Advertise on podcast: CAF Warbird Tube

In 1946, aviation stood at a crossroads, as the world shifted from global conflict to peacetime skies. Join CAF host Steve Buss as he explores how war-built aircraft, pilots, and technology helped shape the postwar aviation boom—transforming tools of combat into symbols of progress, innovation, and hope.  He examines how the legacy of World War II continued to shape aviation’s role in a newly peaceful world. You can watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/uq8iEkRCRKQ. Links referenced:  CAF Warbird Tube Episode on Nose Art: https://youtube.com/live/JAEysnVBAXg CAF Warbird Tube Episode on the Berlin Airlift: https://youtu.be/uapuKO1FmEw Aired on: February 4, 2026 Guest/Host: Steve Buss Producer/Editor: Leah Block Produced by: Commemorative Air ForceSend a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

USS Intrepid’s Fighting Squadron 18 was one of the highest-scoring U.S. Navy fighter units of World War II—and its story is packed with skill, leadership, and raw combat power. Join Warbird Tube host Steve Buss as he sits down with author Mike Fink to explore VF-18: Flying High with Harris’ Hellcats. From the fearsome F6F Hellcat to ace Cecil “Speedball” Harris, this episode dives into how VF-18 dominated the skies and helped shape naval air combat in the Pacific. You can watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/OR6s64yUgmM. Aired on: January 28, 2026 Guest: Mike Fink, Author Host: Steve Buss Producer/Editor: Leah Block Produced by: Commemorative Air Force Send us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

What does it take to command bombers separated by half a century of technology? In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, host Steve Buss sits down with Mark Novak—one of the rare pilots to have flown both the supersonic B-1 "the Bone" and the legendary B-29 Superfortress. With more than 1,000 hours in the B-29, Novak shares what leadership, responsibility, and precision look like across generations of bomber aviation. From Cold War muscle to World War II icons, this is a rare, firsthand look at what it means to command the biggest aircraft ever built. Watch the full episode at https://youtu.be/Nif549a1uWw. Aired on: January 21, 2026Guest: Mark NovakHost: Steve BussProduced by: Commemorative Air ForceSend us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

Before they became aces, bomber pilots, or instructors, thousands of World War II aviators took their very first flights in a Boeing PT-17 Stearman. In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we visit the Commemorative Air Force’s Indiana Wing to explore their beautifully restored PT-17—an aircraft that trained the heroes who won the skies. Learn what makes the Stearman such an enduring favorite and how this classic biplane continues to inspire new generations of pilots today. You can watch this episode as a video at https://youtu.be/nFTISJyTQSU. Aired on: November 11, 2025 Guests: Nick Boland, Loren Marburg Host: Steve Buss Producer: Blaine Seaboalt Produced by: Commemorative Air ForceSend us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

The Vultee BT-13 Valiant—nicknamed the “Vultee Vibrator”—was the backbone of pilot training during World War II. Nearly every U.S. Army Air Forces combat pilot first learned to fly in this trainer, including thousands who trained at Walnut Ridge Army Airfield in Arkansas.  In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we spotlight the Razorback Wing’s ambitious ground-up restoration of their 1941 BT-13A. Discover how volunteers are working to return this aircraft to its iconic blue-and-yellow pre-war colors, honor the legacy of the 4,600 cadets who graduated at Walnut Ridge, and inspire new generations with the roar of a living trainer once again. You can watch this as a video at https://youtu.be/3RbYfLVFzI0. Aired on: November 12, 2025 Guests: Robert Lashbrook, Matt Anderson Host: Steve Buss Producers: Nate Dissaro, Blaine Seaboalt Produced by: Commemorative Air ForceSend us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

Built in 1943, the SNJ-5 Texan N7300C trained generations of Navy pilots at Pensacola Naval Air Station. Nicknamed “The Pilot Maker,” the Texan earned its reputation for being both challenging and deeply rewarding to fly. Its powerful Pratt & Whitney engine, responsive controls, and forgiving nature taught aviators the finesse and confidence they needed to master combat aircraft. Today, this gleaming veteran—now operated by the Commemorative Air Force Gulf Coast Wing in Conroe, Texas—remains a favorite among pilots who appreciate its perfect balance of performance, history, and nostalgia. Climb into the cockpit, and you’ll understand why the Texan continues to inspire all who take the controls. You can watch this episode as a video at https://youtu.be/CaaMLxQy09I. Aired on: December 3, 2025 Guests: Nancy Kwiecien, Aaron Sloper, Ryszard Zadow Host: Steve Buss Producer: Blaine Seaboalt Produced by: Commemorative Air ForceSend us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

Eighty-five years ago, the North American P-51 Mustang took flight for the very first time—ushering in a new era of fighter aircraft. Known for its speed, range, and unmistakable roar, the Mustang became one of the most decisive aircraft of World War II and a symbol of American airpower. In this special anniversary episode of Warbird Tube, we commemorate the Mustang’s first flight and explore how the Commemorative Air Force keeps this icon soaring today. Join CAF Mustang pilots, Larry Lumpkin and Doug Rozendaal, as they discuss the wartime innovation of the P-51 and its continued presence at airshows across the country, and discover why the P-51 remains a legend in both history and the skies. You can watch the video of this show at https://youtu.be/X3MiTIwR60I. Aired On: October 22, 2025 Guests: Larry Lumpkin, Doug Rozendaal Host: Steve Buss Producer: Blaine Seaboalt Produced by: Commemorative Air Force Send us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

