Southport man helps create ‘Air Force One Experience’

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — Howie Franklin served five US presidents as Chief Steward on Air Force One.  He served Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush and Bill Clinton.  His in-dept knowledge led him to help recreate the famed plane which is about to go on display to the public.

The ‘Air Force One Experience’ is designed for you to feel the thrill of presidential travel as you immerse yourself in the luxury, the excitement, and the history of Air Force One. In a never-seen-before recreation, you will get an exclusive insider’s look at the iconic plane that travels the world as America’s flagship.

The experience is more than just the plane.  During your tour you will see and hear amazing things about the United States.  You will also see rare presidential artifacts including some from the days of Washington and Lincoln. There are exhibits to make you relive the progression of the democratic process.

When you step foot aboard the airplane itself it will be like walking down its hallway as the president!

Franklin says the 747 was donated and has been meticulously recreated as Air Force One.  He has been involved with the project for 10 years and says “I can’t wait for the world to see how our president gets to travel.”

Franklin wrote about his time in service onboard Air Force One in his book “Yes Sir! Mr. President” which is available by clicking here.

The ‘Air Force One Experience’ is coming soon to the National Harbor on the Maryland side of Washington, DC.  For more information or to buy tickets click here.