April 22, 2025, marks the 80th anniversary of Brazilian Fighter Aviation Day, an emblematic date that pays tribute to the heroes of the 1st Fighter Aviation Group (1º GAVCA), who actively participated in World War II. With only 22 pilots, they flew 11 missions and 44 sorties, achieving a disproportionate impact on the Allied campaign in Italy.
To commemorate this legacy, the Brazilian Fighter Pilots Association (ABRA-PC), with the support of the Brazilian Mint, launched a limited-edition commemorative medal, which stands out for both its historical symbolism and its artistic appeal.
Image Brazilian Mint
History and Symbolism
From 6 to 29 April 1945, the 1st GAVCA was responsible for 5% of the sorties executed by the XXII Tactical Air Command, but its actions accounted for 15% of the vehicles destroyed, 28% of the bridges, 36% of the fuel depots, and 85% of the ammunition depots damaged.
Every year, between April 19 and 22, the Fighter Aviation Reunion (RAC) is held at the Santa Cruz Air Base, where veterans are honored with symbolic events such as the lighting of the pyre and the performance of the "Ópera do Danilo."
Characteristics of the Medal
Obverse:
It depicts the evolution of fighter aviation with two key aircraft: the P-47 Thunderbolt (1945) and the modern F-39 Gripen (2025). Both are visually connected by ascending diagonal lines, a symbol of progress. It includes the legends:
- “Brazilian Caça Aviation Day”
- “80 years on April 22”
Image Brazilian Mint
Back:
With a proof finish and pad-printed color application, it features a relief reinterpretation of the "Senta a Púa" emblem, accompanied by nine stars symbolizing the deceased aviators. Surrounding the image:
- “Italy 1945”
- “22 pilots – 11 missões – 44 assortments”
Image Brazilian Mint
Editorial Board
| Feature | Silver | Bronze |
|---|---|---|
| Printing | 80 units | 320 units |
| Weight | 1 oz (31,1g ± 0,31g) | 24g±0,72g |
| Title / Law | 999 | — |
| Diameter | 40mm ± 0,2mm | 40mm ± 0,2mm |
| Year of issue | 2025 | 2025 |
Artistic design:
- Creation obverse: Glória Dias
- Obverse modeling: Luiz Henrique Peixoto
- Creation reverse: Major Airman Rodolfo de Meneses Oliveira
- Reverse modeling: Fernanda Costa
This medal not only commemorates a historic milestone but also represents a symbol of patriotism, valor, and modernization. It is a must-have for collectors of military medals, numismatists, and those interested in the history of Brazil and World War II.
Find more information at the following link:
https://clubedamedalha.com.br/aviacao-caca
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