By Dana Brejakova
I remember it like yesterday — the day we flew to a small Flight to Fight Fly-In in Fabens, Texas, that was organized to raise funds for breast cancer research.
Not knowing what to expect, we were pretty stoked to go and support the initiative begun by Daniel Barcena, a local businessman, avid aviator, and our friend.
I was so amazed at the wonderfully organized event that I just simply did what I always do — started taking pictures. Little did I know that moment would launch my active role in this particular initiative.
Fast forward to the present day, and the fourth Flight to Fight was set to be bigger than all three previous years combined.
What started as a small local breast cancer awareness fly-in is now a much greater happening that supports all cancer battles.
Recognized by the American Cancer Society, the Flight to Fight persevered and survived the two ugly years of pandemic restrictions when public gatherings were strictly forbidden. However, organizers did not want to give up as funds were still needed for the cause.
Therefore, to be perfectly synchronized with pandemic restrictions, a public event had to transform into a non-public and safe happening to get official approval. A parade of airplanes in the sky was born.
This ensured the survival of the Flight to Fight Cancer Awareness Fly-In — now Fly-Over — as participating aviators took to the skies in a safe and well-organized manner and flew over town.
I testify that I had serious goosebumps witnessing the departure and arrival of the participating birds. When propellers started turning and engines began to roar, something magical transpired.
The latest Flight to Fight was a classic fly-in again.
Local businesses, food trucks, aviators, skydivers, Corvette owners, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone who wanted to be a part of a wonderful thing came together and helped create a wonderful Saturday afternoon in late October 2022.
Francis Aviation and the War Eagles Air Museum at Dona Ana International Jetport (KDNA) in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, were the hosts for the fly-in and, boy, was it buzzing. The museum added another layer to the event with its mighty collection of some of the most iconic warbirds on display.
Visitors had the opportunity to see spectacular views of beautiful aircraft on the ground and in the air, including helicopters from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
They also had the opportunity to buy all kinds of cancer awareness merchandise, donate to the cause, win raffles, take pictures with Star Wars-themed impersonators, and mainly have a wonderful time.
A live band was on hand, as was an aviation commentator who introduced aviators who were flying the pattern in recognition of cancer survivors and also those who lost their battle.
When the Sun City Skydive Demonstration team performed its act with the American flag and pink smoke, the crowd broke out in cheers and applause.
Rather a calm and quiet spot became a busy beehive for the day and our fundraiser passed with flying colors. In fact, we are still counting the donations. The Flight to Fight usually scores in the top tier of cancer research fundraisers for the El Paso, Texas, area.
Humble beginnings and perseverance brought us where we are today. And from today, we plan to keep moving forward. Because forward is the only direction we understand.
More Photos From The Flight to Fight Fly-In
