On 2 July 1930, it was reported that a landing field had been purchased 2 weeks before due to “efforts by the American Legion”. in the same article were all the plans being made to dedicate “Roben–Hood” landing field in honor of the two Big Rapids men, Major Douglass Bennett Roben and Lieut. Daniel George Hood, who lost their lives while connected with the air service during the war”. Numerous events would be taking place on Saturday night (July 26) including an Aviators’ Banquet and Ball, and American Legion drum corps parade, during which Governor Fred W. Green would be present.