My Fellow Warbirds,
Today, May 1st, 2020 Jack Pelton’s message was sent to the EAA membership that Airventure 2020 is officially cancelled. This was a difficult decision for EAA but one that, given the many factors, we can all appreciate and support. At this time, it would be impossible to meet the State of Wisconsin requirements to safely host hundreds of thousands of people.
Through this difficult time EAA Warbirds of America, remains strong and ready to support our members with all of the programs and services that “Keep Em Flying”. Our Oshkosh staff, Bill Fischer and Kristin Schaick, are available to answer your questions and assist you and your Warbird Board of Directors and Officers will be working for you, as usual.
For those of us who make the annual trip to Oshkosh in July, that date will roll around on the calendar and there will be an empty feeling. This is the time when we renew old friendships, make new friends and enjoy a camaraderie that is unique to our organization. This year as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of World War II we can still recognize our veterans and showcase the airpower that changed the course of history. Local events will not require the advance planning and logistics of Oshkosh. Let’s keep ‘em flying by promoting events and camaraderie on a local level and when July arrives, I hope that all of you are safe and the COV19 pandemic is behind us.
Those who have pre-purchased EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2020 admissions, camping passes, or other amenities will be contacted within the next two weeks at the email address listed with your purchase. The options available include rolling over those purchases to AirVenture 2021 or requesting a refund of 2020 purchases made. Those options will be fully detailed with the individual contact.
Thanks to all of you for your dedication to Warbirds and EAA and for being the keepers of the aircraft that are a part of our history, and for your patriotism as you recognize our veterans and preserve our history.
Throughout the past year, EAA Warbirds of America developed a new website and increased social media presence through weekly “eblasts” and Facebook posts. As it turns out, this is very timely as we are now in a position to stay better connected as we navigate through these uncertain times. We will continue to increase our social media presence to keep everyone connected. We encourage you to become a contributor to this network where Warbird activities can be shared. Restorations, flybys, training, Veteran tributes, and local events, etc. Share your stories and events with Bill Fischer so he can help us stay connected.
Fly Safe and Be Safe!
Connie Bowlin
President, EAA Warbirds of America