2014 HONORED GUESTS
Medal of Honor Recipient - Army LTC Bruce P. Crandall
Bruce P. Crandall (born 1933) is a retired U.S. Army officer who was awarded the Medal of Honor on February 26, 2007 for his heroic actions during the Battle of Ia Drang on November 14, 1965, in which he repeatedly flew an unarmed helicopter into enemy fire to bring in ammunition and supplies and evacuate the wounded. Crandall flew 22 flights that day, most of them under intense enemy fire, and a total of over 900 combat missions during the Vietnam War.
Bruce Crandall was born in 1933. He was raised in Olympia, Washington, and became a high school All-American baseball player. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1953. He married his wife Arlene on March 31, 1956 in Kent, Washington. They have three sons.
After commissioning and graduation from fixed-wing and helicopter training conducted by the United States Air Force and Army, he was assigned to a mapping group based out of the Presidio of San Francisco "that at the time was the largest flying military aviation unit in the world." From there he went on to fly Cessna L-19 Bird Dogs and de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beavers in Alaska, again for topographic studies.
Crandall's first overseas flying assignment was to Wheelus Air Force Base in Tripoli, Libya, mapping the desert for two years flying de Havilland Canada DHC-3 Otter, Beaver, Birddog and OH-23 Raven aircraft as an instructor pilot and unit test pilot.
His next overseas tours were flying over thousands of square miles of previously unmapped mountains and jungles in Central and South America. For this mission, he was based out of Howard Air Force Base, Panama, and Costa Rica. While assigned to the 11th Air Assault Division, Crandall helped develop air-assault tactics as a platoon commander. In early 1965, he joined the Dominican Republic Expeditionary Force as a liaison to the 18th Airborne Corps.
Later that year, he would command the 1st Cavalry Division's Company A, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion at An Khe, Vietnam. Using the call sign "Ancient Serpent 6," he led a flying unit supporting eight battalions on the ground.
On November 14, 1965, Crandall led the first major division operation of air mobile troops into Landing Zone X-Ray in Vietnam's Ia Drang Valley for the Battle of Ia Drang and is credited with evacuating some 70 wounded comrades with his wing man and fellow Medal of Honor recipient Major Ed Freeman. The two also flew in the ammunition needed for the 7th Cavalry to survive. The craft he was flying was unarmed.
In January 1966, during the first combined American and South Vietnamese Army operation, "Operation Masher", Crandall, while under intense enemy fire and with only a spot flashlight beam to guide him, twice dropped his Huey helicopter through the dense jungle canopy to rescue 12 wounded soldiers. For his courage in that incident Crandall received the Aviation & Space Writers Helicopter Heroism Award for 1966.
After an assignment in Colorado, he attended the Armed Forces Staff College. Soon he was back in Vietnam, this time flying Huey gunships - "a big improvement" -- supporting the 1st Battalion, 9th Cavalry Squadron, 1st Cavalry Division.
In January 1968, four months into his second tour, Crandall's helicopter was downed during another rescue attempt due to Air Force bombs going off too close to where he was flying. After five months in the hospital, with a broken back and other injuries, he resumed his career as a student earning a bootstrap degree through the University of Nebraska in 1969. In Bangkok, Thailand, he would become a facility engineer managing 3800 people. He subsequently served as deputy chief of staff, deputy installation commander, and commander of the 5th Engineer Combat Battalion, all at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
South America was supposed to be his next assignment, and he and his wife, Arlene, attended the Defense Language Institute, Monterey, California, as Spanish language students in preparation as aviation and engineering adviser to Argentina - an assignment that never came. A stroke sidelined Crandall, ending his flying career. After his recovery, the Crandalls did find the language training useful when he was sent to Caracas, Venezuela, as the Defense Mapping Agency's director for the Interamerican Geodetic Survey.
In his final Army assignment, he served as senior engineer adviser to the California Army National Guard.
Crandall retired from the Army in 1977 as a lieutenant colonel.
Medal of Honor: Major Bruce P. Crandall distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism as a Flight Commander in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). On 14 November 1965, his flight of sixteen helicopters was lifting troops for a search and destroy mission from Plei Me, Vietnam, to Landing Zone X-Ray in the Ia Drang Valley. On the fourth troop lift, the airlift began to take enemy fire, and by the time the aircraft had refueled and returned for the next troop lift, the enemy had Landing Zone X-Ray targeted. As Major Crandall and the first eight helicopters landed to discharge troops on his fifth troop lift, his unarmed helicopter came under such intense enemy fire that the ground commander ordered the second flight of eight aircraft to abort their mission. As Major Crandall flew back to Plei Me, his base of operations, he determined that the ground commander of the besieged infantry battalion desperately needed more ammunition. Major Crandall then decided to adjust his base of operations to Artillery Firebase Falcon in order to shorten the flight distance to deliver ammunition and evacuate wounded soldiers. While medical evacuation was not his mission, he immediately sought volunteers and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, led the two aircraft to Landing Zone X-Ray. Despite the fact that the landing zone was still under relentless enemy fire, Major Crandall landed and proceeded to supervise the loading of seriously wounded soldiers aboard his aircraft. Major Crandall's voluntary decision to land under the most extreme fire instilled in the other pilots the will and spirit to continue to land their own aircraft, and in the ground forces the realization that they would be resupplied and that friendly wounded would be promptly evacuated. This greatly enhanced morale and the will to fight at a critical time. After his first medical evacuation, Major Crandall continued to fly into and out of the landing zone throughout the day and into the evening. That day he completed a total of 22 flights, most under intense enemy fire, retiring from the battlefield only after all possible service had been rendered to the Infantry battalion. His actions provided critical resupply of ammunition and evacuation of the wounded. Major Crandall's daring acts of bravery and courage in the face of an overwhelming and determined enemy are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Later in life: Crandall received a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Golden Gate University in 1977. Following his retirement, Crandall utilized his master's degree to become city manager of Dunsmuir, California for three years. He and his wife, Arlene, then moved to Mesa, Arizona, where he served in the Public Works Department for 13 years, the last four as the public works manager.
In 1994, Crandall was inducted into the United States Air Force's "Gathering of Eagles" - an organization set up to recognize pioneers of aviation and heroic flyers.
In 2001, Crandall was an aviation consultant on the movie We Were Soldiers about the Battle of Ia Drang. The movie, based on the book "We Were Soldiers Once...And Young" was released in 2002. Crandall was portrayed in the film by actor Greg Kinnear.
In 2004, Crandall was inducted into the Army Aviation Hall of Fame.
On February 26, 2007, Crandall received the Medal of Honor from President George W. Bush in a ceremony in the East Room of the White House.
He resides with his wife in Port Orchard, Washington.
Military awards: Medal of Honor Distinguished Flying Cross with one oak leaf cluster Bronze Star Meritorious Service Medal Air Medal (24 awards) Army Commendation Medal Purple Heart National Defense Service Medal with one bronze service star Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Gold Star (three awards) Armed Forces Reserve Medal Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Vietnam Service Medal (four campaigns) Vietnam Campaign Medal w/'60 device Presidential Unit Citation Meritorious Unit Commendation Master Army Aviator Badge
Bruce Crandall was born in 1933. He was raised in Olympia, Washington, and became a high school All-American baseball player. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1953. He married his wife Arlene on March 31, 1956 in Kent, Washington. They have three sons.
After commissioning and graduation from fixed-wing and helicopter training conducted by the United States Air Force and Army, he was assigned to a mapping group based out of the Presidio of San Francisco "that at the time was the largest flying military aviation unit in the world." From there he went on to fly Cessna L-19 Bird Dogs and de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beavers in Alaska, again for topographic studies.
Crandall's first overseas flying assignment was to Wheelus Air Force Base in Tripoli, Libya, mapping the desert for two years flying de Havilland Canada DHC-3 Otter, Beaver, Birddog and OH-23 Raven aircraft as an instructor pilot and unit test pilot.
His next overseas tours were flying over thousands of square miles of previously unmapped mountains and jungles in Central and South America. For this mission, he was based out of Howard Air Force Base, Panama, and Costa Rica. While assigned to the 11th Air Assault Division, Crandall helped develop air-assault tactics as a platoon commander. In early 1965, he joined the Dominican Republic Expeditionary Force as a liaison to the 18th Airborne Corps.
Later that year, he would command the 1st Cavalry Division's Company A, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion at An Khe, Vietnam. Using the call sign "Ancient Serpent 6," he led a flying unit supporting eight battalions on the ground.
On November 14, 1965, Crandall led the first major division operation of air mobile troops into Landing Zone X-Ray in Vietnam's Ia Drang Valley for the Battle of Ia Drang and is credited with evacuating some 70 wounded comrades with his wing man and fellow Medal of Honor recipient Major Ed Freeman. The two also flew in the ammunition needed for the 7th Cavalry to survive. The craft he was flying was unarmed.
In January 1966, during the first combined American and South Vietnamese Army operation, "Operation Masher", Crandall, while under intense enemy fire and with only a spot flashlight beam to guide him, twice dropped his Huey helicopter through the dense jungle canopy to rescue 12 wounded soldiers. For his courage in that incident Crandall received the Aviation & Space Writers Helicopter Heroism Award for 1966.
After an assignment in Colorado, he attended the Armed Forces Staff College. Soon he was back in Vietnam, this time flying Huey gunships - "a big improvement" -- supporting the 1st Battalion, 9th Cavalry Squadron, 1st Cavalry Division.
In January 1968, four months into his second tour, Crandall's helicopter was downed during another rescue attempt due to Air Force bombs going off too close to where he was flying. After five months in the hospital, with a broken back and other injuries, he resumed his career as a student earning a bootstrap degree through the University of Nebraska in 1969. In Bangkok, Thailand, he would become a facility engineer managing 3800 people. He subsequently served as deputy chief of staff, deputy installation commander, and commander of the 5th Engineer Combat Battalion, all at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
South America was supposed to be his next assignment, and he and his wife, Arlene, attended the Defense Language Institute, Monterey, California, as Spanish language students in preparation as aviation and engineering adviser to Argentina - an assignment that never came. A stroke sidelined Crandall, ending his flying career. After his recovery, the Crandalls did find the language training useful when he was sent to Caracas, Venezuela, as the Defense Mapping Agency's director for the Interamerican Geodetic Survey.
In his final Army assignment, he served as senior engineer adviser to the California Army National Guard.
Crandall retired from the Army in 1977 as a lieutenant colonel.
Medal of Honor: Major Bruce P. Crandall distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism as a Flight Commander in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). On 14 November 1965, his flight of sixteen helicopters was lifting troops for a search and destroy mission from Plei Me, Vietnam, to Landing Zone X-Ray in the Ia Drang Valley. On the fourth troop lift, the airlift began to take enemy fire, and by the time the aircraft had refueled and returned for the next troop lift, the enemy had Landing Zone X-Ray targeted. As Major Crandall and the first eight helicopters landed to discharge troops on his fifth troop lift, his unarmed helicopter came under such intense enemy fire that the ground commander ordered the second flight of eight aircraft to abort their mission. As Major Crandall flew back to Plei Me, his base of operations, he determined that the ground commander of the besieged infantry battalion desperately needed more ammunition. Major Crandall then decided to adjust his base of operations to Artillery Firebase Falcon in order to shorten the flight distance to deliver ammunition and evacuate wounded soldiers. While medical evacuation was not his mission, he immediately sought volunteers and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, led the two aircraft to Landing Zone X-Ray. Despite the fact that the landing zone was still under relentless enemy fire, Major Crandall landed and proceeded to supervise the loading of seriously wounded soldiers aboard his aircraft. Major Crandall's voluntary decision to land under the most extreme fire instilled in the other pilots the will and spirit to continue to land their own aircraft, and in the ground forces the realization that they would be resupplied and that friendly wounded would be promptly evacuated. This greatly enhanced morale and the will to fight at a critical time. After his first medical evacuation, Major Crandall continued to fly into and out of the landing zone throughout the day and into the evening. That day he completed a total of 22 flights, most under intense enemy fire, retiring from the battlefield only after all possible service had been rendered to the Infantry battalion. His actions provided critical resupply of ammunition and evacuation of the wounded. Major Crandall's daring acts of bravery and courage in the face of an overwhelming and determined enemy are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Later in life: Crandall received a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Golden Gate University in 1977. Following his retirement, Crandall utilized his master's degree to become city manager of Dunsmuir, California for three years. He and his wife, Arlene, then moved to Mesa, Arizona, where he served in the Public Works Department for 13 years, the last four as the public works manager.
In 1994, Crandall was inducted into the United States Air Force's "Gathering of Eagles" - an organization set up to recognize pioneers of aviation and heroic flyers.
In 2001, Crandall was an aviation consultant on the movie We Were Soldiers about the Battle of Ia Drang. The movie, based on the book "We Were Soldiers Once...And Young" was released in 2002. Crandall was portrayed in the film by actor Greg Kinnear.
In 2004, Crandall was inducted into the Army Aviation Hall of Fame.
