Jun 29, 2026
Orlando International Airport Celebrates America's 250th with Liberty Weekend Concert
A flag-waving crowd cheers during a celebration of America’s 250th birthday during Liberty Weekend at MCO.
ORLANDO, Fla. – Stars, stripes, and spectacle dawned Orlando International Airport (MCO) for this year’s Liberty Weekend celebration, bringing together aviation heritage, patriotism, and recognition of military service, during a special year marking America’s 250th birthday.
An audience of more than 250 and dozens of veterans attended Saturday’s event, paying tribute to MCO’s unique history and military roots and reflecting on generations of service members who have helped shape America.
The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra took centerstage in lineup of selections that celebrated the American spirit and created a memorable soundtrack for the occasion.
Liberty Weekend also included a presentation of the prestigious Colonel Joe Kittinger Award, which recognizes a local veteran whose service and contributions embody the values represented by the legendary aviator and veteran.
This year’s award was presented to Chief Master Sergeant Melvin “Mel” Jenner, a 103-year-old veteran whose lifetime of service and dedication exemplifies courage, commitment, and patriotism.
“Liberty Weekend is more than a celebration, it is an opportunity to honor the history that shaped this airport and recognize the people who shaped our nation,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO. “Once home to the McCoy Air Force Base, MCO’s heritage is deeply connected to service, sacrifice, and America’s aviation story. Events like Liberty Weekend allow us to preserve that legacy, celebrate our contributions to the nation, and recognize extraordinary veterans like Mr. Jenner.”
Chief Master Sgt Melvin “Mel” Jenner accepts the Col Joe Kittinger Award during Liberty Weekend at MCO. Maestro Chris Confessore and the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra are in the background.
A veteran of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, Mr. Jenner flew 46 combat missions over Nazi-occupied Europe as a radio operator and gunner aboard a B-17 bomber. His final wartime mission took place on D-Day, June 6, 1944, as Allied forces advanced across Normandy. Mr. Jenner’s highly decorated military career includes service in the U.S. Chief Master Sgt Melvin “Mel” Jenner accepts the Col Joe Kittinger Award during Liberty Weekend at MCO. Maestro Chris Confessore and the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra are in the background.
Army Air Corps and the U.S. Air Force, where he contributed to major aviation milestones, including support roles during the early era of supersonic flight alongside renowned pilot Chuck Yeager. He also flew missions during the Berlin Airlift, helping deliver critical supplies to a blockaded city.
His final duty station was McCoy Air Force Base, now home to Orlando International Airport, where he supported B-52 bomber operations and rose to become one of the first Chief Master Sergeants in the U.S. Air Force. This achievement reflected both technical excellence and exceptional leadership. Throughout his distinguished career, he received numerous honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the French Legion of Honor.
Mr. Jenner is the 12th recipient of the Col. Joe Kittinger Award. Col. Joe Kittinger (1928 – 2022) of Orlando is renowned for his pioneering high-altitude parachute jump from 102,800 feet in 1960, a record that stood for more than 50 years, and marked a milestone in aerospace exploration.
To see a brief wrap-up of the events, visit our YouTube channel.
About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.
For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.