A Hero’s SALUTE!

Some exciting news from the hills of West Virginia…a WWII themed aviation event is coming to Charleston, West Virginia October 25, 2014. West Virginia has not been home to such an event in its’ 151 years as a state. Leading the country in the number of veterans, per capita, West Virginia’s son and daughters have demonstrated a pride and dedication to our state, and to our country. Now we will honor these brave men and women in this first annual West Virginia Veterans’ Fundraising Aviation Event appropriately entitled, A Hero’s Salute!.

An impressive line-up of warbirds will be on display and take to the sky in the afternoon to mesmerize the crowd. Many that will be attending this event have never been to an aviation event before. The Fighter Factory from Virginia Beach are sending the B-25, P-40, Corsair and Spitfire. Tinker Belle, a C46 and the Focke-Wulf will be coming from Monroe, NC. Independent owners will also be provide a A-26 and a 1942 Stearman. West Virginia native Scott “Scooter” Yoak and his P-51, QuickSilver, will be the featured attraction for the event.

WWII will come alive with the sounds from vocalists Theresa Eaman, The Manhattan Dolls and the comedic routines of Abbott & Costello. The Classic Beauties models will be providing a 1940’s fashion show.

Although a WWII themed event, exhibits to honor the Korean and Vietnam Wars, as well as the Wars on Terrorism are a few of the days’ events. A Living History exhibit will be present with guest speakers telling their personal stories. Women in Aviation will also be represented.

The Executive Air Hangar will transform into a WWII Officer’s Club and be home to the days’ events as well as the dinner and hangar dance that caps off the evening.

A Hero’s SALUTE! is being presented by the non-profit group, Classic Beauties. This is a group of lovely West Virginia pin-up and vintage style models that are active in veterans’ supportive activities. I’m proud to say that I am the founder of the group and direct it’s fundraising efforts.

Early Admission is 7am-9am, which will be for photographers who would like an opportunity to do photos with the Classic Beauties models and the warbirds. A photopass is required…cost is $75.

General Admission is 9am-5pm. Cost is $15 for adults, $10 for children 6-12, with kids under 5 and veterans (with ID) receiving free admission. The dinner is at 5pm with Big Band music and dancing from 6pm-9pm, with an additional charge of $50 person.

More information and/or online ticket sales are available at www.aherossalute.com or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aherossalute.

Questions about donations can be directed to me, Betsy Murphy, at [email protected].