As we conclude the 2024 Triple Tree Fly-In, I am reminded of the words of Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin: “The standard is the standard.” These words were spoken during a tumultuous season, and they resonate deeply today. But words alone are not enough without action, leadership, and drive.
We are incredibly proud of our dedicated team of volunteers who, despite overwhelming odds, upheld our standard of Fun, Fellowship, and Hospitality in the face of Hurricane Helene’s challenges. These weren’t just words for us—they were a call to action.
Together, we evacuated people, motorhomes, and airplanes to safety as the river swelled to a once-in-a-century flood level. Together, we secured new locations for hundreds of guests, alerted thousands from across the globe about the conditions, and still, they found a way to safely arrive and support their airport—Triple Tree Aerodrome.
To our incredible guests: You are more than guests—you are family. Your unwavering support, your journeys to be with us, and your decision to stay through challenging circumstances mean more than words can express. You are the fabric of why we do what we do. Through your presence, you have helped build an even closer sense of community, forged in adversity, and strengthened by the spirit of Fun, Fellowship, and Hospitality.
You came to your airport because of the standard set by Pat and Mary Lou when they entrusted Triple Tree to us as its caretakers. That first passing of the torch set the tone for what we would accomplish here.
And symbolically, during this 2024 Fly-In—merged with the Young Aviators Fly-In—we witnessed experienced aviators passing their knowledge and passion on to the youth. Despite the overwhelming odds, the spirit of Fun, Fellowship, and Hospitality lived on. The standard was, and always will be, the standard.
Each of you should feel an immense sense of pride. You have not only continued the legacy but showcased the servant leadership that Pat and Mary Lou set in motion over a decade ago.
From the bottom of our hearts, we humbly thank each and every one of you—volunteers and guests alike.
PDF version of the statement can be found here 2024 TTFI Thank You
