Kinston Aero Modelers support veterans with an air show

The Kinston Aero-Modelers is a club whose members are radio control modeling enthusiasts. On Veteran’s Day, behind the North Carolina State Veteran’s Home, the club put on a model air show for the veterans who had just finished watching a parade.

“For Veteran’s Day we decided to be here for the veterans. This used to be an old field that belonged to our club before the nursing home arrived,” said club member Eric Cantu. “In order to help recall some memories for some of our veterans, by having aircraft out around on this day it might help them relive some of those wonderful days that they enjoyed on the flight line themselves.”

The club’s mission is to promote flying radio-controlled model aircraft and to promote safe flying techniques and practices.

“Being right here on our old field was perfect with the veteran’s home being here. We wanted to do something different to give them something to smile about,” said club member Robert McGaughy. “We want to do everything we can to give our veterans a smile.”

The sight and sound of the planes as they were maneuvered by children and adults could be heard and seen from the NC State Veteran’s home.

“We have pilots we have ground crew and so we feel like we have some of them at the home. So that is why we decided to come out to give them a little air show and let them enjoy some model flying since we could not do the real thing,” said Cantu.

The model air show followed the parade that featured members of the community and state legislatures who came to show their respect and appreciation for the Veterans who reside in the home.