The Wings of Freedom tour has completed 2,608 national stops since the tour started 22 years ago! This year we have visited 109 cities with the B-17 Flying Fortress, B-24 Liberator and P-51 Mustang. It is a phenomenal feat to have this extraordinary WWII living history tour visit so many cities across the United States every year. The Wings of Freedom tour is made possible by thousands of volunteers across this country. Everyone comes together with the goal of making these aircraft accessible to the general public. Thank you to everyone who has helped keep the planes flying and WWII history alive for all to see and experience.

We are now getting ready to schedule the first leg of our 2012 Wings of Freedom tour.
The tour starts in Florida through January then off through a southerly route heading west. Please contact us if you would like to help bring the Wing of Freedom tour to your city. Send an e-mail to: hchaney@collingsfoundation.org


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(If you can not see video click here)
Taken from San Antonio Express article dated November 2, 2011:

One of the many re-enactments and flight demonstrations was the Vietnam Show, which showcased several aircraft, including the F-4, and a battle re-enactment from the war. This is third time the Vietnam Show re-enactors have performed at the Randolph air show.

Retired Marine Corps Lt. Col. Bill Bowers (Collings Foundation Volunteer), part of the Vietnam Show demonstration team, said the purpose of the group is to recognize the contributions of those who fought and died in Vietnam.

“The whole purpose is to honor our veterans, particularly from the Vietnam era, and just to bring another generation of familiarity to the F-4 because it's an older aircraft and you don't see it anymore,” said Bowers, who flew in the F-4 during his Marine service.

“We want to make sure that (people) do remember those men who served and the 50,000-plus who didn't get to come home,” he added.

Bowers and his crew have been performing the Vietnam re-enactments since 1999, the same year they obtained the F-4 aircraft.

He said the show and the static displays of aircraft always get a positive response at air shows and events across the country.

Your contributions and sponsorships are what keep these programs running. We receive no state or government funding. Help keep the legacy alive for generations to come. The expense of operating and restoring historic aircraft for all to see is immense. Your donation is essential in these efforts. Every bit helps! Please renew your membership here.

As of January 31, 2012 our DFC and Plane Sponsor donations levels will increase. DFC level donation will increase to $2,500 and Plane Sponsor donation will increase to $7,000. The Plane Sponsorship levels have not increased since we started the program 25 years ago. We hope that you will take advantage of the existing Plane Sponsor and DFC levels before 1/31/12. *Important to note: currently, you can apply up to $2,500 in past flights toward a Plane Sponsor level of $5,000.

There are many benefits to a Plane Sponsorship: Basic Membership plus lifetime subscription to CF Newsletter, 10% PX discount, honored name on B-17 or B-24 in Plane Sponsor Section. Lifetime between city flight privileges for sponsor and guest, and a personalized A-2 leather flight jacket (very nice).

If you have any questions please contact Mary Holtorf at 800-568-8924 or
mholtorf@collingsfoundation.org
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Ho Ho and Happy Holidays Folks! Two months to go and BANG! Its 2012.
We hope you will think of us for your holiday gifts. We have added a lot of new items to choose from: new tee shirts, custom vintage signs, toys, models, books, DVDs and Flight Certificates. Lots of cool stuff! See our PX store here.
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There were over 200 reenactors representing several branches of the Allied and Axis military. Fully restored military equipment of all kinds was on display and participated in an incredible living history event. This included: tanks, cannons, troop carriers, half tracks,aircraft, armored cars, motorcycles, cavalry and support supplies. Allied and Axis camps were set up with authentic materials and appearance. People were encouraged to interact with reenactors who share a wealth of information about life as a WWII military person.

WWII Veterans from all ranks and branches of service participated in a roundtable discussion. Each veteran spent time talking about his experiences of service and survival during WWII.

COLLINGS FOUNDATION PX STORE - Holiday Shopping Store!
Gifts, books, DVDs and more - for the aviation enthusiast! See our online PX Store. Shopping is very easy and secure. Looking for the ultimate gift for "the person that has everything"? Flight Certificates are a unique and exciting present for anyone. The Wings of Freedom tour visits over 110 cities all over the United States. Once your certificate arrives just check our stop schedule to see when the bombers are near you- then call us to reserve a seat. Check our web site for confirmed schedule and locations). Flight Certificates are a tax deductible donation! We also have a great selection of books, videos, DVD's, T-shirts, polos, toys, calendars, hats and much more.

A very nice B-24 tin sign. Would dress up any room!
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