The Daily Dispatch

As a P-51 Mustang flew high over a hushed crowd of 3,000 Wednesday at Wahpeton’s Harry Stern Airport, all couldn’t help but think of the late Gerry Beck, a man passionate about the grace of flying and the satisfaction in restoring vintage war birds.

The P-51 was one of many historic aircraft that entertained at the airport for Wings Over Wahpeton, which featured the Canadian Snowbirds. The Snowbirds, with a show team of 24, have for 39 years made it their mission to demonstrate the skill and teamwork of the men and women who serve in the Canadian Forces. A squadron back in Canada adds 85 to the crew.

“The Snowbirds have always been my heroes,” said Tri-State Aviation owner Cindy Schreiber-Beck in a short speech after the show. Schreiber-Beck also said she was thrilled with the turnout, which overcame any expectations she had of the day.

The Canadian Snowbirds agreed to be a part of Wings Over Wahpeton after a request came to them from Warren Pietsch, a long-time friend and follower of the group.

“We’re thrilled to be here,” said Jennifer Jones, Canadian Snowbirds Public Information Officer.

Nine CT114 Tutor aircraft fly in the Snowbirds show, which this year featured all Canadian music in honor of the country’s 2009 special anniversary. Canada is celebrating 100 years of powered flight and the Snowbirds plan to celebrate at each show the country’s accomplishments in aviation throughout the last century.

“It’s a huge source of pride for us to be able to fly that aircraft around,” Jones said.

Although the CT114 is considered a jet, its ability to move at a slower speed is what allows the team to put on a graceful show where the planes perform maneuvers such as the Maple Split, a number of solo crosses, the Big Diamond Roll and the Canada Burst.

Jones said she is often asked why the Snowbirds travel to the United States to perform. Although it’s to showcase their skills and entertain, “we’re also in the inspiration business,” she said. The Snowbirds, who will perform in more than 65 shows by October in 45 North America locations, aim to reach out to people, both young and old. They relay the message that although a dream may not come easily, anything is possible. Jones said many of the members of the Snowbirds squadron grew up dreaming they’d get to one day join the team.

“It’s really a dream come true for a lot of the pilots on the team,” Jones said.

Performing before the Snowbirds hit the runway were the Pietsch brothers from Minot, Jim Peitz from Pierre, S.D., and the U.S. Air Force A-10 Demolition Team from Mesa, Ariz.

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