Aviation pioneers attend Heritage to Horizons ceremony

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jeremy Larlee
  • Air Force News Agency
NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFPN) --  Five members of the Women Airforce Service Pilots who served during World War II attended the Heritage to Horizons proclamation ceremony for Air Force Week Nevada during a city council meeting Nov. 7 at the Las Vegas City Hall. 

The ceremony was part of a weeklong Air Force's 60th Anniversary celebration for Air Force members in the surrounding community that ended with the Aviation Nation Air Show at Nellis Air Force Base Nov. 10 and 11.

Bernice Haydu was a member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots, which was an organization essential in freeing up male pilots for combat service and duties. The women would transport aircraft throughout the United States and Canada. They also assisted in training of pilots.  Thirty-eight women died while performing these duties.

"We flew every aircraft manufactured during World War II, from the smallest to the largest," Mrs. Haydu said. 

"This is a very special day for us in Las Vegas," said Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman. "I respect every member of our armed services and am grateful for their service."

The appreciation was not a one-way street. During his speech at the event, Brig. Gen. Stephen L. Hoog, the commander of the 57th Wing here, spoke to Las Vegas citizens about how important their support is to the Air Force mission

"What a fantastic day and an honor to speak in front of you," he said. "Congratulations on all you have done to support the Air Force in the last 60 years."

The general also introduced Mrs.Haydu and three other WASP members during the proclamation ceremony. He said it was fitting to have such important aviation legends at an event that is celebrating the Air Force's 60th Anniversary.

Mrs. Haydu, who traveled to the event from her home in Florham Park, N.J., said her favorite aircraft was always the one that she was currently piloting. She said she would love to be able to test out some of the Air Force's current jets, but she wonders if she is computer savvy enough to handle them.

"It is absolutely mind boggling how much the methods of navigation have changed," she said. "It is unbelievable how sophisticated it is now and how they have accomplished so much."

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