ERIE, Pa. (AUGUST 20, 2013) – The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Red Tail Squadron will welcome visitors at its free RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit at the Erie Aviation Gala and Open House, August 24-25, 2013 at the Erie International Airport Tom Ridge Field. The free RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit is a truly unique opportunity for the young and the young-at-heart to not only learn, but experience the inspiring story of the Tuskegee Airmen while being immersed in a theatrical experience. In addition, the Red Tail P-51C Mustang will be on static display.
During the original movie aptly named, “RISE ABOVE,” audience members will be transported into what it was like to be a black airman during WWII and the obstacles faced by America’s first black military pilots and their support personnel, known today as the Tuskegee Airmen, as they worked toward their goal of becoming U.S. Army Air Corps pilots in the early 1940s. At the conclusion of the film, audiences experience the excitement and thrill of flying the world’s greatest fighter aircraft, the P-51 Mustang, in formation, aerobatics, a break and a few low passes. Filmed with a 180-degree lens along with the state-of-the-art theater design, the movie experience gives attendees the feeling that you are actually flying in the airplane.
“The exhibit is truly a one-of-a-kind adventure similar to something you would experience at Disneyland,” said Brad Lang, CAF Red Tail Squadron Leader. “The overall message is about rising above to reach your potential no matter your circumstances; the film uses the story of the Tuskegee Airmen and the story of the CAF Red Tail Squadron to inspire young people to achieve their potential, but the message resonates with all ages because of the unique and interactive way it is told. This is an experience you won’t want to miss.”
The exhibit is a mobile ‘big’ screen theater with a customized 53′ trailer with expandable sides that houses a 160-degree panoramic curved movie screen and seating for 35 in climate-controlled comfort. It showcases a short original movie, “RISE ABOVE,” focusing on what the Tuskegee Airmen had to overcome to be allowed to fly and fight for their country during World War II. This experience highlights how to set a goal and succeed even when all odds are against you; just like the original Tuskegee Airmen achieved.
The RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit is sponsored by Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority, Erie Regional Airport Authority, Highmark and Urban Erie Community Development Corporation.
For more information, visit www.redtail.org or call (888) 928-0188 . Be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
About the CAF: In 1957, a small group of ex-service pilots pooled their money to purchase a P-51 Mustang, beginning what is now called the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). With the addition of a pair of F8F Bearcats, the CAF became the founders of the Warbird Movement, an effort to preserve and honor our military history with the rallying cry to “Keep ‘Em Flying!” Now, 55 years later, the CAF is the premier Warbird organization, operating 156 vintage aircraft in Honor of American Military Aviation. A non-profit educational association, the CAF has more than 10,000 members and its fleet of historic aircraft is distributed to 80 units located in 24 states for care and operation. For more information, visit www.commemorativeairforce.org or call (877) 767-7175.
