By Joey McWilliams
BRYAN COUNTY – This year for Halloween, candy will literally be dropped from the sky in Bryan County!
On Saturday, Oct. 30, there will be a candy drop at Eaker Field, similar to the dropping of candy to German children in the years following World War II.
The event is open to the public for kids of all ages. The candy drop is set for noon on Saturday, and the day’s festivities will begin at 10:30 a.m.
“We’re so happy to have found such a unique way to involve the community this Halloween,” said Kellie Simmons, Public Information Officer for the City of Durant.
Among other things happening that day, the candy drop is something to capture the imagination. On site to make the drop will be “Lady Liberty,” an A-26 bomber with Commemorative Air Force.
The candy is real and it is free and will be dropped with real parachutes.
“The kids will get much more than just free candy, they’ll have the opportunity to learn about and experience the post WWII act of kindness that was shown by a real hero, Retired Colonel Gail Halvorsen.,” said John Wyatt, Eaker Airport Manager.
This event will pay homage to Halvorsen, the original “Candy Bomber,” who is known for dropping not only food to families in Berlin, Germany after WWII from his aircraft, but candy to children as well.
Halvorsen celebrated his 101st birthday on Oct. 10.
The event is free and is sponsored by Discover Durant and Stuteville Chevrolet.