Early Years
Falling in love with aviation at a young age.
Paul Poberezny often said that there was not a day that went by that he didn't say the word "airplane." His flight experiences began as a high school student and continued through service in World War II and the Korean conflict. Between the wars, he began his hands-on approach to aircraft design and building that would direct his future and his legacy.
In January 1953, he organized about three dozen aircraft builders and restorers in a local Milwaukee, Wisconsin, club that was named the Experimental Aircraft Association. Later that year, the first EAA fly-in gathering formed the foundation of what has become EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.
Paul Poberezny's life and career was a shining example of vision, self-reliance, and leadership. He is regarded as one of the individual giants of aviation’s first century, with an influence that reaches beyond a single flying accomplishment to affecting tens of thousands of people who have dreamed of flying.
Read select excerpts courtesy from Poberezny ... The Story Begins:
Falling in love with aviation at a young age.
Paul heads off to serve in World War II.
EAA starts from humble beginnings.
Interest in EAA skyrockets, as does its membership.
“Everyone is welcome. Who do we tell to stay away?”
Paul left an indelible mark on aviation.
Driven by a passion for aviation, Paul was also blessed with a compassion for people.