On February 26, 2007, Crandall received the Medal of Honor from President George W. Bush in a ceremony in the East Room of the White House.
He resides with his wife in Port Orchard, Washington.
Military awards: Medal of Honor Distinguished Flying Cross with one oak leaf cluster Bronze Star Meritorious Service Medal Air Medal (24 awards) Army Commendation Medal Purple Heart National Defense Service Medal with one bronze service star Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Gold Star (three awards) Armed Forces Reserve Medal Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Vietnam Service Medal (four campaigns) Vietnam Campaign Medal w/'60 device Presidential Unit Citation Meritorious Unit Commendation Master Army Aviator Badge
Medal of Honor Recipient - Army SFC Leroy Petry
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Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Arthur Petry is currently assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Benning, Ga. with duties as a liaison officer for the United States Special Operations Command Care Coalition—Northwest Region, providing oversight to wounded warriors, ill and injured service members and their families.
He was born in 1979 in New Mexico and in September 1999, Petry enlisted in the United States Army from his hometown in New Mexico, something he wanted to do since he was 7-years-old. Petry then volunteered for the 75th Ranger Regiment because of its reputable history. After completion of One Station Unit Training, the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program – all at Fort Benning – Petry was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He served as a grenadier, squad automatic rifleman, fire team leader, squad leader, operations sergeant and a weapons squad leader. He has deployed eight times in support of overseas contingency operations with two tours to Iraq and six tours to Afghanistan. At the time of the May 26, 2008 combat engagement, Petry was a Staff Sergeant Squad Leader assigned to Co. D, 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. Petry plans to retire from the Army after many more years of service. Petry enjoys serving in the Army, and has a great opportunity to work with the care coalition; in his words, "If I can’t go to the fight, I can help the men who are wounded, injured or ill." SFC Leroy Petry was awarded the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty |
US CONGRESSMAN Sam Johnson
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Sam Johnson, a decorated war hero and native Texan, ranks among the few Members of Congress to fight in combat. During his 29-year career in the U.S. Air Force, Representative Johnson flew combat missions in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He endured nearly seven years as a Prisoner of War in Hanoi, including 42 months in solitary confinement. Following his distinguished military career, Sam established a home-building business in North Dallas from scratch and served in the Texas State legislature.
Sam holds a House leadership role as one of the few Deputy Whips (vote counters). He is a member of the House Committee on Ways and Means where he serves as the Chairman of the Social Security Subcommittee and sits on the Health Subcommittee. In the 112th Congress, House leaders appointed Sam to the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT). Sam uses his committee assignments to benefit the Third District. Sam’s tenure and long-standing relationships give his constituents direct access to top congressional leaders. A fiscal hawk and constitutional conservative who advocates lower taxes and smaller government, Sam has proven himself as a respected leader with a rock-solid record. His recent landmark legislative accomplishments include: · Repealing the outdated cell-phone reporting requirement for businesses and localities; · Fighting to ensure Texans can deduct their state sales taxes; · Co-authoring the bill to repeal the Wright Amendment by 2014; · Securing a federal Courthouse in Plano; · Drafting the first pension reform in a generation; · Creating "phased retirement" for older Americans seeking a pension and a paycheck from the same company; and · Eliminating the earnings penalty on seniors who worked into retirement. The last two proved remarkably helpful for those nearing retirement in the wake of the 2008 market crash. In 2011, the renowned bipartisan publication, National Journal, named Sam the most conservative Member of Congress based solely on his voting record, meaning he voted against Nancy Pelosi and President Obama’s big government, failed stimulus agenda at every turn. In 2009, Sam’s peers recognized him as the "most admired" Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives. In addition, in 2009 the prestigious Congressional Medal of Honor Society bestowed Sam their highest civilian accolade, the National Patriot Award, for his tireless work on behalf of the troops, veterans, and freedom. In 2011, Sam accepted the "Freedom of Flight" award at the Living Legends of Aviation Awards, dubbed the Oscars of aviation, from renowned air show pilot Bob Hoover. Sam serves as a Regent for the world famous Smithsonian Institution, where he represents the Board of Regents on the Advisory Board of the National Air and Space Museum. Sam chronicles his POW experience in solitary confinement in his autobiography, Captive Warriors. The book details the stories of the self-named "Alcatraz Gang," including great American patriots, such as Jeremiah Denton and Jim Stockdale. A decorated combat veteran and war hero, Sam was awarded two Silver Stars, two Legions of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, one Bronze Star with Valor, two Purple Hearts, four Air Medals, and three Outstanding Unit Awards. Sam Johnson is married to the former Shirley L. Melton of Dallas. They are proud parents of three children and grandparents to ten. |
NAVY CAPTAIN J. Charles “Charlie” Plumb
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Captain Charlie Plumb has lived what he believes to be the American Dream. As a farm kid from Kansas, he fantasized about airplanes although he felt certain he would never have the opportunity to pilot one. It would be the United States Navy who afforded Plumb the opportunity to live out that dream.
After graduating from the Naval Academy, Plumb completed Navy Flight Training and reported to Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego where he flew the first adversarial flights in the development of what would be called The Navy Fighter Weapons School, currently known as “TOP GUN”. The next year, Plumb’s squadron the Aardvarks launched on the Aircraft Carrier USS Kitty Hawk with Fighter Squadron 114 to fly the Navy’s hottest airplane, the F-4 Phantom Jet. Code named “Plumber”, Charlie Plumb flew 74 successful combat missions over North Viet Nam and made over 100 carrier landings. On his 75th mission, just five days before the end of his tour, Plumb was shot down over Hanoi, taken prisoner, tortured, and spent the next 2,103 days as a Prisoner Of War. Following his repatriation, Plumb continued his Navy flying career in Reserve Squadrons where he flew A-4 Sky Hawks, A-7 Corsairs and FA-18 Hornets. His last two commands as a Naval Reservist were the on the Aircraft Carrier Corral Sea, and at a Fighter Air Wing in California. He retired from the United States Navy after 28 years of service. To this day, Captain Plumb continues to fly left-seat at every opportunity. He has personally owned 8 airplanes, the most treasured being a World War II PT-19 Open-Cockpit Antique. He currently owns a Rutan-designed experimental single-engine Long-Eze. Military Aircraft Flown: T-34 Mentor, T-2 Buckeye, F-9 Cougar, F-11 Tiger, F-4 Phantom, A-4 Sky Hawk, A-7 Corsair, FA-18 Hornet, F-16 Falcon Aircraft Carrier Assignments: USS Constellation, USS Lexington, USS Oriskany, USS Kitty Hawk, USS Coral Sea, USS Abraham Lincoln Medals and Decorations: Silver Star, 2 Purple Hearts, Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, POW Medal, Air Medals, Combat Action, Unit Citation, Republic of Vietnam Campaign, Service Medal |
Army Air Corps Lt - Calvin J. Spann - Tuskegee Airman
Calvin J. Spann is an original Tuskegee Airman and fighter pilot with the 100th Fighter Squadron of the 332nd Fighter Group. Calvin Spann received his wings from the Tuskegee Flight School as apart of the graduating class of 44G. As a member of the United States Army Air Corps he served in Europe during World War II, where Lt. Spann flew 26 combat missions before the end of the war in European Theatre.
During the wartime service of Lt. Spann (1944 – 1946) he was assigned to the 332nd Fighter Group under the command of Col. Benjamin O. Davis Jr. who on September 2, 1941was the first African American officer to solo an aircraft under the U.S. Army Air Corps Davis would later rise to the rank of General in the United States Air Force. While assigned to the 332nd he flew in the longest bomber escort mission of 15th Air Force, a 1600 mile round trip mission on March 24, 1945 from Ramitelli, Italy to Berlin, Germany to destroy a Daimler-Benz manufacturing facility under the leadership of his Squadron commander Captain Roscoe Brown.
On Feb. 28, 2006, the U.S. Congress approved a bill authorizing President George W. Bush to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the Tuskegee Airmen. The highest civilian honor awarded by the United States.
Today Lt. Calvin J. Spann speaks at schools, churches and organizations about the Tuskegee Airmen Experience and how their courage and valor helped them to triumph. During these speeches, he encourages students to make a commitment to excel in the study of mathematics and science, and reminding them that through preparation and perseverance they can succeed.
During the wartime service of Lt. Spann (1944 – 1946) he was assigned to the 332nd Fighter Group under the command of Col. Benjamin O. Davis Jr. who on September 2, 1941was the first African American officer to solo an aircraft under the U.S. Army Air Corps Davis would later rise to the rank of General in the United States Air Force. While assigned to the 332nd he flew in the longest bomber escort mission of 15th Air Force, a 1600 mile round trip mission on March 24, 1945 from Ramitelli, Italy to Berlin, Germany to destroy a Daimler-Benz manufacturing facility under the leadership of his Squadron commander Captain Roscoe Brown.
On Feb. 28, 2006, the U.S. Congress approved a bill authorizing President George W. Bush to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the Tuskegee Airmen. The highest civilian honor awarded by the United States.
Today Lt. Calvin J. Spann speaks at schools, churches and organizations about the Tuskegee Airmen Experience and how their courage and valor helped them to triumph. During these speeches, he encourages students to make a commitment to excel in the study of mathematics and science, and reminding them that through preparation and perseverance they can succeed.
AIR FORCE COL Jim Ryan
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In war, it takes tough men to lead survivors; and the strongest survivors eventually become leaders themselves, leading yet another pack of survivors. So on and so forth it goes, new leaders are made—leaders who are willing to do anything for their country. This starts by being taken under the wing of a patriot.
During a milestone era in the fighter business, Jim Ryan was surrounded by the most influential fighter pilots who left an unprecedented mark in history. He went from aviation cadet pilot out of high school to squadron commander of the 358th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) before making colonel. His Air Force career spanned nearly 30 years through sitting nuclear alert in Europe to 377 combat missions in Vietnam as a forward air controller with the 1st Cavalry, a Hobo Sandy, and squadron commander of the 358th TFS (Lobos). Noted as one of the most knowledgeable men in the Air Force on operations in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War while at the Pentagon, Col. Jim Ryan was led by the best and led the best. Col. Jim Ryan recently released his biography, a true inspirational story of a boy who soars from meager beginnings in Eastern Oklahoma to USAF fighter pilot during a diverse and dynamic time in America. |
USAF Col, Astronaut - Frederick Gregory
Frederick Drew Gregory is a former NASA Astronaut and former NASA Deputy Administrator. He also served briefly as NASA Acting Administrator in early 2005, covering the period between the departure of Sean O'Keefe and the swearing in of Michael Griffin. As Acting Administrator, Mr. Gregory led the NASA team and managed its resources as NASA sought to advance The US Vision for Space Exploration.
In 2002, Mr. Gregory was nominated by President George W. Bush and confirmed by the United States Senate as Deputy Administrator. In that capacity, he served as the chief operating officer for the Agency. He was responsible for directing and managing many of the programs as well as the day-to-day operations and activities at NASA. Prior to becoming the Deputy Administrator,Mr. Gregory served as the Associate Administrator for Space Flight from December 2001to August 2002. From June 1992 to December 2001, he held the position of Associate Administrator, Office of Safety and Mission Assurance. He retired from NASA in December 2005 and has worked as an independent consultant he fully retired in January, 2010.
Mr. Gregory has extensive experience as an astronaut,test pilot,and manager of flight safety programs and launch support operations. He was selected as an astronaut in January 1978 and has logged 455 hours in space: as pilot for the Orbiter Challenger (STS-51B) in 1985, as spacecraft commander aboard Discovery (STS-33) in 1989, and as spacecraft commander aboard Atlantis (STS-44) in 1991.
Mr. Gregory retired as a Colonel in the United States Air Force in December 1993 after logging 7,000 hours in more than 50 types of aircraft, including 550 combat missions in Vietnam. His almost 30-year Air Force career included serving as a helicopter pilot and as a fighter pilot. He graduated from the United States Naval Test Pilot School and served as an engineering test pilot for the Air Force and for NASA.
Mr. Gregory holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Air Force Academy and a Master's degree in Information Systems from George Washington University. He is a member or past member of numerous societies, including the Society of Experimental Test Pilots, American Helicopter Society, Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, the United States Air Force Academy Endowment, the National Technical Association, the Tuskegee Airmen,the Order of the Daedalians, and the Association of Space Explorers.
He was a recipient of the Presidential Rank Award for Distinguished Executives for 2003. His military awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 16 Air Medals, Defense Meritorious Service Medal;the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal; his NASA awards include 3 Space Flight Medals, 2 Outstanding Leadership Medals, Distinguished Service Medal; other awards include the US Air Force Academy Distinguished Graduate Award, the National Intelligence Medal, the National Society of Black Engineers Distinguished National Scientist Award, the George Washington University Distinguished Alumni Award, the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science President's Medal, Honorary Doctorates from the College of Aeronautics,The University of the District of Columbia, and Southwestern University. In 2004 and 2005, he was designated one of the 50 Most Important Blacks in Technology. He was also awarded the Air Force Association Ira Eaker Award, as well as numerous civic and community honors.
