Sixteen planes were flying in formation over Fair Haven on this day in 1941. These were the first manueuvers of the Air Corps unit of the Vermont State Guard.

Twenty-seven men had signed up to form an air unit to help the Vermont State Guard, specifically with flood work and in protecting railroads and transportation systems.

In addition to their time and flying expertise, these men were contributing their own planes. Most of the men owned their own aircraft, and used them when called to duty. They donned their uniforms for the first time on this day, outfitted in blue-gray with red lettering and chevrons.

Photo courtesy The Rutland Herald, Archives with a special thanks to Richard Burnham.