Earl G. Anderson, Jr., Named 2009 Indiana Aviator Of The Year

World War II veteran to be honored during Indianapolis Air Show next month, June 5, 6 and 7 (Indianapolis, Ind.) – Earl G. Anderson, Jr., of Indianapolis, has been selected as the 2009 Indiana Aviator of the Year by the Indianapolis Air Show Executive Committee.

Anderson, who was born in Rockford, Ill., in 1920, developed his passion for aviation while serving in the military. He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, and went on to pilot the B24 bomber. In June 1944, just after successfully completing a combat mission, Anderson’s plane was hit. He was captured and held as a prisoner of war for nearly a year. In recognition of his military valor, Anderson was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

“Earl has been active in the state’s aviation community for many years,” said Roger Bishop, chairman of the 2009 air show. “He is extraordinary in the giving of his time and talents, and we couldn’t think of a better person for this award.

“And it’s fitting that Earl is being recognized in 2009,” Bishop added. “This June 6 will mark the 65th anniversary of D-Day, and that date falls during the Indianapolis Air Show. We have a number of special things planned to honor those who served our country so honorably during World War II, and Earl provides a great inspiration for our activities.”

Earl G. Anderson and his wife Gerrie have been married for 67 years. They have two daughters, Marilyn and Barbara, and five grandchildren. Anderson is the chairman of the Indianapolis Air Show’s golf outing, “Score for the Kids at Riley,” which has raised thousands of dollars for Riley Hospital for Children over the years.

Discounted tickets to this year’s Indianapolis Air Show – which is being held earlier in the summer than in the past, on June 5, 6 and 7 at Mt. Comfort Airport – are now available at all Marsh and United Package Liquors stores. You can also get discounted tickets ahead of time at the IAS web site

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels are headlining the show, which benefits children’s charities through the Central Indiana Community Foundation. They will be joined at the event by the Golden Knights – the Army’s top-notch parachute team – as well as additional military aircraft.

Also confirmed for 2009 are numerous civilian acts featuring wingwalkers, pyrotechnicans and more that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

For the most up-to-date line-up for the Indianapolis Air Show, please check out the event website.