Married to the former Barbara Archer of Washington, D.C. until her death in 2008. They had two grown children and four grandchildren. He is now married to the former Annette Becke of Washington, D.C.
In 2002, Mr. Gregory was nominated by President George W. Bush and confirmed by the United States Senate as Deputy Administrator. In that capacity, he served as the chief operating officer for the Agency. He was responsible for directing and managing many of the programs as well as the day-to-day operations and activities at NASA. Prior to becoming the Deputy Administrator,Mr. Gregory served as the Associate Administrator for Space Flight from December 2001to August 2002. From June 1992 to December 2001, he held the position of Associate Administrator, Office of Safety and Mission Assurance. He retired from NASA in December 2005 and has worked as an independent consultant he fully retired in January, 2010.
Mr. Gregory has extensive experience as an astronaut,test pilot,and manager of flight safety programs and launch support operations. He was selected as an astronaut in January 1978 and has logged 455 hours in space: as pilot for the Orbiter Challenger (STS-51B) in 1985, as spacecraft commander aboard Discovery (STS-33) in 1989, and as spacecraft commander aboard Atlantis (STS-44) in 1991.
Mr. Gregory retired as a Colonel in the United States Air Force in December 1993 after logging 7,000 hours in more than 50 types of aircraft, including 550 combat missions in Vietnam. His almost 30-year Air Force career included serving as a helicopter pilot and as a fighter pilot. He graduated from the United States Naval Test Pilot School and served as an engineering test pilot for the Air Force and for NASA.
Mr. Gregory holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Air Force Academy and a Master's degree in Information Systems from George Washington University. He is a member or past member of numerous societies, including the Society of Experimental Test Pilots, American Helicopter Society, Air Force Academy Association of Graduates, the United States Air Force Academy Endowment, the National Technical Association, the Tuskegee Airmen,the Order of the Daedalians, and the Association of Space Explorers.
He was a recipient of the Presidential Rank Award for Distinguished Executives for 2003. His military awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 16 Air Medals, Defense Meritorious Service Medal;the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal; his NASA awards include 3 Space Flight Medals, 2 Outstanding Leadership Medals, Distinguished Service Medal; other awards include the US Air Force Academy Distinguished Graduate Award, the National Intelligence Medal, the National Society of Black Engineers Distinguished National Scientist Award, the George Washington University Distinguished Alumni Award, the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science President's Medal, Honorary Doctorates from the College of Aeronautics,The University of the District of Columbia, and Southwestern University. In 2004 and 2005, he was designated one of the 50 Most Important Blacks in Technology. He was also awarded the Air Force Association Ira Eaker Award, as well as numerous civic and community honors.
Married to the former Barbara Archer of Washington, D.C. until her death in 2008. They had two grown children and four grandchildren. He is now married to the former Annette Becke of Washington, D.C.
ARMY CW3 Matt Chancey
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Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matt Chancey is a native of Blue Ridge, GA. In 1994, he entered the Army at the age of 17 and in 2000, became a graduate and commissioned as an Infantry Officer from North Georgia College and State University in Dahlonega, GA. Matt served as a Rifle Platoon Leader and Executive Officer with 1-12 Infantry out of Fort Carson, Colorado, during the invasion of Iraq in 2003-2004. In 2005, Matt was selected to serve as a Ranger Instructor and Company Commander at the 5th Ranger Training Battalion (Mountain Phase) in Dahlonega, GA. Upon the completion of that assignment, he resigned his commission to become a Warrant Officer pilot in Army Aviation, flying the OH-58D Kiowa Scout Helicopter where he was assigned to 6th Squadron 17th Cavalry Regiment, Fort Wainwright Alaska. During this assignment, Matt served as Pilot in Command, Air Mission Commander, and an Instructor Pilot both deployed and stateside. In 2013, he was assigned as an Instructor Pilot for 7th Squadron, 17th Cavalry Squadron, 101st Airborne (Air Assualt) Division, Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He is currently undergoing training in the AH-64 Apache Helicopter Aircraft Qualification Course in which he is slated to become an Instructor Pilot and return to Fort Campbell, Kentucky
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AIR FORCE BRIGADIER GENERAL Steve Ritchie, Retired
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Brigadier General Steve Ritchie, USAF, Ret. is the only Air Force Pilot Ace since the Korean War.
2012 marked the 40th Anniversary of this unique achievement. Steve and his wife Mariana were hosted in Aviano, Italy with a 3 day celebration by his former fighter squadron, the 555th "Triple Nickel", 26-28 August 2012. Originally from Reidsville, NC, General Ritchie began his Air Force career as a cadet at the Air Force Academy in the class of 1964 and was a starting halfback for the Falcons playing his final game in the 1963 Gator Bowl. In 1965 Steve Ritchie graduated first in his class in Air Force pilot training at Laredo AFB, TX and four yrs later became one of the youngest instructors ever at the Air Force "Top Gun" Fighter Weapon School, Nellis AFB, NV. He was one of the few Second Lieutenants selected to fly the F-104, Starfighter immediately following initial pilot training. And, he is the only pilot in the world to became re-certified in the Starfighter more than 40 years later. During his second combat tour in Southeast Asia in 1972, then Capt. Ritchie became the only American pilot in history to down 5 MiG-21 enemy fighter airplanes, a record that will probably never be equaled. During his 2 combat tours he became one of the most decorated pilots in Air Force history, including: The Air Force Cross (our nation's second highest award) 4 Silver Stars 10 Distinguished Flying Crosses 25 Air Medals During his Air Force career he logged more than 4000 hours including 800 hours in combat in the F-4 Phantom during 339 missions in Southeast Asia. General Ritchie left active duty in 1974, but continued to serve in the Air Force Reserve and The Air National Guard holding important positions at AF Headquarters in the Pentagon. He retired in 1999 after 6 yrs as Mobilization Assistant to the Commander of AF Recruiting Service. He ran for the US Congress from NC, served in the Reagan Administration and has held various executive positions with civilian corporations. He is currently President of Steve Ritchie Associates, Inc. Motivational Speaking. Steve and his wife Mariana travel nationwide speaking together. She is from Romania and grew up under Communism hoping that American fighter jets would come to free them and take her off to America. Steve speaks on what it is like to fight communism and Mariana talks about what it is like to live under communist oppression. This dynamic duo spread their infectious love of the American Dream to everyone they encounter. Those who attend events featuring the Ritchies will hear about their unique perspective on recent developments in American culture and incidents in foreign lands that involve Americans. The Ritchies speak from experiences that have given them unique insight used to motivate and empower audiences to see more clearly and appreciate our freedoms more fully |
USMC LT - Clebe McClary
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Patrick Cleburne "Clebe" McClary was raised on a 10,000 acre plantation in the South Carolina Low Country. Young Clebe grew up hunting, fishing and excelling at sports. After fulfilling his dream of becoming a college coach, Clebe had plans to marry a beautiful Southern belle. Life was very good. But only weeks before the wedding (March 26, 1967), Clebe witnessed a startling event on a college campus that changed the course of his life forever - the burning of an American flag by students protesting the Vietnam conflict.
Dismayed by the lack of support for the country he loved, Clebe resigned from his coaching position and volunteered for duty in the Marine Corps. Completing Officers Training School in Quantico, Virginia, First Lt. McClary said goodbye to his bride and became platoon leader of the 1st Recon Battalion in Vietnam. On his 19th recon patrol, deep in hostile territory, Clebe and his unit engaged in hand-to-hand combat with the enemy. Suffering devastating injuries, which included the loss of his left arm and left eye, Clebe continued to lead his men. Clebe's valiant battle with the pain and disabilities that followed is nothing short of amazing. He spent over two years in military hospitals, undergoing over 30 major surgeries and countless hours of physical therapy. Since then Clebe has used his powerful story of courage, determination and strength to motivate audiences the world over. |
Coalition to Salute American Heroes
President / CEO - David W. Walker
David W. Walker was elected President and Chief Executive Officer of the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes in July 2012. He has been a member of the Coalition’s Board of Directors since 2005, and has served as its Chairman since 2009.
Prior to joining the Coalition as its CEO, Mr. Walker served for seven years as Vice President of Association Services for the McLean, Va.-based National Glass Association (NGA), the largest and most influential trade association serving the architectural glass, automotive glass, and window and door industries. Prior to joining the NGA in 2005, he spent 20 years with the National Association of Manufacturers, eventually becoming its Vice President of Marketing and Member Services.
Mr. Walker is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame, and earned his MBA with highest honors from the Lake Forest Graduate School of Management. He later graduated from the Innovative Leadership Executive Management Program at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Management.
Prior to joining the Coalition as its CEO, Mr. Walker served for seven years as Vice President of Association Services for the McLean, Va.-based National Glass Association (NGA), the largest and most influential trade association serving the architectural glass, automotive glass, and window and door industries. Prior to joining the NGA in 2005, he spent 20 years with the National Association of Manufacturers, eventually becoming its Vice President of Marketing and Member Services.
Mr. Walker is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame, and earned his MBA with highest honors from the Lake Forest Graduate School of Management. He later graduated from the Innovative Leadership Executive Management Program at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Management.
Director of Events and Donor Relations - Sara Brush
Sara is new to the Coalition management staff, but has been working with their fundraising organization since 2005. She has immense passion for the cause and is dedicated to fulfilling the mission of helping America’s severely wounded troops. She comes to the team with an extensive background in marketing, fundraising and event-planning.
Sara earned her AA in Business at Frederick Community College. She continued her education with a focus on marketing at George Mason University. She is a proven relationship-builder whose unique abilities include communications and creative design.
This compassionate dog lover is native of Pittsburgh, but has lived most of her life in Virginia. She spends her free time playing softball, rooting for the Steelers with her family and chasing after two teen-aged step-daughters.
Sara earned her AA in Business at Frederick Community College. She continued her education with a focus on marketing at George Mason University. She is a proven relationship-builder whose unique abilities include communications and creative design.
This compassionate dog lover is native of Pittsburgh, but has lived most of her life in Virginia. She spends her free time playing softball, rooting for the Steelers with her family and chasing after two teen-aged step-daughters.
Navy EOD - MC Ken Falke (CEO Boulder Crest Retreat)
Mr. Falke is a 21-year combat veteran of the U.S. Navy EOD community and retired Master Chief Petty Officer. Ken is highly respected around the world and throughout the military and civilian counter- terrorism communities as an innovative and forward thinking leader in training and technology development. Ken serves as a subject matter expert for the Department of Defense, the Department of State, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Homeland Security and many foreign governments.
Under Ken’s entrepreneurial direction and leadership as the Founder of his first company, A-T Solutions, the company is a recognized international expert and valuable global asset in combating the war on terrorism. At the forefront of providing training and consulting services in the Anti- Counter- Terrorism industry today, A-T Solutions was named four consecutive years to the Annual Inc. 500/5000 fastest growing privately held companies in the U.S. Also recognized in Entrepreneur Magazines’ Hot 500 List, the Washington Technology “Fast 50”, Smart CEO’s “Future 50”, and most recently the winner of the very prestigious Greater Washington Area Government Contractor Award in the category of companies $75M-$100M. In 2010, Ken was named as the Entrepreneur of the Year for the Fredericksburg, Virginia Regional Chamber of Commerce and selected as a finalist in the prestigious Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year program.
Ken currently spends the majority of his time educating the public and private sectors on the issues surrounding the long-term care of our returning military personnel and their families from the last eleven years of war.
Ken is married to Julia Falke (for the last 30 years) and has two daughters Gennavieve (24) and Rhian (20).
Under Ken’s entrepreneurial direction and leadership as the Founder of his first company, A-T Solutions, the company is a recognized international expert and valuable global asset in combating the war on terrorism. At the forefront of providing training and consulting services in the Anti- Counter- Terrorism industry today, A-T Solutions was named four consecutive years to the Annual Inc. 500/5000 fastest growing privately held companies in the U.S. Also recognized in Entrepreneur Magazines’ Hot 500 List, the Washington Technology “Fast 50”, Smart CEO’s “Future 50”, and most recently the winner of the very prestigious Greater Washington Area Government Contractor Award in the category of companies $75M-$100M. In 2010, Ken was named as the Entrepreneur of the Year for the Fredericksburg, Virginia Regional Chamber of Commerce and selected as a finalist in the prestigious Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year program.
Ken currently spends the majority of his time educating the public and private sectors on the issues surrounding the long-term care of our returning military personnel and their families from the last eleven years of war.
Ken is married to Julia Falke (for the last 30 years) and has two daughters Gennavieve (24) and Rhian (20).
Team Fastrax
Army SF, Ranger - Gene Newsome
Team Fastrax Manger Gene Newsom and has the Professional Exhibition (PRO) Rating, decorated veteran US Army Ranger and Green Beret. With over 15000 Skydives, he serves as an Accelerated Free Fall Instructor Evaluator, Tandem Instructor Examiner, Instructor Examiner, Pilot and a Master Rigger licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration at Start Skydiving in Middletown OH. Gene also was the Test Pilot For all the Flags.
