The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Chapter 993, had a once-in-a-lifetime experience when it participated in Saturday’s Veterans Day parade. We were proud to honor our veterans by towing Jimmy Stewart’s personal restored 1961 Cessna 310F on Philadelphia Street. It was also fitting to honor our hometown hero for his service to our country.
Several months ago, when several of our members came up with this idea, I thought it would never happen. Road permits would be required, roads would have to be closed, state and borough police departments and the sheriff’s department would all have to support this endeavor. Was there enough clearance to even move this plane from the airport?
No one had ever done this before. It turned out I was wrong and I thank two of our members, Tip Ruffner and Ron Powell, for not giving up.
The entire community of Indiana supported this effort. In particular, we want to thank the state police, the Indiana Borough police and the sheriff’s department, all which did a great job of traffic control.
Many thanks to the commissioners and PennDOT for their support. Westly Wertz of the American Legion did an outstanding job organizing the parade, and we are appreciative of the Gazette and 1160 WCCS for the news promotion. I was privileged to ride in a 1942 WWII restored Jeep owned and driven by another influential EAA member, Keith Rearick.
The hardest job was handled by Sheriff Bob Fyock, who choreographed the plane’s movement from the airport through the parade and return to the airport. Chief Deputy Chris Cusimano did a skillful job driving through the 286 exit, where we had only inches to spare on each side, and this was after removing the plane’s wing tip fuel tanks. We reinstalled them on Philadelphia street for the parade, then had to remove them again after the parade was over.
For those of you who braved the bitter cold to be there, you will have something to remember.
The next phase of this project will be to erect the plane on a pedestal at the airport, hopefully next year. EAA Chapter 993 depends entirely on donations for this project. We are in dire need of funds to complete it.
If you wish to support this project, donations may be made out to EAA Chapter 993 and mailed to P.O Box 202, Indiana, PA 15701.
Harold Wood
EAA member
