SUPPORT THE CADET PROGRAM AT THE CAF’S 3RD COAST SQUADRON

You can support an exciting new Cadet program with the Commemorative Air Force’s 3rd Coast Squadron.  This program, for students ages 12-18, is centered around restoring a WWII trainer, the J-4 "SkyBaby", and getting her back in the air! 

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) flying museum has amassed more than 170 World War II aircraft and is the largest collection of vintage military warbirds in the world. Our mission is to educate, inspire, and honor, carried out through the work of more than 11,000 volunteers across 83-unit locations.  Each year the CAF’s educational outreach programs reach an estimated 20 million Americans, providing unique, compelling hands-on access to history.

The 3rd Coast Squadron has operated as a CAF charter in the Texas Coastal Bend region since 1999. This year, the 3rd Coast Squadron has developed a unique program to engage area youth in a project to restore an authentic World War II aircraft.  

HELP OUR CADETS REBUILD A J-4 PIPER CUB

Cadet programs introduce young people to mentors and open their eyes to the rewards of service.  Cadets gain an awareness of the vast opportunities in science, engineering, aviation.

The main ingredient of our Cadet program is a 1940 J-4a Piper Cub Coupe named "SkyBaby”.  The program is off to a great start thanks to the generous donation of this aircraft.

There is much work to be done – the aircraft is currently a collection of parts and pieces, so a complete restoration is needed, and some parts will need to be replaced.  Our goal is to raise $30,000 by to help purchase parts, tools, and other supplies for our cadets.

You can help get the program off the ground by making a donation for tools, parts, uniforms, safety equipment, and training aids.

Can we count on your support to help ensure these young people succeed and to see their own dreams literally soar as they work to get "SkyBaby" back into the air?  Our ultimate goal is to help these young people get through ground school and perhaps learn how to fly the completely restored J-4 Cub.

EVERY DONATION HELPS – YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE TODAY!

Your donation today will make a difference, and we have some spectacular thank-you gifts to recognize your generosity! 

• Every donation over $20.00 gets a certificate of appreciation.
• For $50.00, you will also receive a 3rd Coast Squadron T-shirt.
• For $500.00, you will also receive a voucher good for a ride in an ex-military training aircraft, the famed biplane – the PT-17 Stearman. You will enjoy the thrill of a lifetime as you see our magnificent Coastal Bend like never before!

BECOME A BENEFACTOR – GET LISTED ON OUR WALL OF HONOR

When you become a Cadet Program benefactor, your name, business, or foundation will be listed on our Wall of Honor, a permanent display of your commitment to this program and our mission!  All Wall of Honor benefactors will be honored at a VIP banquet.  This is also a great way to honor someone else. 

• Ace Benefactor for $10,000
• Lead Benefactor for $5,000
• Wingman Benefactor for $2,500
• Tailgunner Benefactor for $1,000

OUR MEMBERS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

The Commemorative Air Force has members from many backgrounds.  We would love for you to join us at the CAF 3rd Coast Squadron in our amazing mission to "keep em' flying" while preserving our history, honoring our veterans, serving our communities, and inspiring tomorrow's leaders.  We have one of the Coastal Bend area's premier military museums that pays tribute to veterans and local aviation history. Join us as we support the maintenance and operation of our PT-17 Stearman biplane.  And soon (with your help and the work of our Cadets) our J-4 Cub "SkyBaby" will also be a regular sight in our skies.

See you at the hangar! 

Ken Carel, Unit Leader

Maxine Flournoy 3rd Coast Squadron, Commemorative Air Force

For more information on the 3rd Coast Squadron and their cadet program, please contact Ken at kcarel@stx.rr.com.