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The 2024 Victory Ball was a huge success

ORIGINAL ARTICLE



On April 20, 2024, the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) and the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center (NAEC) hosted The Victory Ball at Dallas Executive Airport, celebrating aviation excellence and honoring industry pioneers. Now in its third year, the event attracted aviation enthusiasts, military veterans, industry leaders, and distinguished guests, all gathered to recognize the rich heritage and promising future of aviation.


The evening was hosted by Mike Doocy, a well-known Sports Anchor at FOX 4 Dallas, whose charm and wit set an engaging tone for the event. A major highlight was the presence of special guest Tammie Jo Shults, one of the first female F/A-18 Hornet pilots in the U.S. Navy. Shults is celebrated for her courageous landing of Southwest Airlines Flight 1380 after an engine explosion, and her inspiring remarks captivated the audience as she reflected on the significance of the people who keep aviation's spirit alive.


Guests were immersed in a nostalgic ambiance, with the large hangar adorned by historic military aircraft and decor that recreated the World War II era. The atmosphere was further enhanced by live music from the renowned Glenn Miller Orchestra, known for its 1940s big band sound. Their performance added elegance and nostalgia, delighting attendees throughout the night.


Proceeds from The Victory Ball play a crucial role in supporting educational initiatives at the NAEC, which includes exhibits, field trips, STEM classes, and summer camps for students. Since its opening in late 2021, the NAEC has welcomed over 10,000 students, aiming to inspire and educate future generations about aviation. RozeLyn Beck, Chief Relationship Officer for the NAEC, stated, "Through our immersive experiences, we perform our mission: Honor the past, Empower the future." The center provides opportunities for individuals of all ages to explore flight in unique ways, positively impacting the community.


The success of the event was made possible by generous sponsors, including Trifecta Event Management, Vestals Catering, The Henry B. Tippie Foundation, and several others, whose support contributed significantly to the evening’s triumph.


The Victory Ball serves as a symbol of aviation’s enduring spirit and the remarkable individuals shaping its future. As guests departed, they left with a renewed appreciation for aviation’s legacy and the dedication of those driving its evolution.


For further information about The Victory Ball and its initiatives, interested individuals can visit www.cafthevictoryball.org.


About the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center

The NAEC, part of the American Airpower Heritage Museum, is located at Dallas Executive Airport. It provides hands-on learning experiences for all ages, emphasizing education and honoring aviation history.


About the Commemorative Air Force

The CAF is the largest flying military aircraft museum in the world, with over 175 vintage military aircraft. Its mission focuses on educating, inspiring, and honoring through flight and living history experiences, ensuring the public can experience the sights and sounds of America's military aviation history. For more details, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org.

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