Soaring into History: Aviation Discovery Day at the Mississippi Wing of the Commemorative Air Force

This year’s Aviation Discovery Day, hosted by the Mississippi Wing of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF), brought families, students, and aviation enthusiasts together for a full day of flight, education, and hands-on history. From awe-inspiring warbirds to community connection and youth engagement, the event was a vibrant celebration of Mississippi’s living aviation legacy.

Community Takes Flight

Set against a backdrop of beautiful skies and the iconic hangar in Madison, Mississippi, Aviation Discovery Day welcomed over 1,500 visitors eager to connect with aviation heritage. The grounds buzzed with activity as attendees got up close and personal with historic aircraft, including the famous P-51 Mustang “Charlotte’s Chariot II,” a thrilling crowd favorite.

Volunteer pilots and members of the Mississippi Wing proudly shared the stories behind each aircraft, giving guests rare access to cockpits and flight decks while educating them about the missions and meaning behind every rivet.

Hands-On Learning and Family Fun

Interactive education was at the heart of the event, with:

• Flight simulators giving kids and adults the chance to feel what it’s like to take the controls.

• Guided aircraft tours that sparked curiosity and encouraged questions.

• Pilot meet-and-greets where local aviators shared real stories and posed for pictures.

• STEM-focused exhibits that connected aviation history with future careers in aerospace.

• 5 aircraft giving rides all day long for those wanting a once in a lifetime time experience.

Children delighted in scavenger hunts, aviation crafts, and the ever-popular selfie spots next to vintage aircraft. The energy was contagious as every generation found something to inspire their sense of wonder.

Keesler Federal Credit Union: Fueling the Mission

A major highlight of the day was the official recognition of Keesler Federal Credit Union as the title sponsor for Aviation Discovery Day. Their generous sponsorship not only made the event possible but also demonstrated their deep-rooted commitment to honoring veterans, educating the next generation, and supporting local heritage initiatives.

Keesler Federal’s booth inside the main hangar served as a hub of activity and information, with their team actively engaging attendees, handing out branded gear, and showing up as true community partners. Their support ensures that events like Aviation Discovery Day will continue to grow, reach more people, and inspire more dreams.

A Look Toward the Future

The iconic sound of “Tap” played out to draw this record breaking event to a close. As visitors departed with smiles, souvenirs, and memories to last a lifetime, one thing was clear: Aviation Discovery Day wasn’t just about looking back—it was about launching forward. The Mississippi Wing of the Commemorative Air Force remains committed to its mission of educating, inspiring, and preserving, and thanks to community support and key partners like Keesler Federal Credit Union, the sky is truly the limit.

Stay tuned for more events, volunteer opportunities, and ways to be part of this mission by following the Mississippi Wing online and on social media. Until next time—keep your eyes on the skies!