Columbia Metropolitan Airport, August 18, 2025
News Summary
The Fly for Foundations charity event took place at Columbia Metropolitan Airport, where attendees experienced vintage WWII-era aircraft rides while raising funds for local nonprofits. Notable participants included a 99-year-old WWII veteran who shared insights about his experiences. The event supported six charities in South Carolina, ensuring vital operational funds for these organizations. The day was filled with excitement as aviation enthusiasts engaged with historic aircraft and contributed to meaningful causes.
Columbia
The Fly for Foundations charity event took place at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport on the weekend of August 16. The event aimed to raise funds for local nonprofit organizations in South Carolina while offering attendees the opportunity to experience rides in vintage WWII-era aircraft.
Featuring authentic planes such as the PT-17 Stearman biplane, the event captured the interest of aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Among the notable participants was 99-year-old WWII veteran Bruce Cook, who shared insights from his time as a pilot aboard the B-17 Flying Fortress and as an enlisted operator of the P-38 fighter plane. Cook reflected on the sacrifices made by service members throughout history and emphasized the importance of acknowledging their contributions.
Retired Air Force pilot and founder of the Mantei Charitable Fund, Colonel Rick Mantei, highlighted the significance of historic aircraft presentations to inspire the younger generation. Young aviation enthusiast Sharan Vuddandapu expressed excitement about potentially pursuing a career as a pilot after attending the event.
The Fly for Foundations event successfully raised funds for six local charities, which include FoodShare South Carolina, HomeWorks of America, Final Victory Animal Rescue, Sole Stepping, Midlands Orphan Relief, and Carolina Wildlife Care Center. The funds generated are intended to support operational costs and outreach initiatives for these organizations. Omme-Salma Rahemtullah, representing FoodShare SC, noted that the funds are crucial for maintaining their warehouse operations and for increasing accessibility to fresh produce for the community.
The event commenced at 7:00 AM and continued until approximately 2:00 PM, operating a first-come, first-served system for aircraft rides based on attendees’ arrival times. This organization allowed everyone an opportunity to participate in the airborne experience while contributing to a good cause.
For those interested in further information about the Fly for Foundations charity event and the organizations it benefitted, more details can be found at the Mantei Charitable Fund’s official website.
FAQ Section
What is the Fly for Foundations charity event?
The Fly for Foundations is a charity event held at Columbia Metropolitan Airport that provides rides in vintage WWII-era aircraft while raising funds for local South Carolina nonprofit organizations.
What types of aircraft were featured at the event?
The event featured authentic WWII aircraft including the PT-17 Stearman biplane.
Who were some notable participants at the event?
Notable participants included 99-year-old WWII veteran Bruce Cook and retired Air Force pilot Colonel Rick Mantei.
Which organizations benefited from the funds raised?
Funds raised supported six local charities: FoodShare South Carolina, HomeWorks of America, Final Victory Animal Rescue, Sole Stepping, Midlands Orphan Relief, and Carolina Wildlife Care Center.
What was the duration of the event?
The event started at 7:00 AM and ran until approximately 2:00 PM.
Key Features of the Fly for Foundations Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Fly for Foundations |
| Location | Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Eagle Aviation |
| Date | Weekend of August 16 |
| Purpose | Fundraising for local nonprofits |
| Attractions | Vintage WWII aircraft rides |
| Featured Aircraft | PT-17 Stearman biplane |
| Age of Notable Veteran | 99 years |
| Number of Benefiting Charities | Six local charities |
| Event Timing | 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM |
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: WWII Planes Take Flight Over Columbia for Charity and Tribute
- ABC Columbia: Fly Back in Time with Fly for Foundations
- Daily Fly: Innovia Foundation Awards Over $1.2 Million to Regional Organizations
- WISTV: Local Foundation Gives Back to Veterans with Charity Flights
- Wikipedia: World War II
- Google Search: WWII planes charity events
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