Orlando, Fl. July 26 – An inspirational relationship between surviving Red Tail pilots of the Tuskegee Airmen and Vision of Flight CEO Mike McKenzie reached new heights when a group of 12 local young people took to the skies last month in a “Fly Day” event that combined flight instruction with actual flight experience.
“We were deeply honored to have Lieutenant Colonel Hiram Mann who flew countless missions in service to our country, join us for our 2nd “Fly Day”. His commitment in the face of so many odds is inspiring for young people who might not otherwise have even considered any aspect of the aviation industry as a possible career, or that it was even within their reach” McKenzie said.
Lieutenant Colonel Hiram Mann at Fly Day
McKenzie’s relationship with the Red Tail pilots has fueled his passion to introduce students to careers in the many aspects of the aviation industry through his educational organization, Vision of Flight.
The Vision of Flight “Fly Day” began at the Orlando Science Center before continuing to TraxAir Aviation, at the Orlando Executive Airport. Following a pre-flight briefing, with a strong emphasis on safety, each child took to the air with their flight instructors, who guided them through basic operations of the aircraft. Each was given the opportunity to assume the controls from the Co-Pilot position.
“We’re proud that as a result of our sponsors and kind donations, these young people were able to enjoy the entire experience at no cost to themselves. The program not only serves our youth by showing them the countless opportunities available to them in the field of aeronautics, it serves the country by fueling an interest in aeronautics to ensure a future where air-travel thrives.” McKenzie said.
McKenzie is planning two more “Fly day” events to take place prior to a Red Tail Pilots Monument dedication on Veteran’s Day at the Orlando Science Center.
About Vision of Flight Vision of Flight (www.VisionofFlight.org) is an Orlando, Florida based organization dedicated to providing students, especially those in economically disadvantaged communities, with an introduction to the myriad of careers available to them in aeronautics, through an exciting, engaging and interactive program that includes aircraft flight.
MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Hopkinson NewsMark Public Relations 561-852-5767 mhopkinson@newsmarkpr.com https://newsmarkpr.com
