Dare County EMS Pulls for a Purpose, supporting great schools and a better community. They're 5-person team moved the C54 59'6".Entering into the annals of something truly different to do, the Dare Educations Foundation's Pulling for a Purpose matched five contestants against the 47,000 pounds of the Candy Bomber.
The Candy Bomber
The Candy Bomber—a vintage C54 four engine propeller plane—was in town for its annual visit to drop candy for children and do a December 17 flyover at the Wright Brothers Monument.
This may be the last year for the Candy Bomber to come to the Outer Banks. The same aircraft that Lt. Colonel Gail Halvorsen flew during the 1948-1949 Berlin Airlift, the aircraft is still making candy runs, dropping candy attached to miniature parachutes to waiting children below.
Unfortunately Colonel Halvorsen, who is now 98, is unsure if he'll be able to return. Although the he no longer flies the aircraft himself, his presences and personality have been instrumental in keeping the idea of American kindness and generosity at the heart of the events.
Pulling for a Purpose
The EDF Pulling for a Purpose happened to be able to work with the Sprite of America—the name of the aircraft—team. The object of the event is for five people to pull the aircraft as far as they can in a set amount of time.
It's not easy. Nor is it, however, impossible.
The team from Dare County EMS clearly studied the problem and applied scientific principals to the problem. The result? A 59'6" pull—the longest of the day with a five person team.
We say five person team, because Dare Regional Airport Board took full advantage of an offer to allow additional participation and brought eight to the rope. They did haul the plane over 60'
Team DEF...well, they didn't do all that well. Consisting of two male board members and three female, it just didn't seem as though they had the muscle power to move a C54.
But it was a great time for a good cause that is creating stronger schools for a better community. And teamed up with the Candy Bomber, it did make for a special time.
