CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 22, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Goodrich Corporation's (NYSE: GR) Aircraft Wheels and Brakes team in Troy, Ohio donated a 1929 WACO Model CTO "Taperwing" biplane, once owned by famous air racer Joe Mackey, to the WACO Historical Society. A ceremony involving Goodrich employees, representatives of the WACO Historical Society and Troy civic leaders was held at Historic WACO Field today to commemorate the donation.
Troy Mayor Michael L. Beamish said, "This is a great example of the strong community partnership and pride that exists in Troy. With the donation of the 1929 WACO Taperwing, Goodrich brings its history of aviation to the WACO Air Museum. Preserving WACO history with this special donation will enhance the education and enjoyment of visitors to Historic WACO Field. On behalf of the citizens of Troy, we thank Goodrich for its donation and continued community support."
Don Willis, Treasurer of the WACO Historical Society, said, "We are very pleased to add this famous aircraft to our growing collection. It serves as an example of the early aircraft technology developed by WACO, and its ties to Goodrich illustrate the continuing partnership between WACO and the community."
Brian Brandewie, president, Goodrich Aircraft Wheels and Brakes said, "Donating Joe Mackey's Taperwing to the WACO Historical Society underscores the rich aerospace heritage that Goodrich shares with the city of Troy. Many of our employees grew up in this area, and several have volunteered to ensure the preservation of this extraordinary aircraft. We are proud of our history and appreciate the cooperative efforts of the Historical Society to help us celebrate the accomplishments of aviation past, present and future."
The WACO aircraft company produced hundreds of aircraft - more than 80 different models - from the 1920s through 1940s at its facility in Troy, Ohio. Its popular Taperwing biplane model was a favorite for aerobatics and racing. Air racer Joe Mackey flew a Taperwing to many victories in the 1930s, including the top prize at the 1936 Paris Air Show. Goodrich Corporation's Aircraft Wheels and Brakes business acquired Mackey's Taperwing in 1993 as a way to represent and preserve the aviation heritage of Troy. Goodrich coordinated the plane's restoration, culminating in a 1996 flight. Since then, the plane has flown numerous aerial demonstrations at air shows across the U.S.
Goodrich Aircraft Wheels and Brake was founded in 1946 on the grounds of the original WACO Aircraft Company in Troy, Ohio. Headquartered in Troy for over 60 years, the business currently employs more than 1,400 people in 11 facilities in the U.S., UK, Australia, and Hong Kong. The business designs, develops and manufactures more than 200 types of wheels and brakes for commercial and military aerospace customers worldwide; platforms include the U.S. Space Shuttle, the new Airbus A350 XWB and Boeing 787 Dreamliner commercial aircraft, the Mitsubishi MRJ regional jet, the Northrop Grumman Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicle, and the Sukhoi Superjet 100.
Goodrich Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, is a global supplier of systems and services to aerospace, defense and homeland security markets. With one of the most strategically diversified portfolios of products in the industry, Goodrich serves a global customer base with significant worldwide manufacturing and service facilities. For more information, visit http://www.goodrich.com.
SOURCE Goodrich Corporation; GR - Actuation and Landing Systems
