Historic Fairchild PT-23 Needs Moniker

The New England Wing of the Commemorative Air Force is asking aviation enthusiasts and history lovers for help in naming their historic Fairchild PT-23 aircraft. This particular example is the very first prototype of the PT-23 primary trainer delivered to the U.S. Army Air Forces in August 1942.

As many aviation history buffs know, it was common during World War II for military aircraft to have names and nose art to boost camaraderie and promote morale among air crews. Although most well-known examples were featured on combat aircraft, some training aircraft also had unique names and artwork.

Regardless of whether on combat or trainers, names and nose art were very often humorous, patriotic, or reflected cultural influences of that era.

The New England Wing is inviting the public to contribute ideas to the tradition for a fitting name for its PT-23. Name suggestions should be indicative of the aircraft’s historical significance and spirit of the time period.

This is a rare opportunity to leave your lasting mark on aviation history and also to honor the legacy of those who trained on aircraft like the PT-23 during WWII. The New England Wing will collect names submitted and then ask members to vote on the best name. Your submissions can be sent to devofficer@necaf.org.

The New England Wing was founded in 2021 as such is one of the newest CAF locations. It is based out of Hampton Airfield (7B3) in North Hampton, New Hampshire.

FMI:  necaf.org/