Chinese Flying Club of Portland facts for kids
The Chinese Flying Club of Portland (CFCP) was a special flying school started in 1932. It was created because of events happening far away in Asia. At that time, Japan had invaded a part of China called Manchuria. People around the world wanted to help China. They donated $20,000 to start this club. That was a lot of money back then!
The club first operated at Christofferson Airport. Later, it moved to Swan Island Airport in Portland, Oregon. The main teacher was Al Greenwood. Sometimes, people even called the club the "Al Greenwood Flying School."
Young Pilots for China
Every student at the CFCP made a promise. They pledged to be ready to help China, even if it meant risking their lives. In total, 32 Chinese-American students trained in Portland. After their training, they traveled to China.
First Groups of Students
The first group of students left for Canton, China in August 1932. A second group, with 17 students, followed in March 1933. They went to join the air force of the Chinese government in Northern China.
Sadly, two students from the club passed away in China. One was a woman named Virginia Wong. She died from malaria shortly after arriving, before she could begin her work. The second student, Millard Chung, died during bombing practice.
Famous Alumni
Many brave pilots trained at the CFCP. Some notable students include Hazel Ying Lee, John Wong Pan-Yang, Louie Yim-qun, and Arthur Chin. These individuals went on to play important roles.
Other Flying Clubs
The Chinese Flying Club of Portland was likely the biggest club of its kind. It trained many Chinese-American pilots before World War II began. But it wasn't the only one! Other similar clubs existed across the United States. For example, there was the Chinese Patriotic Flying Club in Boston. The Chinese Aeronautical Association in Los Angeles also helped train pilots. These clubs all shared a common goal: to support China during a difficult time.
