SUN 'n FUN Honors Veterans at the Hangar Door Canteen

For more information contact: James Bernegger       Director, Corporate Marketing and Communications      863-644-2431 x112 jbernegger@sun-n-fun.org November 8, 2011

SUN ’n FUN HONORS OUR AREA VETERANS AT THE 2ND ANNUAL HANGAR DOOR CANTEEN SUN ’n FUN CAMPUS, LAKELAND, FL. - SUN ’n FUN is producing its second annual “Hangar Door Canteen” designed to recognize our nation’s military veterans on their day, 11.11.11.         This Friday evening  SUN ‘n FUN will host a salute to all veterans and active duty military during a 1940s-themed dinner/dance in SUN ’n FUN’s Hangar A – one of  four aircraft hangars at SUN ‘FUN  that will be decorated to reflect the Canteen socials made famous by the United Service Organization (USO) during the war years.  “Big Band” style entertainment and a “taste of the 40s” by Terrie Lobb Catering will be part of the evening’s festivities. A live and silent auction, photo opportunities with USO Pin-Up Girls and a “War Bond” 50/50 drawing get underway at 7:00 p.m. We encourage 1940s costumes or military attire.     “SUN ’n FUN is proud to recognize all soldiers who have served in our nation’s military, especially those who fought and died to protect the freedoms we enjoy today,” said SUN ’n FUN President John “Lites” Leenhouts.  “We are especially pleased to honor those veterans from World War II and Korea whose numbers are declining with the passing of each day.  We invite all those who feel – as we do – that these men and women deserve our sincere gratitude and respect to join us November 11 to celebrate Veterans Day with this very special activity.” Tickets are available for $75 (general admission) or $65 (for veterans). Special fly-in and RV camping ticket packages are available online. The evening’s proceeds benefit the Florida Air Museum and its expanding year-round education programs. Tickets can be ordered online at  www.sun-n-fun.org. SUN ’n FUN, a 501(c) (3) not–for–profit organization based in Lakeland, Florida, is best known for its annual International Fly–In & Expo held each April.  The springtime event is the primary source of funding for SUN ’n FUN’s expanding year–round aviation education programs.  These include operation of the Florida Air Museum, the state’s “Official Aviation Museum and Education Center,” which is also supported through grants from the Division of Historical Resources and Division of Cultural Affairs, Florida Department of State.   In addition, SUN ’n FUN has initiated education programs for aviation enthusiasts of all ages – especially young people – featuring valuable “hands on” learning experiences, including the new Central Florida Aerospace Academy (CFAA) in partnership with the Polk County School Board, Polk State College, the University of South Florida Polytechnic, Gulf Coast Avionics and other education-minded organizations.  A growing scholarship program provides financial support to ensure SUN ’n FUN’s education programs are accessible to all.  For more information, access SUN ’n FUN’s website www.sun-n-fun.org or call the SUN ’n FUN offices (863–644–2431).