FORT WORTH, Texas (May 19, 2016)
WHAT:
For the second consecutive year, Tarrant County College is recognizing six veterans of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), the first women to fly American military aircraft and arguably, individuals who forever changed the role of women in aviation.
TCC has invited elected, community and industry leaders from the area to be in attendance when the veterans tour a Beechcraft E183-9700, the personal plane of Jacqueline Cochran, founder and director of the WASP program. Curt Landrum, TCC retired associate aviation professor and current adjunct instructor, has led a team of volunteers to restore the aircraft that TCC acquired in 1985.
Restoration efforts began during the summer of 2012 with volunteers who worked most Saturdays and secured donated parts and materials whenever possible.
WHEN:
Friday, May 27
10 a.m. to noon
WHERE:
Tarrant County College Northwest Campus
Center of Excellence for Aviation, Transportation and Logistics (CEATL)
Alliance Airport
2301 Horizon Drive
Fort Worth, TX 76177
BACKGROUND:
WASPs served with honor and distinction under Director Jacqueline “Jackie” Cochran and flew 60 million flying hours in direct support to the United States during WWII.
Honorees are:
- Nell Bright, Class 43-W-7
- Shutsy Reynolds, Class 44-W-5
- Polly White, Class 44-W-5
- Shirley Kruse, Class 44-W-6
- Bee Haydu, Class 44-W-7
- Kay Hilbrandt, Class 44-W-10
NOTE: HONOREES ARE AVAILABLE FOR MEDIA INTERVIEWS. Media planning to cover this event should call 817-515-1542 to confirm attendance.