Airbase Georgia to Host Screening of New Documentary Profiling WASP Cornelia Fort

PEACHTREE CITY, GA (May 16, 2025) – Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia, the largest World War II flying museum in Georgia and one of the biggest in the Southeast, is set to hold a special showing of Crosswinds: The Courageous Life of Cornelia Fort, a new documentary honoring the remarkable life and legacy of pioneering aviator Cornelia Fort.
After three years of extensive research and production, Redwood Educational Technologies will unveil the documentary, highlighting Cornelia’s passion for knowledge, commitment to excellence in aviation, and vibrant approach to life that characterized her brief existence. This event is one of two regional screenings planned for 2025. The film premiered at the National WASP WWII Museum Homecoming at Avenger Field, Sweetwater, Texas, on April 26 during the museum’s 20th anniversary celebration.
Airbase Georgia will present Crosswinds: The Courageous Life of Cornelia Fort on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 6pm to 9pm. While admission is free, tickets are required and can be obtained online.
Cornelia Fort, born in 1919, was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. After obtaining her commercial pilot’s license in 1941, she instructed pilots as part of the Civilian Pilot Training Program, first in Colorado and later in Hawaii. On December 7, 1941, while flying with a student over Honolulu, she narrowly escaped death as the Pearl Harbor attack unfolded – inadvertently becoming involved in one of the most significant events of the 20th century.
Determined to serve her nation, Cornelia joined the newly established Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS) in September 1942, becoming the second woman accepted into the program by Nancy Love. She tragically lost her life in a mid-air collision in 1943 while delivering a military aircraft to Dallas, Texas, becoming the first female pilot to perish on active duty with the U.S. Army.
Judy S. Miller, writer, producer, and founder of Redwood Educational Technologies, remarked, “This film pays tribute to Cornelia’s exceptional bravery, both in the skies and on the ground, as she courageously challenged societal norms for young women of her time. It is an honor to collaborate with Airbase Georgia for this screening, as we both share a strong commitment to preserving World War II aviation history.”
Airbase Georgia operates a restored Fairchild PT-19 Cornell, the same model aircraft flown by Cornelia during her service. This aircraft will be showcased during the screening.
The documentary features appearances by two of Cornelia’s nieces – Chloe Fort and Leontine Fort Linton Lapointe – and Dudley Fort, Jr., Cornelia’s nephew. Cornelia’s great-great-niece provides the voice for Cornelia in the film. Additionally, Leslie Sargent, a retired FAA inspector, is featured in the documentary and will be present at the Airbase Georgia event to engage in a panel discussion following the screening.
Joel Perkins, Airbase Georgia leader, stated, “The mission of Airbase Georgia and the Commemorative Air Force is to educate, inspire, and honor. Hosting this screening allows us to uphold the story and heritage of Cornelia Fort and the Greatest Generation.”
After the screening, the documentary will be accessible for streaming on www.stories250.com.
About CAF Airbase Georgia
Established in 1987, CAF Airbase Georgia is located in Peachtree City, Ga. It is one of the largest units of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) and maintains and operates seven vintage military aircraft. The Airbase, with over 300 volunteer members, is a founding partner of the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail launched in 2021. The Airbase is part of the CAF, a non-profit organization relying on contributions of time and funds to fulfill its mission.
About Redwood Educational Technologies
For over two decades, Redwood Educational Technologies, led by founder and editor Judy Miller, has been creating educational content to inspire learning among students. With a focus on preserving World War II history, Redwood Educational Technologies is launching a new website in 2025 for streaming documentaries and original content.
Media Contact:
Steve Forsyth
Public Information Officer
CAF Airbase Georgia
770-714-7750
[email protected]
Program Contact:
Chris Madrid
Development Officer
CAF Airbase Georgia
770-655-3315
[email protected]