January 15, 2026, 7 p.m. CST — The Beech Starship
Speaker: Tom Carr
For the first Speaker Series presentation of 2026, we are excited to welcome Tom Carr, who will take us on a behind-the-scenes look at the test program on the Beech Starship.
Learn about unique and historic aviation experiences during the Speaker Series, conducted by passionate aviators with a unique story to tell. Presentations take place in the Founder's Wing at the EAA Aviation Museum. All presentations start at 7:00 p.m. Snacks and refreshments available for purchase.
Free for EAA members | $5 for nonmembers
February 19, 2026, 7 p.m. CST — Jolly Green Giant: Rescue in Vietnam
Speaker: John Duffy
John will share what life was like during his time as a rescue pilot during the Vietnam War, and what it was like flying the legendary Jolly Green Giant, a Sikorsky HH-3E helicopter, during missions to save the lives of downed airmen.
March 19, 2026, 7 p.m. CDT — The Art of Flying Historic Aircraft
Speaker: Doug Rozendaal
When it comes to warbirds and vintage aircraft, Doug Rozendaal has been flying them for several decades, and he will be joining us to talk about his career and the many incredible adventures he has gotten to take in some historic airframes.
April 16, 2026, 7 p.m. CDT — The B-1 Program
Speaker: Panel of B-1 Experts Led by Kenneth Katz
We are excited and honored to welcome a panel of individuals who built, tested, and flew the Rockwell B-1 Lancer.
May 21, 2026, 7 p.m. CDT — Rescue Me!
Speaker: Panel of Firefighting Pilots
Celebrate the history and future of the brave women who undertake lifesaving missions in the air. This incredible panel of pilots fly a variety of missions to fight forest fires and get help to those who need it most.
June 18, 2026, 7 p.m. CDT — Black Sheep Squadron
Speaker: Stephen Chapis
We are joined by author Stephen Chapis, who will talk about the television show “Baa Baa Black Sheep,” which is based on the World War II Black Sheep Squadron. The show celebrates its 50th anniversary and has inspired many warbird enthusiasts.
August 20, 2026, 7 p.m. CDT — Buster: The Re-Creation of a Racing Icon
Speaker: Jim Cunningham, Mike Butler, and Jim Casper
Meet and hear from part of the team responsible for the building of the replica of a local Oshkosh aircraft that had one of the most successful careers in air racing history, Buster. Jim Cunningham, Mike Butler, and Jim Casper will talk about the history and process of this project.
September 11, 2026, 7 p.m. CDT — EAA Remembers 9/11: 25th Anniversary
Speaker: TBD
Join us for a special evening as we reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, and honor those who stood tall at a time when our country needed heroes.
