Article Display

WWI Centennial Commissioner Presents DH-4

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class BrieAnna Stillman
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The 50th Attack Squadron was presented one of only five Airco DH-4 model aircraft in the world from Jerry Hester, World War I centennial commissioner at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, May 2.

Hester had the opportunity to tour the 50th ATKS and speak to the Airmen about the history of the WWI centennial commission.


“The DH-4 had a mission of persistent reconnaissance observation similar to today’s 50th ATKS, but has evolved because of the leading edge technology that we have today,” said Hester.

“He brought with him a wealth of information and knowledge about the history of the 50th Aero Squadron which is now today the 50th ATKS,” said Senior Master Sgt. Christopher Wlodarczyk, 50th ATKS MQ-9 superintendent.
Both the 50th ATKS and Hester made visit impacts on each other. Wlodarczyk said Hesters visit to the squadron is inspiring to their Airmen through his sharing of the 50th Aero Squadron history and heritage.

Hester said, “We had nothing like we have today, the people and technology have grown immensely and this experience has been incredibly eye opening.”