WWII Vets Take Flight in The Era’s Biplanes

Dream Flights is honoring WWII veterans during the month of September by taking them in the air and sharing their stories with younger generations.

Quentin Bendtsen served in both the Army and the Navy during WWII and was able to take his dream flight from Crystal Airport in a restored WWII biplane. Bendtsen is 93 years old.

Volunteer pilot Tim Dick says it's not just exhilarating for the veterans.

“We have a rear view mirror up in front of them, so I can see their face in the mirror because I sit behind them when we fly. I spend as much time watching them as I do flying the airplane. This is what it’s all about,” he says. To date the program has flown over 4000 on their dream flights. 

“Operation September Freedom” focuses on helping veterans soar. The group's website says that of the 16 million Americans that fought in WWII, only around 100,000 are still with us in 2021. September 2nd marks 76 years since the end of the war.

“In 2021, we’re dedicating our entire Dream Flight Tour to WWII veterans. Our mission is to honor as many as possible, thanking them for fighting for freedom,” Dream Flights says.

The description of the program is as follows: “Our pilots and crew will barnstorm across the country, stopping in towns large and small to meet WWII veterans and their families. They’ll listen to their stories and fly the vets in open-cockpit biplanes, soaring 1,000 feet above family and friends.”

The cost is free and each veteran will fly in one of six restored Boeing Stearman biplanes, the same aircraft used to train aviators during WWII.

The group says if you know a veteran or are one yourself and interested in a flight, do not hesitate to reach out.

FMI: www.dreamflights.org/about-osf