Our TBM Avenger was built by GM in 1945. It was used by the Marine Torpedo Bombing Squardron 234. It worked off of the USS Vella Gulf during the Okinawa campaign. Bullet holes still remain in the fuselage from this mission.
After 81865 had done it's duty, it was converted to a fire bomber in Canada. That is where we acquired the aircraft following its retirement.
Today our TBM is based at KVYS, IL Valley Regional Airport. It is a toured around the country to airshows and other events in memory of those veterans who served our country and those who flew these magnificent aircraft.