2004 Antique Airplane Association Fly-in

[ryanclub]

The Airpower Museum and the Antique Airplane Association paid tribute to Bill Hodges, former executive director of the Airpower Museum, at the National Fly-in and Convention, September 4, 2004, in Blakesburg, Iowa.

Hodges was inducted posthumously into the Airpower Museum Hall of Memories, in a ceremony conducted by Bob Taylor, AAA President, recognizing significant contributions in the early years of the Antique Airplane Association and the development of the Airpower Museum. Taylor emphasized to attendees, including members of the Hodges family, his expertise, research and involvement with Ryan aircraft, and aviation in general.

James Daugherty, President of the AAA Texas chapter, presented a memorial plaque on behalf of Texas members, recognizing Hodges for founding the Texas chapter with nine members in 1962. Two of the original nine members, Joe Haynes and E. M. Johnson, were in attendance. The chapter now consists of almost 300 members. A memorial donation in Hodges' honor was made to AAA headquarters. A framed picture of the chapter members was given to the Hodges family.

Paul Poberezny, President of the Experimental Aircraft Association, expressed his appreciation for the years that Hodges worked with him at the Sport Aviation Museum in Wisconsin.

Representing the family were Bill's wife, Martha, daughter and family, Vivian and Richard Davis, Dawna, Tommy and Joshua Ratliff, and Galen Davis.

Ryaneers in attendance at the fly-in included Jim and Wilma Miller (IRC872), Kansas City, and Mark Trimble (IRC570), Branson, Missouri, with Ryan PT-22 c/n 2183 N50884 (flown by Richard Cooper).