The Curtiss P-40 Warhawk remains one of the most recognizable fighters of World War II. In this episode of Warbird Tube, we examine the current condition of the Commemorative Air Force’s P-40, a regular performer in the exciting TORA! TORA! TORA! Airshow Act. Join guests Taylor Stevenson and Parker Rathbun, both CAF pilots of the Warhawk, as they share behind-the-scenes insights into what it takes to keep this legendary aircraft flying and inspiring new generations. Want to watch this online in a video format? Go to https://youtu.be/7fGfoumAYWA. Aired on: November 5, 2025Guests: Taylor Stevenson, Parker Rathbun Host: Steve Buss Producer: Blaine Seaboalt Produced by: Commemorative Air ForceSend us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

In this episode of CAF Warbird Tube, we’re joined by the Mid Atlantic Air Museum to explore their remarkable restoration of the Northrop P-61 Black Widow—a WWII-era night fighter designed specifically for after-dark missions. This twin-engine aircraft was equipped with onboard radar, four 20mm cannons, and four .50 caliber machine guns, making it one of the most formidable interceptors of its time.  We’ll dive into the aircraft’s development, combat role, and the meticulous restoration work being done to return it to flight. Don’t miss this chance to learn more about the P-61’s legacy and the dedicated team working to preserve it for future generations. Watch this episode at https://youtu.be/lZZAilMy21o. Aired on: August 27, 2025Guest: Mid-Atlantic Air Museum / Russ StrineHost: Steve BussProducer: Blaine SeaboaltProduced by: Commemorative Air ForceSend us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

Abandoned on an Alaskan sandbar for more than four decades, the B-25 Sandbar Mitchell is rising again. In this episode, we’re joined by Patrick Mihalek, Museum Director and Head of Restoration at the Warbirds of Glory Museum, to hear how his team recovered this once-lost bomber and is bringing it back to life—preserving history, inspiring youth, and keeping the legacy of WWII aviation alive. You can also watch this episode at https://youtu.be/9RiOThq4tBE.  Aired on: October 8, 2025Guest: Warbirds of Glory Museum / Patrick MihalekHost: Steve BussProduced by: Blaine SeaboaltProducer: Commemorative Air ForceSend us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

Join us at EAA AirVenture 2025 as we catch up with the Lewis Air Legends crew of the legendary C-121 Constellation, Bataan. Step inside this award-winning warbird, recognized multiple times by Warbirds of America for its meticulous restoration and stunning appearance. Hear firsthand from the passionate team behind Bataan as they share stories, restoration insights, and why preserving this iconic piece of aviation history matters. Want to watch this video? Go to https://youtu.be/fQ7H4gGrPZI Send us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

Join us on CAF Warbird Tube for a fascinating conversation with Scott Culver, author of Nine Yanks and a Jerk, the gripping true story of a B-24 Liberator crew during World War II. Discover the history behind this remarkable bomber, hear Scott’s insights, and learn more at sonofagunnerb24.com.  Want to watch the video? Go to https://youtu.be/FT0PmW8OPfM Aired on: August 13, 2025 Guest: Scott Culver Host: Steve Buss Produced By: Blaine Seaboalt Producer: Commemorative Air ForceSend us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

Join us for a special episode of CAF Warbird Tube as we dive into the extraordinary life and legacy of Major Richard Bong, America's top fighter ace with 40 official victories, not just of WWII but all aerial conflicts. Our guest, acclaimed author and historian Bruce Gamble, brings his deep expertise to the conversation, sharing rare insights and compelling stories about Bong’s service in the Pacific Theater, his legendary P-38 missions, and the man behind the medals. Learn more about our guest, Bruce Gamble, on his website at www.brucegamble.com. Want to watch the video? Catch it at https://youtu.be/AD0W-Gfafo0 Aired on: August 6, 2025 Guest: Bruce Gamble Host: Steve Buss Producer: Blaine Seaboalt Produced by: Commemorative Air ForceSend us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

Join us for an inside look at the ongoing restoration of the iconic B-17E Desert Rat, one of the rarest surviving early-model Flying Fortresses. In this episode, we’ll share exciting updates from the restoration team, including the latest milestones, challenges, and what’s next for bringing this historic aircraft back to life. Learn how dedicated volunteers are preserving a key piece of World War II aviation history as the Desert Rat takes shape once more. You can watch this show on YouTube at https://youtu.be/2vSSLpyG0Gg.  Aired on: July 3, 2025 Guest: Bill Stanczak Host: Steve Buss Producer: Blaine Seaboalt Produced by: Commemorative Air Force Send us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.

Join us for a special episode of CAF Warbird Tube as we honor the 80th anniversary of the FG-1D Corsair "530," a proud member of Airbase Georgia’s historic fleet. Discover the story of this iconic warbird, from its acquisition to its current assignment at Airbase Georgia and current work with the Navy Legacy Program. We'll explore the Corsair's design, its combat legacy, and the dedicated work that keeps "530" flying today. Celebrate the craftsmanship and history behind this formidable aircraft as we mark eight decades of flight and heritage! Watch the episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/i0JsmGBXKWc. Aired on: July 16, 2025 Guests: Brad Pilgrim, Philip Beegle III, Mark Todd Host: Steve Buss Producer: Blaine Seaboalt Produced by: Commemorative Air ForceSend us a text Thanks for watching CAF Warbird Tube — where history takes flight. You can join us live for upcoming broadcasts by registering at www.WarbirdTube.com. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is dedicated to Educating, Inspiring, and Honoring through flight and living history experiences. Programs like this help preserve and share the stories of aviation history — and we couldn’t do it without your support. To learn more or get involved, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org. Thanks for helping us keep history flying.