August 17, 2024, marked National Model Aviation Day! Every year, clubs nationwide celebrate their shared love for model aviation, uniting AMA members across all ages and levels of experience. We were delighted to see clubs across the country participating.
From Oregon's Eugene RC Aeronauts to Pennsylvania's Valley Forge Signal Seekers and everywhere in between, hobbyists celebrated, fraternized, and of course, flew! Whether it was Free Flight, Control Line, or RC, all pilots demonstrated craftsmanship, skill, and passion.
It was especially inspiring to see stories of young people joining the ranks of model aviators. The Sentral Illinois Radio Society shared a lovely story of a young man pursuing his dreams of becoming an airline pilot by participating in model aircraft for the first time during this event. Cam was just one of many young people inspired by National Model Aviation Day.
For example, several Boy Scout groups attended Kansas City Radio Control Association's, with many scouts flying for the first time! Not only did modelers strengthen their bonds with one another, but many events benefited their local communities as well. Clubs fundraised for charitable causes, such as the AMA Foundation, the Hoosier Veterans Assistance Fund supported by Blacksheep R/C, Feeding South Florida supported by Aero Modelers of Perrine, or Synergy House supported by the Kansas City Northern Knights. Some clubs were even celebrated by their surrounding communities, such as the Tinley Creek Remote Control Club, which appeared in a local newspaper!
We recognize that National Model Aviation Day wouldn't have been such a resounding success without the tireless efforts of our many clubs. Their dedication to organizing events, mentoring new pilots, and maintaining flying fields is the backbone of our hobby.
The AMA Foundation is proud to collaborate on events such as this with clubs and hundreds of volunteers who understand the unique power of model aviation to inspire creativity, curiosity, and connection. The fun doesn't have to stop even if the day has ended. Let's carry this spirit forward. Share your passion with friends, family, and neighbors. Invite them to the field, teach them how to properly use a transmitter, and watch their eyes widen as they control a model aircraft for the first time.
If you have pictures from this past weekend, share them with the tag #NMAD or #NationalModelAviationDay so the inspiration can continue! If you believe in the vision of the AMA and want to support projects such as National Model Aviation Day, it's not too late to donate! Select the Foundation Club Support option on the donation page and your gift will go directly to programs such as this one. Remember, model aviation isn't just about aircraft, it's about dreams taking flight.
Blue skies and gratitude,
Steve H. Haston
AMA Foundation director
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