Peru, Illinois | 27 January 2026 — The Eleventh Annual TBM Avenger Reunion and Salute to Veterans will take place on Friday, 15 and Saturday, 16 May 2026 at Illinois Valley Regional Airport (KVYS) in Peru, Illinois, with a full two-day airshow programme and a homage to military veterans.

 

The event has grown from a modest owners’ gathering into one of the United States’ most anticipated warbird events. At its centre remains the Grumman TBM/TBF Avenger, with around ten aircraft expected, forming the largest worldwide gathering of the type. Alongside these historic torpedo bombers, a range of other vintage military aircraft from the World War II, Korea and Vietnam eras is anticipated, including appearances by teams such as Team Titan (formerly Team Aeroshell).

 

Friday evening activities traditionally include the TBM Nighttime Flame Show, food vendors, live music and social gatherings. The Saturday schedule will feature the Salute to Veterans Parade and March, followed by a Veterans Flag Missing Man Flight, plus the daytime airshow with flight demonstrations, formation flying and simulated torpedo and bomb runs.

 

The reunion traces its origins to April 2016, when TBM-3E owner Brad Deckert organised the first gathering for TBM owners and operators to share training and operational insights. Although the inaugural event was not conceived as an airshow, its popularity led to strong community support, helping it evolve into a broad warbird showcase while retaining the Avenger as its focal point.

 

Additional information and updates will be published as the event approaches through the official event website.