Looking for something to do this week-end. This event should be as exciting as the Blue Angel Show a few weeks ago, that was held in El Centro, California. Flying by day and playing by night on the beautiful Colorado River in Laughlin, Nevada. Look for me with the press and I'll tell you all about it on KFNX 1100 News Talk Radio Monday evening at 8 PM.. You guys keep your fingers crossed that I meet a pilot that wants to take me for a ride..In a plane that is..# BEThe fly-in is centered at the Laughlin-Bullhead International Airport, Saturday-Sunday, April 9-10 (9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day) and features airplanes from the Commemorative Air Force (CAF), Rocky Mountain Wing. The event has been spearheaded by Jim Templeton, general manager of Landmark Aviation, and Julie Hassett of the American Heroes Museum in Fort Mohave.
“For Legends Over the Colorado we present some of the most historic aircraft of the World War II era,” explains Templeton. “We have added a collection of planes to complement 'FIFI' that could only be described as amazing. We have a TBM Avenger, a Supermarine Spitfire, an authentic Japanese Zero, a P-51 Mustang, a T-6 Texan and a Nanchang CJ-6.
“The fact that FIFI is flying today, along with these other aircraft rich in history, is a testament to the dedication of all involved who strive to maintain public awareness and appreciation for our history, our veterans and the aircraft that made it possible for us to be where we are today.”
Flyin’ with FIFI...
The CAF’s B-29 will arrive Thurs, April 7, to participate in the fly-in throughout the weekend. You can purchase a ride on “FIFI” from Thurs-Sun, April 7-10, online at CAFB29B24.org (or you could win a flight in a drawing at the Aquarius; see page 32 for more). Details on ticket prices, restrictions and other information is available on that site. You can also tour the interior of “FIFI” while it is at the airport for a donation.
Opening ceremonies....
While the gates open for the fly-in at 9 a.m., the official opening ceremonies aren't until 11 a.m. when the Mohave High School Thunder Marching Band under the direction of Michelle Ribelin perform the National Anthem and other patriotic songs. The JROTC will present the colors at the ceremonies and the drill team will perform later that afternoon (1 p.m.).
More than just a plane ride...
Those who attend the fly-in, can also meet the pilots and crew of the aircraft and view the exhibits by the American Heroes Museum and the Kingman Army Airfield Museum.
Veterans are invited to “participate” in the event by creating a DVD of memories in the Veteran Tribute Recording Studio manned by Mad Dog Special Events.
Some of the entertainment and glamour for the fly-in will be provided by the Pinup Patriettes (performing at noon). This group of models, artists and performers help raise funds and morale for troops, veterans and their families. The Patriettes include co-founders Dolly Marlowe (model/ performer) and Jillian Danielson (photographer), along with models Lainey Belle, Priscilla Watson and Kandy LaRue, Lisa Luxe, Pinky Sui and the only male member of the Patriettes, Dallas Dearth.
Country singer Aaron Tippin will be at the airport on Saturday (11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) for a meet-and-greet and to autograph pictures. He comes to town in connection with the fly-in to perform his “CAF’s Red, White & Loud Tour” concert at the Aquarius ’s Outdoor Amphitheater on Sat, April 9 (7 p.m.; see facing page for more on Tippin).
There will also be food and vendors at the airport during the fly-in.
How much...
Tickets for Saturday and Sunday events at the fly-in are: $10 advance/$12 the day of the show for adults; $5 for ages 5-12; free for ages under 5. Advance tickets are available at the Bullhead Area Chamber of Commerce, 1251 Hwy 95, Bullhead City, call 928-754-4121.
How to get to the fly-in....
To get to the Laughlin-Bullhead International Airport travel south on the Bullhead Parkway from the parkway and Laughlin Bridge intersection on Hwy 95 (turn right on the parkway if you’re coming from Bullhead City; turn left on the parkway if you’re coming from Kingman; go straight across 95 if you’re coming from Laughlin). Follow signs off parkway at Laughlin View Drive (the exit by Findlay Motors). From there you will be directed to the overflow parking area. Vans will be shuttling spectators from the parking area to the event site.
For more about the fly-in, see lotcflyin.org or call Landmark Aviation at 928-754-3020.
More about the CAF...
The Commemorative Air Force dedicates itself to honoring American military aviation through flight, exhibition and remembrance by collecting classic flying aircraft for the past 50 years. It is the largest flying museum in the world. The CAF, a nonprofit aviation organization, has approximately 8,500 members and a fleet of more than 160 airplanes representing 60 different types of American and select foreign aircraft.
More than just a collection of flying history, the CAF’s fleet of aircraft, known as the “Ghost Squadron,” recreate, remind and reinforce the lessons learned from the defining moments in American military aviation history. The CAF members protect these rare flying monuments to freedom by keeping them in flying condition, repairing, rebuilding and piloting them for future generations through preservation, education, exhibition and air shows. For more, visit commemorativeairforce.org.
The American Heroes Museum...
This is a local museum saluting those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces through dioramas and displays depicting memorabilia from past U.S. conflicts and wars. The museum is located at 5902 Hwy 95, Fort Mohave, Arizona. It is open Thursdays through Sundays (10 a.m.-4 p.m.). Call 928-577-4376 for more information.