Army SF- Rick Iannucci (Retired U.S. Marshal)
Retired U.S. Marshal and former Green Beret. Horses For Heroes - NM, Inc. Executive Director and Instructor. A working cowboy on several surrounding cattle ranches, also a nationally recognized 4-H leader (Western Horseman Magazine, November 2009). He currently serves on the NM State University Indian Livestock Days planning board.
He commanded a Special Missions Unit in Colombia, has served as an instructor at the US Military Academy at West Point, and was a member of the elite US Marshals Special Operations Group (SOG) where he served on the SOG Teams that brought in such notables as Panamanian General Manuel Noriega and Oklahoma Bombers Timothy Mc Veigh and Terry Nichols.
He is the recipient of the Attorney Generals Distinguished Service Award and the US Marshals Service Directors Award for his work in Colombia. In 2010 he received the American Red Cross Real Heroes Award for his current work with military veterans.
He combines a lifetime of horsemanship training with his military and police special operations training experience into this one of a kind program. Rick has a Bachelor of Science Degree from Neumann University and is a member of the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association and a decade member of the Special Forces Association (D-7014).
He commanded a Special Missions Unit in Colombia, has served as an instructor at the US Military Academy at West Point, and was a member of the elite US Marshals Special Operations Group (SOG) where he served on the SOG Teams that brought in such notables as Panamanian General Manuel Noriega and Oklahoma Bombers Timothy Mc Veigh and Terry Nichols.
He is the recipient of the Attorney Generals Distinguished Service Award and the US Marshals Service Directors Award for his work in Colombia. In 2010 he received the American Red Cross Real Heroes Award for his current work with military veterans.
He combines a lifetime of horsemanship training with his military and police special operations training experience into this one of a kind program. Rick has a Bachelor of Science Degree from Neumann University and is a member of the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association and a decade member of the Special Forces Association (D-7014).
Army Maj - Ernest G. Banasau Jr. (Vietnam)
MAJOR USA (RETIRED) ERNEST G. BANASAU, JR. RETIRED FROM THE US ARMY IN AUGUST 1994. HE SERVED FOR TWENTY YEARS ON ACTIVE DUTY BOTH AS A DRAFTED ENLISTED INFANTRY SOLDIER DURING THE VIETNAM WAR SERVING WITH THE 4TH INFANTRY DIVISION AND AS AN INFANTRY OFFICER DURING DESERT STORM IN 1991 IN IRAQ.
MAJOR BANASAU RETURNED FROM VIETNAM IN 1968 TO ATTEND SOUTHWEST TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY AND THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS ARMY ROTC PROGRAM. HE RECEIVED BOTH HIS EDUCATION DEGREE AND ARMY COMMISSION IN 1976. UPON RETIREMENT, HE STARTED A SUCCESSFUL EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE COMPANY UNTIL HE SOLD HIS COMPANY AND ACCEPTED A DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY POSITION WITH HIS OLD ARMY ROTC BATTALION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS IN DECEMBER 2000.
MAJOR BANASAU SERVED AS THE BATTALION SUPPLY TECH AND AS PART OF HIS DUTIES HE MENTORED THOSE YOUNG ROTC CADETS FROM THEIR FRESHMEN TO SENIOR YEAR. HIS LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE ENHANCED THE UT ARMY ROTC PROGRAM. WHILE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS, HE WAS APPOINTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS-TEXAS MEMORIAL STADIUM VETERANS COMMITTEE. MAJOR BANASAU HAS ALSO BEEN ACTIVE WITH THE TEXAS CAPITAL CHAPTER 1919 OF THE MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART SERVING AT BOTH THE LOCAL AND NATIONAL LEVEL. HE IS THE PAST COMMANDER OF THE DRIPPING SPRINGS VFW POST 2933. SINCE HIS FINAL RETIREMENT IN JULY 2006, MAJOR BANASAU IS VERY BUSY WITH VETERANS ISSUES AND AVOCATES IN SUPPORT OF ALL OF OUR VETERANS. ESPECIALLY, THOSE YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN CURRENTLY SERVING IN UNIFORM. HE GLADLY ACCEPTED THIS CURRENT APPOINTMENT TO SERVE ON THE BOARD OF HONOR FLIGHT AUSTIN AND LOOKS FORWARD TO SERVING THE “GREATEST GENERATION”. BOTH HIS FATHER AND HIS GRANDFATHER SERVED DURING WORLD WAR II AND SEES THIS ASSIGNMENT AS AN “HONOR”.
MAJOR BANASAU IS MARRIED TO HIS WIFE, VIRGINIA, FOR THE LAST 41 YEARS. HE HAS BOTH A SON, KRISTOPHER AND A DAUGHTER, STEPHANIE. THEY ARE BOTH MARRIED AND HE HAS FOUR GRAND CHILDREN. HE AND HIS ENTIRE FAMILY RESIDE IN DRIPPING SPRINGS, TEXAS IN THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY.
MAJOR BANASAU RETURNED FROM VIETNAM IN 1968 TO ATTEND SOUTHWEST TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY AND THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS ARMY ROTC PROGRAM. HE RECEIVED BOTH HIS EDUCATION DEGREE AND ARMY COMMISSION IN 1976. UPON RETIREMENT, HE STARTED A SUCCESSFUL EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE COMPANY UNTIL HE SOLD HIS COMPANY AND ACCEPTED A DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY POSITION WITH HIS OLD ARMY ROTC BATTALION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS IN DECEMBER 2000.
MAJOR BANASAU SERVED AS THE BATTALION SUPPLY TECH AND AS PART OF HIS DUTIES HE MENTORED THOSE YOUNG ROTC CADETS FROM THEIR FRESHMEN TO SENIOR YEAR. HIS LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE ENHANCED THE UT ARMY ROTC PROGRAM. WHILE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS, HE WAS APPOINTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS-TEXAS MEMORIAL STADIUM VETERANS COMMITTEE. MAJOR BANASAU HAS ALSO BEEN ACTIVE WITH THE TEXAS CAPITAL CHAPTER 1919 OF THE MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART SERVING AT BOTH THE LOCAL AND NATIONAL LEVEL. HE IS THE PAST COMMANDER OF THE DRIPPING SPRINGS VFW POST 2933. SINCE HIS FINAL RETIREMENT IN JULY 2006, MAJOR BANASAU IS VERY BUSY WITH VETERANS ISSUES AND AVOCATES IN SUPPORT OF ALL OF OUR VETERANS. ESPECIALLY, THOSE YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN CURRENTLY SERVING IN UNIFORM. HE GLADLY ACCEPTED THIS CURRENT APPOINTMENT TO SERVE ON THE BOARD OF HONOR FLIGHT AUSTIN AND LOOKS FORWARD TO SERVING THE “GREATEST GENERATION”. BOTH HIS FATHER AND HIS GRANDFATHER SERVED DURING WORLD WAR II AND SEES THIS ASSIGNMENT AS AN “HONOR”.
MAJOR BANASAU IS MARRIED TO HIS WIFE, VIRGINIA, FOR THE LAST 41 YEARS. HE HAS BOTH A SON, KRISTOPHER AND A DAUGHTER, STEPHANIE. THEY ARE BOTH MARRIED AND HE HAS FOUR GRAND CHILDREN. HE AND HIS ENTIRE FAMILY RESIDE IN DRIPPING SPRINGS, TEXAS IN THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY.
AIR FORCE COL Randall Larsen
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Larsen is the Founding Director of the WMD Center, a not-for-profit research organization he formed with Senators Bob Graham (D-FL) and Jim Talent (R-MO). He is also the national security advisor at the Center for Biosecurity, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, a senior fellow at the Homeland Security Policy Institute at George Washington University, and the author of Our Own Worst Enemy (Grand Central Publications, 2007).
Larsen's former leadership positions include: vice president and corporate officer (one of only five) in a 400-person consulting firm; executive director of the Congressional Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism; founding director of the Institute for Homeland Security; department chair and professor of strategy at the National War College; chief of legislative liaison at the U.S. Transportation Command; and commander of America's VIP fleet of aircraft at Andrews Air Force Base Maryland, where he was responsible for 1,000 people, 47 airplanes and helicopters, a $150 million annual budget, and some very high-maintenance customers. He also served as a military attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok and on the Defense Science Board. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and of the National Speakers Association. His articles have been published in the Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, New York Post, Business Week, and Ripon Forum. In 2007, US News & World Report, Congressional Quarterly and the Washington Times carried in-depth profiles on Larsen. He is a frequent guest commentator on radio and television including: CBS, NBC, ABC, CNN, BBC, NPR, Jim Lehrer News Hour, Fox News Channel, Larry King Live, Oprah and Dr. Oz. Colonel Larsen has flown a wide range of military and civilian aircraft including supersonic jets, large transport aircraft, airliners and executive jets, plus 400 combat missions in Vietnam in helicopters. His decorations include the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, 17 awards of the Air Medal (3 with "V" Device for Valor), and the South Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. |
AIR FORCE LT COL Dick Rutan
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Voyager aircraft's non-stop and unrefueled flight around the world in December of 1986 placed Mojave proudly on the map and placed Dick Rutan in the history books.
In December of 2005, Dick set another world record. This record was set in the EZ-Rocket for the longest distance in a ground launched rocket powered aircraft. He flew from the Mojave Spaceport to the California City Airport. Touted as the "shortest long distance flight," this record is recognized by the National Aeronautics Association (NAA), and is in the record books. On board that flight, Dick carried mail to be delivered to California City, as well as American flag patches and flight covers that will be sold to raise money for The Dick Rutan Scholarship Fund, a fund that awards multiple scholarships each year. In April of 2006, Dick was awarded the NAA "Most Memorable Flight of 2005" award in Washington, DC for the flight from the Mojave Spaceport to the California City Airport. Also, for that record setting flight, Dick was awarded the Louis Bleriot Medal in November of 2006. This prestigious medal was established in 1936 in memory of Louis Bleriot, a great aviation pioneer. In 2003, Dick Rutan was elected as a director of the East Kern Airport District (EKAD). With the launches and successes of Burt Rutan's (Dick's brother) SpaceShipOne, the EKAD has attained status of Spaceport as well. Dick is proud to be a governing member of this newly emerging space tourism industry. In June of 2003, Dick Rutan became an Eagle at the Gathering of Eagles in Montgomery, Alabama. This prestigious honor was his in 1988, two years after the Voyager flight, and they brought him back for a second induction to honor his service in the Air Force. He will join the ranks with aviation and space greats including Buzz Aldrin, Gene Cernan, Neil Armstrong, Pete Conrad, and other flyers that include Pappy Boyington, Joe Engle, and many others. In July of 2002, Dick Rutan was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in Dayton, Ohio. This esteemed enshrinement honored Dick and three other Americans "whose heroism helped define 20th Century America." In 2001, Dick Rutan became the chief test pilot for XCOR and has been flying the first-ever rocket powered experimental Long EZ (pronounced Long Easy). Named the EZRocket, this air vehicle has not only set a world record, but the proof of concept is also setting the future for rocket travel and the intensifying sport of rocket powered aircraft racing. In May of 2000, Dick Rutan was a last minute addition to a sightseeing airplane trek to the North Pole. The biplane, a Russian AN-2 Antonov, landed beautifully on the glass-like ice, but within seconds, the joyride was headed for disaster. Unseasonably thin, the ice quickly began to stress and crack under the weight of the plane. A quick power-up to 'go-around' and locate a thicker spot on the ice resulted in the aircraft suddenly dipping nose first through the ice, sinking toward the freezing ocean, and certain death. The wings of the AN-2 suspended the aircraft so the crew could retrieve their survival equipment that was packed in the rear of the sinking plane. For more than a dozen hours, the crew was stranded at the top of the world. In the distance, they heard a faint engine and soon would see the Twin Otter from First Air that would rescue them and return them to their families. Dick obtained his balloon pilot's license in 1995 (Commercial free air balloon; helium and hot air). In 1998, Dick Rutan attempted to make the first ever flight around the world in a balloon in the Global Hilton. That attempt ended three hours after takeoff. The balloon's helium cell ruptured (due to a manufacturer's defect) while the team floated at 30,000 feet. When the crew was at a safer 6,000 foot altitude, the crew dramatically bailed from the crippled craft. The capsule landed unmanned in Texas and burst into flames. Within minutes of landing on terra firma, Dick pledged to try again, and built a second capsule called World Quest. This, with a new constrained volume helium lifting system (super pressure style) held promise Dick would indeed succeed in balloon world flight. The World Quest Project ceased when a rival team captured the milestone in March of 1999. From April 4th to June 24th of 1997, Dick completed The Spirit of EAA Friendship World Tour, along with flight lead, Mike Melvill. This "Around The World In 80 Nights" flight was completed in two small experimental Long-EZ aircraft that Dick and Mike built side by side two decades ago. Since Voyager's world flight, Dick has been traveling the world on the lecture circuit, telling his tale of the magnificent Voyager project and flight and of the North Pole adventure. The Voyager story is one of tremendous courage, of vision, and of adventure and is often referred to as 'aviation's last first.' Dick received both his solo pilot's license and driver's license on his sixteenth birthday. At the age of nineteen, Dick joined the Air Force Aviation Cadet Program, was commission Lieutenant and later received a Bachelor of Science Degree at the American Technological University through the Air Force Professional Education "Boot Strap" Program. As a Tactical Air Command fighter pilot during most of his two decades in the Air Force, Rutan flew 325 combat missions in Vietnam, 105 of them as a member of a high-risk classified operation commonly known as the "MISTY's." While on his last strike reconnaissance mission over North Vietnam in September of 1968, he was hit by enemy ground fire, and forced to eject from his burning F-100. Dick evaded enemy capture and was later rescued by the Air Force's "Jolly Green Giant" helicopter team. Before retiring from the Air Force in 1978, Lt. Col. Rutan had been awarded the Silver Star, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, 16 Air Medals and the Purple Heart. After retirement, Dick joined his brother, Burt, as Production Manager and Chief Test Pilot for Rutan Aircraft Factory. Dick Rutan flew the test flight development program of many military and civilian experimental aircraft and set numerous world speed and distance records in his Long-EZ, a popular Rutan designed home-built airplane. Dick was awarded the Louis Bleriot Medal by the prestigious Federation Aeronautique Internationale during a ceremony in Brussels, Belgium in recognition of these record-setting flights. In early 1981, Dick Rutan resigned from his brother's company and founded Voyager Aircraft, Inc., and prepared to complete the first-ever around the world, non-stop, non-refueled flight. On the morning of December 14, 1986, a fuel laden Voyager took off on the history making flight. Nine days, three minutes and forty four seconds later, Dick set the storm-battered Voyager down on the dry lakebed at Edwards Air Force Base in California, successfully completing the six-year quest. The Voyager is now proudly suspended in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum's "Milestones of Flight" gallery in our nation's capitol. Four days following the historic flight of the Voyager, President Ronald Reagan awarded Dick the Presidential Citizen's Medal of Honor at a special ceremony. The medal has been presented only sixteen times in the history of the United States. Dick's wife, Kris, is a kindergarten teacher. Together, they have four daughters and nine grandchildren. |
Army Lt Colonel - Scott Robison
Mr. Robison is a decorated military officer (Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, retired) with over 23 years of dedicated service to our nation as an Infantry Officer and in Special Forces units. After his successful military career, Mr. Robison worked for several private sector start-up companies
Scott’s Profile
•Education:
◦University of Colorado - Bachelor of Arts
◦New Mexico Military Institute - Distinguished Military Graduate where he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant.
