CAF EXPANDS ORGANIZATION'S FOCUS

Midland, Texas (Dec. 12, 2005) - For almost 50 years, the Commemorative Air Force's mission has been to preserve and fly World War II vintage aircraft in tribute to the men and women who flew, maintained or built these planes during World War II. However, in October 2005, the membership voted by a margin of 91.97 percent to expand the organization's focus to include combat aircraft flown by all branches of the U.S. military during any conflict, as well as selected aircraft of other nations. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF), an educational, non-profit organization was founded on the principle that these rare, historic aircraft should be preserved in order to remember the sacrifice made by those who have served their country.

"The CAF has been honoring those who have served their country as aircrewmen, and the airplanes they flew, for a very long time," said CAF President Bob Rice. "In its first 48 years, the CAF focused on the men and aircraft of the World War II era. The fact that CAF members have now embraced the Korean, Vietnam and the Gulf conflicts as well is terrific. It will truly be a privilege to have these men, women and the aircraft from these conflicts become a part of the CAF's legacy of freedom."

The CAF already has a number of airplanes in its fleet from the Korean and Vietnam eras. While those with interests in the histories of the Korean, Vietnam and Gulf conflicts have long been welcomed by the CAF and its membership, expanding the bylaws of the organization makes it official. The CAF currently has more than 9,000 members in 28 states and 24 foreign countries.

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