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Forums , Demonstrations , and Exhibits Galore !
The Brave Tuskegee Airmen
Education , experimentation , and encouragement were common themes throughout the forums , demonstrations , and workshops . Thousands of sponsors , vendors , and volunteers make these events possible . They cover everything from learning to fly , selecting the right aircraft , projects and builds , history ( those that came before ), and so much more .
If you attend in the future , take advantage of the EAA app to help you set a plan so you can make sure to see , attend , and discover everything important to you .
One of the best events ( in my opinion ) was the “ One Week Wonder ” project .
In the spirit of tradition , Sonex Aircraft and Rotax Aircraft Engines presented the “ One Week Wonder ” project . Offering participants an opportunity to help build a kit aircraft during the week of AirVenture .
Lt . Col . George Hardy and Lt . Col . James Harvey III recounted the challenges and opportunities they experienced as part of the Tuskeegee Airmen . They humbly shared some of their most heroic missions and the hardships they experienced because of racial segregation . Despite their difficulties , they spoke of hope and opportunities encountered as people and society ( perspectives ) changed over time .
FUN FACTS : Lt . Col . George Hardy ( born 1925 ) flew a plane before driving a car and participated in dance shows when he wasn ’ t flying . Lt . Col . James Harvey III ( born 1923 ) claimed he wasn ’ t sent to fight in the war because “ Hitler knew he was coming .” He got into flying without experience and became the first black jet pilot in 1950-51 .
A message they shared for our youth :
“ Decide what you want to do , be persistent and keep at it . You may find yourself in difficult situations , but don ’ t blow your top ; work through them and know things can change . Always strive to be your best !”
Past builds included : 2014 - Zenith 750 2018 - Vans RV 12iS 2022 - Sonex Waiex aircraft with a Rotax 912iS engine
This year ’ s “ One Week Wonder ” project started on Monday , July 25 , and brought together more than 2,200 enthusiasts to complete the build . As a participant , you could “ pop a rivet ” and sign your name on the aircraft . The “ fly-ready ” aircraft taxied for the first time during the airshow on Sunday , July 31 .
One of the most memorable presentations I got a chance to attend was a story about our past and the brave men that fought for our freedoms .
I found encouragement in this message , and I ’ m no spring chicken .
Attending EAA AirVenture was unlike anything I ’ d ever experienced before - spectacular shows , one-of-akind aircraft , inspirational messages , and a welcoming environment that encourages people of all ages ( including youth ) to explore and discover the vast world of aviation . It definitely sparked a new love … aviation .
E3AVIATION . COM