CRBC News
Culture
Society
Security
Health
Conflict
Science
Technology
Politics
Environment
Lifestyle
Economy

Arkansas Group to Restore WWII BT‑13A Trainer, Honoring Walnut Ridge Pilots

The Razorback Wing of the Commemorative Air Force is restoring a Consolidated‑Vultee BT‑13A Valiant, a World War II basic trainer produced from 1940–1944. BT‑13s flew from Walnut Ridge Army Air Field, where over 4,600 cadets earned their wings between 1942 and 1944, and the restoration will honor those trainees. Funds will be raised through the CAF’s “12 Planes of Christmas” campaign, and the restored aircraft will appear at airshows, schools and community events across Arkansas.

05:03 AM, 12/02/2025Culture
Arkansas Group to Restore WWII BT‑13A Trainer, Honoring Walnut Ridge Pilots

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Razorback Wing of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF), formerly known as the Confederate Air Force, has announced plans to restore a Consolidated‑Vultee BT‑13A Valiant, a World War II‑era trainer used to prepare military pilots for operational service.

Project purpose and local ties

Produced between 1940 and 1944, the BT‑13A served as a basic trainer for thousands of pilots. The Razorback Wing says the aircraft has a direct local connection: BT‑13s flew from Walnut Ridge Army Air Field, where more than 4,600 cadets earned their wings between 1942 and 1944. The restoration is intended as a tribute to those trainees and to preserve the region’s aviation heritage.

Funding and outreach

The group plans to raise funds through the CAF’s “12 Planes of Christmas” campaign. Once restored, the BT‑13A will be maintained as a flying or display aircraft and will tour the state, appearing at airshows, visiting schools and attending community events to engage students, veterans and aviation enthusiasts.

Nate Disarro, Razorback Wing spokesperson: “This isn’t just a restoration project, it’s a way to reconnect Arkansas with its own living history. Aircraft like this one flew daily over the fields of Arkansas at Walnut Ridge Army Air Field, where thousands of young men trained with grit and determination, many of them just teenagers.”

In addition to the BT‑13A effort, the Razorback Wing currently operates a Ryan PT‑22 Recruit, another World War II‑era trainer, as part of its collection.

If you would like to support the restoration or learn more about upcoming events, contact the Razorback Wing or visit the CAF’s campaign page for donation details and volunteer opportunities.

Similar Articles

Trending