In an ambitious and heartwarming effort to honor aviation history and those who paved the way for modern flight, the Veterans Memorial Park (VMP) is in the process of creating a remarkable new space: the Racers Air Plaza. This innovative plaza is set to be a sanctuary of history, reflection, and education, promising a unique blend of leisure and learning for all ages.
Located on the southeast corner of the park at Wabash and 34th, the Racers Air Plaza is designed to be a focal point of community engagement and historical preservation. The project features an impressive display of four iconic planes, each carefully selected to narrate a different chapter of aviation history and the spirit of competition and innovation that drove early aviators to push the boundaries of what was possible.
Project Goals
Honor
Educate
Inspire
Remember
Project Timeline
Adding a personal touch to the plaza, memorial bricks will pave the pathways, offering individuals and families a chance to leave a lasting legacy in the park. These bricks will not only serve as a pathway through the plaza but also as a mosaic of memories, tributes, and stories from those who wish to remember and honor the aviators of the past.
The Racers Air Plaza is thoughtfully designed to offer plenty of space for visitors to sit, relax, and soak in the day. Whether it’s families enjoying a sunny afternoon, history enthusiasts deep in thought, or veterans reflecting on the sacrifices of their fellow servicemen and women, the plaza is a welcoming space for everyone to find peace, inspiration, and community.
Education plays a central role in the mission of the Racers Air Plaza. Through informative displays and interactive exhibits, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the history of aviation, the science behind flight, and the incredible stories of the men and women who took to the skies in pursuit of their dreams. It’s a chance to inspire the next generation of pilots, engineers, and dreamers to reach for the stars.
About the Aircraft
F-4C Phantom
The F-4C Phantom played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War as the main air superiority fighter for the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps. It later transitioned into ground-attack and reconnaissance roles. Years active at Hulman Field: 1979-1991
F-16C Falcon
The F-16C Falcon, a single-engine supersonic multi-role fighter, boasts a frameless bubble canopy for enhanced visibility and maneuverability, being the first to execute 9-G maneuvers and exceed Mach 2 speeds. Years active at Hulman Field: 1991-2007
F-84F Thunderstreak
The F-84F Thunderstreak, an American swept-wing turbojet fighterbomber, was equipped with the Low-Altitude Bombing System (LABS) for nuclear bomb delivery and retired due to stress corrosion issues. Years active at Hulman Field: 1957-1971
The F-100D Super Sabre
The F-100D Super Sabre, part of the Century Series, was a supersonic single-seat fighter-bomber and was among the first U.S. Air Force fighters to achieve supersonic speed in level flight. Years active at Hulman Field: 1971-1979
About the Aircraft
F-4C Phantom
The F-4C Phantom played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War as the main air superiority fighter for the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps. It later transitioned into ground-attack and reconnaissance roles. Years active at Hulman Field: 1979-1991
F-16C Falcon
The F-16C Falcon, a single-engine supersonic multi-role fighter, boasts a frameless bubble canopy for enhanced visibility and maneuverability, being the first to execute 9-G maneuvers and exceed Mach 2 speeds. Years active at Hulman Field: 1991-2007
F-84F Thunderstruck
The F-84F Thunderstreak, an American swept-wing turbojet fighterbomber, was equipped with the Low-Altitude Bombing System (LABS) for nuclear bomb delivery and retired due to stress corrosion issues. Years active at Hulman Field: 1957-1971
The F-100D Super Sabre
The F-100D Super Sabre, part of the Century Series, was a supersonic single-seat fighter-bomber and was among the first U.S. Air Force fighters to achieve supersonic speed in level flight. Years active at Hulman Field: 1971-1979
The VMP’s commitment to creating the Racers Air Plaza is a testament to the power of remembering our history while looking forward to the future. As the project progresses, it promises to become a cherished space where the community can come together to celebrate the pioneers of aviation, learn from their courage and innovation, and be inspired to carry their legacy into the future.
In essence, the Racers Air Plaza is more than just a space; it’s a bridge connecting the past, present, and future. It’s a place where history takes flight, and the stories of the ones who came before us are told with pride and reverence. As the VMP works diligently to bring this vision to life, the Racers Air Plaza is poised to become a beloved landmark for generations to come.
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