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their missions including Apollo 8, 11 and 17. This was the first time in 25 years that this number of astronauts from the Apollo era were under the same roof. A video of the full program can be found on the EAA’s YouTube channel.
Just prior to the Apollo program, the famous Blue Angels splashed the scene with a special appearance and insiders' look into their spectacular demonstrations. This was the first year in AirVenture history where the Blue Angels performed full demonstrations. This is primarily due to the fact that substantial preparation goes into hosting such an act. The airport’s neighboring houses and businesses were required to evacuate for several hours during the performances.
Earlier in the week, show activities commemorated the people and aircraft involved in the Doolittle Raid in honor of the 75th anniversary. More than a dozen B-25 bombers transfixed the crowds in a reenactment of the raid. Dick Cole, the last remaining veteran of the famed Doolittle Raiders, was also honored.
PHOTO CREDIT: AMY GESCH
Famed astronaut Buzz Aldrin at the Apollo Reunion event.
Continuing the theme of WWII bombers, the fully restored B-29 Superfortress named “Doc” made its much-anticipated AirVenture debut. Later joined by fellow B-29, “FiFi,” the pair flew its first (breathtaking) formation flight. It is estimated no one in 60 years has seen two B-29s fly in formation, let alone share a ramp.
At the conclusion of AirVenture, B-29 Doc and Doc’s Friends were recognized by EAA with two Lindy Awards in the warbirds category: the “Best Bomber Award” and the “Phoenix Award.” The Phoenix Award is given to recognize the “highest achievement in craftsmanship and dedication in the preservation of aviation history accomplished in restoration.”
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October 2017
TWIN & TURBINE • 13