Is it a tradition? Absolutely!
Peru, Illinois – May 18-20, 2023
Warbird Mafia’s 1st road trip as an ‘official’ team turned out to be spectacular! After several consecutive years of inclement weather factoring into the equation, the 2023 edition of the TBM Avenger Reunion and Salute to Veterans was rain-free and full of action.
There were a few special treats this year, including the world’s only flying TBM tanker, based at Cape May airport in New Jersey, Tim Savage’s recently restored P-40 and a surprise Saturday-only appearance of Douglas A-1 Skyraider “Naked Fanny” from Aviation Heritage Foundation. Matt Younkin’s Twin Beech “Magic by Moonlight” flight was elegant as always. The Friday night engine run is a crowd favorite, and this year, a wall of fire capped the night with a bang.
Thursday was packed with arrivals and Friday and Saturday both had an afternoon of non-stop flying. While all of the action on the ramp and in the air is exciting, the most important part of this annual event is honoring our veterans. Saturday started off on that note, with the Salute to Veterans Parade and Veterans Flag Missing Man Flight. These elements of this event will always stoke a sense of pride in our country’s heroes – past and present – and gives us all an invaluable opportunity to honor those that paid the ultimate sacrifice. When four TBMs start turning their massive R-2600 radial engines, unfold their wings and taxi out with the flag of a fallen veteran on board for the missing man, it is humbling and powerful.
We cannot thank TBM Reunion founders Brad and Jane Deckert enough for starting this event 8 years ago and growing it into what it is today. A huge thanks also to the City of Peru, the FBO at Illinois Valley Regional Airport and all of the volunteers. Personally, I have never felt more welcomed (and respected) as a photographer at any other event. Everyone that volunteers their time to make it happen are genuinely great people. After going the past few years, we have vowed to do whatever it takes to make the yearly trek to Peru a tradition to keep.
