The Airbase Preservation and Development Committee will host its first National Aviation Day Fly-In on Saturday, August 19, 2017 from 10 am – 2 pm at the Douglas Municipal Gene Chambers Airport located at 3 Airport Circle. “Everyone is encouraged to attend and to come out and learn about preservation efforts of this historic WWII Airbase,” says Dr. Carl McDonald, APDC Chairman.
On National Aviation Day, organizers are planning activities for the public that will promote interest in the WWII Airbase as well as an interest in aviation. Visitors to the airport will have the chance to see a private aircraft display, flight fly overs, military vehicle display, and remote control planes display. Pilots who fly-in for the day will receive reduced aviation fuel prices. Other activities will include face painting, Frisbee toss, tours of the WWII 63rd AAF-FTD Museum and restoration projects. Attendees are asked to participate in fundraising efforts by purchasing an official Airbase T-shirt ($15) and a hot dog combo lunch for $5.
National Aviation Day was first establish in 1939 by President Roosevelt. The Douglas Municipal Gene Chambers Airport supports local companies that employ over 18,000 persons and have an estimated payroll of $34 million each year. Douglas’ Airbase is possibly the oldest, intact WWII Airbase in the United States. Community partners include: Williams Institutional Foods, Aden’s Market, Brooks Auto Parts, 63rd Preservation Society
