Corpus Christi Area Aviation Group to honor World War II Veteran and Unveil Historic Aircraft

April 29, 2021,(Aransas Pass, Texas) – The Maxine Flournoy Third Coast Squadron based at McCampbell Porter Airport will hold a full day of events and activities May 1 at their hangar. One of the main celebrations is to honor 100-year-old local World War II veteran George Kirk. Kirk served in the U.S. Navy with Fighting Squadron 8 (VF-8) flying F6F Hellcats. Kirk is a decorated Navy Flying Ace who was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses for his service.

The organization will also unveil an aircraft that was recently donated to the Commemorative Air Force by member Frank McKay, a Rockport, Texas, resident. McKay searched for decades to find the exact airplane that his mother flew for the Civil Air Patrol in World War II. The 1940 J4A Cub Coup named “SkyBaby" will become a restoration project for the volunteers. The Unit plans to use SkyBaby to help launch a local cadet program for students interested in getting involved in aviation.

For more information visit https://thirdcoastcaf.org or email 3rdcoastcaf@gmail.com.

The Coastal Bend Blood Center will be holding a blood drive at this location from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. as well. Location: 3rd Coast Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force's Hangar! (3201 FM3512 Hangar, H11, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 at McCampbell Porter Airport)

Schedule: May 1, 2021 8 a.m. Pancake breakfast 10 a.m. George Kirk Birthday Celebration 10:30 a.m. Presentation of SkyBaby