Mission Accomplished: D-Day Squadron's 2024 Legacy Tour
Celebrating the success of the D-Day Squadron’s 2024 Legacy Tour Crews, Aircraft, Team, Veterans and Partners
This summer, the skies were alive with the roar of DC-3 engines as the D-Day Squadron completed its ambitious 2024 Legacy Tour, marking significant WWII commemorations such as DDay80 and Berlin75. Our journey spanned continents, bringing history to life and paying homage to the Greatest Generation.
Our Team and Operators
Our success was propelled by a dedicated 40-member volunteer team across the USA and Europe, who meticulously planned and executed the mission. Special thanks go to our operators, team, and crew members—hands-on and remotely—whose commitment ensured we honored our mission despite numerous logistical challenges.
We cannot complete any mission without dedicated partners and donors. Please click here for a visual of all our mission partners and collaborators. We thank you!
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Special Mention to Our Aircraft and Crews:
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Tunison Foundation’s C-47 “Placid Lassie”
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Central Texas Wing of the CAF “That’s All, Brother”
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Vintage Flying Machine’s Western Airlines DC-3A
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“Spirit of Douglas” C-53 (private owner)
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Classic Formation’s Swissair DC-3
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Chalair DC-3s (Private Owner)
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And all others who participated in various capacities throughout the tour
*A special recognition to these operators below who did the work getting their aircraft and crew prepped, in shape and ready for the mission, however due to extenuating circumstances, were not able to participate:
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“Night Fright” C-47
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Dallas Fort Worth Wing of the CAF’s “Ready for Duty” R4D
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Classic Formation’s “Screaming Eagle” C-47
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The RM Group’s “Hap*penstance” C-41A
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DC-3 Association Finland’s “Airveteran”
D-Day Squadron 2024 Legacy Tour Summary
Honoring History and Achievement: A Comprehensive Overview
The D-Day Squadron's 2024 Legacy Tour was a monumental effort, spanning continents and involving a diverse array of historical aircraft and dedicated personnel. Here is a detailed chronology and highlight of the tour:
North American Leg
Oxford, May 17, 2024:
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The tour began with a morning practice sortie involving a majestic flight formation over iconic landmarks, including the Hudson River, the Statue of Liberty, and West Point Military Academy.
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Morning Practice Sortie:
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Hudson River/NYC Flyover
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Visit to FDR Grave
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POU Airport
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West Point Military Academy
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Flight over Manhattan/Hudson River
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Statue of Liberty
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LGA Airport
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Return to OXC (Oxford)
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On the first day of the trip, the D-Day Squadron took off from Oxford, CT and flew over the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site in Hyde Park, NY.
Aircraft Involved:
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C-47 "Placid Lassie" (N74589)
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C-47 “That’s All, Brother” (N47TB)
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DC-3A Western Airlines (N33644)
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C-53 "Spirit of Douglas" (N83363)
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Two T-6 Texan trainers were also involved in the flyover along with a Beechcraft Model 18 and a Ryan Navion.
We appreciated the crew and pilots of the Twin Beech, chase aircraft, our T-6 lead photoship with Mike Killian Photography and four Gooneybirds heading to Europe for their hard work
That same evening hosted by Atlantic Aviation OXC, partners, donors and some public joined the D-Day Squadron’s team and crew for a special launch dinner, sponsored by Bradley Mack Aviation, Tunsion Foundation, Connecticut Valley Brewing Company, Easy Company Brewing and Atlantic Aviation.
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Oxford, May 18 & 19, 2024:
The D-Day Squadron officially launched on May 18 from OXC to PQI (Presque Isle Maine) for a grand welcoming by the community. With an on-time morning launch out of Oxford CT with DC-3 Society members, approved media and some public outside the airfield gates, the crews were fueled thanks to discounted support from Atlantic Aviation and bellies full, thanks to the meal sponsorship of AirCulinaire Worldwide and coffee sponsorship by Warbird Coffee Co. U.S.
Aircraft Involved:
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C-47 "Placid Lassie" (N74589)
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C-47 “That’s All, Brother” (N47TB)
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DC-3A Western Airlines (N33644)
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C-53 "Spirit of Douglas" (N83363)
European Leg
England, May 24 - June 3, 2024:
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May 24 or 25, 2024: Transit to Shuttleworth/Old Warden for static display at the Shuttleworth Collection Fly-In.
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May 26, 2024: Transit back to North Weald, which served as the squadron base in England for the tour.
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May 27 - May 31, 2024: Conducted various sorties between North Weald and Duxford Airfield.
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June 1 - June 2, 2024: Participated in the Duxford Airshow, performing displays and parachute drops.
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June 2 - June 3, 2024: Completed cross-channel transit trips.
