BUCHANAN, Va. (WFXR) – New Freedom Farm is preparing for their annual Freedom Fest that takes place on April 4th. In doing so, the farm’s Veteran Mentor and Barn Manager, Andrew Kintgen took an unforgettable ride.
I actually got to take a ride with the pilot Lew Feldberry in the backseat of his T-6 Texan, doing a reconnaissance of the farm of where we’re going to fly over and hold areas, it was an amazing time.
Andrew Kintgen, Veteran Mentor and Barn Manager – New Freedom Farm
As part of the Festival’s opening ceremony, T-6 Texan planes will be flying in a missing man formation.
The era of veterans that come out to the farm, some of these veterans will be familiar with these planes from the time and era that they spent in war. Also, you don’t get these types of airplanes to do flyovers, they’re unique personally-owned aircrafts, so the pilots that are spending their time, dedicating their time to do this, it’s an honor.
Andrew Kintgen, Veteran Mentor and Barn Manager – New Freedom Farm
Kintgen says getting to ride in the aircraft was a highlight for him.
I’ve never been a little two-seater plane and that was a once in a lifetime kind of experience for me, definitely. Definitely would love to do it again.
Andrew Kintgen, Veteran Mentor and Barn Manager – New Freedom Farm
Besides a meaningful flyover, those who attend Freedom Fest can expect live music, entertainment, multiple vendors, auctions, and raffles.
The event is open to all and serves a very important mission.
Statistically, twenty-two veterans a day commit suicide from PTSD, and other ailments that they have suffered through their time. Our mission at the farm is saving one veteran, one day at a time.
Andrew Kintgen, Veteran Mentor and Barn Manager – New Freedom Farm
New Freedom Farm is a non-profit. All donations received support the farm and its mission. The farm and the people that work there have and continue to touch and save lives.
For more information on this event, click here.
