When you think of the CAF Red Tail Squadron, the image that might easily come to mind is that of our P-51C Mustang showing off its aerial prowess at a summertime airshow while spectators line up to see our free RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit and panoramic cinematic experience.
But one look at our events calendar and you’ll get a good taste of the myriad of different venues we visit in addition to airshows throughout the year. We are BUSY(!) and so very thankful for the numerous opportunities to reach out to differing communities while sharing the inspirational story of the Tuskegee Airmen.
Recently we participated in a unique and special event, not at an airfield or school, but at the beautiful LOOK Cinema in Dallas, Texas with the 2013 Snowball Express.
Not only did we reach an audience of over 1,800 people when our RISE ABOVE movie played simultaneously on 14 screens, but we were able to be a part of one of the most touching events of the season.
Snowball Express is a Dallas-based non-profit organization that strives to provide hope and new happy memories to the children of military fallen heroes who have died while on active duty since 9/11. This unforgettable event is a five-day, four-night holiday celebration that creates opportunities for joy, friendship and communal healing for these special children and their surviving parent.
CAF Red Tail Squadron volunteer Stan Ross was on-hand at the event to present the film to the event participants. “The reception to the film was palpable and heartwarming,” said Stan. “Families I spoke with afterwards were deeply moved by the story of both the Tuskegee Airmen and our project. One family member told me they were very grateful for our participation and that this is exactly the message they want their children to hear.”
A host of professional service offerings from grief groups to career counseling are available during the event, but the heart of the experience is focused on ensuring these children know their sacrifice is recognized, honored and respected by a grateful nation… and presenting the RISE ABOVE movie was an important part of that.
“Red Tail dog tags sparkled throughout the breakfast gathering the next morning,” added Stan. “These kids learned about the triumphs and challenges of the Tuskegee Airmen and hopefully walked away feeling a little more empowered to overcome their own challenges by utilizing these lessons, which they can remember each time they look at the guiding principles that are engraved on their own Red Tail dog tags. In fact, we spoke with several kids who were eager to discover how they could learn to fly and we shared information on how to search online for aviation scholarships.”
When you volunteer your time or funds to help support the mission of the CAF Red Tail Squadron, your contribution helps us continue to reach kids and adults just like these, whether at an airshow, school visit, festival or special event like the Snowball Express with our inspirational message.
Keep an eye on our calendar for an upcoming event near you or contact us if you would like us to be a part of your special event!
