In October 2022, Springfield Masonic Community resident Don Muncy celebrated his 100th birthday with a party that brought together generations of friends and family. Little did anyone know that the party was just the beginning of where his adventures would take him that year.
A World War II veteran who spent his career in air traffic control, Don was honored as a recipient of the 2023 Ford Oval of Honor. Hundreds of people attended the event at the National Museum of the United States Air Force where Don’s story was shared and he received his award. The next day, he was the parade grand marshal for the CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show.
A few years ago, Don was one of the Springfield Masonic Community residents who was given the opportunity to fly with Dream Flights. Under normal circumstances, a senior living resident can only go for a ride in the open cockpit biplane one time. But the exception is known as the Centenarian Club. Because Don is 100, he was able to experience his second ride with Dream Flights. Now he will have the chance to fly with them every year, and he’s already counting down the days until he can go for a ride in the biplane again next summer.
The best part, is that the flight honoring Don’s military service and his 100 years of life was the 6,000th flight that Dream Flights has given since they started on their mission of flying senior veterans.
Don didn’t stop there, though. In August he got to take a flight in Champaign Gal, a restored World War II B-25 J. After his flight, he was able to sign the inside of the bomb bay. Not only was it a fun experience, it crossed a plane off Don’s list. He has now flown on every World War II B-series bomber except for B-17 Flying Fortress – which he would jump on if given the chance. For now, Don celebrates his 101st birthday and continues planning his next adventures.
