The newest addition to “The Eagles Gallery” located in the Pierre Regional Airport will be revealed tomorrow afternoon (Sept. 16, 2022).
Jim Mollison is one of the event organizers. He says the display will feature artwork of Wade Hubbard’s F-4E Phantom II fighter.
Mollison says Hubbard flew hundred of missions and came home highly decorated.
Along with the five Distinguished Flying Crosses, Hubbard accumulated 439 combat missions, survived being shot down over enemy-held Cambodia and was also awarded The Purple Heart medal.
There will be a Social Hour from 4:30-5:15pm, followed by the artwork unveiling and remarks from Hubbard. The public is invited, with special emphasis on Vietnam War veterans and their families.
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The Pierre Regional Airport’s “The Eagles Gallery,” featuring artwork and artifacts pertaining to aircraft flown by historically significant South Dakota veterans, will accept the latest addition on Friday, September 16 at a presentation event from 4:30pm – 5:45pm. The public is invited with special emphasis on Vietnam War veterans
and their families.
Hubbard accumulated a remarkable 439 combat missions, survived being shot down over enemy-held Cambodia and was awarded five Distinguished Flying Crosses (DFC) as well as The Purple Heart medal. The artwork is of a particular F-4 Phantom II jet aircraft that played an extraordinary role during Hubbard’s notable military service.
Distinguished Flying Cross Society chairman Woody Gilliland expressed his appreciation for the moment, “Wade’s five DFCs are extraordinary — we’re not only thrilled to see him recognized by South Dakotans, we’re also humbled to have him represent our values of Achievement, Courage and Education. This is a great honor for Wade and the city of Pierre!”
The Pierre-Fort Pierre Rotary Club has played a Patron role in The Eagles Gallery. Club President, Lori Simpson, stated “Rotary’s motto is Service Above Self. The men whose airplanes and stories will be displayed in The Eagles Gallery embodied that motto and represent the extraordinary actions of South Dakotans who responded and
continue to respond to the call of service. Our Club is proud to support this effort.”
Pierre City Commissioner, Jamie Huizenga stated, “These stories are not just memories. They’re inspiring to us now. I’ve known Wade for many years and to see him recognized for his courage and humility is really terrific. I hope the whole community shows up to say thank you.”
Artist John Mollison believes Vietnam War veteran stories can provide powerful inspiration for the future. “The Vietnam War contains highly valuable stories that can make people today more successful in business, politics and community life. Their history has often been misunderstood and hidden under myth and inconvenience. We
overlook their voice at our peril but when we listen and learn, we can grow so much stronger for tomorrow.
The event will have a Social Hour from 4:30 to 5:15, followed by the artwork unveiling and feature remarks from Hubbard.
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