Join us for the 13th Annual Lakeland City Commission SUN ‘n FUN Breakfast, celebrating the 52nd year of the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo and the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence!
Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM - skylight Hangar at the SUN 'n FUN Expo campus
We will showcase SUN ‘n FUN's significant impact on our thriving community. As you know, SUN ‘n FUN is the primary fundraiser for the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE), whose mission is to Engage, Educate, and Accelerate the Next Generation of Aerospace Professionals throughout the year! ACE is the premier aviation and STEM education non-profit in the nation!
This year's keynote speaker is Col. Mark W. Tillman, USAF (Ret.) who was selected by the White House to serve as the nation’s 12th Presidential pilot. He served President George W. Bush as pilot and Commander of Air Force One from 2001 to 2009. Most remarkably, Col. Tillman shielded the President and his staff on September 11, 2001, by tactically eluding any potential threats.
Col. Tillman served 30 years in the United States Air Force starting with USAF pilot training that led to his tenure as a T-37 Instructor Pilot, C-130 transport pilot, VIP airlift as a pilot in the Gulfstream III and IV, and Presidential pilot in the VC-25 or Boeing 747.
In addition, SUN ‘n FUN President and CEO Gene Conrad will present highlights of the upcoming SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, scheduled for April 14-19, 2026. He will also share the incredible impact ACE’s programming has on our local families and young people and why your participation at SUN ‘n FUN matters. This year’s fly-in will salute America’s 250th birthday by honoring our veterans and showcasing the rich and proud history of our country.
The morning will also feature delicious breakfast from Frescos, and a soaring opportunity to connect with other Sun N Fun supporters. Attendees can also be in the running to win SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo tickets, so don’t miss this awe-inspiring event. Hope to see you there!
Sara Roberts McCarley, City of Lakeland Mayor
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3471668-0
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3471668-2
