The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is a national 503(c) non-profit dedicated to the preservation of historic US military aircraft and select foreign aircraft. The organization has a total of 174 aircraft operated by 71 airbases, wings, or squadrons. For more information on the national organization, visit the Commemorative Air Force website.

The High Sierra Squadron of the CAF is based in Reno, NV at the Reno-Stead Airport, about 30KM north of the city of Reno and home to the Reno National Championship Air Races. It was founded in 2004 by Charlie Gillespie and a handful of other volunteers. Charlie's vision was education, particularly young people. It is still a small squadron - approximately 30 members - but operates two aircraft.

The squadron’s N3N-3 biplane, N4009A, was built by the Naval Aircraft Factory in Philadelphia, PA, on April 1st 1941. This aircraft is the squadron’s “crown jewel.” It was placed into service as a primary trainer at the Naval Air Station, Glenview, Illinois where it served until 1945. During this time, Ensign George H. W. Bush earned his naval aviator wings at Glenview. These aircraft earned the nickname “Yellow Peril” for their ability to shame inattentive pilots and contribute to them “washing out” of training.

After the war, the aircraft went through a series of owners, modifications, and roles including stints as a crop duster and a fire tanker. In 2005, CAF HSS Squadron Leader Charlie Gillespie purchased N4009A and donated the airplane to the Commemorative Air Force. The aircraft has since been restored to its original military configuration with the exception of the 450 horsepower engine and a metal fuselage.

The squadron’s L-19 Biddog, N32BD, was built by Cessna Aircraft in 1957 and was purchased by France. During its tenure with the French Armée de l’Air, it flew a combat tour in Algeria where it acquired the bullet holes in the right wing that it wears today. After the war, it returned to France where it remained until 1983. The aircraft was purchased by Jim Lawrence, disassembled, and shipped back to the US. A full restoration was completed and the aircraft was painted like the L-19 Lawrence flew in Vietnam. On the door are the names of the pilots and observers from his unit who did not make it home. High Sierra Squadron obtained N32BD in September of 2017.

Sadly, Charlie Gillespie passed away in September, 2018. He left an endowment to the HSS which continues his legacy of education. In addition to airshow displays and flybys, the squadron's explorer (Boy Scout) program is a big highlight as is the week-long barbecue HSS hosts during Air Race week. The scouts are currently restoring a 1950s tug to go with the squadron's 1941 tug. A small unit, the HSS volunteers work tirelessly to keep 'em flying! For more information on the High Sierra Squadron WEBSITE.