EAA: The Spirit of Aviation -- Chapter 402

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to soar through the sky at five hundred miles per hour? Have you ever truly wanted to fly? Well, there is a wonderful club dedicated to flying right here in Heath, Ohio! Chapter 402, also known as the Old Men Supper and Flying club, has been one of Heath, Ohio’s hidden gems for future and current pilots. This club, through the larger one of EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association), has been one of the most important clubs at the Newark-Heath airport for over a decade. Many people don’t know about this small club of 70-80 year old men, but it’s time they do. It’s time Chapter 402 finally gets the recognition it deserves.

Chapter 402, in all its mighty-ness, has hosted and helped set up some very important events, right here in Heath, Ohio. One recent (and very large) event they hosted was the Korean War Event, in which they were able to honor those of whom have fought in the Korean War. Although Chapter 402 wasn’t the only club there, they helped set up the event and brought awareness to the war. Stationed at the event shit were booths for clubs, old bomber Korean War planes (some of which you could fly in), raffles, and statues representing fallen or MIA soldiers. Not only was this event free, but it provided entertainment for all family members, from age five to eighty-five!

Another very popular event that Chapter 402 puts on specifically, is the Young Eagles Rally. This event provides FREE flights for kids under the age of 17. The pilots will fly the participant over Dawes Arboretum, Buckeye Lake, and The Big Basket, all for free. What could beat a free flight? The club puts on this event twice a year, in order to spark the interest of Aviation into young kids, and honestly, it works. For example, Barney Kempter, current president of the club, has had two kids achieve their Private Pilots license after flying at the Young Eagles Rally. Not only are these members spreading the love of Aviation to kids throughout Ohio, but they’re spreading the word to their very fine club as well. So if the chance comes across, and you or someone you know is under the age of 17 and are available this Saturday from 9am-12pm, feel free to take advantage of a free flight and support an amazing group as well!