The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) has added Adam Smith to its staff as the Executive Vice President of Strategic Development. In this role, Smith will oversee the execution of CAF’s “Airbase Strategy” to include leading the design, funding and construction of the CAF National Airbase, and ultimately the oversight of the existing and future Airbases.
Smith comes to the CAF with extensive experience in aviation attractions and events, having worked at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) for 11 years. During his tenure, he was responsible for overseeing the EAA AirVenture Museum, the Young Eagles and Chapter programs, Membership, and ultimately, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh – “the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration.”
Prior to his arrival in the United States, Smith was the Curator of the Museum of Flight at the National Museums of Scotland.
“Adam has a unique background and set of talents that make him perfect for this important new position in fulfilling the educational mission of the CAF,” said Stephan C. Brown, CAF President and CEO. “The planned CAF National Airbase will establish a world-class attraction in a major metropolitan area in Texas. It will help generations of Americans value the contribution of military aviation in assuring our nation’s freedom.”
“I bring a deep passion for the aircraft flown by the CAF and the important message they carry,” said Smith. “The CAF has been making great strides as an organization and is supported by a wonderful community of volunteers. I’m simply thrilled by this opportunity to help the organization move to the next level of success.”
In 1957, a small group of ex-service pilots pooled their money to purchase a P-51 Mustang, beginning what is now called the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). With the addition of a pair of F8F “Bearcats,” the CAF became the founders of the Warbird Movement, an effort to preserve and honor our military history with the rallying cry “Keep ‘Em Flying!”
Now, nearly 60 years later, CAF operates 164 vintage aircraft. A non-profit educational association, the CAF has more than 10,000 members and its fleet of historic aircraft is distributed among 83 units located in 25 states for care and operation.