Presented At Bonanzas To Oshkosh Fly-In

Larry Gaines, of Stockton, California, received the 2024 Aviation Spirit Award presented by the Debbie Franceus Memorial Aviation Foundation.

The presentation took place prior to the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh event at the annual Bonanzas to Oshkosh (B2Osh) fly-in on July 19 at La Crosse Regional Airport (KLSE) in Wisconsin.

Gaines was honored by the Foundation for his tireless generosity of time and effort to instill in others a culture and environment that embodies the true spirit of aviation. He’s been a pilot for 30 years and since 2007 has been running B2Osh, the largest mass formation flight of aircraft to AirVenture. Larry voluntarily puts in 1,000 hours or more per year developing and coordinating the elements and activities that make it a success, and B2Osh continues to be the premier mass arrival event each year. This year there were 107 Beechcraft including 90 Bonanzas and 17 Barons in the 55-minute formation flight from KLSE to KOSH. It’s definitely a delight as thousands line the runway to watch the en masse three-abreast arrival into the show and one that attendees look forward to. The group then taxis single file to the North 40 camping area where they stay for the week of AirVenture activities and camaderie.

This was the inaugural presentation of the award, and will continue to take place annually in July. Anyone is eligible- pilot or nonpilot, men or women, meeting the Debbie Franceus Memorial Aviation Foundation’s criteria:

“For selfless contributions in creating an environment that fosters camaraderie and encourages Aviators to reach for the sky, pursue their dreams and share the true spirit that aviation represents”

Beginning in September 2024 and each year going forward the Foundation will accept nominations for the award on its website, linked below.

FMI:  inspire.eaa.org/ , www.debbieflies.com/