Cleveland, TN Opens New Airport; Remembers COGOP History

Cleveland Municipal Airport Authority Chairwoman Lynn DeVault told a quick history of Hardwick Field during her opening remarks as the master of ceremonies as the new Jetport was dedicated.  She said the original airport was a grassy field owned by the Church of God of Prophecy.  The church flew white airplanes from Cleveland to mission fields throughout the Appalachians (The White Angel Fleet).

“Voice of Evangelism will have a hangar complex here and continue their mission work as Dr. Perry Stone flies around the country,” she said.

Lt. Gov. and former Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey said the airport is the next step in helping Cleveland grow and have more opportunities.

“The governor’s goal is to bring about an atmosphere in this state that helps bring prosperity.  The government doesn't create jobs.  You create jobs.  Our job is to try to get the atmosphere right for you to grow and prosper,” he said.

Evangelist Perry Stone offered the invocation to start the event.  “This will be an airport I will be flying in and out of several times a week. We definitely want to pray a really good prayer,” he said.

He expressed thanks “for the leadership that put this wonderful facility together for business and commerce, ministry and guests, and all of the activity that will be taking place.”