As we close out another year of D-Day Doll rides, we want to share something special with our members, not just our thanks, but the actual reviews of our guests who flew with us this past year.
The Wing staff is proud to publish their reviews here in full. These comments capture exactly why we do what we do and how your efforts made a lasting impact.
The Big Picture
Over the past year, thousands of guests joined us, some flying aboard D-Day Doll, others participating in walk-through tours inside the Doll. Each stepping into a living piece of World War II history. Whether they experienced the airplane in the air or on the ground, the smiles as they departed said it all. Guests arrived excited, and many left emotional, inspired by their time aboard the D-Day Doll.
Across the reviews, several themes appeared again and again:
- Deep appreciation for the professionalism and friendliness of our crew
- Gratitude for the care taken to explain the aircraft and its history
- Strong emotional connections : often tied to family members who served
- Praise for how safe, organized, and meaningful the experience felt
Simply put: you delivered the mission.
What Our Guests Shared
Below is a selection of unfiltered guest reviews from this year’s D-Day Doll rides. We are sharing them exactly as written because they speak for themselves.
“An unforgettable experience! It felt like stepping back in time. Everyone involved clearly cares deeply about preserving history, and it shows.”
“The crew was fantastic—knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about the aircraft and the history behind it. I learned so much.”
“My father was a WWII paratrooper, and being on this airplane meant more to me than I can put into words. Thank you for keeping this history alive.”
“From start to finish, this was one of the most meaningful aviation experiences I’ve ever had. Professional, safe, and deeply moving.”
“You don’t just ride in an airplane—you’re immersed in history. The volunteers made us feel welcome and honored.”
“This was on my bucket list, and it exceeded every expectation. I’ll be talking about this for the rest of my life.”
“I brought my kids so they could experience something real, not just read about it. This flight made history come alive for them.”
“An emotional and inspiring ride. I’ll never forget it.”
These are only a portion of the reviews received, but together they paint a clear picture of what the Inland Empire Wing accomplished this year.
This Is What Success Looks Like!
Every one of these comments reflects:
- Long days at the airport
- Careful maintenance and preparation
- Thoughtful interactions with the public
- A shared commitment to excellence and safety
- Volunteers giving their time for something bigger than themselves
Whether you were flying, wrenching, loading, briefing, escorting, or supporting behind the scenes, you our member were part of this success.
Thank You!
On behalf of the Wing leadership, thank you to every member who helped make this year of D-Day Doll operations such a success. You represented the Commemorative Air Force with professionalism, respect, and heart.
This is how history stays alive ! Not in museums, but in the air, shared one flight at a time.
We’re proud of what this team accomplished, and we’re excited to continue building on this momentum in the year ahead.
Blue Skies ahead for the IEW