•Awards/Certifications:
◦Bronze Star, Navy Achievement Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (10-OLC), Army Commendation Medal (5-OLC), the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Ranger Tab, and Special Forces Tab.
◦He is also certified as a Jumpmaster, Sniper and in Long Range Surveillance.
•Career Experience:
◦Military Experience
◾Director of the Acquisition Category programs (ACAT I, II, & III), where he was responsible for overseeing the design, coordination and execution of programs to support the War Fighting Systems Acquisition for the Army. He managed the activities of 60+ engineers and acquisition professionals, along with more than 500 supporting contractors.
◾Team leader for Joint Task Force 8 (JTF8)-Vietnam and briefing the President of the United States
◾Team member of JTF6-Counter drug operation with the DEA on drug interdiction
◾Heading the implementation of Asymmetric Warfare in Northern Iraq
◾Served as the Chief of Contingency Contracting for I Corps at the onset of the Gulf War where he secured over $30M in contracts and procurements
◾Team Lead for the Forward Operational Assessment MND North, Iraq
◦Private Sector Experience:
◾Robison Ranch - Owner/Operator
◾Land Acquisitions - Owner
◾Nu-H2O - Partner involved with product development, marketing and organizational start-up
◾www.angelnote.com - Consultant
◾Copperas Cover Veterans Transition Groups - Consultant
Scott’s Profile
•Education:
◦University of Colorado - Bachelor of Arts
◦New Mexico Military Institute - Distinguished Military Graduate where he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant.
•Awards/Certifications:
◦Bronze Star, Navy Achievement Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (10-OLC), Army Commendation Medal (5-OLC), the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Ranger Tab, and Special Forces Tab.
◦He is also certified as a Jumpmaster, Sniper and in Long Range Surveillance.
•Career Experience:
◦Military Experience
◾Director of the Acquisition Category programs (ACAT I, II, & III), where he was responsible for overseeing the design, coordination and execution of programs to support the War Fighting Systems Acquisition for the Army. He managed the activities of 60+ engineers and acquisition professionals, along with more than 500 supporting contractors.
◾Team leader for Joint Task Force 8 (JTF8)-Vietnam and briefing the President of the United States
◾Team member of JTF6-Counter drug operation with the DEA on drug interdiction
◾Heading the implementation of Asymmetric Warfare in Northern Iraq
◾Served as the Chief of Contingency Contracting for I Corps at the onset of the Gulf War where he secured over $30M in contracts and procurements
◾Team Lead for the Forward Operational Assessment MND North, Iraq
◦Private Sector Experience:
◾Robison Ranch - Owner/Operator
◾Land Acquisitions - Owner
◾Nu-H2O - Partner involved with product development, marketing and organizational start-up
◾www.angelnote.com - Consultant
◾Copperas Cover Veterans Transition Groups - Consultant
ARMY PFC Bill Wilch
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For William Wilch, 9o, landed with the first invasion wave on a stretch of Omaha Beach, known as “Easy Green,” on June 6. The day is forever emblazoned in his memories — and his nightmares.
“I put my head down and ran straight ahead to those bluffs,” said the Middletown resident, who was an Army private first class 70 years ago. “I didn’t look to the left or right.” Wilch and Newcomb are two of many area WWII veterans with whom this newspaper has spoken in the past two weeks to recount their stories of service in the war, including talking about Overlord, the Allied invasion that established a Western front in France. For those who stepped foot on the beaches of northwestern France, and for those who supported them, it is not an anniversary to miss. “From what I smelled, heard and seen, the D-Day assault where I was, the American soldier was magnificent,” Wilch said. “They went into death, hell. After going through being wet, sick, all that. They never hesitated. I never saw one man hesitate after he came out of those landing craft.” Added Wilch, “I think it stunned the Germans, that they ran right into death.” Wilch served with the 2nd squad of the 2nd platoon, E Company, in the 115th Regimental Combat Team in the 29th Division. He believes he survived D-Day — and the ensuing seven decades — thanks to “an angel” on his shoulder. “There’s no skill in combat,” Wilch said. “It doesn’t matter how fast you are, how high you can jump, what you can do. If they flood the place with bullets, you’re going to get it.” |
Tony Ryan - Full Scale Assault (Founder, TD Data-Link Controls Inc)
At the height of the Vietnam War in 1966, Tony Ryan was a young boy living in Mesa, Arizona with his mother and older brother while his father, Jim Ryan (Retired USAF Full Colonel) was flying forward Air Control as an O-1 Bird Dog pilot with the 1st Brigade of the 1st Cavalry (All Air Mobile). This was one of three tours Tony’s father spent in Vietnam where he earned not one but 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses.
Born in Alexandria, Louisiana, Tony moved all over the U.S. throughout his dad’s military career. Never serving in the military himself he did however spend nearly half his life in the midst of a USAF base during his dad’s 27-year military career where he learned freedom isn’t free.
Tony is founder and owner of TD Data-Link Controls, Inc. an energy management automation systems business with national and international clientele. Outside of running his company, Tony enjoys family, is a professional bowfisherman, spends time skydiving, scuba diving, riding motocross and doing non-profit work with Halo for Freedom Warrior Foundation.
He is married to Sharon Ryan, a school teacher of 23-years with Argyle School District, and is the proud father of 6 children, 5 of which are girls and one son.
Born in Alexandria, Louisiana, Tony moved all over the U.S. throughout his dad’s military career. Never serving in the military himself he did however spend nearly half his life in the midst of a USAF base during his dad’s 27-year military career where he learned freedom isn’t free.
Tony is founder and owner of TD Data-Link Controls, Inc. an energy management automation systems business with national and international clientele. Outside of running his company, Tony enjoys family, is a professional bowfisherman, spends time skydiving, scuba diving, riding motocross and doing non-profit work with Halo for Freedom Warrior Foundation.
He is married to Sharon Ryan, a school teacher of 23-years with Argyle School District, and is the proud father of 6 children, 5 of which are girls and one son.
Patriot Project
Dr. Timothy Novelli - Founder & President, Patriot Project
Dr. Timothy P. Novelli, of North Canton, Ohio has been in practice since 1985. After completing his under-graduate courses at Walsh University in North Canton, he received his Doctorate at The National College of Chiropractic in Chicago, Illinois.
After starting his practice in 1985, Dr. Novelli spent the next nine (9) years completing Diplomate Programs in the areas of Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Applied Kinesiology, and Advanced Studies of Motor Vehicle Accident Biomechanics at The Spinal Institute of San Diego. Dr. Novelli also studied under Dr. Vernon Pierce, DC of Spartanburg, South Carolina who taught him the “Pierce Technique”, a cervical adjustment used for difficult cervical disc problems. Due to his successful adjustment techniques, many medical doctors as well as chiropractic colleagues refer their most difficult cervical disc patients to Dr. Novelli for treatment.
Dr. Novelli specializes in neuromuscular and skeletal injuries and, for over 25 years, has provided care for both professional and Olympic athletes from around the world returning them to competition sooner and improving their performance both on and off the field. In addition, he has provided chiropractic care and served as the Team Physician to the Ashland University Elite Track and Field teams, The Cleveland Browns professional football team, served as a Ring Doctor for MMA tournaments and is a Past Vice President of The North Central Academy of Chiropractic. For the past 28 football seasons, Dr. Novelli has served as the Team Physician for his Alma Mater, The Central Catholic Crusaders * 2 times State Champions.
After meeting Retired US Army Sgt. 1st Class Dana Bowman at his Halo for Freedom event, Dr. Novelli had the opportunity to meet and extend Chiropractic care to over 150 Wounded Warriors. Soon after that event Dr. Novelli founded THE PATRIOT PROJECT. (www.patriot-project.org) Chiropractic care is now available to our heroes in 17 states by some 250 Chiropractors. Dr. Novelli is now dedicated to encouraging members of his Chiropractic Profession to join “the cause” and join THE PATRIOT PROJECT.
Professional Affiliations:
American Chiropractic Association * Ohio State Chiropractic Association * North Central Academy of Chiropractic * National College of Chiropractic Alumni Association
Community Accommodations:
Parker Chiropractic College / Performance Health 2014 Humanitarian Award * N.E Ohio USO * Toys for Tots * US Congressman James Renacci (R 16th District 16)
Ohio State Rep Christine Hagan (R District 50) Ohio State Rep Kirk Schuring (R District 48)
After starting his practice in 1985, Dr. Novelli spent the next nine (9) years completing Diplomate Programs in the areas of Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Applied Kinesiology, and Advanced Studies of Motor Vehicle Accident Biomechanics at The Spinal Institute of San Diego. Dr. Novelli also studied under Dr. Vernon Pierce, DC of Spartanburg, South Carolina who taught him the “Pierce Technique”, a cervical adjustment used for difficult cervical disc problems. Due to his successful adjustment techniques, many medical doctors as well as chiropractic colleagues refer their most difficult cervical disc patients to Dr. Novelli for treatment.
Dr. Novelli specializes in neuromuscular and skeletal injuries and, for over 25 years, has provided care for both professional and Olympic athletes from around the world returning them to competition sooner and improving their performance both on and off the field. In addition, he has provided chiropractic care and served as the Team Physician to the Ashland University Elite Track and Field teams, The Cleveland Browns professional football team, served as a Ring Doctor for MMA tournaments and is a Past Vice President of The North Central Academy of Chiropractic. For the past 28 football seasons, Dr. Novelli has served as the Team Physician for his Alma Mater, The Central Catholic Crusaders * 2 times State Champions.
After meeting Retired US Army Sgt. 1st Class Dana Bowman at his Halo for Freedom event, Dr. Novelli had the opportunity to meet and extend Chiropractic care to over 150 Wounded Warriors. Soon after that event Dr. Novelli founded THE PATRIOT PROJECT. (www.patriot-project.org) Chiropractic care is now available to our heroes in 17 states by some 250 Chiropractors. Dr. Novelli is now dedicated to encouraging members of his Chiropractic Profession to join “the cause” and join THE PATRIOT PROJECT.
