This past Labor Day Weekend, The Naval Air Station Wildwood Air Museum (NASWAM) joined forces with The Collings Foundation’s Wings of Freedom Tour and brought four aviation filled days to the picturesque seaside town of Cape May New Jersey.

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Collings Foundation’s B-25 “Tondaleyo” take off run – photo by Richard Souza

The event was held at the museum’s 92,000 Square foot hanger located at the Cape May Airport. NASWAM wheeled out many of their static display aircraft for some much needed fresh air. Among the aircraft were a UH-1M Huey, AH-1 Cobra, A-4 Skyhawk (in Blue Angels livery) and an F-14 Tomcat. This particular tomcat is said to have 2,061 carrier landings. Those in attendance even got to see the cockpit of a Mikoyan-Gurevich Mig-15 and Northrop F-5 Tiger.

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Visitors lined up to tour the Collings Foundation’s B-17 “Nine-O-Nine” – photo by David Eckert

The flying portion of Airfest was secured by the Collings Foundation’s Wings of Freedom aircraft. The Collings Foundation was represented by (in the bomber category) the North American B-25 Mitchell “Tondelayo”, Boeing B-17 “Nine-O-Nine” and the Consolidated B-24 “Witchcraft”. The Fighter class was represented by the awesome TP-51 C “Betty Jane“. This particular aircraft is the only P-51 in existence with dual controls.

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The Collings Foundation’s P-51C takes off – photo by Richard Souza

The Collings Foundation is a non-profit (501c-3) foundation committed to educating the public through living history. The foundation puts the public in direct contact with historical vehicles from a bygone era. The Wings of Freedom Tour honors the sacrifices made by Veterans of all wars and brings history to the visitors and in particular young children. Those present at AirFest 2015 had the opportunity to purchase a ride in one of these beautifully restored aircraft or just admire them from a far.

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AirFest from the NAS Wildwood Museum’s hanger – photo by Richard Souza

NASWAM did a wonderful job in organizing this event. There was plenty to entertain visitors of all ages. If the 26 historic aircraft and multiple vintage vehicles were not enough, then live music, magicians, Food Trucks and exhibits made sure every guest was left with a big smile.

Click on thumbnails below to view additional images.

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NAS Wildwood Museum and Collings Foundation team up for AirFest event

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