CULLMAN, Ala. – The annual Cullman Veterans Day Celebration will return to Cullman Regional Airport Saturday, Nov. 7, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Hosted by the Cullman Elks Veterans Committee, the celebration will feature historic military aircraft, live demonstrations, military displays and opportunities to honor local veterans. Admission and parking are free, and the event will be held rain or shine.
“Each year, we invite all Alabama citizens to gather at Cullman Regional Airport in Vinemont to honor the 7,000 military veterans and their families who live in Cullman County,” organizers shared on the event’s official website. “Rare warbirds, decorated speakers, living history and flyovers together create an event unlike any other in the Southeast.”
One of this year’s new featured attractions will be a Messerschmitt ME-262, recognized as the world’s first operational jet fighter and the first jet fighter to see combat. The event organizers say the aircraft’s appearance will mark the first time an ME-262 has been displayed in the South.
Additional historic aircraft scheduled to appear include a D-Day C-47 and a Royal Air Force Spitfire. Visitors will have opportunities to view the aircraft up close and learn more about their roles in military aviation history. The Bell UH-1 Huey helicopter will also be on display, giving attendees an opportunity to climb aboard and get an up-close look at one of the most recognizable military helicopters of the Vietnam War era.
This year’s celebration will also feature retired Chief Warrant Officer Mike Durant, a former U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter pilot who was shot down during the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia, an operation depicted in the film “Black Hawk Down.”
Durant survived the crash and was held captive for 11 days before being released. He will share his firsthand account of the mission, his captivity and the experiences of those who served alongside him. Durant will begin speaking at 10:30 a.m.
A Skydive Alabama parachute jump carrying the American flag will be among the day’s aerial demonstrations, along with the crowd favorite precision flyovers. Additional military vehicles and living history actors will also be available for visitors to explore and learn from.
As part of the celebration, a free hot lunch will be provided to veterans in appreciation of their service.
For additional information and event updates, visit cullmanveterans.com or follow the event page on Facebook at Cullman Veterans Day Celebration.
Cullman Regional Airport is located at 231 County Road 1360 in Vinemont.
