Several veterans returned to the skies aboard Foley’s historic N3N biplane during the Veteran’s Flight 2025 held as part of Blue Angels Air Show.
The 83-year-old biplane was one of several vintage aircraft that took part in the annual event. Two of the participants flown by the Foley N3N had served in World War II and were more than 100 years old.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the flights are a good way for the city and others to honor veterans.
The mayor also thanked pilot Phil Webb, who flew the N3N during the Veterans Flight and has helped maintain the aircraft since it was acquired by Foley.
Webb said aircraft participating in the Veterans Flights included eight Stearman biplanes, T-6 Texans, SNJs and a T-34. The Foley biplane was the first N3N to take part in the event.
Hellmich said Foley resident Butch Cole also took part in the event flying a Stearman.
The Veterans Flight took place July 11 through 13.
Foley acquired the N3N as part of the city’s commemoration of being named an American World War II Heritage City. Only one city in each state or territory can receive the designation from the National Park Service.
The city is also making plans to fly the N3N in the area and at aviation events to educate the public about the area’s role in World War II and to commemorate the pilots who were trained in the area.
