Friday, March 7, 2008

Commemorative Air Force Aircraft Museum Celebrates a Sentimental Journey

On March 13, 1945, the Army Air Corp accepted Sentimental Journey, a B-17 Flying Fortress, into service, assigning it to the Pacific theater for the duration of World War II. Almost 63 years later to the day, you can dance the night away in the shadow of this vintage aircraft at a glamorous event and fund-raiser for the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Aircraft Museum at the City of Mesa's Falcon Field Airport.

"A Night in the 40's" will feature a WW II-era musical entertainment performed under the direction of Master of Ceremonies Danny Davis from AM 1230 KOY. The pre-show, featuring Forever Dance, begins at 4:45 p.m. The Kathy Donald Jazz Ensemble, including guest vocalists Debra Qualtire and Susan Gerkin, will be "swingin' and singing" between 5:30 and 7:30 when the Sun Lakes Big Band Orchestra takes the stage playing music favored during the war years.

"This is a great opportunity to recapture one of the most important and nostalgic times in our history," said Rick Senffer, publicity director for the CAF Arizona Wing. "Events like these pay special tribute to all those who fought for freedom during WW II and allow us to look back on that piece of our past."

Attendees are encouraged to dress in clothing appropriate to the 1940's to help everyone get into the mood. There will also be a costume contest for the best dress 1940's costume and a swing dance contest. Food, including a bar-b-que plate, and refreshments will be sold during the event, as well to help keep everyone charged up and dancing.

The CAF Aircraft Museum is an organization dedicated to keeping aviation history alive for current and future generations. The annual fund-raising event regularly sells out, attracting almost 1,500 attendees. Sponsors for this year's "A Night in the 40's" include Comerica Banks and Hensley and Company, Taylor Rays, AM 1230 KOY and Alpha Creation Awards.

Tickets for "A Night in the 40's" can be purchased in advance for $35 per person at the CAF Arizona Wing Aircraft Museum, 2017 N. Greenfield Rd., Comerica Bank locations in Mesa at 1825 S. Val Vista Dr., 5225 S. Power Rd. and 925 N. Dobson Rd. or online at www.bigbanddance.com.