Aircraft To Fly Veterans Airlift Command Missions
Cessna has joined forces with Veterans Airlift Command to
provide free transportation for injured veterans. Cessna has
designated a Citation Mustang, named the "American Patriot," to fly
VAC missions, the first of which will occur November 10, 2011.
VAC is a nonprofit organization that provides free medical and
compassionate transportation for wounded veterans and their
families through a national network of aircraft owners and pilots.
Its priority is to help the veterans of Iraqi Freedom and Enduring
Freedom (Afghanistan).
On Thursday, Nov. 10, Cessna's "American Patriot" Mustang will
fly two veterans from San Antonio, Texas, to and from VAC's annual
fundraiser in Pinehurst, NC, where they will be honored on Veterans
Day, November 11. "Our men and women in uniform have given our
country a tremendous service, and many have paid a heavy price. Our
commitment of the 'American Patriot' to support the Veterans
Airlift Command allows us to demonstrate our gratitude and provides
Cessna with a way to give back to our wounded warriors," said Scott
Ernest, Cessna president and CEO. "I encourage those who have not
yet registered their aircraft with VAC to join up and fly with us
so no travel need goes unmet."
The "American Patriot's" inaugural mission will transport
veterans Bobby Henline and Matthew Miles. Henline, a former U.S.
Army staff sergeant, was injured in an improvised explosive device
attack in Iraq on April 7, 2007. Henline is now a motivational
speaker and stand-up comic.
Miles, a U.S. Army sergeant first class, was injured in an IED
attack Oct. 13, 2007 in Zormat Afghanistan, which resulted in the
loss of his left leg, severe lacerations and hand injuries. Miles
now resides in San Antonio, Texas, with his wife Maria, a VAC
mission coordinator, and their three sons.
The "American Patriot" Mustang features a unique paint scheme
that salutes the men and women who serve or have served in the U.S.
Armed Forces. On each side, the "Patriot Defender" character holds
a shield featuring the four branches of the Armed Forces as a large
American flag unfurls down the side of the aircraft. It debuted at
the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) annual convention
last month in Las Vegas.
"Many of our veterans return from combat facing devastating
injuries and long-term rehabilitation. Many times, they are
recuperating hundreds of miles away from family. Our goal at VAC is
to be that bridge that brings families together to help our
veterans heal," said Walt Fricke, VAC founder and air boss. "We are
fortunate to have Cessna join us in providing our wounded warriors
with this crucial service."