation history preserved at the Southern Heritage Air Museum in Tallulah, Louisiana. Our guest, Dan Fordice, who founded the organization, shares some of the artifacts and stories from their archives. He also shares his personal mission to use his life to care for and show gratitude to all military veterans. You can watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/8Jh9Aey5Ww8. 

• Aired on: Apr 5, 2024...

In this episode, author Bruce Gamble delves into the remarkable saga of the Black Sheep Squadron of World War II. Discover the fearless exploits and unyielding bonds of these legendary aviators, led by the indomitable Major Gregory "Pappy" Boyington. Bruce Gamble sheds light on the triumphs, challenges, and legacy of these extraordinary aviators of the Pacific Theater. You can also watch this episode on YouTube at https:/...

AirCorps Library is an online collection of historic aircraft engineering drawings and technical manuals. Library Manager Ester Aube will join us to discuss the company's award-winning warbird restoration work and her role in managing their extensive technical library of engineering drawings and manuals, a valuable resource to the warbird community. You can watch a video of this episode at https://youtu.be/tPt7frVGqdo.