Celebration of life: Bob Hoover

Generations of pilots grew up with Hoover as their idol, learning how he escaped from a German prison during World War II by stealing a German Fw 190 and how he became a test pilot with Chuck Yeager. They watched in awe as he flew engine-out routines in the Shrike Commander and even performed one-G rolls while pouring iced tea into a cup.

The generations he inspired are now hosting a special tribute. His close friend, Clay Lacy, will host the celebration of life, and aerobatic star Sean D. Tucker and famed airshow announcer Danny Clisham will serve as masters of ceremonies.

AOPA members are invited to the Nov. 18 event at Clay Lacy Aviation at Van Nuys Airport in Van Nuys, California. The ceremony will be from 2 to 4 p.m. with finger food and refreshments following the program. Those who plan to attend should RSVP by Nov. 10.