Guest Speaker Colonel Gail Halvorsen Delivers Inspiring Message of Service, Love, Hope

The Utah Federation hosted the annual Summer Social on August 24, 2019, welcoming as guest speaker 99-year-old retired Air Force pilot Col. Gail Halvorsen, better known as the "Candy Bomber" for dropping candy to children in Germany during the Berlin Airlift in the late 1940s.

Halvorsen's message of service, love and hope was inspiring. “Surprising someone with an unexpected act of kindness or service is one of the most exciting and gratifying things you can do,” he said, adding that we should serve those who are least deserving or don't expect to be served, and that serving enriches the lives of everyone around us.

Attendees were able to take home their own candy bomber parachute, and two lucky winners received a book personalized and autographed by Col. Halvorsen.

Attending from across the state were Republican women and their families, elected officials and candidates.

"With the nearing of the 2020 elections, Utah FRW women are a strong force and are ready to influence and support candidates in their elections," Utah FRW President LeRene Cox said. "We know that when Republican candidates win, both Utah and the nation win!"

Learn more about the Gail S. Halvorsen Aviation Education Foundation at www.thecandybomber.org.