October 10, 2009 Young Eagles Rally - Twin County Young Eagles

Pilots gave 44 free flights to eager children even though the weather was not totally cooperative. The looks on the kids’ faces when they landed brought sunshine to a gloomy day. Pilots who participated were Bill Bryant in his Robinson R-44 helicopter, Scott Thomas in a Piper Vagabond and Bob Steele in his Cessna 172. Kids came from Fancy Gap, Woodlawn, Hillsville, Galax, Fries, Dugspur, Pulaski, Bassett, VA; Winston Salem, NC; Walnut Cove, NC; and Elon, NC.

After the Rally, a Memorial Ceremony for the Chapter Founder, Emily Metz Gile was conducted. Details of this with pictures are posted at eaa1426.chillsnet.org Emily was a World War II Women's Airforce Service Pilot and a recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal. This is the highest and most distinguished award that congress can award to a civilian. The community was so fortunate to have a lady of this caliber as a resident here and EAA is so appreciative of her motivation to become the founder and charter member of Chapter 1426. Without her motivation, Chapter 1426 would not exist. She had dreams of bringing a love of aviation to the children of this area and to her granddaughters.

The children who flew are listed on the Names page.
Pictures of the Young Eagles Event are posted below.

Helicopter Pilot Bill Bryant is Checking out the Flying Weather