HARRISON TOWNSHIP, Mich.–FreeStar Financial Credit Union has helped to bring back an integral piece of American aviation to its original home.
With support from FreeStar Financial, an iconic Curtiss JN-4 biplane fondly known as “Jenny” arrived at the Selfridge Military Air Museum, where its historical roots run deep.
During World War I, more than 1,000 Jenny’s were trained at Selfridge Field, where they played a vital role in training pilots and conducting various military exercises. Selfridge was the first to use the Jenny as a trainer, marking a significant milestone in both the plane's and the base's history.
“With only 200 to 300 Curtiss JN-4 Jenny’s remaining in the world today, and even fewer still airworthy, Jenny's homecoming is a rare and momentous event,” the credit union said. “Just like Jenny, FreeStar Financial Credit Union also got its start at Selfridge Air Base. In September 1957, FreeStar Financial Credit Union opened its doors for the first time known then as Selfridge Air Force Base Credit Union and has been serving the military and members of the community ever since.”
Due to this unique bond, the credit union said its president and CEO, Drema Isaac, shared the opportunity to bring Jenny home with the CU’s board members, many of whom have military backgrounds, who approved the plan.
"Jenny's restoration and display at the Selfridge Air Museum is a celebration of our shared history and a tribute to innovation,” said Isaac. “We're honored to contribute to this national effort and to bring Jenny back to Selfridge, where her story and ours began.”