From July 20–26, the Operation Airdrop team joined the aviation community in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, for EAA AirVenture 2026. Surrounded by people who share a passion for flight and service, we left the event hopeful and excited about our organization’s future. Every conversation, new relationship, and volunteer registration strengthened our confidence that Operation Airdrop will be ready to answer the call when the next community needs help.
Our volunteers were at the heart of an extraordinary week. Familiar faces served alongside first-time volunteers, all united by a genuine desire to help others. They welcomed visitors, shared our story, answered questions, and stepped up wherever they were needed. Their enthusiasm, professionalism, and selfless commitment reflected the very best of Operation Airdrop. We are deeply grateful to everyone who gave their time and energy to make the week such a success.
EAA AirVenture once again delivered an outstanding celebration of aviation. From remarkable aircraft and flight demonstrations to informative programs and exceptional vendors, the event offered something meaningful at every turn. We extend a special thank-you to American Legend Aircraft for welcoming Operation Airdrop to its booth and supporting our presence throughout the week. Its hospitality and partnership made this opportunity possible.
One of the week’s most memorable moments was meeting Dr. Troy E. Meink, Secretary of the Air Force, and General Kenneth S. Wilsbach, Chief of Staff of the Air Force. It was an honor for our team to connect with two distinguished leaders whose service exemplifies the professionalism, readiness, and commitment that define the aviation community. Their visit was an exciting and meaningful highlight of an already unforgettable week.
Operation Airdrop was honored to participate in Air Care Alliance’s volunteer pilot briefing, where Executive Director Russ Keith shared how general aviation pilots can help deliver critical supplies to communities cut off by natural disasters. We are deeply grateful to Air Care Alliance for including us and allowing us to introduce our mission to pilots eager to use their skills and aircraft in service to others. The presentation also led to an interview with ABC 2 WBAY-TV, allowing us to share the Operation Airdrop story with an even broader audience and highlight the vital role volunteer aviation plays in disaster response.
EAA AirVenture also gave us an invaluable opportunity to introduce Operation Airdrop to new audiences. Our team spoke with general aviation pilots who may one day carry critical supplies. These ground-support volunteers can help keep missions moving, and supporters interested in strengthening disaster-response efforts. Each conversation let us explain how Operation Airdrop mobilizes volunteer pilots, aircraft, and logistics teams to deliver food, water, medical supplies, and other essentials to communities cut off by natural disasters. Building these relationships before disaster strikes is essential to responding quickly and effectively when roads, bridges, and traditional supply lines are compromised.
By the end of the week, more than 200 new volunteers had joined the Operation Airdrop network. That number far exceeds registrations—it includes pilots, ground crews, coordinators, advocates, and neighbors ready to serve communities in their greatest moments of need. EAA AirVenture 2026 was an extraordinary accomplishment for our team and an important step forward for our mission. To every volunteer, partner, supporter, and visitor who spent time with us in Oshkosh: thank you for believing in the power of general aviation to help others. Together, we are strengthening readiness, expanding our reach, and preparing to deliver hope wherever it is needed next.
