Flying Heritage Collection to Host Special Veterans Day Forum Featuring Local World War II Pilots

World War II tactical reconnaissance pilots will unite with local community members on Veterans Day to honor the men and women who risked their lives for their country. During WWII, tactical reconnaissance pilots flew fast and low in groups of two, with one flyer scouting and the other covering his activities from attacks by enemy fighters. By patrolling, spotting artillery barrages, assisting in special missions, and shooting photographs that were used by Allied analysts, these veterans influenced the outcome of the war.

This special Veterans Day event at the Flying Heritage Collection will feature a panel of veterans recounting their use of modified fighter planes to assist Allied armies near the battlefield. The event will feature local U.S. Army and Royal Air Force reconnaissance pilots who will discuss their first-hand perspectives of World War II and its impact on our country.

Speakers will include Elden Williams, who flew photo reconnaissance versions of the P-51 Mustang from Belgium and Germany with the U.S. 9th Air Force, and Ellis Knowlton, a Royal Air Force pilot who flew modified Spitfires in Italy in support of the U.S. 5th Army.

Admission is free for all veterans on November 11. Military ID required. Non-veteran admission rates: Adults $12, Seniors $10; Youth (6-15) $8; Children (5 and under) free; Groups (15 or more) $10 per person.

Following the panel, veteran tour guides will be available to highlight the fascinating and iconic war planes which ultimately influenced the course of history.

The Flying Heritage Collection, founded by philanthropist Paul G. Allen, is one of the world’s great assemblies of rare World War II-era military aircraft. The Flying Heritage Collection's commitment to restoring its aircraft to authentic, flying condition sets it apart from all other aviation collections.