Professional Affiliations:
American Chiropractic Association * Ohio State Chiropractic Association * North Central Academy of Chiropractic * National College of Chiropractic Alumni Association
Community Accommodations:
Parker Chiropractic College / Performance Health 2014 Humanitarian Award * N.E Ohio USO * Toys for Tots * US Congressman James Renacci (R 16th District 16)
Ohio State Rep Christine Hagan (R District 50) Ohio State Rep Kirk Schuring (R District 48)
Dr. Mark Pustaver - Vice President, Patriot Project
After receiving his undergraduate education through the University of Wisconsin system, Dr. Mark Pustaver earned his chiropractic degree from the National College of Chiropractic in Lombard, IL. For seven years he practiced in a suburb of Madison, WI, where his work with members of the University of Wisconsin football, wrestling, track and crew teams prompted him to pursue his certification as a chiropractic sports physician.
Dr. Pustaver later moved to Delaware, where he joined Delaware Valley Chiropractic Center, and helped establish the Advanced Rehabilitation Center. Upon completing a chiropractic neurology residency in 1992, he became a diplomat of the American Board of Chiropractic Neurology. After relocating to North Carolina, a low-back pain article of his was published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics in 1994. For several years he has served as an examiner in clinical competency for the North Carolina Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
In addition to his private practice in Matthews, NC, Dr. Pustaver is the team chiropractor for Hendrick Motorsports. He has also co-invented and patented a lower back exercise device. He is a member of the American Chiropractic Association, ACA Council on Sports Injuries and Physical Fitness, ACA Council on Neurology, and North Carolina Chiropractic Assocation. Dr. Pustaver is also the Vice President of The Patriot Project, a grass roots movement to provide chiropractic care to all Active Military, their Families, Wounded Warriors and All Gold Star Dependents.
Dr. Pustaver later moved to Delaware, where he joined Delaware Valley Chiropractic Center, and helped establish the Advanced Rehabilitation Center. Upon completing a chiropractic neurology residency in 1992, he became a diplomat of the American Board of Chiropractic Neurology. After relocating to North Carolina, a low-back pain article of his was published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics in 1994. For several years he has served as an examiner in clinical competency for the North Carolina Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
In addition to his private practice in Matthews, NC, Dr. Pustaver is the team chiropractor for Hendrick Motorsports. He has also co-invented and patented a lower back exercise device. He is a member of the American Chiropractic Association, ACA Council on Sports Injuries and Physical Fitness, ACA Council on Neurology, and North Carolina Chiropractic Assocation. Dr. Pustaver is also the Vice President of The Patriot Project, a grass roots movement to provide chiropractic care to all Active Military, their Families, Wounded Warriors and All Gold Star Dependents.
Howard Putnam
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Howard Putnam was raised on an Iowa farm and learned to fly out of a pasture in his Father’s J-3 Piper Cub. He entered the airline business as a baggage handler at Midway Airport in Chicago for Capital Airlines at age 17. Capital was soon merged into United and Howard held thirteen different positions in sales, services and staff assignments in several cities, before being named Group Vice President of Marketing for United Airlines, the world’s largest airline, in 1976.
In 1978 he was recruited to become President and CEO of fledgling Southwest Airlines in Dallas, TX. While at Southwest Howard and his team tripled the revenues and tripled profitability in three years. They also successfully guided Southwest through airline deregulation and Southwest was the first air carrier to order the Boeing 737-300, which later became the largest selling aircraft ever for Boeing. Howard led the visioning process at Southwest as well as further developing the “fun” culture and excellent customer service that Southwest is still known for today. Southwest has been profitable every year for over thirty years, a record unsurpassed by any other airline. In 1981, Howard was recruited by the board of directors of Braniff International to come aboard as CEO and save and/or restructure the financially failing airline. He was the first airline CEO to successfully take a major carrier into, through and out of chapter 11. Braniff flew again in 1984. He is the author of “The Winds of Turbulence” on leadership and ethics. Harvard University wrote a case study on his experiences at Braniff, “The Ethics of Bankruptcy” as a model as to how to handle stakeholders in crisis. He has also been an entrepreneur, serving as Chairman of a startup investment company and two small manufacturing and distribution companies. Howard and Krista have two children, Michael, a commercial airline captain and Sue, in public relations and marketing. |
Marc Fucarile - Survivor of the Boston Marathon Bombings
Marc Fucarile was born on September 19, 1978 in Melrose Ma, and raised in Stoneham Ma. He had been working for a roofing company, Marshall Roofing for over 8 years delivering roofing materials to various job and as shop supervisor. He lived in Stoneham with his fiancé Jennifer and 5 year old son Gavin. On April 15th 2013 he went to the Boston Marathon to support a friend of his, a marine who was running the marathon. At approximately 2:50 the bombs went off. Marc was severely injured and rushed to Mass General Hospital in a police paddy wagon because all of the ambulances at the scene were full from the first explosion. When Marc arrived at MGH his right leg had been amputated by the blast and his body badly burned from still being on fire while lying on the street. Marc has undergone over 50 surgical procedures. His right leg has been amputated above the knee 3 times do to infection. His left leg suffering from 3rd and 4th degree burns, a severed artery, as well as his foot being essentially blown apart and put back together. He has shrapnel littering his body, including a pellet enlodged in his right atrium.
Marc was at MGH for 45 days then moved to Spaulding Rehab in Boston where he spent 55 days. Since being home he has had multiple surgeries and still some remaining. Marc has been fitted for a prosthesis and will hopefully be up walking soon. Marc has been visited by Veterans who have suffered similar injuries. These visits have been great for his spirit, showing him that he too will persevere and be able to live life to the fullest. He hopes that he will touch the lives of others going through the same trauma he has gone through. Marc resides in Reading with his fiancé Jen and their son Gavin. Marc and Jen will marry in April, two days after the one year anniversary of the Boston Marathon Bombings.
Marc was at MGH for 45 days then moved to Spaulding Rehab in Boston where he spent 55 days. Since being home he has had multiple surgeries and still some remaining. Marc has been fitted for a prosthesis and will hopefully be up walking soon. Marc has been visited by Veterans who have suffered similar injuries. These visits have been great for his spirit, showing him that he too will persevere and be able to live life to the fullest. He hopes that he will touch the lives of others going through the same trauma he has gone through. Marc resides in Reading with his fiancé Jen and their son Gavin. Marc and Jen will marry in April, two days after the one year anniversary of the Boston Marathon Bombings.
Airborne Heritage Platoon
The Airborne Heritage Platoon is a parachute demonstration team that specializes in military static line parachute jumps at air shows, commemorative events and veterans reunions. We do this to Honor US Airborne Veterans of all eras. The team consists of experienced static line parachutists, jumpmasters and parachute riggers.
Formed in 2010, the Airborne Heritage Platoon has partnered with the Commemorative Air Force and Highland Lakes CAF Squadron to help further the mission of keeping WWII aircraft flying, honoring our Veterans and sharing this history with the public. We specialize in depicting WWII era combat jumps by wearing WWII era uniforms and equipment using modern U.S. Military round parachutes.
Primarily utilizing the Highland Lakes Squadron C-47 "Bluebonnet Belle" as our jump platform, we train and practice on a regular basis in Burnett Texas.
Formed in 2010, the Airborne Heritage Platoon has partnered with the Commemorative Air Force and Highland Lakes CAF Squadron to help further the mission of keeping WWII aircraft flying, honoring our Veterans and sharing this history with the public. We specialize in depicting WWII era combat jumps by wearing WWII era uniforms and equipment using modern U.S. Military round parachutes.
Primarily utilizing the Highland Lakes Squadron C-47 "Bluebonnet Belle" as our jump platform, we train and practice on a regular basis in Burnett Texas.
Army SSG - Cael Kooken, AHP Team Leader
SSG Cael Kooken grew up in rural Hamilton Texas and spent his free time shooting, camping and hunting. After earning Eagle Scout and high school graduation he joined the US Army in 1986 to be an Airborne infantryman. After completing training at Ft. Benning he was stationed at Ft. Kobbe Panama with Aco 1/508 PIR serving on active duty until Sep 1989. He Joined the Texas Army National guard in 1991 and served in Gco 143rd LRS and 134rd LRSD 49thAD until Nov 1999 as a parachute rigger.
Cael is the cofounder and team leader of the Airborne Heritage Platoon. He has been jumping in airshows and veterans reunions honoring our veterans since 2005. Cael is a FAA commercial, instrument multi engine pilot and FAA Senior Rigger. He has been awarded Jumpmaster wings, Parachute rigger badge, Navy and Marine Corps Parachutist badge, Panamanian airborne wings, Australian airborne wings and is a USPA qualified free fall jumper.
He lives in Austin Texas with Michelle his wife of 25 years and their three children, Rachel, Jinny and Levi. Cael has worked for Dell Computer for 17 years in procurement and logistics.
Cael is the cofounder and team leader of the Airborne Heritage Platoon. He has been jumping in airshows and veterans reunions honoring our veterans since 2005. Cael is a FAA commercial, instrument multi engine pilot and FAA Senior Rigger. He has been awarded Jumpmaster wings, Parachute rigger badge, Navy and Marine Corps Parachutist badge, Panamanian airborne wings, Australian airborne wings and is a USPA qualified free fall jumper.
He lives in Austin Texas with Michelle his wife of 25 years and their three children, Rachel, Jinny and Levi. Cael has worked for Dell Computer for 17 years in procurement and logistics.
Army Capt - Jan Michael Patronek, AHP Jumpmaster, Instructor
Captain, JAN MICHAEL PATRONEK, US Army Special Forces, Medically separated. I am 67 years old. Hometown: Bremerton, Washington. Graduated Bremerton High School. Active service and Active reserves services from July 1965 until July 1989.
Military schools: Basic training, Infantry School, Basic Airborne school, Infantry OCS, Jump Master school, Officer CBR Course, META-SEC/Unit, Instructor USAIS at Ft. Benning, Special Forces Qualification Course, Pathfinder School, ANCOC.
AWARDS: Combat Infantry Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Pathfinder Torch, Bronze Star with "V" Device and 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with "V" device, Good Conduct Metal, RVN Campaign Medal with 6 Stars, RVN Service Medal, RVN Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star, RVN Jump Wings, Italian Jump wings, French Jump Wings.
Currently a member of Airborne Heritage Platoon as Jump Master and Parachuting Instructor.
Military schools: Basic training, Infantry School, Basic Airborne school, Infantry OCS, Jump Master school, Officer CBR Course, META-SEC/Unit, Instructor USAIS at Ft. Benning, Special Forces Qualification Course, Pathfinder School, ANCOC.
AWARDS: Combat Infantry Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Pathfinder Torch, Bronze Star with "V" Device and 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with "V" device, Good Conduct Metal, RVN Campaign Medal with 6 Stars, RVN Service Medal, RVN Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star, RVN Jump Wings, Italian Jump wings, French Jump Wings.
Currently a member of Airborne Heritage Platoon as Jump Master and Parachuting Instructor.
Army Sgt - Gordon B. Jones, AHP DZSO
Gordon B. Jones (Sgt E-5) served in the United States Army from January 6, 1967 to January 14, 1970.While in Jump School his class participated in the filming of the movie "The Green Berets" starring John Wayne. After completion of jump school in August of 67, he served as an infantryman with Charlie Co. 2/501st Airborne Infantry, 2nd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division. He participated in riot control operations in Detroit, Michigan in August & Operation Eagle Thrust in December, 1967 when the 2nd & 3rd Brigades of the 101st flew to Vietnam and joined the 1st Brigade already in-country. He fought in the TET Offensive and TET Counter-offensive of 1968. "Charlie" Co. spent most of the remaining months of 1968 interdicting NVA traffic in the mountainous jungles West of Hue and in the area of the A Shau Valley.
Upon return to CONUS he spent from January 1969 to ETS at Fort Bragg, NC with HHC 82nd Airborne Division in the Division Ammunition Office.
He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Parachutist Badge, Bronze Star, 2 Purple Hearts, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and 3 unit citations: Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnamese Presidential Unit Citation, and Valorous Unit Citation.
He retired from teaching World/ American History in 2007 after 34 years. He coaches as an Offensive Line Coach for 2013 NAIA National Champion Grand View University in Des Moines, Iowa. He has been with the Airborne Heritage Platoon since it was founded helping as a Drop Zone Security Assistant
Upon return to CONUS he spent from January 1969 to ETS at Fort Bragg, NC with HHC 82nd Airborne Division in the Division Ammunition Office.
He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Parachutist Badge, Bronze Star, 2 Purple Hearts, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and 3 unit citations: Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnamese Presidential Unit Citation, and Valorous Unit Citation.
He retired from teaching World/ American History in 2007 after 34 years. He coaches as an Offensive Line Coach for 2013 NAIA National Champion Grand View University in Des Moines, Iowa. He has been with the Airborne Heritage Platoon since it was founded helping as a Drop Zone Security Assistant
Army MSGT - Robert Yarberry, AHP Rigger, DZSO
Master Sergeant, ROBERT LINCOLN YARBERRY II, US Army Special Forces, Medically Separated. Third generation military. I am 65 years old. Hometown: Muskogee, Oklahoma. Graduate Oklahoma State University (Okmulgee). Beginning service 20 Jan. 1967 served Active and Active Reserve until official separation 31 Dec. 1993.
