Historic WWII Bomber Brings Living History to Caldwell
A piece of America's greatest generation has landed in Caldwell, giving Idahoans a rare chance to step into history. The B-25 Mitchell bomber "Maid in the Shade" is on display at Caldwell Executive Airport until July 13, allowing visitors to experience what our World War II Veterans faced in the air during the war.
Honoring Those Who Served
Built in 1944, this restored aircraft represents one of only 34 B-25s still flying today, compared to the nearly 10,000 that defended our nation during World War II. The Flying Legends of Victory Tour brings this "flying museum" to communities across America, ensuring younger generations understand the sacrifices made to defend our nation.
"We want you to feel like they did," says pilot Carl Randolph. "We want you to try to imagine being 18, 19, 20 years old in this flying aluminum can, people shooting at you, and you shooting back".
Experience History Firsthand
Visitors can take ground tours Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tours cost $10 per person or $20 for families of four.
For those seeking the full experience, flight rides operate on Fridays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Radio compartment seats cost $375, while jump seats run $590.
Connecting Generations
The tour aims to create powerful moments when veterans who flew similar aircraft sign the bomb bay compartment, linking the past to the present.
This living history lesson reminds us how ordinary young Americans rose to extraordinary challenges, earning them the title 'the greatest generation,' and defending the values and freedoms we hold dear today.
Location: Caldwell Executive Airport, 4814 E Linden St, Caldwell
Dates: July 8-13, 2025