Cockpit of our P-47D Thunderbolt is shown here. See all of our operational aircraft, and over 100 displays and exhibits when you visit us at the Colorado Springs Airport -- https://www.worldwariiaviation.org/ Photo credit: Gary Devore (fb)

🚨Helldiver first public flight Saturday, July 19 “From Zero to Hero” is the story of the Helldiver, and come see it fly again! It’s a tale of youthful perseverance, history reclaimed, and the eventual return to the air of a very rare WWII aircraft. The SB2C Helldiver was found to be problematic in its earliest versions, and needed further refinement to serve in the intended role, that of an effective dive bomber against Japanese ships and ground installations. Eventually the Helldiver proved its tremendous value, but it earned a negative reputation before doing so. There are only three known examples flying today, and one of them is the newest addition to the museum, which was designated by Congress as America’s museum dedicated exclusively to World War II Aviation. The Helldiver at the museum was recovered from Lake Washington in Seattle by two young men in their late teens, sparking a Federal court battle, with the two young men, Matt McCauley and Jeff Hummel, winning the battle against the US Navy which had discarded the aircraft in the lake. The Helldiver was restored to flying condition in Colorado Springs by WestPac. Hear the story of the Helldiver’s development and successful combat record presented by Lead Docent Don Johnson, plus the heartwarming and hilarious story of the aircraft's recovery. Immediately following, the Helldiver will make its first public flight, weather permitting. 8 a.m. doors open 9 a.m. presentation Flight to follow Standard admission prices are in effect. The purchase of advance on-line tickets is encouraged. Advance ticket prices are: Adult $15 Child (4-12) $11 Senior and Military $13 WWII Veterans free admission Parking free The National Museum of World War II Aviation www.worldwariiaviation.org/ 775 Aviation Way, Colorado Springs, 80916 719-637-7559 (fb)