Know Before You Go: CAF Rise Above: Heroes of WWII Skies & Memorial Day Ceremony

Presented by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). Rise Above: Unsung Heroes of WWII Skies traveling exhibit is landing at the Stafford Regional Airport from May 22 through 25. This immersive World War II aviation experience brings history to life through powerful storytelling, short films, and a rare up-close view of a restored historic aircraft, honoring the courage and legacy of the heroes who took to the skies.

In conjunction with the exhibit’s opening, Stafford County will host a Memorial Day commemoration on Friday, May 22, at 10:00 AM at Stafford Regional Airport. This ceremony is intended to bring the community together for a moment of reflection on service and sacrifice. Chairman of the Stafford County Board of Supervisors, Deuntay Diggs, will lead a special program, with Chris Allen, Director of the CAF Rise Above Exhibit, serving as the ceremony’s keynote speaker. After the ceremony, attendees are invited to take time to explore the exhibit as part of the day’s remembrance.

Event Details

Stafford Regional Airport
95 Aviation Way, Fredericksburg, VA 22406

️Free and open to the public

Stafford County Memorial Day Ceremony & Rise Above Exhibit Opening

Friday, May 22

10:00 AM (Ceremony begins)

Rise Above: Unsung Heroes of WWII Skies Traveling Exhibit

May 22 – May 25

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily

Please note: The ceremony and the exhibit will take place rain or shine! A little sun or a few clouds won’t stop this from being a great experience for the whole family.

Know Before You Go

We invite you to bring the whole family out for the ceremony and to explore the exhibit. This is a meaningful experience for all ages and a unique opportunity to learn more about the history and legacy of these remarkable American heroes.

This is an outdoor event, so we recommend checking the forecast ahead of time, dressing for late May weather, and bringing water to stay comfortable and hydrated throughout your visit.

Each film runs approximately 20–25 minutes, and the mobile theater is air-conditioned, offering a cool and comfortable break from the heat during your experience.

The exhibit is wheelchair accessible, and the 53-foot mobile theater is equipped with a ramp and hydraulic lift to ensure easy entry for all guests.

Parking will be available on-site at the airport for both the ceremony and the exhibit, with clear signage posted throughout the area. Staff will also be on-site to assist with directions and answer any questions upon arrival.

Restroom facilities will be available on-site for all attendees.

Stay Up to Date on Event Details

For the most up-to-date event information, please visit the Rise Above: Unsung Heroes of WWII Skies event page, which will include the latest details and is the best source for updates. You can also follow Stafford County Government and Tour Stafford on social media for weather updates, additional information, and any last-minute announcements.

Stafford County Government

Facebook: Stafford County Government

Instagram: staffordvagov

Tour Stafford

Facebook: Tour Stafford VA

Instagram: tourstaffordva

Join Us This Memorial Day to Honor Service and Explore History

As Memorial Day approaches, Stafford County’s hosting of the Rise Above exhibit offers a meaningful way to honor those who served and sacrificed. It is an opportunity for families and the Stafford community to come together in remembrance and take part in recognizing the true purpose of the holiday. We invite everyone to join us for the ceremony and stay to explore the exhibit.

For more information, visit: https://cafriseabove.org

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