C-47 Hot-Ramp Paratroop Pickup at Imperial War Museum, Duxford - June 2, 2024
The second of June marked a notable day at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford, featuring a special operation involving three C-47 aircraft from the D-Day Squadron. The aircraft involved were:
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C-47 “That’s All, Brother” (N47TB)
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C-47 "Placid Lassie" (N74589)
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Aero Legend C-47 "Pegasus" (G-ANAF)
On this sunny day, after the main show of the Duxford "80th D-Day" air show, these aircraft executed a paratroop pickup operation. They arrived from North Weald, landing at Duxford's main parking ramp to load paratroopers with engines running, in preparation for a mission over the English Channel to Normandy. This operation included participants from various paratrooping groups, including the Skydive Palatka – RCPT USA group. This mission exemplified a blend of historical homage and modern-day execution, marking another significant moment in the ongoing remembrance of D-Day events.
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Cherbourg C-47 Paratroop Drop Mission - June 4, 2024
On June 4, 2024, a significant airborne operation was carried out over Normandy, involving a four-ship formation of C-47 aircraft. This mission, staged from Cherbourg-Maupertus Airport, saw the WWII Airborne Demonstration Team and other groups performing multiple parachute drops across various designated drop zones in Normandy. The primary aircraft involved in this operation included:
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Aero Legend C-47 "Pegasus" (G-ANAF)
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Aero Legend C-47 Drag ‘Em Oot (N473DC)
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C-47 “That’s All, Brother” (N47TB)
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C-47 "Placid Lassie" (N74589)
Key participants in these jumps included members from diverse teams such as the Liberty Jump Team, Round Canopy Parachute Team – USA, All Airborne Battalion, Phantom Airborne Brigade, and even some original cast members from the "Band of Brothers" series. This mission not only honored the historical significance of the D-Day operations but also demonstrated the ongoing dedication to remembering and educating about these pivotal moments in history.
France, June 4 - 9, 2024:
Normandy Operations: Included multiple jump operations over historical DZs with significant participation on D-Day. Events highlighted include sorties with USAF C-130s and a memorable flyover during the official D-Day 80 ceremony.
Le Mont-Saint-Michel: Featured two para sorties that were visually spectacular and showcased the strategic capabilities of the participating aircraft.
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June 4, 2024: Engaged in a sortie with USAF C-130s and conducted a second flyover practice if memory serves. Multiple jump operations were conducted.
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June 5, 2024: Multiple jump operations were conducted over historical Normandy drop zones (DZ’s) throughout the day, some together with the UK jump-ships ‘Drag ‘em Oot’ and ‘Pegasus’.
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June 6, 2024: Participated in the official D-Day 80 Ceremony flyover.
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June 7, 2024: Two DDS C-47 para sorties at Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy in the afternoon, preceded by an impressive C-130 paradrop with jumpers carrying the Allied flags.
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June 8, 2024: Several drops, also in the British and Canadian sector.
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June 9, 2024: The last DDS C-47 drops in Normandy for 2024: two runs over the historical DZ at La Fiere, followed by a spectacular mass drop from C-130’s and an Airbus A400M.
Germany, June 15, 2024:
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75th Berlin Airlift Anniversary at Wiesbaden Army Airfield: A mix of historical and modern displays, the event included static and dynamic displays of various aircraft from the squadron and allied forces.
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Aircraft Involved:
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C-47 “That’s All, Brother” (N47TB)
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C-47 "Placid Lassie" (N74589)
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DC-3A Western Airlines (N33644)
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DC-3 SAS "Daisy" (SE-CFP)
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DC-3 Chalair (F-AZOX)
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Several private aircraft including North American AT-6 Texan/Harvard
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USAF Static Displays:
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Beech C-12U-3 Huron
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Lockheed MC-130J Hercules
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Lockheed C-17A Globemaster III
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Cessna UC-35A1 Citation
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Sikorsky UH-60L Black Hawk
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AH-64E Apache
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A memorable moment at Cherbourg, Normandy
Photo courtesy of Michael Prophet
Key Media Flights
The crews were incredibly honored to fly some WWII veterans on June 9 over the shores of Normandy. Here are photos of Alan Shapiro, 99, flying C-47 Placid Lassie over Normandy. Alan was in the 37th Troop Carrier Squadron, 316th Troop Carrier Group, during WWII, flying C-47s. We appreciate you, Alan!
May 30, 2024, North Weald - Duxford - North Weald:
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Aircraft involved included
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C-47 “That’s All, Brother” (N47TB)
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C-47 Placid Lassie (N74589)
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Aero Legend C-47 "Pegasus" (G-ANAF)
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DC-3A Western Airlines (N33644)
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C-53 "Spirit of Douglas" (N83363)
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Aero Legends Spitfire NH341/DB-E
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This media flight was made to obtain a display authorization (DA) from the British CAA for the air show at Duxford that weekend.
June 4, 2024, Cherbourg - Cherbourg (Normandy):
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Aircraft involved included
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C-47 “That’s All, Brother” (N47TB)
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C-47 Placid Lassie (N74589)
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Aero Legend C-47 "Pegasus" (G-ANAF)
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DC-3A Western Airlines (N33644)
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C-53 "Spirit of Douglas" (N83363)
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The week was spent at Cherbourg – Maupertus airport, engaging in numerous paratroop missions with DDS C-47s.
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The media flight on this date included a 4-ship formation flight over Normandy Coast, Omaha Beach, Pointe Du Hoc, Utah beach and the little town off Sainte-Mère-Église, French department of Manche, lasting 1.5 hours.