Military Schools: Basic training, Infantry School, Basic Airborne, Parachute Packing, Maintenance and Air Delivery (Rigger), Loadmaster for Deployment (USAF), Pathfinder School, Jump Master School, Special Forces Qualification Courses 18B Weapons & 18C Demolitions & 18E Communications & 18F Operations and Intelligence & 18Z Team Sergeant. Weapons Sergeant ODA 213, Intel Sergeant ODA 213, Team Sergeant ODA 216 & ODA 1246. Long Range Surveillance Leadership Course, Designated Marksman ODAs 213, 216, 1246.
AWARDS: Master Parachutist Badge, Rigger Wings, Pathfinder Torch, Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct, NCODP with number 3, Army Overseas Service Ribbon with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters Italian Jump wings and Dutch Airborne Orange Braid.
Currently a Member of the Airborne Heritage Platoon as a current jumper and one of the team's Licensed Riggers.
Military Schools: Basic training, Infantry School, Basic Airborne, Parachute Packing, Maintenance and Air Delivery (Rigger), Loadmaster for Deployment (USAF), Pathfinder School, Jump Master School, Special Forces Qualification Courses 18B Weapons & 18C Demolitions & 18E Communications & 18F Operations and Intelligence & 18Z Team Sergeant. Weapons Sergeant ODA 213, Intel Sergeant ODA 213, Team Sergeant ODA 216 & ODA 1246. Long Range Surveillance Leadership Course, Designated Marksman ODAs 213, 216, 1246.
AWARDS: Master Parachutist Badge, Rigger Wings, Pathfinder Torch, Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct, NCODP with number 3, Army Overseas Service Ribbon with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters Italian Jump wings and Dutch Airborne Orange Braid.
Currently a Member of the Airborne Heritage Platoon as a current jumper and one of the team's Licensed Riggers.
Mark W. Cook, AHP Jumper
Mark W. Cook has been jumping out of “perfectly good” airplanse since 2004. In that time Mark has amassed a total of 116 round canopy jumps, all out of WWII era aircraft. In addition to training jumps, Mark has participated in numerous Airshows, Veterans reunions and commemorative parachuting events on WWII drop zones in Europe.
Professionally Mark is a Field Service Manager for Illumina., A company that manufactures and sells instrumentation for sequencing and genotyping DNA.
Professionally Mark is a Field Service Manager for Illumina., A company that manufactures and sells instrumentation for sequencing and genotyping DNA.
Jim Gettens, AHP Jumper
Jim Gettens, who registered for the Vietnam draft upon turning age 18 in December 1973, but who was not called up, was a 45-year-old lawyer practicing law in Worcester, Massachusetts, when the September 11, 2001 attacks occurred. Angered, he applied for an age waiver and direct Army Reserve JAG commission, his only possible avenue to serve. After a long process, both were approved. He was commissioned a 1st Lieutenant on 19 March 2003, first day of the Iraq War, and completed the JAG Basic Course at Ft. Lee and Charlottesville, Virginia, that year. He next obtained an Airborne School slot, graduating 19 March 2004 at age 48, oldest in his class. Having placed first in his age group in a combined rifle-pistol-PT two-day competition hosted by the 94th Regional Readiness Command, he was offered a company command in the 98th Division by a battalion commander who participated in the competition. In April 2004 he was named commander of D Company, 1st Battalion, 304th Regiment, 1st Brigade (BCT), 98th Division (IT) and served in that capacity until April 2007.
Gettens volunteered for deployment to Iraq and was sent there in September 2004 for a 1-year tour. Originally slated for the Command and Control group at Taji Base, his orders were changed and he served on the staff of Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq (MNSTC-I) as the administrative law officer for the entire command, instead. Meanwhile, NCOs from his reserve company served admirably throughout Iraq training ‘New Iraqi Army’ soldiers. In addition to his regular duties, Gettens traveled with Iraqi Ministry of Defence inspector general teams to inspect Iraqi training facilities. He was also tasked to work closely with the Iraqi Ministry of Defence and draft its Military Penal Code and Military Trial Procedures Code, the Iraqi equivalent to our UCMJ, both adopted by the Iraqi government in 2007.
After April 2007, Gettens served with 3rd LSO in Boston, Massachusetts, having been promoted to Captain in January 2006. He was honorably discharged from the Army Reserve in April 2012. His awards include the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Combat Action Badge.
Gettens, now retired, resides with his wife, Wendy, in Sterling, Massachusetts. He is a volunteer ranger with a land conservation trust. In addition to parachuting, Gettens enjoys reading, running, Ju Jitsu training (he holds black belts in two Ju Jitsu disciplines), rifle, pistol, and shotgun shooting (he is a former National Match Course service rifle competitor), bow shooting, backpacking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Gettens volunteered for deployment to Iraq and was sent there in September 2004 for a 1-year tour. Originally slated for the Command and Control group at Taji Base, his orders were changed and he served on the staff of Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq (MNSTC-I) as the administrative law officer for the entire command, instead. Meanwhile, NCOs from his reserve company served admirably throughout Iraq training ‘New Iraqi Army’ soldiers. In addition to his regular duties, Gettens traveled with Iraqi Ministry of Defence inspector general teams to inspect Iraqi training facilities. He was also tasked to work closely with the Iraqi Ministry of Defence and draft its Military Penal Code and Military Trial Procedures Code, the Iraqi equivalent to our UCMJ, both adopted by the Iraqi government in 2007.
After April 2007, Gettens served with 3rd LSO in Boston, Massachusetts, having been promoted to Captain in January 2006. He was honorably discharged from the Army Reserve in April 2012. His awards include the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Combat Action Badge.
Gettens, now retired, resides with his wife, Wendy, in Sterling, Massachusetts. He is a volunteer ranger with a land conservation trust. In addition to parachuting, Gettens enjoys reading, running, Ju Jitsu training (he holds black belts in two Ju Jitsu disciplines), rifle, pistol, and shotgun shooting (he is a former National Match Course service rifle competitor), bow shooting, backpacking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Army SGT - Chris Koers, AHP Jumpmaster
Chris served in the 12th Special Forces Group (Airborne) from 1986 to its disbanding in 1994. He served as a communication sergeant. He graduated Basic Airborne Training at Ft Benning, GA in 1987 and Jumpmaster/ DZSTL school with 1st SFG(A) at Ft Lewis, WA in 1991. In addition to his communication responsibilities, he worked on teams to run airborne and jumpmaster refresher courses.
After leaving the military, he later continued to jump on civilian Military Parachute teams. On these teams he participated in air shows, veteran’s reunions, and veteran honor events all over the US and in Europe. He had helped organize, plan, and execute jump events from major air shows such as the Joint Service Air Show at Andrews AFB in Maryland to D-Day commerative jumps in Normandy, France and Market Garden commerative jumps in Holland. He trained new and refresher jumpers, and participated in many different aspects of honoring the veterans and current members of the military.
“We do this for them”, he often says, referring to the many WWII and other military veterans that attend the jump events. “We need to make sure that respect for their service, their sacrifice, and their dedication is not lost to history”, he continues, “Paratroopers and SOF troops are at the tip of the sword in any military action, we want to make sure people understand and remember that. This is our way of giving back.”
Chris currently works as an Engineering Manager for Caterpillar in Seguin TX.
After leaving the military, he later continued to jump on civilian Military Parachute teams. On these teams he participated in air shows, veteran’s reunions, and veteran honor events all over the US and in Europe. He had helped organize, plan, and execute jump events from major air shows such as the Joint Service Air Show at Andrews AFB in Maryland to D-Day commerative jumps in Normandy, France and Market Garden commerative jumps in Holland. He trained new and refresher jumpers, and participated in many different aspects of honoring the veterans and current members of the military.
“We do this for them”, he often says, referring to the many WWII and other military veterans that attend the jump events. “We need to make sure that respect for their service, their sacrifice, and their dedication is not lost to history”, he continues, “Paratroopers and SOF troops are at the tip of the sword in any military action, we want to make sure people understand and remember that. This is our way of giving back.”
Chris currently works as an Engineering Manager for Caterpillar in Seguin TX.
Jason Wolcott - AHP Jumper & Veteran Coordinator
Jason currently resides in Manhattan, Ks. with his 2 children, Jake and Ella. He is a Commercial pilot has as worked in the aviation industry for 16 years. Over the last decade, he has been jumping military round parachutes for Veteran’s reunions, demonstrations, commemorative events and air shows. During this time, he has helped coordinate several jumps for Airborne Veteran’s reunions to include the 555th. PIB and the 508th. PIR. In 2010, Jason also hosted the WWII 508th. PIR reunion in Oklahoma City.
Jason’s family has a long and proud history of military service and his passion for the military and its Veterans began at a young age. His interest in the Airborne and in honoring Airborne Veterans stems from two of his great uncles who were KIA in WWII, both of whom served in the 82nd. Airborne. In addition to jumping with the Airborne Heritage Platoon, Jason is actively involved with The Wounded Warriors Project, Veteran’s Airlift Command, Patriot Guard Riders and the Flint hills Veteran’s Coalition.
Jason’s family has a long and proud history of military service and his passion for the military and its Veterans began at a young age. His interest in the Airborne and in honoring Airborne Veterans stems from two of his great uncles who were KIA in WWII, both of whom served in the 82nd. Airborne. In addition to jumping with the Airborne Heritage Platoon, Jason is actively involved with The Wounded Warriors Project, Veteran’s Airlift Command, Patriot Guard Riders and the Flint hills Veteran’s Coalition.
Army - Jonathan Villanueva - AHP Jumper
Jonathan Villanueva was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. He enlisted in the United States Army in 2004, as an infantryman. After completion of basic training and OSUT infantry training at Ft. Benning, GA, he was given the opportunity to attend airborne school. After earning his jump wings he was assigned to A CO 3/504 PIR, 82ND ABN DIVISION, which later became 1/508 PIR. During four years at Ft. Bragg he deployed to Iraq in 2005 and Afghanistan in 2007. He is also a qualified jumpmaster. After completion of his service, Villanueva returned to San Antonio, TX where he currently works as a firefighter for the city.
Steve Hazelwood - Oklahoma Machine Guns
Steve Hazelwood was born and raised in Oklahoma City, OK. He started shooting at the age of 12 in .22 long rifle target class. At the age of 19, he became a firefighter. At the age of 22, he broke his back and moved to California to work in the technology industry. After working for O'Reilly Media until 2006, Steve moved back to his roots in Oklahoma to take care of his aging grandparents. Following his return, he teamed up with his high school friend who started the Pita Pit franchise in Oklahoma, which resulted in successful restaurants at two major college campuses. When his grandfather required more attention, Steve often stayed with him at home, and started building guns as a business. This home based business developed into Cold Hand Arms in 2009, and in 2010 moved to a retail store front as it continued to grow.
In 2010, Steve started Oklahoma Machine Guns to meet the needs of the law enforcement community. Since then, Oklahoma Machine Guns have been featured on several national shows like Triggers: Weapons That Changed the World on the Military Channel and Attack of the Show on G4 Television. Steve has been involved in the firearms community his whole life and enjoys introducing people to machine gun shooting sports.
In 2010, Steve started Oklahoma Machine Guns to meet the needs of the law enforcement community. Since then, Oklahoma Machine Guns have been featured on several national shows like Triggers: Weapons That Changed the World on the Military Channel and Attack of the Show on G4 Television. Steve has been involved in the firearms community his whole life and enjoys introducing people to machine gun shooting sports.
Ryan Polster - Manager Hamilton Municipal Airport / City Secretary
Ryan Polster currently oversees the Hamilton Municipal Airport and is the City Secretary for the City of Hamilton. Polster has been the Airport Manager and City Secretary since September of 2013 when he moved from the newly created position of Parks and Recreation Director. Polster has directed the maintenance of all the parks in Hamilton, including the Pecan Creek Sports Complex, as well as coordinating youth athletic events in the parks since 2007.
He graduate from TSU in 1994 with a degree in Range and Ranch Management. Prior to graduation and for two years after graduation, he worked as the technician for the forage department under Dr. Matt Sanderson at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station in Stephenville. In that capacity, he managed four college workers in a project studying the morphological aspects of switchgrass to consider it as an alternative source of energy.
In 1996 he became the youth worker at St. John Lutheran Church in Hamilton, in charge of preparing and facilitating activities for youth in grades five through 12.
He began working part time at Hometown Computing in Hamilton in 1999 as a dial-up internet support technician. He also worked at the Hamilton Municipal Airport as a flight instructor.
In 2000 he and his family moved to Prescott, Arizona where he had been asked to be a flight instructor at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He worked and trained college students to become pilots.
Polster said, “It was in Arizona that our only child born outside of Texas would arrive. My father-in-law, Vernon Gromatzky, quickly reminded me that the day of her birth is shared with Texas Independence Day and therefore she is excused for her out-of-state birth.”
