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Re-enactment celebrates airmail service

Attendees explore reenactment plane
Pilot John Weyrich and participants check out a Stearman, a biplane used during World War II training exercises, before it takes flight in College Park, MD, Aug. 12.

The dedication of this year’s second United States Air Mail stamp was part of a weekend-long commemoration of the 100th anniversary of airmail service.

The other activities included a ceremonial flight that honored an Aug. 12, 1918, trip that marked the transition of airmail service from the Army to the U.S. Post Office Department.

During the re-enactment, pilot John Weyrich flew a Stearman, a biplane used in World War II training exercises, around College Park, MD, where the 1918 flight originated.

The College Park Aviation Museum, which hosted the stamp dedication ceremony, organized the ceremonial flight and the other activities.

The weekend also included a pancake breakfast and a “family day” where attendees could get an up-close look at the Stearman, as well as a gala celebration to mark the debut of an airmail-themed exhibit. Some attendees wore 1920s cocktail attire.

Jim Miller, whose uncle Max Miller was an airmail pilot, told the local CBS station that he appreciated the efforts to honor the brave souls who are remembered today as aviation pioneers.

“They were the astronauts of their day” Miller said.

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