The CAF Joe Foss Squadron flies a Stinson L5B that actually saw combat in WW2 as an artillery spotter for the 71st Infantry Division.
She has worked hard her entire life, first in Europe during WW2, then with the American Army occupation troops in Germany till about 1952. She then flew with the CAP in New York for many years. She then entered the civilian market. This L5B was purchased by members organizing the Joe Foss Squadron of the CAF in Sioux Falls SD and she was donated to the CAF.
She has been telling the stories of her service in WW2 to the populace in our area. Additionally, her door was signed by QC Miles, a highly decoronated L5 pilot who lived in SD. We found out that Medal of Honor recipient Joe Foss, whom our unit and the airport she is based at is named for, flew L5s regularly when he commanded the SD Air Guard unit. here. Their stories are shared when the aircraft is at local events.
Her last restoration was in 1978. She is in need of a complete engine rebuild, new fabric, replacement /repair of her wooden wing and tail, as well as new wiring and brakes etc.
This process will take several years and the cost may be well over $150,000.
This plane is a valuable piece of history that must keep teaching our upcoming generations the lessons of the past.
ABOUT 12 PLANES OF CHRISTMAS
Each year the CAF holds an annual fundraiser to help support and highlight aircraft projects for planes in need of restoration, maintenance or repairs. Donors may contribute to a specific aircraft project or to the CAF’s Restoration Grant Fund.
Don’t want to donate online?
Call 877-767-7175,
ext. 105 or mail check to: CAF Headquarters, P.O. Box 764769, Dallas,
TX, 75376
The Restoration Grant Fund
The Restoration Grant
Fund is a dollar-for-dollar match program created to help aircraft
projects with the most need get back into the air faster.
Giving to a Specific Aircraft Project
If you
have a particular affinity for an airplane, you can make a direct
contribution to the aircraft.
