The United States Marine Corps invites members of the press to take a flight on the Osprey (MV-22) during Marine Week Chicago, a week-long series of events taking place May 11-17.
A helicopter-airplane hybrid that can provide assault and medical support, the Osprey is the aircraft of our times and a critical Marine Corps asset. It travels at two-and-a-half times the speed of current helicopters, cruises at 13,000 feet and gets quickly into and out of landing zones. The Osprey has been in use in Iraq for more than one year now and has proven its utility in combat. During its first three operational deployments to Iraq, it has logged more than 9,000 flight hours, carried 41,866 passengers and transported 2.16 million pounds of cargo. This is a unique opportunity to experience this innovative aircraft firsthand.
WHERE: DuPage Municipal Airport, 2700 International Drive, West Chicago, IL 60185. You must reply to Captain Kate Vanden Bossche by Friday, May 1 to guarantee space.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 12 at 9:00 A.M. Please allow up to two hours for the flight. Total air time is estimated at 25 minutes.
CONTACT: Contact Captain Kate Vanden Bossche at (504) 678-7843 or hqmc.marineweek@ usmc.mil if you’d like to attend. Space on the aircraft is limited and seating will be allotted in the order in which reservations are received.
About Marine Week Chicago: Established to recognize the contributions of local Marine heroes, their families, and the cities from which they came, Marine Week also showcases the rich history and traditions of the Marine Corps. Throughout the week, Marines will participate in various community activities and events. For a complete schedule of events visit www.Marines.mil/MarineWeek.