Key Features in the Media:
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D-Day Squadron and U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Commemorated 75th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift
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Bose Donates A30 Aviation Headsets to D-Day Squadron Following Theft
Wiesbaden Army Airfield, Germany: Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift
The D-Day Squadron marked the 75th anniversary of the historic Berlin Airlift at Wiesbaden Army Airfield on June 15, 2024, with a significant gathering that celebrated both historical and modern aviation achievements. The event featured a diverse collection of aircraft, including the iconic C-47 "TAB C47" and "Placid Lassie," alongside other notable aircraft such as Western DC-3A and various private North American AT-6 Texan/Harvard planes.
Aircraft Involved:
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C-47 “That’s All, Brother” (N47TB)
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C-47 Placid Lassie (N74589)
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DC-3A Western Airlines (N33644)
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DC-3 SAS Daisy (SE-CFP)
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DC-3 Chalair (F-AZOX)
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Several private aircraft, including North American AT-6 Texan/Harvards to include:
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Miss Goosebay (N6593D
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SAAF (D-FASS)
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Yellow Navy (D-FPAE)
USAF Static Displays Included:
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Beech C-12U-3 Huron
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Lockheed MC-130J Hercules
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Lockheed C-17A Globemaster III
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Cessna UC-35A1 Citation
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Sikorsky UH-60L Black Hawk
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AH-64E Apache
The airfield's role as an active military base offered limited photography opportunities, yet it did not diminish the enthusiasm. The event encapsulated a blend of past and present with 1940s historical displays, modern U.S. military presentations, and interactive aircraft tours led by pilots. The family day atmosphere was bolstered by a variety of vendors and BBQ setups, offering a communal space for enjoyment among attendees.
A highlight was the candy drop re-enactment performed by the C-47s during a 4-ship formation fly-over, reminiscent of the airlift's operation that once supplied essentials to Berlin's residents under siege. The day served not only as a remembrance but also as an educational experience, linking generations to the monumental achievements of the Berlin Airlift.
D-Day Squadron 2024 Legacy Tour
by the Numbers
Aircraft Involved
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8 Aircraft: Notable ones include TAB, Lassie, and Douglas
D-Day Veterans
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4 Veterans participated, flying on TAB, Lassie, Pegasus, and Drag
Miles Flown
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80,000 Miles with 8 airplanes
Flight Hours
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800 Hours
Duration and Reach
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7 Weeks on the road, visiting 7 Countries and 10 Airports
Pilots Involved
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50+ Pilots
Candy Distribution
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5,000 lbs of Jelly Belly candies
Parachute Operations
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7 Days of operations across the UK, France, and Germany
Parachutists Dropped
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450 Dropped
Sorties
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Approximately half the number from 2019
Transatlantic Crossings
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2 Crossings
Operating Costs
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Estimated at $1.35 Million (half of $2.7 million from 2019)
Special Highlights
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1 Lap Around the Statue of Liberty
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No Presidential Flyover
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No Arlington Cemetery Flyover
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Stuffed Bear "Private Presquey" Participated
Special Notes and Acknowledgements:
Volunteer Contributions: The dedication of our volunteers ensured the success of every leg of the tour, despite logistical challenges.
Operator Commitment: Even when faced with adverse conditions, our operators demonstrated professionalism and dedication to the mission.
See the 2024 Legacy Tour Photo Gallery Here!
A huge thank you to our photographers: Karolina Marek, Adam Simpkins, Paul van den Berg, Kevin Carter, Rich Cooper, Henry Simpson, Guillerme Zimmermann
Thanks to Peyton Stikeleather and Michael Prophet for providing photos and recaps from the 2024 Legacy Tour.
We are thrilled to spotlight Claire Parr, a devoted member of the DC-3 Society whose passion for the DC-3 Dakota culminated in a dream-come-true flight during the 2024 Legacy Tour. Claire's love for these historic aircraft began in her childhood and was magnified by her flight aboard "Placid Lassie," where she experienced the powerful history and legacy of the D-Day Squadron first-hand. Her journey from spectator to participant highlights the deep connection our members have with the preservation and celebration of these legendary aircraft.
We honor Claire's enthusiasm and dedication to the DC-3 community. Her experience underscores the importance of our mission—to keep the history of the DC-3 alive and soaring. Claire’s story is a testament to the impact of our work and the personal connections that make our community so special. Thank you to Claire and the many volunteers who ensure that the spirit of the DC-3 continues to inspire generations
Future Engagements and Plans:
Looking ahead, the D-Day Squadron and DC-3 Society aims to continue involvement in significant aviation events, fostering appreciation for historical aviation and educating the public about the contributions of the Greatest Generation. In 2025, the squadron and society’s focus will be on events, commemorative displays, flights and outreach for the 90th anniversary maiden flight of the DC-3.
Merchandise and Memorabilia:
Exclusive 2024 Legacy Tour merchandise is available for purchase, commemorating this monumental tour. Each purchase supports ongoing educational and commemorative initiatives.
Shop here for mission merchandise before it’s gone: SHOP.DDAYSQUADRON.ORG
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