Dream Flights, formerly known as Ageless Aviation Dreams Foundation, has launched Operation September Freedom (OSF), a national effort to honor as many World War II veterans as possible with free Dream Flights in restored, open-cockpit Stearman biplanes.
The tour begins Aug. 1, 2021, and runs through Sept. 30, 2021.
But Dream Flights need yours help in finding veterans to experience a free flight.
“OSF may be our nation’s last opportunity to recognize and honor the men and women whose sacrifice led to the Sept. 2, 1945, signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, which effectively ended World War II,” said Darryl Fisher, founder and president of Dream Flights. “We’re asking all Americans to join our effort to locate members of the Greatest Generation so we can thank them one last time for their service.”
Since its inception, non-profit Dream Flights has flown 4,204 veterans and seniors living in retirement and long-term care communities. During a 20-minute Dream Flight, veterans experience the freedom and exhilaration of soaring 1,000 feet in the air in an iconic Stearman biplane. OSF is the first tour dedicated to honoring a group of veterans who served during a particular war.
Dream Flights pilots, who primarily fly for major airlines and are active duty or retired military veterans themselves, will volunteer their time to fly World War II veterans. Mid-campaign, Sept. 6, Dream Flight crews will rendezvous at the 50th National Stearman Fly-in in Galesburg, Illinois, to honor World War II veterans and fly formation for the crowd. After, the crews will return to their home bases, stopping in towns along the way to honor veterans with flights.
“OSF will be the largest barnstorming event in history,” said Fisher. “Wherever World War II veterans are located, we’ll find our way to their nearest airport and create a moment of magic they can relive until their last days,” said Fisher.
Of the 16 million Americans who served in World War II, an estimated 100,000 will be alive in 2021 — the youngest: 95.
Dream Flights are free to veterans. Tax-deductible donations and sponsorship opportunities are available at DreamFlights.org/Donate.