A Soaring Success

On Monday, July 22, the National Naval Aviation Museum welcomed families, aviation fans, and budding bookworms for a truly unforgettable afternoon during our Soar into Storytime & Celebrate the New Book Release: Thach and the Blues event. With the Blue Angels roaring overhead in their thrilling morning practice, guests arrived with excitement in the air, and it only got better from there.

 

Inside the Blue Angels Atrium, the crowd gathered for a special live reading of Thach and the Blues by none other than the book’s author and our very own Education Director, Dianna Hayden. Children and adults alike were captivated by the heartwarming tale of Thach, a curious duckling whose first experience with naval aviation ignites a lifelong love of flight. Dianna’s vibrant storytelling brought Thach’s adventure to life for everyone in the room, from the roar of Fat Albert to the elegance of the Super Hornets.

 

The excitement didn’t stop with story time. Kids unleashed their creativity at the craft tables. One of the biggest hits was the “Build Your Own Thach Duck” station, where young guests got to craft their very own plushy companion to take home, complete with tiny aviator goggles and lots of personality.

 

Throughout the event, copies of Thach and the Blues were available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting educational programs at the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation. Families left with signed books in hand and hearts full of inspiration, knowing their purchase was helping to spark a love of aviation in future generations.

 

Thach and the Blues celebrates more than just airplanes. It highlights family traditions, the joy of discovery, and the magic of that first unforgettable glimpse of a Blue Angels formation in flight. Seeing young readers light up with excitement reflected the very spirit of the book itself.

We are so grateful to everyone who attended and helped make this event such a joyful success. From our incredible volunteers to every parent, grandparent, teacher, and tiny future aviator, thank you for helping us bring Thach’s story to life.

Couldn’t make it? Thach and the Blues is now available in the museum gift shop and online. And don’t worry. More story time events are in the works. Keep an eye on our website and social media for upcoming opportunities to join in the fun.