Whether you are involved in the sport of Drag Racing or not, you can definitely see the correlation between high powered race cars and all types of aircraft.
This Memorial Day weekend, Parise Racing took time out to slow down and recognize Memorial Day for what it is all about.
Parise Racing spent Saturday and Sunday of Memorial Day weekend at the American Airpower Museum in Farmingdale, NY. Rather than a garage, the Pro Mods were displayed in a hangar along with historic American Military aircraft.
While the two days could be emotional at times, it was quite rewarding for the team as well. In the midst of honoring the fallen heroes of the U.S. military, the team met a few service men and women currently serving. Their appreciation for the paint schemes on the Tim McAmis 63 Vette and the Montana Bros. 53 Vette was far out-weighed by our appreciation for what they have sacrificed for this country. The same goes for the many other veterans the team had the honor to speak to over the two days. We want to thank them ALL for their service and sacrifice.
The team got up close and personal with the A-10 East Demonstration team and the A-10 Thunderbolt ll . This aircraft makes exceptional aerial maneuvers. This Air Force Aircraft is designed for close air support of ground forces. The team was very accessible and gave a tour of the aircraft. In turn, their team was given a tour of the Pro Mods! There was talk of a race down the tarmac……….
Taking part in the festivities was one of the original ‘Rosie the Riveters’. She and others played a big role in building the A-10 right here on Long Island, NY. Although her given name is Josephine, she says you can call her Rosie. Listening to her recall stories of women being test pilots for the aircraft due to the men being overseas at war was amazing. Did you know that women were the ones who built the planes, but never received credit until recently? Or that they were too young to have a driver’s license, but they could fly a plane? They are the unsung heroes.
The ‘Freedoms Flying Memorial’ Marine Helicopter Squadron 361 was also on hand. They were gracious enough to let us take photos with the cars. This helicopter is a traveling museum itself. They rely completely on donations, and what they can afford on their own. It was found in a junkyard and brought back to life. Very impressive.
Lastly the team would like to acknowledge the Warbirds over Long Island and Chris Baranakas. Chris flies a p-51 Mustang and his Dad Bob flew a P-40 ‘Warhahawk’ ,the very aircraft that inspired the paint scheme for the 53 Vette.
Bob was killed in April when his plane crashed while performing maneuvers on Long Island.
Since recently losing his ‘wingman’, Chris has still persevered and continued the presentation of these World War ll aircraft. He is continuing his father’s passion to keep the public in touch with our heritage, the fighters that were flown and the men and women who flew them. Preserving our nation’s former weapons of war for future generations to see and learn from is an obligation the Warbirds take seriously and we are all the better for the work you do.
For photos of this and other events, visit http://www.pariseracing.com/ and click on the media tab.
Always remember freedom is not free~ Thank a Veteran
Dina and Andrew Parise
Parise Racing