By Chad Haas, EAA 1265808
The Orlando Apopka Airport (X04) has long been home to a close-knit community with almost a rural lifestyle, even though it is situated a few miles away from the tourist bustle of central Florida. EAA Chapter 1551 has been a part of the airport fabric since its charter in 2013.
On January 19, Chapter 1551 members, families, and friends came together to construct a memorial patio and seating area under a stand of palm trees beside the main ramp area. What would have been a multiday effort came together in a few hours of work and camaraderie.
According to Greg Kelsoe, EAA 1086865, the project came out of the desire to honor members of the Orlando Apopka aviation community who have died, and provide an area for our airport community to enjoy the wonder of flight.
The area has quickly filled a niche in the community, providing a place to enjoy a cup of coffee and talk about past and future flying adventures.
Chapter 1551 will host a Young Eagles event with American Heritage Girls Troop FL2911 on March 2. The area will provide the perfect place for families to watch their young aviators take flight for the first time.