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Tri-Cities Airport announces the upcoming event “Soar Tri-Cities: LEADing to New Heights,” featuring the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Rise Above Tuskegee Airmen exhibit. This inspiring event, sponsored by Langston Education and Arts Development, Inc. (LEAD), will take place at Tri-City Aviation from September 25-29. The event is free and open to the public. The exhibit will be open from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday.

The CAF Rise Above exhibit is an immersive experience that brings to life the incredible stories of the Tuskegee Airmen and Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), two groups who broke barriers and overcame obstacles to serve their country during World War II. Visitors will be transported back in time as they step into a fully functional mobile movie theater housed in a climate-controlled 53-foot semi-trailer. The theater features expandable sides, a ramp, and a hydraulic lift, ensuring accessibility for all attendees. “LEAD is excited to sponsor this historic educational exhibit,” LEAD Chairmen Nate Tadesse said. “LEAD is pleased to be able to give back to the community in this fashion. We are looking forward to CAF sharing the story of both of these trailblazing groups in our area, and we’re encouraging everyone to come out to the exhibit.” LEAD, an acronym for Langston Education and Arts Development, was founded by alumni of Langston High School in Johnson City, along with dedicated supporters from the community. LEAD’s mission is to preserve the integrity, legacy, and historical value of the Langston High School campus while fostering educational and multicultural opportunities that bring diverse groups together in a safe and enriching environment.

The exhibit’s centerpiece is a dynamic 160-degree panoramic screen that creates the sensation of soaring above the clouds in the cockpit of a WWII-era aircraft. The original short films, which are the heart of the exhibit, vividly recount the challenges and triumphs of the Tuskegee Airmen and WASP, offering timeless lessons in perseverance, courage, and determination.

In addition to the powerful film experience, the event will showcase a fully restored WWII-era P-51C Mustang, the signature aircraft of the Tuskegee Airmen. This rare and historic aircraft serves as a tangible reminder of the bravery and skill of these pioneering aviators. “We are thrilled to partner with LEAD to bring the CAF Rise Above exhibit to the Tri-Cities,” said Trevor Rice, marketing and air service development manager at Tri-Cities Airport. “This event offers a unique opportunity to honor the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and inspire our community with their story of resilience and courage.”

Adding to the excitement, Northeast State Community College’s Aviation Technology program will be present with their helicopter on display. Attendees will also have the opportunity to try out their flight simulators, providing a hands-on experience that complements the historical significance of the exhibit.

Local schools have planned field trips to the event, allowing students the chance to learn about the Tuskegee Airmen and the vital role they played in history. This educational opportunity aims to inspire the next generation with stories of perseverance, courage, and a passion for aviation. The program includes a mobile exhibit featuring original films, a restored P-51C Mustang aircraft, and in-person presentations that bring these inspiring stories to life.