Sanford Memorial Park

 On May 30, 2003, Congressman Mica attended the opening ceremony of the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford Memorial Park.  The Sanford Airport Memorial Committee chose to honor NAS Sanford, which was operational from 1942 to 1968 at the site now occupied by the Orlando Sanford International Airport.

 The Sanford Memorial Park honors those who served and sacrificed for our nation, and to demonstrate our country's commitment to peace and freedom.  Aviators and ground maintenance technicians trained at  the former airbase, and scores of military aircraft participated in flight operations as part of war efforts  during World  War II and in Korea and Vietnam.?? 
 
In September, 2001 Congressman Mica helped secure a vintage RA-5C Vigilante for display as the centerpiece of the park.  This unique plane was originally designed as a nuclear bomber but later was converted into a high speed photo-reconnaissance aircraft.  Based only at NAS Sanford, the aircraft provided invaluable service during the Cold War and Vietnam.  Unarmed during photo-recon missions, the Vigilante suffered the highest loss rate of any Navy or Air Force aircraft during the Vietnam War.  20 were lost during that period, and Sanford was home to the families of 9 Prisoners of War (POWs).

The park features a small visitors center, appropriate landscaping and educational exhibits for the general public to read and reflect on the history of NAS Sanford.  There are also shaded rest stations to showcase both the Vigilante and daily flight operations at the airport.

For more information, visit the website for the Sanford Airport Memorial Committee.