Discover "Plane Ole Knowledge": A New Website for Fascinating Historical Insights
Dallas, TX (August 23, 2024) We are excited to announce the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center (NAEC) launch of a brand-new webpage that promises to be a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, educators, and anyone with a passion for learning. This site features a collection of captivating articles that delve into the personal stories of individuals who played pivotal roles during World War II, many of which are drawn from the American Airpower Heritage Museum (AAHM) Oral History Collection.
These articles, penned by the Commemorative Air Force's Vice President of Education Nathan Huegen, shine a light on the diverse experiences of those who contributed to the war effort, offering readers a glimpse into the lives and sacrifices of people from all walks of life. Guest authors will be writing some of the future entries, including an upcoming post from Desiree Benipayo, the Vice President of the Philippines WWII Memorial Foundation. She will be writing about the Filipino’s appreciation for the Aztec Eagles, the Mexican Air Force pilots who served there during World War II.The blog series, aptly named "Plane Ole Knowledge," is more than just a collection of written stories; it’s a unique educational tool designed to engage and inform.
One of the standout features of these oral history blogs is the inclusion of coordinating infographics. Each infographic is carefully crafted to visually narrate the stories, making complex historical events and personal experiences more accessible and understandable. These visuals are particularly valuable for educators, who can use them to illustrate key aspects of each story in their classrooms.
Here’s a taste of some of the remarkable stories recently featured on the site:
The Oral History of Glider Pilot George F. Brennan: Explore the incredible experiences of George F. Brennan, a glider pilot whose daring missions were crucial to the success of Allied operations. The accompanying glider infographic provides a visual representation of his story, making it easier to grasp the significance of his role.
Beryl Owens Paschich: A WASP Pioneer: In honor of Women’s History Month, this article highlights the trailblazing journey of Beryl Owens Paschich, one of the pioneering Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). The story is paired with a graphic that celebrates the contributions of women in aviation during the war.
Ice Cream on the Frontlines: Sweet Treats of World War II: Discover the surprising importance of ice cream as a morale booster for troops on the frontlines. This delightful story is complemented by an infographic that brings to life the sweet treats that provided comfort during the war.
Heroism in the Pacific Theater: This article honors the bravery of those who fought in the Pacific Theater during World War II, accompanied by an Asian Pacific Islander graphic that pays tribute to their heroism.
These stories are updated monthly and are available on the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center (NAEC) website. You can read the latest articles and explore the infographics by visiting https://flynaec.org/newsletter/. To ensure you never miss a new story, consider subscribing to the NAEC newsletter, and have these fascinating histories delivered directly to your inbox each month.
