May 17, 2016
A nonprofit organization that offers free airplane rides to wounded service members and others with disabilities is holding its 2nd annual event at Stennis International Airport in south Mississippi on Armed Forces Day, May 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The goal of Operation PROP (People Reaching Outrageous Potential), a nonprofit organization based in Flowood, Miss., is to share the joy of flight and to showcase opportunities in aviation for people with disabilities.This is Operation PROP's fifth event, and the organization has helped hundreds of people with disabilities realize that they can reach the sky. Organizers are asking everyone to help spread the word so even more people can be reached at this weekend’s event, which is open to the public.
The event will feature exhibition wheelchair basketball and wheelchair softball and crafts by Lowe’s. Southern Miss will provide the all-inclusive Imagination Playground, which encourages creativity, collaboration, problem solving and motor development. Other children's activities will be available and lunch is provided.Â
There is no charge for any of the festivities. The pilots volunteer their time, fuel and planes to bring people with disabilities on short flights. There are many other costs that go into this event and organizers say any support is appreciated.Â
Saturday’s event is sponsored by the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission, Stennis International Airport, the Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities, the USM Institute for Disability Studies, the Disability Connection, Million Air, Textron Systems and the Magnolia Business Alliance.
WHAT: Operation PROP helping people with disabilities realize dreams and reach the sky.WHEN: Saturday, May 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.WHERE: Stennis International AirportCONTACT: Operation PROP founder, Linwood Nooe, at (601) 624-4400 or LNooe@thehomelendinggroup.com
About Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission Â
As the county economic development authority, the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission is committed to fostering business investment and job creation. Their focus lies in attracting manufacturing, defense, aviation, and aerospace-related projects to the county. The organization manages the Stennis International Airport and Port Bienville Industrial Park while also providing support to the Stennis Space Center, NASA’s leading facility for rocket engine testing. Â
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