They are just one group in the international organization known as the Commemorative Air Force and the members of the High Sierra Squadron at the Reno-Stead Airport have several aircraft deeply rooted in military history.
They maintain, operate, and fly two aircraft and other military antiques such as an aircraft tug used on warships. The airplanes they care for have taken on several different roles since being built in the 1940s from training pilots in World War II, to crop dusting in California. Today, they ride like a dream and the squad educates the crowds that flock to their air shows on what these planes once did.
"It's always the hit of the air show with the children and the parents," said Richard Filipowicz, Colonel in the Commemorative Air Force.
That's certainly not all the High Sierra Squadron does. Their Navy Trainer N3N-3 from World War II is now training the next training generation of brave military members.
Andrew Carmona is a member of the squadron's Cadet Program. He's going into the Navy and ships out August 15, 2016. He's worked with the seasoned aviators to learn how to maintain and even fly the aircraft.
"They teach you the right way to do things and make sure everything works out the way it's supposed to," said Carmona.
The Cadet Program is all about mentoring future leaders in aviation and for Andrew, he has taken a liking to the squad.
"I used to post a whole bunch of pictures of me and all these old guys on Instagram and all my friends would ask me who they are. I'm just like they're my real friends.”
The motivation of the High Sierra Squadron is having high implications.
"Our objective for our Cadets is that hopefully they go on to be involved in aviation as a career," said Filipowicz.
"They've kind of prepared me for my future. They've taught me the fundamentals of flying and what goes into actually taking care of an aircraft," said Carmona.
For more on the High Sierra Squadron, their Cadet Program, and future air shows, click here. They are a non-profit funded by members and volunteers.
