TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In May 2025, members of the 79th Air Refueling Squadron from Travis Air Force Base, Calif., embarked on a special mission —a journey into their unit’s own storied past. The squadron visited the historic Douglas C-47 aircraft known as “Night Fright,” which played a pivotal role during the D-Day invasion of Normandy in World War II.
The C-47, famously flown by the 79th Troop Carrier Squadron — the direct predecessor of today’s 79th ARS — was instrumental in delivering paratroopers and supplies over the battlefields of Normandy on June 6, 1944. The squadron’s daring missions during the invasion helped shift the momentum of the war in Europe.
The visit provided current Airmen with a rare opportunity to connect firsthand with a tangible piece of their unit’s distinguished heritage, fostering a deep sense of pride and continuity.
A Journey Through Time and History
During their trip, squadron members toured several key sites connected to their WWII legacy. They visited the original Royal Air Force base at Membury, England, from which the 79th Troop Carrier Squadron launched its historic missions on D-Day. Walking the now quiet runway where their predecessors once stood ready for battle gave the Airmen a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made decades ago.
The group also toured the aircraft facility in Coventry, where the “Night Fright” C-47 is undergoing meticulous restoration. This project aims to return the aircraft to its original WWII condition, preserving it as a flying memorial to the brave aircrews who flew these missions.
Lt. Col. John Cuellar, commander of the 79th ARS, reflected on the significance of the visit.
“When we visited the old RAF Membury runway where the 79th launched from the UK on D-Day — and walked inside the 79th’s D-Day operated C-47 nicknamed Night Fright — we were able to touch living history and further reinforce the inspiration that our warrior Citizen Airmen appreciate,” he said.
Restoring a Flying Memorial
Charlie Walker, owner of the Douglas C-47 “Night Fright,” shared the inspiring story behind the aircraft’s restoration.
“What started as an idea has grown into a living, breathing, flying memorial — one of the most authentic and accurate C-47 restorations in the world,” Walker said. “We found this aircraft in a scrapyard in Arkansas in 2012. Originally, the plan was to clean it up and use it as a gate guard exhibit. But after nearly 13 years, the restoration is nearing completion.”
The 79th ARS has pledged its support for Walker’s restoration efforts, aiming to display the fully restored “Night Fright” to the public. The squadron hopes this will educate and inspire future generations about the sacrifices and heroism of those who served during WWII.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
The trip was more than a historical tour — it was a meaningful moment of reflection and recommitment to the squadron’s core values. Airmen engaged in discussions about the squadron’s evolution, from troop carriers to modern air refueling, and the enduring spirit of service and excellence that connects past and present.
Neil Jones, a member of the restoration team, expressed gratitude to the 79th ARS for their interest and dedication.
“Thank you for your enthusiasm to learn about your history and past. There is much to learn from the past that you can carry forward as you operate the KC-46 into the future,” Jones said.
Cuellar echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of remembering history to move forward with purpose.
“We at the 79th are truly appreciative of Mr. Charlie Walker, Mr. Neil Jones, and Mr. Mark Young — owners and restoration engineers for Night Fright — for bringing our history back to life and helping us channel our focus and move with purpose,” he said.
As the 79th ARS looks ahead to future missions, the visit to the “Night Fright” C-47 stands as a powerful reminder of the legacy they uphold — one forged in bravery, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to defending freedom.