WOODRUFF, S.C. (FOX Carolina) – A pilot is celebrating his 101st birthday by taking to the sky for an honor flight.

“Uncle” John Hartness is a volunteer and pilot at Triple Tree Aerodrome which is a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to aviation education and heritage preservation.

Hartness has wanted to fly since he was a little boy and prayed to God that it would one day become a reality.

“The reason I fly is when I was a little boy the airplanes would come over the house…this was back in the 20s and 30s,” said Hartness. “One day after one went over I watched it until it was out of sight, and I said God if you let me be able to fly, I will give you half of my life. And God is kept up [his end of]…the bargain.”

The non-profit honored Hartness on Tuesday, June 25, with a special flight in one of their aircrafts.

“Our organization is thrilled to celebrate the remarkable life of ‘Uncle’ John Hartness, whose dedication to aviation and our community is truly extraordinary,” said Robb Williams, Executive Director of Triple Tree Aerodrome in a release. “This exceptional event underscores our mission to foster a love for aviation among young individuals while highlighting the invaluable mentorship provided by individuals like ‘Uncle’ John.”

Hartness also celebrated his 100th birthday with a historic flight

Copyright 2024 WHNS. All rights reserved.