Brats, Bombers & History: A Weekend at the Sheboygan County Airport | July 18–20, 2025

Where sizzling brats meet roaring radials — the skies aren’t the only things heating up this summer!

The Sheboygan Rotary Club invites you and your family to a weekend full of excitement, flavor, and history at the Aviation Heritage Center of Wisconsin, located at the Sheboygan County Airport. Friday, July 18 through Sunday, July 20, visitors are welcomed to enjoy a rare up-close look at one of the largest civilian gatherings of North American T-28 Trojan Warbirds in the country — in town before their flight to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

These beautifully restored post-WWII aircraft — once used to train Navy and Air Force pilots and later deployed in combat — will be on static display on the airport ramp, visible from the Aviation Heritage Center’s observation areas. You’ll see up to 21 of these powerful, historic aircraft and hear the roar of their 1,425-horsepower radial engines as they prepare for flight operations. This is a unique opportunity to witness aviation history from a front-row vantage point — no flight demonstrations, just a close and respectful view of these iconic machines.

A Legendary Aircraft Lands in Sheboygan: The Historic C-54 "Spirit of Freedom"

In addition to the T-28s, the Aviation Heritage Center is excited to welcome the historic C-54 "Spirit of Freedom" on Saturday, July 19. Known as the “Workhorse of the Skies,” the C-54 Skymaster is a four-engine transport aircraft that was a vital asset to the U.S. military, enabling large-scale operations across the globe. Most notably, the C-54 played a central role in the Berlin Airlift, one of the largest humanitarian efforts of the 20th century. During the 1948–1949 Soviet blockade of West Berlin, American pilots flew the C-54 to deliver life-saving supplies—food, coal, and medical aid—to millions of people trapped behind the blockade.

On July 19, visitors will have the rare opportunity to tour the “Spirit of Freedom,” step inside this living piece of history, and learn about the courageous pilots who carried out these critical missions. Operated by the Candy Bomber Foundation, the C-54 is more than just an exhibit—it’s a tribute to the resilience, courage, and innovation of a generation.

Inside the Aviation Heritage Center, explore additional exhibits, including a restored 1941 Douglas DC-3 and authentic military flight simulators, used to train pilots during the Cold War and Vietnam eras.

✈️ Brat Fry Fundraiser – "Brats with a Side of Warbirds!"

While your eyes and ears enjoy the aviation experience, treat your tastebuds at the Sheboygan Rotary’s famous Brat Fry, happening all weekend long:

• Brats & Hamburgers
• Cold Beverages
• Cookies & Assorted Snacks

Proceeds help fund Rotary Club scholarships and local community service projects — every meal served helps support youth and families in Sheboygan County.

🗓️ WHEN:
Friday, July 18 – Sunday, July 20, 2025
 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

📍 WHERE:
Aviation Heritage Center of Wisconsin
 Sheboygan County Memorial Airport (SBM)
 N6191 Resource Drive, Sheboygan Falls, WI

🎟️ FREE ADMISSION
Nominal fee to tour the C-54

Bring the family for an unforgettable experience of sound, sight, and Rotarian service. See the planes. Tour the Aviation Museum. Enjoy great food — and support a great cause.