The Auburn-Opelika fly-in has grown in its short 5 year history. If you were in attendance last year you know the temperature was in the 70’s, the atmosphere was festive and the sky was clear. A number of aircraft came to enjoy the day, the crowd was large and they enjoyed the statics, flying demonstrations and food from some of the best establishments in town…Well that was last year. This year there were snow flurries in the early morning, and temperatures in the low 30’s with the wind blowing 25 to 35 mph. By the time the fly-in started, the skies cleared and the temperature went to a “sweltering” 44 degrees, but the wind kept howling. Despite the wind and cold, the people came, young, old and all ages in between. The shuttles and golf carts ran moving people from one place to another and I thought to myself, this is going to be a good day.

  Included in the line up of aircraft and attractions were, the DC-3 sponsored by Herpa Miniature Models flown by Dan Gryder, Jim Cook’s Yak-9 , a Huey, a Cobra, the P-51 Mustang “Ain’t Misbehaven” , a T-6 Texan, a T-28C, a T-34, a T-45, a CH-46, RV-8s, RV-4s, many restored military vehicles, Tanks, Hovercraft, and a Rock Climbing Wall for the young at heart. Due to the weather, and especially the wind, most of the aircraft scheduled couldn't make it. The DC-3 did give rides and made some really good low and fast fly-bys. Jim and his YAK-9 took off and gave a good performance, showing the awesome performance of his aircraft. One of the highlights of the fly-in was the DC-3 and two RV8’s formation flying.

  This year, the Opelika-Auburn News ran ads for Veteran’s to pre-register for VIP airshow passes and approximately 225 Veterans registered. The Veterans who pre-registered received a special fly-in packet that included free parking, free admission, a name badge, and admission to the Veteran's Hospitality tent where they were served complimentary snacks and beverages.


  In attendance also were local police, fire, military, Red Cross, EMA’s, Auburn University’s ROTC’S, and a large number of sponsors who supported the airshow. It is a good feeling to live in a township with such strong community support. Without all of these individuals and sponsors, this fly-in could not survive. I would like to thank and commend each and every one who participated in this event. Even though the weather did not cooperate with the fly-in's plans and schedules this year, it will not hinder the planning of next year's Heroes Take Flight fly-in.