WAUPACA COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Veterans are taking to the skies over Waupaca, courtesy of an old restored biplane from the World War Two era.
For passengers, it’s a chance of a lifetime. And for those behind the effort, the result certainly is “Making a Difference.”
For 84-year-old Paul, “Nick” Nebel, a ride in an airplane is nothing new, but an open-air 1942 Boeing Stearman biplane may be a little different. He says it’s the first time flying in a Stearman biplane.
Nebel is one of eight veterans getting a ride Tuesday, as part of the annual Dream Flight at the Waupaca Municipal Airport.
“Our mission is to give back to those who gave. So we give veterans, senior veterans, who live in a nursing home, assisted living center, and retirement centers, dream flights,” said Darryl Fisher, Dream Flights Founder, President and Pilot.
Darryl Fisher says the two-seat Stearman was used to train American pilots in World War Two.
“It’s a difficult airplane to fly, honestly. But it’s enjoyable, because of the history and when you know what they did,” he said.
The 20-minute ride includes some sight-seeing. Nebel served as a corpsman in the U.S. Army during the Cold War era. He now lives at The Wisconsin Veterans Home at King.
“The view was fantastic. It’s a nice little town down there. Then he went around the lakes, and lo and behold, there’s our home. And we flew by that, and I could actually see my bedroom,” said Paul “Nick” Nebel, U.S. Army Veteran.
And as the yellow bird works its way home, Darryl Fisher says the effort is making a difference.
“It’s so cool to look in the mirror. I can see their face in the mirror, and the big smiles. It energizes them. It brings joy to their life. It’s a big deal,” he said.
“Nick” Nebel agrees.
“This is wonderful,” he said.
This is the 13th year of the program.
In that time, pilots have traveled around the country, providing about 6,200 Dream Flights.
