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Airport celebrates its 75th year By JILL BRISKEY Seventy-five years ago, hundreds gathered in Medford to watch a single airplane bounce its way along a gravel airstrip, marking the inauguration of Oregon's first airmail stop. Saturday, more than 100 community members arrived at the Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport to celebrate that event along with the pioneering spirit that helped shape the airport. Airport officials and relatives of Medford's pioneering aviators took turns speaking at the 75th anniversary celebration, which took place inside the terminal. Officials decided to proceed with the event - which included unveiling an aviation history display - despite terrorist attacks in the East Coast on Tuesday. "Today, I believe this is appropriate," said Mark Dennett, creator of the first frequent flier program and the event's master of ceremonies. "We're looking toward the future." Airport director Bern Case agreed, and praised his staff for their hard work following the nationwide tragedies. Case said he was heartened that although the airport was deserted for several days last week, emergency medical personnel continued to fly when needed. "There was still a small pulse beating at the airport every day," Case added. During the event, Dennett talked about the importance of Medford constructing the first airport in Oregon, which once stood at the Medford Armory and was called Newell Barber Field. Dennett also talked about the past dangers associated with flying, made worse because of the area's weather conditions. "Make no mistake, if you were flying in the '20s it was tough," Dennett said. "Back in the 1920s, we were the center of it all." Owen Hall, son of Medford pilot and pioneer Seely Hall, spoke at the event. He talked about Seely Hall's adventures as a pilot, both in World War I and later the role his father played at the Medford airport. "This is truly a great day, an emotional one," Hall said. "This is a very special day for all of Medford." Rogue Valley Manor resident Ralph Sotzing also attended the event. Sotzing, a pilot, learned to fly in Denver in 1942. He moved to Southern Oregon in 1990. "A lot of people don't realize the ties that are here," he said. "I think this is all very nice." Reach reporter Jill Briskey at 776-4485, or e-mail [email protected] Mail Tribune Home | Ottaway Newspapers, Inc. | Dow Jones & Co., Inc. | Privacy | Contact Us Copyright � 2001 Mail Tribune, Inc.