This Saturday (August 2nd), the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Capital Wing will commemorate a rare milestone: the 80th anniversary of “Doris Mae,” a fully restored TBM-3E Avenger torpedo bomber originally built by General Motors at the close of World War II.
Doris Mae was delivered to the U.S. Marine Corps on August 2, 1945, just days before the end of the war. Her journey—from U.S. military service to the Royal Canadian Navy, and later as a forest firefighting aircraft—reflects a broader legacy of durability and adaptation that defined the “Greatest Generation’s” war machines.
The historic event will be marked at Culpeper Regional Airport. The celebration will feature a USMC Color Guard, remarks from the aircraft’s restoration team, and aviation artist Gary Velasco, who painted her iconic WWII nose art.
The Ceremony begins at 10:15 a.m. Free food, refreshments, and birthday cake will be served.
Warbird rides available (limited) — contact: [email protected]
“Doris Mae” flies today in tribute to Marine Squadron VMTB-143, and in memory of Virginian 1st Lt. William “Billy” Hay, who flew Avengers in combat over the Pacific.
Orangizers say this is more than a celebration—it is a reminder of the aircraft, the aviators, and the volunteers who preserve the flying history of World War II for future generations.
