A Father’s Day Flyover

Father’s Day turned out to be pretty spectacular despite the terrible weather. Kelly, Parker and I went with several of our family friends to the Olympia Air Show to see the planes and let the kids get close up views of the “ah-panes.” Not expecting much from the Olympia Regional Airport, I was surprised to find the place packed with both planes and patrons.

After parking in a field some distance away, we made our way to the Air Museum entrance and proceeded out onto the tarmac. The expanse was littered with food booths, bouncy-houses for the kids, vendors of all sorts…and planes! Lots of planes. Helicopters too. There were about 15 Japanese Zeros from WWII all painted differently, several bi-planes in bright, primary colors, small stunt and acrobatic planes, cool fighter jets including an F-18 and an F-4 Phantom, and the coolest by far for me, a WWII-era B-25 bomber (I didn’t get pictures of most of these planes as it was raining quite heavily for most of the day and Kelly had the camera). I’ve included a stock photo of a B-25 so you can see what I’m talking about.

After touring the show, watching a few acrobatic and helicopter flights and ducking under tents when the downpour increased, we were debating heading home. That’s when one of our party spotted the beer garden. We decided to take turns watching the kids and rotating adults through the beer garden in 20 minute shifts (except the designated drivers). Of course, 20 minutes shifts in a beer garden really turn into 40 minute shifts and about the time the F-18 was screaming down the runway we were all feeling pretty good.

After the airshow, we had a Father’s Day afterparty at our good friend’s house which lasted well into the evening and we had a great time. The only downside to this father’s day was not having my own father in town and not being able to call my grandfathers, both of whom passed away in January. Still, it was a day to remember them and enjoy my time with Parker, and I did both.

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About Washington Our Home

My name is Erich Ebel and I love this state. I’ve lived on the green side as well as the brown side. I’ve navigated the rivers and climbed the mountains. I’ve fished its lakes, hiked its trails, marveled at its geology, and studied its fascinating, storied history. I’ve spent the past ten years discovering and sharing stories about Washington’s history, heritage, and culture. My blog, videos, and podcasts hold a treasure trove of interesting facts, unknown facets, and fascinating tales that help to educate the general public about the privileges of being in Washington. I’m the current chair of the City of Lacey Historical Commission, and previously served as Marketing and Communications Director for the Washington State Historical Society and Museum. I’ve been a board member for the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation, and the History Insider for Scenic Washington magazine.

1 Comment

  1. Missed you and Parker too. Dad

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