Learn about unique and historic aviation experiences during the Aviation Adventure Speaker Series, conducted by passionate aviators with a unique story to tell. Presentations take place in the Founder's Wing at the EAA Aviation Museum. All presentations start at 7:00 p.m. Snacks and refreshments available for purchase.
Free for EAA members | $5 for nonmembers
May 16, 2024, 7 p.m. CDT — Coast Guard Rescue Helicopter Pilot
Speakers: Tom Cooper
Tom Cooper is a retired commanding officer for the United States Coast Guard, with more than 20 years of experience in flying lifesaving missions. He will share stories of the lifesaving missions he completed as an H-65 helicopter pilot, as well as insights into the Coast Guard. His most notable mission was in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he served a pivotal role in Hurricane Katrina rescue efforts.
June 20, 2024, 7 p.m. CDT — Bazooka Charlie: Researching One Hero’s Adventure of Taking a Cub to War
Speakers: Jim Busha
During World War II, Major Charles Carpenter made headlines when he affixed six bazookas to his tiny Piper L-4 observation airplane and began attacking German tanks. Jim Busha, in collaboration with Carpenter’s daughter, Carol Apacki, co-authored the revealing biography of Charles Carpenter, and he will be joining us to take a deep dive into the story. A book signing will be available to attendees after the presentation.
August 15, 2024, 7 p.m. CDT – The AC-208 - The Cessna With Teeth
Speakers: Dan Jackson
Major Dan Jackson will take an in-depth look and discussion on some of the test flying he has done in an experimental version of the Cessna 208 Caravan. Maj. Jackson has flown 236 combat missions and 125 combat support missions in support of operations Inherent Resolve, Freedom Sentinel, Enduring Freedom, Enduring Freedom-Philippines, and Damiyan.
September 11, 2024, 7 p.m. CDT – EAA Remembers 9/11
Speakers: Members of FDNY
Join us for a special evening as we reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, with those who were there. This year we are lucky to have the support of the FDNY as we honor those who stood tall at a time when our country needed heroes.
October 10, 2024, 7 p.m. CDT – Flying the A-6 Intruder
Speakers: Capt. Richard Koehler
U.S. Naval Aviator Capt. Richard Koehler joins us to walk through his experiences of flying the A-6 Intruder over Vietnam. The A-6 Intruder was a Navy attack aircraft that was flown from the Vietnam War through the Gulf War.
November 21, 2024, 7 p.m. CST – The Quest for Speed
Speakers: Skip Holm
The last EAA Aviation Museum Speaker Series presentation of 2024 will feature Skip Holm, who will discuss his amazing military career and flying in combat, the air races that he participated in, and setting various world speed records.