“Student Day” is Major Success as Wings of Freedom Tour Flies Through Boca Raton
There have been few wars in American history that have defined this nation more than World War II. Yet as each year passes, fewer WWII veterans remain, and their contributions regretfully inch closer to being forgotten.
But for the local children who attended “Student Day” and experienced the Wings of Freedom Tour firsthand, the importance of WWII and those who served will always be remembered.
At the January 23rd “Student Day” event, hundreds of students got to explore rare WWII-era bomber and fighter aircraft, while meeting with veterans and learning more about the war.
WWII-Era Bomber and Fighter Aircraft Included:
- B-17 Flying Fortress “Nine O Nine”
- Consolidated B-24 Liberator “Witchcraft”
- P-51D Mustang “Toulouse Nuts” fighter
“Wings of Freedom Day” in Boca Raton
During the “Student Day” event, Council Member Andrea Levine O’Rourke read the official proclamation from Mayor Susan Haynie, proclaiming January 23rd “Wings of Freedom Day” in Boca Raton.
“Hundreds of thousands of Allied Servicemen and women were instrumental to the war effort resulting in victory over Germany and Japan,” read Council Member O’Rourke. “It is vitally important that we commemorate and honor the sacrifices made by the veterans of World War II so that their valiant efforts to keep America free will never be forgotten.”
The speaking portion of the event also included opening remarks from Boca Raton Airport Authority (BRAA) Executive Director Clara Bennett, who recognized the WWII veterans in attendance including Murray Moore, Sid Katz and Richard Stransky.
There was also a moving Presentation of Colors by students representing the Civil Air Patrol of Boca Raton.
More About the Collings Foundation’s Wings of Freedom Tour
From January 22nd to the 25th, the Collings Foundation’s Wings of Freedom Tour gave visitors an opportunity to explore rare WWII-era bomber and fighter aircraft, while meeting with some of the veterans that used to fly them.
The Collings Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit educational foundation devoted to organizing “living history” events that allows people to learn more about their heritage and history through direct participation. The Nationwide Wings Of Freedom Tour is celebrating its 29th year and visits an average of 110 cities in over 35 states annually. Since its start, tens of millions of people have seen the B-17, B-24 & P-51 display at locations everywhere.
Exemplifying the BRAA’s commitment to the local community, the Boca Raton Airport and Signature Flight Support hosted the Wings of Freedom Tour as a way to honor veterans and inspire students. Next year, the Airport looks forward to hosting the Wings of Freedom Tour again as an opportunity to educate even more students about the role of aviation in World War II.
