Gene was a dear friend. I had the honor of putting together a permanent tribute to Gene, now displayed on the wall of the terminal at OVO, North Vernon, Indiana. I am so glad we did it when we did. It was presented during Christmas.
Gene had an accident-free flying career dating back to 1934, with almost 9000 hours logged. He flew virtually every WWII U.S. fighter and held the altitude record for P-47s, 41,000'. He served on the Board for OVO and was an example for generations of pilots in Southern Indiana. I believe my 9A was the last plane where he actually ever took the controls, and he loved it. He had sold his Tri-Pacer several years ago. One less veteran....
Bob Kelly
Gene had an accident-free flying career dating back to 1934, with almost 9000 hours logged. He flew virtually every WWII U.S. fighter and held the altitude record for P-47s, 41,000'. He served on the Board for OVO and was an example for generations of pilots in Southern Indiana. I believe my 9A was the last plane where he actually ever took the controls, and he loved it. He had sold his Tri-Pacer several years ago. One less veteran....
Bob Kelly
