THE DAILY CORINTHIAN - March 22, 1961
FAMOUS CORINTH FLIER
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ROSCOE TURNER TO COME
TO AIRPORT DEDICATION
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"I am happy and proud that the people of Corinth have seen fit to
still have an airport, and I will be there April 2 for dedication of the
Corinth-Alcorn County Airport," with these words Roscoe Turner,
internationally-known pioneer of aviation and speed flying, accepted an
invitation to participate in dedication ceremonies.
One of Corinth's most famous citizens, Turner can boast the
following records:
1. Only three-time winner of the famous Thompson Trophy Race.
2. Turner and Jimmie Doolittle, are the only pilots who have won
both the Thompson and Bendix Trophies.
3. In 1934, Turner was sponsor and commander of the only American
team to finish in the greatest of all air races-- The McRobertson
International Air Race from London to Melborne, Australia. He took
second place in the speed division.
4. Turner broke the transcontinental record more times than any
other person.
5. He was awarded the Distinquished Flying Cross in 1932 by an Act
of Congress for his contribution to aviation development and
pioneering in speed flying. This was the first award in over 20
years by an Act of Congress and was one of six DFC's awarded at
that time.
6. Turner received the Paul Tissandier Diploma, awarded by
Federation Aeronautique Internationale in Vienna, Austria in 1956
for his contribution to private and sporting aviation.
7. His name appears in "Who's Who in America," "Who's Who in
Commerce and Industry," and "Who's Who in Aviation".
8. He was appointed consultant to the Astronautics and Space
Committee of the U.S.Congress in July, 1960.
"There was a time when I worked long and hard in an effort to get
the idea across that an airport was necessary for Corinth", Turner
stated. "Corinth is in a central location for all surface transportation
in Northeast Mississippi and so close to the big industrial center in
Alabama and the Tri-Cities."
"Most of you may have forgotten that they named an airport in
Corinth after me in 1936 which was later plowed up. However, at that
time we succeeded in having governors of both Tennessee and Mississippi
at the dedication."
"I normally run a pretty tight schedule, but because of my pride
and love for my home town, I shall plan to attend your dedication on
April 2 providing nothing unforeseen happens."
Turner is the second dignitary to accept an invitation to the
dedication. Gov. Ross Barnett also plans to be here.
Data transcription by: Milton Sandy, Jr. Corinth, MS - March 25, 1993