SUMMARY

The mission of the aircraft is to honor the veterans of the three wars the A-26 has served. The A-26 has served in World War II, Korea, and the Vietnam War. A-26 Night Mission flies today to not only perform at airshows but to also educate the next generation of aviators as a part of the STEM or STEAM programs across the country. The aircraft is not just built for speed but was part of the leading edge of modern technology in aerodynamics.   

HISTORY

The A-26 Night Mission served in the USAF in the United States as part of the Air Material Command until 1950. After her military service she became a civilian executive transport. Since that time she was then purchased by the Commemorative Air Force in 1977 and restored by the CAF Ranger Wing in 1982 given the name Spirit of Waco. After re-assignment in 2010, the Invader Squadron based at the Vintage Flying Museum in Ft. Worth, Texas was assigned the A-26 and changed the name to Night Mission and continues to fly today at aerial events around the US. 

PROGRESS

We are continuing to move forward with removing one of the engines and work to restore not just the engine but also fuel pumps and other items that will allow her to fly. Our hope is to have many CAF volunteers continue to come out and continue to make upgrades to the plane with avionics and paint the aircraft.
 

TASK AHEAD

We are still working on the engines and looking for help to paint the A-26. As always we continue to inspect and maintain Night Mission to flying status to fly and honor the veterans and serve the community.

VISION

The Invader Squadron uses their A-26 as part of the ride program and demonstrates how the aircraft performed their missions in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam by working with pyrotechnic teams at airshows. The A-26 is used to overfly parades, veteran funerals, memorials, perform at airshows while promoting awareness and appreciation of America's military history. The members of the Invader Squadron will always continue to keep A-26 Night Mission to honor the veterans and be a part of living history to serve the community.