The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission (COFC) this week
issued its national plan for the 100th anniversary of the
Wright brothers’ first flight. As momentum builds for the 2003
celebration, organizers are working on festivities from coast
to coast under the campaign theme “Born of Dreams — Inspired
by Freedom.”
“We believe these six words capture the spirit of the Wright
brothers’ drive and determination to conquer powered flight,”
said Sherry Foster, executive director, U.S. Centennial of
Flight Commission. “The Wright brothers’ discovery continues
to change the world we live in. This celebration will pay
tribute to their accomplishments and those who have pioneered
flight for the past 100 years.”
Numerous federal, state and private organizations are involved
in the effort. Activities and events planned for the year-long
celebration include plane races, cross-country Wright Flyer
tours, blimp events, international symposiums, special art
displays, attempts at aviation world records, gas balloon
races, an international aviation world’s fair and special
museum exhibits, as well as events by the U.S. Air Force, IMAX
Films, NASA and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
The festivities will culminate on the Outer Banks of North
Carolina on Dec.17, 2003, with an authentic recreation of the
Wright brothers’ first flight on the sand dunes near Kitty
Hawk.
“The Centennial celebration will offer activities for
Americans of all ages,” said Commission Chairman General J.R.
(“Jack”) Dailey. “We want people all over this country to
rekindle their fascination with flight and to look upon this
Centennial as a celebration of our freedom to reach for our
dreams.”
The Commission is working on plans for a kick-off event in
Washington on Dec. 17, 2002. A complete listing of all
Centennial activities and more information on the Commission
can be found at:
www.centennialofflight.gov
More information also is available from Christian Markow,
COFC, at 804/675-8153.
