Meet the Pilot’s Pilot at Cavanaugh Flight Museum’s Let History Take Flight Gala

March 8, 2012 - PRLog -- Cavanaugh Flight Museum is pleased to announce its 2012 Spring Gala, Let History Take Flight scheduled for Friday, May 11, 2012 at 6:30 p.m.  The gala will feature world-renowned aviation legend, R.A. “Bob” Hoover.  
Hoover, considered one of the founding fathers of modern aerobatics, was described by World War II hero and commander of the Doolittle Raid, Jimmy Doolittle, as "... the greatest stick-and-rudder man who ever lived.” Moreover, the Air & Space Smithsonian named Hoover the third greatest aviator in history.
The night will feature a seated dinner, a silent auction featuring travel packages, aviation collectibles and other items to bid upon as well as the rare opportunity to hear Hoover reflect on his personal aviation stories and rich experiences.
“I’m very honored to speak at Cavanaugh Flight Museum’s fundraising gala,” said Hoover.  “I have been flying since I was 16 years old, so the planes at the museum are near and dear to my heart.”
With more than 70 years of aviation experience, Bob is widely regarded as the “pilot’s pilot.” Most recently Bob was called on by Cavanaugh Flight Museum Director Doug Jeanes to help the museum’s P-51D Brat III in Mobile, Ala. While not uncommon in day-to-day aviation, the landing gear of this priceless vintage plane was stuck. Hoover gave Doug suggestions to relay to the pilot eventually helping to ensure a smooth landing.
“This is just one of the many stories that Bob will share with us in May. I’m really looking forward to giving our museum patrons and guests a chance to meet this national treasure,” said Jeanes. At the gala, Hoover also plans to share his poignant recollections from WWII, his time spent as a test pilot for North American Aviation, and share some of his favorite stories about his high-flying airplane aerobatics.
During Hoover’s unprecedented aviation career he was awarded the Purple Heart, the Soldier’s Medal for Valor, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with Clusters, and the French Croix de Guerre.