Red Wing, Minn. – June 6, 2017 – All ages are welcome to attend the Tuskegee Airmen Legacy Open House, two days of FREE events in Alabama June 22 and 24 in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the 100th Fighter Squadron, one of the first squadrons of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen – our country’s first black military pilots. Experience the thrill of flight at this family-friendly event featuring modern and vintage aircraft in the air and on the ground, plus hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) activities and more.
This is the third annual event organized by Legacy Flight Academy, a non-profit organization that conducts character-based youth aviation programs that draw upon the LEGACY of the Tuskegee Airmen. The group’s founder, United States Air Force Major Kenyatta Ruffin, is a fighter pilot who is dedicated to developing and leading innovative programs that help young people experience first-hand the exciting opportunities in aviation, aeronautics, engineering, technology and the military.
On Thursday, June 22, visit the National Tuskegee Historic Site at historic Moton Field in Tuskegee for an Open House from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
On Saturday, June 24, join the 187th Fighter Wing and 100th Fighter Squadron of the Alabama Air National Guard at Montgomery Regional Airport for an Open House from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Please, no backpacks, coolers or pets at the June 24 event.)
To ignite excitement and build a deeper understanding of aviation-related career opportunities, this exciting event will feature military aircraft on static display for hands-on and interactive viewing, up-close sights and sounds of aircraft in flight, an American flag skydiving exposition, and guest speakers sharing insights on careers in the military and the aerospace industry. Career opportunities are continuing to expand in aviation, and Legacy Flight Academy wants young people to understand what those are and how to create a path to achieve their dreams.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to experience the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Red Tail Squadron’s RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit, a mobile movie theater featuring the original film “Rise Above” about the inspirational history and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. Because of its dynamic 160-degree panoramic screen, the film creates the feeling of being in the cockpit soaring above the clouds in a P-51C Mustang, the iconic aircraft of the Tuskegee Airmen in World War II.
“This annual open house, with the support of our partner organizations, brings Legacy Flight Academy’s outreach programs and the important legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen direct to the Tuskegee and Montgomery communities,” said Ruffin. “Our outreach programs have provided hundreds of free flights, workshops and valuable mentoring for youth around the country. But this event is especially meaningful as the birthplace of the Tuskegee Airmen and the 75th anniversary celebration of the 100th Fighter Squadron. We’re proud to honor their important place in American history and encourage others through their legacy.”
Groups are welcome to attend. For further information or questions, call (334) 394-7157 or (334) 727-6485.
This unique event is a partnership between the Legacy Flight Academy, Alabama Air National Guard 187th Fighter Wing, CAF Red Tail Squadron and Golden Eagle Aviation. Come to the event to be inspired by the heroic determination of the Tuskegee Airmen. Follow the event on Facebook at facebook.com/LegacyFlightAcademy and facebook.com/187thFighterWing.
About the Legacy Flight Academy
The Legacy Flight Academy (LFA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that conducts character-based youth aviation programs that draw upon the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. Their comprehensive 3-tiered program works in tandem with partner organizations to help minorities and at-risk youth achieve success as aerospace professionals, particularly emphasizing military career opportunities. Their motto, “Know, Live and Grow the Legacy of the Heroic Tuskegee Airmen” honors the first African American aviators in the U.S. armed forces and promotes their character values across the nation. Learn more at legacyflightacademy.org.
About Golden Eagle Aviation
Golden Eagle Aviation (GEA) is a fixed based operation (FBO) at historic Moton field in Tuskegee, Alabama. They are dedicated to the preservation of the Tuskegee Airmen and Moton Field legacy, while reinvesting within the community to support its aviation heritage. Through elite service and continuously expanding amenities, Golden Eagle Aviation is preparing for the golden future, while honoring a glorious past. Learn more at goldeneagleaviation.com.
About the CAF Red Tail Squadron
The CAF Red Tail Squadron is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring audiences across the country through the history and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, America’s first black military pilots and their support personnel. Their RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit 53’ mobile theater features the original panoramic film “Rise Above.” The group’s Six Guiding Principles – Aim High, Believe In Yourself, Use Your Brain, Be Ready To Go, Never Quit and Expect to Win – serve as the foundation for their outreach programs and are based on the experiences and successes of the Tuskegee Airmen. The CAF Red Tail Squadron is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization part of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). Learn more at redtail.org.
About the 187th Fighter Wing of the Alabama Air National Guard
The 187th Fighter Wing in Montgomery, Alabama is part of the Alabama Air National Guard, and home to the 100th Fighter Squadron. This is the same fighter squadron that was part of the Tuskegee Airmen, and the squadron’s F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft still sport the red tails that distinguished that unit from other squadrons. Today, the 100th stands ready for worldwide combat deployment. For more information on how to join the Alabama Air National Guard, contact (800) TO-GO-ANG or visit goang.com.
