Tuskegee pilot soars with rescue dogs, shining light on urgent need for adoptions

TUSKEGEE, Ala. (WRBL) — On the historic grounds of Moton Field, home of the Tuskegee Airmen, Rodney McKnight Jr., an aviation enthusiast turned animal rescuer, is using his passion for flying to transport rescue animals from overcrowded shelters in Bullock County, Alabama, to new homes across the country.

“I have delivered dogs to Morristown, New Jersey, Tulsa, Oklahoma, all over Florida, and various cities in Alabama,” says McKnight.

McKnight was introduced to animal rescue by Jason Mohrman, an Auburn graduate, airline pilot, and animal lover. Mohrman founded Pilots for Purpose, the 501(c) organization donates its airplane and fuel money to fly animals to safety. McKnight donates his skills as a pilot, building flight hours while saving animals.

“The very first flight I quickly realized this is more than flying around dogs and building time. I started getting attached to the dogs — they told me it would happen, but I didn’t expect it,” McKnight explains.

Recently, McKnight flew Red and Pixie, two dogs from the Bullock County Humane Society, to Morristown, NJ, where Red has an adoption pending. He hopes that longtime shelter residents like Madeline, and Bullock will find homes soon.

“Every time I fly a dog, those dogs get to live,” says McKnight.

Volunteers and donations are desperately needed to support the work of shelters. McKnight invites the community to join the freedom flight.

“Animal shelters all over the country are packed, and Bullock County is no different. All dogs are spayed and neutered, caught up on their shots, and have all their immunizations. These dogs are healthy and friendly. The more funds the shelter has to operate, the more dogs can find homes, and fewer dogs get put down,” McKnight urges.

The freedom flight movement is making a significant impact in communities where animal shelters and rescues are overwhelmed. McKnight’s efforts are supported by various organizations, including Woof Ave Rescue, Friends of Columbus Animal Care and Control Center, Bullock County Humane Society, CARE Humane Society, and Columbus Animal Allies. The dogs he transports are often those who have been in shelters for months, or even years, waiting for a chance at a better life.

To support the Bullock County Humane Society or volunteer, visit their Facebook page or contact them at: Bullock County Humane Society 21426 Highway 82 East Union Springs, AL 36089 (334) 738-7387.

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