History Belongs in the Sky. Help Keep It There.
About the Commemorative Air Force (CAF)
The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is one of the world's largest flying museums, dedicated to preserving and sharing America's military aviation history. Founded in 1957, the CAF maintains a fleet of more than 180 historic aircraft and, through its 80 units and 17,000 members, honors the men and women who built, maintained, flew, and fought in these remarkable machines. Through flight, education, and remembrance, the CAF's mission is to Educate, Inspire, and Honor.
The Rainier Squadron and the Stinson AT-19 Reliant
Established in 2017 and based at Arlington Municipal Airport in Washington, the Rainier Squadron carries the CAF mission forward in the Pacific Northwest through the dedication of 45 active members and 5 cadets. These volunteers preserve and share aviation history through aircraft exhibitions, educational programs, community events, and veteran outreach.
At the heart of this mission is the Squadron’s Stinson AT-19 Reliant, a World War II-era aircraft used for training, transport, and communications. Originally built as an advanced military trainer, the aircraft saw service with the UK Royal Navy during World War II. Today, the AT-19 serves as a flying reminder of the men and women who served our nation and the aircraft that helped prepare them for duty.
For many people, seeing a historic military aircraft in flight is an unforgettable experience. Every time the Rainier Squadron's AT-19 takes to the sky, it honors the generation that learned to fly in aircraft just like it.
That experience is only possible when these aircraft can fly.
Today, our AT-19 requires a critical engine overhaul before it can continue its mission of educating, inspiring, and honoring communities throughout the Pacific Northwest.
The AT-19 is more than a machine. It is a flying classroom, a living memorial, and a tribute to the veterans whose stories deserve to be remembered.
We need to raise $25,000 as the first phase of the $70,000 engine overhaul project. This will help the unit get the engine into the hands of expert mechanics and overhaul specialist. Every gift helps move this aircraft one step closer to returning to flight. Please donate today and share this page with others who believe in preserving living history.
About the Engine: Why the AT-19 Is Grounded
Why does the AT-19 need an engine overhaul?
Like all historic aircraft, the AT-19 requires regular maintenance and periodic overhauls to remain safe and airworthy. After years of operation and countless hours spent educating and inspiring audiences across the Pacific Northwest, the aircraft's engine has reached the point where a complete overhaul is required before it can return to flight.
An engine overhaul is one of the most significant maintenance projects an aircraft can undergo. The engine must be carefully disassembled, inspected, repaired, and rebuilt to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and reliability. This process requires specialized expertise, certified components, and many hours of skilled labor.
While the AT-19 may be grounded today, work is already underway to plan for its return to the skies. With the support of our dedicated volunteers, maintenance team, and generous donors, we are committed to completing this important project and preserving the aircraft for future generations.
Every contribution helps move the AT-19 one step closer to flight.
Thank you for helping us preserve this flying piece of history and ensuring that its story continues to inspire generations to come.
