HONOLULU — The U.S. military authorized the transport of World War II aircraft on government ships and planes for use in the 75th anniversary commemoration of the end of the war officials said.
Up to 24 privately owned aircraft will be transported to Oahu for the events between Aug. 29 and Sept. 2, The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported Tuesday.
The transport of the vintage planes will be conducted by Air Force cargo planes or ships including an aircraft carrier or other flattop vessel, officials said.
Defense Secretary Mark Esper said in a Jan. 27 memo that he wants a coordinated effort for a “lift of opportunity” to bring the planes to the commemoration. “As we approach the 75th anniversary of V-J Day (Victory over Japan) on Sept. 2, 2020, I am encouraging all services to seek opportunities to honor this important milestone,” Esper said.
Elissa Lines, executive director of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, said 19 aircraft owners so far have applied to participate.
The aircraft include a B-25 Mitchell bomber, A-26 Invader, SBD Dauntless dive bomber, P-40 Warhawk, TBF Avenger torpedo bomber, P-51 Mustang, F4F Wildcat, C-47 transport, PBY Catalina, F-8 Bearcat, and T-6 Texan, she said.