Neil Armstrong, Chuck Yaeger, and the Wright Family

Some of the biggest names in aviation history are among the special guests during this year's evening programs at the Experimental Aircraft Association's 51st annual fly-in convention, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh (July 29-August 4).

Among the guests participating in the evening programs at EAA AirVenture's Theater in the Woods are Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the moon; Chuck Yeager, the first person to fly faster than the speed of sound; and members of the Wright family talking about the achievement of their ancestors Orville and Wilbur.

"As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of powered flight at EAA AirVenture this year, we wanted to bring together those whose names marked the true highlights of the first century of flight," said Tom Poberezny, EAA President and AirVenture Chairman. "This schedule of special guests, along with the other aviation, entertainment and awards programs scheduled for every evening during AirVenture will make this a truly memorable week for everyone interested in aviation."

Evening programs at EAA's annual fly-in have been part of the event almost as long as the gathering has existed. The first programs were created as educational seminars or entertainment for the aviation enthusiasts who were camping on the grounds. Since then, the programs have evolved into a sparkling showcase of aviation personalities, musical entertainment and recognition for EAA members and others.

Among some of the highlights of the 2003 schedule of evening programs include:

• "A Night with Chuck Yeager and Friends" (Wednesday, July 30) - A unique and personal discussion with Gen. Yeager, encompassing aviation and personal achievements, hosted by noted personality David Hartman;
• "The Wright Brothers and First Flight" (Thursday, July 31) - A one-of-a-kind overview hosted by David Hartman with Stephen Wright (great-grandnephew of the Wright brothers), Amanda Wright Lane (great-grandniece), Tom Crouch of the National Air and Space Museum and Darrell Collins from the Wright Brothers National Memorial;
• "An Evening with Neil Armstrong" (Friday, August 1) - The first man to step on the moon discusses his personal insights on 100 years of flight.

In addition, the annual "Lindy" aircraft awards will be presented in AirVenture's final evening program on Sunday, August 3.

The nightly programs begin approximately 7:30 p.m. at Theater in the Woods and are included with all AirVenture admissions. 

A complete schedule of evening programs is available at the EAA AirVenture web site.

FMI: www.airventure.org