VINCENT QUADRANI OF Kingsford has fulfilled his dream of owning an A-26 Invader, a World War II bomber that first drew his fascination as a boy attending Experimental Aircraft Association fly-ins in Oshkosh, Wis. More than 20 years later, after working on an A-26 project plane by himself for several years and selling it to the U.S. Air Force as a museum piece, Quadrani was able to strike up a deal to acquire a flying A-26 he had worked on as well. He debuted the A-26 named “The Silver Dragon” at the EAA Sun-n-Fun in Lakeland, Fla., in April, winning the Judges Choice Award. Ford Airport will be the new home for the Invader, with plans for a small museum to house it. (Daily News photo)

By Terri Castelaz

The Daily News

KINGSFORD — Two World War II-era aircrafts highlight this year’s Ford Airport Day on Saturday.

The Experimental Aircraft Association’s B-25 Mitchell bomber “Berlin Express” and the A-26 Invader “The Silver Dragon” will be featured at the 19th-annual event from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the airport in Kingsford.

In addition to these bombers, spectators can expect a great complement of other planes and vehicles, said Tom Sullivan, president of EAA Chapter 439.

The Just Cruizin’ Car Club is celebrating its 25th anniversary and has planned its fall show in conjunction with Ford Airport Days. Everyone is welcome to bring their car, truck or motorcycle to enter in the show, which will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the trophy presentation set for 2 p.m.

“This will be the only car show this fall for the club in Dickinson County,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan said they have expanded the children’s activities this year.

In addition to the train and the pedal planes for kids, youth will have a chance to fly a drone. “They will be able to operate these drones within the enclosed tents,” he said. “It should be fun.”

The Young Eagle Flights are again available to those ages 8 to 17. Pre-registration is required for the flights. For more details, go to the EAA Chapter 439 Facebook page.

A pancake breakfast will be served from 8 to 10 a.m., then lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the hangar. They will offer hot dogs, hamburgers, brats and a variety of snacks and beverages.

“One of the reasons we do this is very few people get access to the restricted areas of the airport. This gives them an opportunity to get up close to the planes and talk to the pilots,” Sullivan said, adding, “We want the community to see what a benefit the airport is for the area.”

It is important to develop an interest in aviation among area youth as well.

“A career in aviation is open to anyone, including girls,” he said.

Friday will feature the Tribute to Veterans program beginning at 11 a.m. in the Dickinson County hangar at Ford Airport. Guest speaker will be local veteran Denny Olson. Veterans also will be treated to a free lunch.

“This will give veterans an opportunity to check out the two World War II planes prior to the actual event,” said Sullivan, noting they plan to provide those veteran who received tickets from the Dickinson County Office of Veterans Affairs with a ride in the B-25 if weather permits Friday.

Admission for Ford Airport Day on Saturday is $10 per person, with no charge for children younger than age 8 and a maximum fee of $30 per family.

EAA Chapter 439’s Ford Airport Day relies on sponsorship. Major sponsors include Bacco Construction, Champion Inc. and the Tourism Association of the Dickinson County Area.

“We are hoping that Mother Nature is kind to us on Saturday, so the community can come out and enjoy the day,” Sullivan said.