Polster was hired at American Eagle Airlines in the spring of 2001 and moved his family to Chicago.
“We enjoyed all the opportunities and pains of big city life,” remembers Polster.
By the fall of 2001 the airlines were threatening furloughs and on Oct. 8, Polster was furloughed from American Eagle with the hopes of being called back in three to six months.
But Polster said under the circumstances they could no longer afford to live in Chicago.
“My wife was given an opportunity to return to a job at HISD, so that is what we did,” explained Polster. “After one month of waiting for airline recalls and trying to be a stay-at-home dad (which is very difficult), I knew it was best for me to return to work.”
He returned to Hometown Computing, in November 2001, still waiting for a recall from the airlines.
“At this time my job was to solve problems for people, troubleshoot computers, networks and internet service,” said Polster. “Airline recalls were commenced and continued around the time of the birth of our third child. I was thankful to Larry Anglin for encouraging me to stay in Hamilton. My supervisors appreciated my work ethic and I appreciated having a great job with a great employer.”
In 2003, American Eagle asked him to return, but he declined preferring to stay in Hamilton where he could be with his family every evening.
Polster enjoyed six more years of working for Larry Anglin at Hometown Computing before moving to Public Service with the City of Hamilton in 2007.
His wife, Misti Polster, is a music and ESL teacher at Ann Whitney Elementary School. They have four children.
He graduate from TSU in 1994 with a degree in Range and Ranch Management. Prior to graduation and for two years after graduation, he worked as the technician for the forage department under Dr. Matt Sanderson at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station in Stephenville. In that capacity, he managed four college workers in a project studying the morphological aspects of switchgrass to consider it as an alternative source of energy.
In 1996 he became the youth worker at St. John Lutheran Church in Hamilton, in charge of preparing and facilitating activities for youth in grades five through 12.
He began working part time at Hometown Computing in Hamilton in 1999 as a dial-up internet support technician. He also worked at the Hamilton Municipal Airport as a flight instructor.
In 2000 he and his family moved to Prescott, Arizona where he had been asked to be a flight instructor at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He worked and trained college students to become pilots.
Polster said, “It was in Arizona that our only child born outside of Texas would arrive. My father-in-law, Vernon Gromatzky, quickly reminded me that the day of her birth is shared with Texas Independence Day and therefore she is excused for her out-of-state birth.”
Polster was hired at American Eagle Airlines in the spring of 2001 and moved his family to Chicago.
“We enjoyed all the opportunities and pains of big city life,” remembers Polster.
By the fall of 2001 the airlines were threatening furloughs and on Oct. 8, Polster was furloughed from American Eagle with the hopes of being called back in three to six months.
But Polster said under the circumstances they could no longer afford to live in Chicago.
“My wife was given an opportunity to return to a job at HISD, so that is what we did,” explained Polster. “After one month of waiting for airline recalls and trying to be a stay-at-home dad (which is very difficult), I knew it was best for me to return to work.”
He returned to Hometown Computing, in November 2001, still waiting for a recall from the airlines.
“At this time my job was to solve problems for people, troubleshoot computers, networks and internet service,” said Polster. “Airline recalls were commenced and continued around the time of the birth of our third child. I was thankful to Larry Anglin for encouraging me to stay in Hamilton. My supervisors appreciated my work ethic and I appreciated having a great job with a great employer.”
In 2003, American Eagle asked him to return, but he declined preferring to stay in Hamilton where he could be with his family every evening.
Polster enjoyed six more years of working for Larry Anglin at Hometown Computing before moving to Public Service with the City of Hamilton in 2007.
His wife, Misti Polster, is a music and ESL teacher at Ann Whitney Elementary School. They have four children.
Margaret McKoin - President / CMO Time Group
Margaret McKoin is President and Chief Marketing Officer of The Time Group – a marketing and consulting company she started in 2000.
Ms. McKoin and The Time Group have a heart for non-profit organizations. Most recently her team has launched Good Deeds Wireless for the sole purpose of creating an ongoing revenue stream for charities and nonprofits.
Visit gooddeedswireless.com for more information.
Ms. McKoin and The Time Group have a heart for non-profit organizations. Most recently her team has launched Good Deeds Wireless for the sole purpose of creating an ongoing revenue stream for charities and nonprofits.
Visit gooddeedswireless.com for more information.
PERFORMANCE VAULT David Vobora
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David Vobora is a 5 year veteran of the NFL. He was “Mr. Irrelevant” (the last pick) in the 2008 NFL Draft. Rather than being discouraged, he relished the opportunity to prove doubters wrong – just as he had as an Idaho Vandal standout football player for 4 years. Vobora radiates a relentless spirit and indomitable optimism. He has an immense work ethic and strategic insights into personal and professional performance refined by both adversity and achievement.
Upon retiring from the NFL David opened Performance Vault, a for-profit gym that offers individual and customized performance training to elite athletes. David met Travis Mills in January of 2014. Travis Mills is a retired United States Army Staff Sergeant and quadruple amputee. The two began working out together and the unique challenges that Travis’ injuries posed in the gym ignited a passion for David to offer adaptive performance training to individuals who have suffered life-altering injuries. Through David’s exposure to Travis and many other critically injured veterans, he recognized a void in the process. A person gets injured, they are treated at the hospital, go through rehabilitation, but where do they go to continue their recovery while defining the recalibrated-self? ATF fills this void. Adaptive Training Foundation was established to restore hope through movement to those with physical impairment by creating opportunities for adaptive athletes to train and compete. ATF is not rehab. ATF is designed to provide quality, individual and customized training that will help each athlete create a sustainable lifestyle change. David never allowed payment for training from the adaptive athletes he served over the next six months. In September 2014, the Adaptive Training Foundation became 501(c)3 tax exempt to allow outside support for these ambitious participants. The program now offers a 9-week intensive training to restore, re-calibrate and redeploy these athletes to inspire others to achieve the impossible |
COUNTRY MUSIC SINGER Pat Waters
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Hailing from Bridgeport, Texas, country music mainstay Pat Waters brings his faith based values, hard work ethic, sense of loyalty to friends and family, to his brand of music. The lanky traditionalist is truly a breath of fresh air in a world challenged daily by turmoil. Pat is a son, a husband, a father, a best friend, a Lonestar native, an ex-college football wide receiver, an inspirational role model to students all across the nation and most of all a high caliber country music artist.
Pat’s good ole’ boy tunes can line up lovers up on the dance floor with his classic honky tonkin’ style and Texas twang.This Strait laced crooner can keep you two steppin’ and boot scootin’ all night long until the cows come home. Pat with his infectious smile, dynamic audience connection, and his oh-so-smooth rangy baritone voice is someone you don’t want to miss in today’s country music scene. He can make you raise your drinks and break out your favorite blue jeans and boots just like George Strait, and his songs are simple, fun and relatable much like Alan Jackson’s. According to Pat, he got serious about music late in life after finishing college at the University of North Texas with a degree in marketing and a minor in international business. Although the lure of entertaining tugged at Waters, he has always been both a dreamer and a pragmatist. “I didn’t buy my first guitar until I was 20, but I wish I had started around age 10,” Pat said. “I was an athlete, and playing sports had always been my dream. I knew to support my family in the future, I would need to finish college, and I had always wanted to own my own business. A few years after college my uncle and I partnered up, and now we own an oil field construction company and a trucking company. I had picked up guitar shortly after college, and I answered an ad in the Dallas Morning News to get my first paying gig. I played two songs at an opry house for $25. That is when I knew music was something I wanted to pursue.” Pat started out playing at VFW’s, oprys and small clubs, wooing the hearts of country music fans throughout the Southwest. He has released nine critically-acclaimed CD’s, made Texas Music Charts and even scored a #1 hit in the European market earning him the Terry Award’s Male Vocalist of the Year Award in Texas. Waters has shared the stage with country legends such as Merle Haggard, John Conlee, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Johnny Bush, Gary Stewart, Keith Whitley, Gary P. Nunn and many others. “I try to keep my fans out on the dance floor all night long,” Pat said. “I can work the crowd and work the stage, but the one thing I can’t do is swing from the chandeliers like Garth Brooks. People always assume that being a Texan and an entertainer I like to party and go out, but one thing people might find surprising about me is that I am a homebody. I love my family and taking my sons fishing and hunting. I have never been big into alcohol, and I’m scared to death of dope because I never wanted to be a slave to it.” Since 2001, this humanitarian has been the “National Spokesperson for America’s Drug Free Promotions”, (501c 3, a humanitarian non-profit organization) traveling to hundreds of school districts throughout the Southwest performing and visiting with youth about the dangers of illicit drugs, teen bullying, teen suicide and the abuse of alcohol. “Today’s students are our country’s future,” Pat said. “It is my aim to help steer them in the right direction using music, my own personal story and statistical facts.” Pat’s new album Sorry ‘Bout The Mess is slated for release early this fall. www.patwaters.com |
PRORODEO LEGEND Larry Mahan
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An 8-time World Champion Cowboy with 6 All Around World Championships and 2 World Champion Bull Riding Gold Buckles, Larry remains the All Time leading NFR qualifier in the rough stock events. He is a member of various Halls of Fame, including: PRCA, Texas Cowboy, Oklahoma City National Rodeo, Pendleton, Cheyenne, Ellensburg and St. Paul. The PBR Ring of Honor, PRCA Legend of Pro Rodeo and the Ben Johnson Memorial medallion are among the awards lining the office walls.
As a lifelong student of the magnificent horse, Larry is committed to sharing his passion and knowledge. Horses are an important aspect of the Mahan ranches. From the hill country of Kerrville, Texas to the North Texas headquarters and Central Oklahoma to the Colorado division nestled at the base of Pike’s Peak, most days will find Larry astride-starting colts, checking broodmares, gathering cattle or working with the seasoned ropers and cutters. A 30 year member/breeder of the AQHA, Larry is an avid team roper (3 Steer Champion 2011 Reno Invitational) and successful cutting competitor-NCHA Derby non-pro Reserve Champion & Super Stakes finalist. He is also a member of the Western Dressage Association. A closely knit family rounds out the picture with wife, Julanne-2 daughters, Lisa & Eliza and son, Ty. Adding to the fun are two Jack Russells, and old beloved cow dog, Ms. and a clueless Border Collie, Ivy. Larry has enjoyed a longstanding relationship with the Milano Hat Company of Garland, Texas; manufacturers of quality Western hats for the Larry Mahan Hat Collection. Favorite charities are: Sky Ranch RoundUp for Autism Cowboys for Kids Western Wishes The American Cancer Society Working Ranch Cowboy Association "Our Western culture played an important role in the history of this great Nation. I feel it is crucial that this blessed heritage & remarkable lifestyle remain vibrant and alive in the hearts and minds of Americans." -- LM Let’s Ride! Awards World All-Around Rodeo Champion for five consecutive years from 1966 to 1970, and a sixth time in 1973. World Bull Riding Champion in 1965 and 1967 Inducted into The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum's Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1966. Inducted into Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1979. Inducted into The Oregon Sports Hall of Fame in 1985. Inducted into The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame in 1999. Recipient of the PRCA Legend of ProRodeo in 2010 PBR Ring of Honor 1998 |
Julanne Mahan
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Raised in a suburb of Chicago, Julanne's big city roots belie her love and dedication of the Western lifestyle.
As a young woman, she showed hunters & jumpers, studied dressage with an Olympian and even played polo. Educated at George Williams & Roosevelt University, Julanne left the midwest to learn ranching in California and Colorado. Along the way, she fell in love with cow horses and began showing cutting horses...accumulating 2 championship saddles, 8 buckles and a national amateur ranking. A seasoned world traveler, Julanne's interest in diverse cultures led her to Australia, South America, Russia, New Zealand, Tahiti, China, Singapore, Viet Nam, Italy and Poland..to name a few. All in all, her passport is stamped with adventures in 32 countries. She lived in Stockholm, Sweden for several years; enjoying the history, people and architecture of the region. Two of the most memorable trips from her time in Scandinavia were exploring the Arctic Circle from northern Sweden into Lapland and trekking in the Tatra mountains bordering Zakopane, Poland after crossing the Baltic Sea on a ferry. In 2002, Julanne purchased a ranch in central Oklahoma and began raising cattle; crossing Hereford & Angus cows with Brahman bulls. The resulting offspring form the nucleus of today's successful herd. Julanne married Larry in 2009 and together they enjoy a commitment to the Western culture and lifestyle; operating 4 ranches in 3 states - focusing mainly on grass fed beef & Longhorn cattle, as well as, performance Quarter horses. As an avid photographer, Julanne enjoys sharing her images of daily ranch activities which she feels is an important aspect of preserving the precious Western heritage and lifestyle. Favorite charities: Disabled American Veterans Cowboys for Kids The American Cancer Society Sky Ranch Former Texas Rangers Working Ranch Cowboys Assoc. Scholarship programs |
How You Can Help
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