Each year, the Endeavor Awards are the focus of a campaign to raise awareness for aviation, celebrate volunteer pilots and provide $15,000 award grants to each of the two Charitable Aviation Organizations represented by the Endeavor Award recipients. Endeavor Award recipients will be announced on March 1, 2019. The awards will be presented at the California Science Center on Friday, May 17, 2019.
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Stephen Bobko-Hillenaar
Volunteer Pilot, Carefree, AZ
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Stephen Bobko-Hillenaar started flying in 2001, more specifically he received his private pilot’s license on 10/28/2001. Prior to that, he received his glider’s license on 8/26/2001. To this date, Stephen has logged in 5,200 hours flown over 500 hours in 2018.
- HI Wing Leader from 2003 to 2008
- AZ Wing Leader from 2009 to 2012
- Elected to the AFW Board of Directors and Foundation Board in October of 2005. Served until 2011.
- Served as Chair of the AFW Foundation from 9/2007 through 9/2011.
Stephen has served as a mission orientation pilot and is now an outreach lead for AFW in both Arizona and Wyoming.
“I live in Nampa, Idaho. There are only a few volunteer pilots in this area. Unfortunately, my very rare autoimmune syndrome is rejecting my lungs, which threatens my life. Doctors in Idaho are not familiar with my disease and I am medically unprotected here. That makes my flights to Denver for specialty care, critical to my survival! I’m a single mom and had to take my kids, ages 12 and 10 with me to Denver. On September 9th, 2018 pilot Stephen Bobko picked us up in Nampa and we met another pilot in Alpine, Wyoming. Stephen’s generosity made our 3 leg trip a 2 leg mission instead. Several days prior to flying Stephen sent me a comprehensive email with links explaining where to meet, pictures of himself and wife Joanna (who accompanies him on every mission), what to expect on the plane and during flight, what to anticipate with weather and so so much more. Not only did he come to Idaho from his home in Wyoming, but he and Joanna also welcomed us into their home while we waited for our next flight to Denver.
When Stephen met us at the Nampa aviation center, he was happy, confident and welcoming! Immediately he reassured us. We boarded his amazing plane and any apprehension of our very first private flight immediately disappeared. I knew we were safe and protected. It was clear that this incredible man was very intelligent, wise, loving by nature, generous, kind, compassionate, yet so humble. What a great example for my kids. Stephen interacted with us and taught us about all of the things we were seeing below during our whole flight. The kids were excited to learn more from the “homework” Stephen encouraged. He took care of us as if we were his family. Stephen has a special skill with his ability to fly people like me for life-saving treatments. Perhaps his even bigger gift is his infectious joy, peace, and love he shares with his passengers. For the 3-4 hours we were with Stephen my children forgot their fear of both their parents dying. It was magical to be totally immersed at the moment with Stephen as if we were on, a dream come true, vacation rather than going to a hospital for chemo again! We made happy, unforgettable memories in the sky that day thanks to Stephen!!! That is not just above and beyond, it’s life-changing and priceless! Stephen and Joanna shared more of their personal travels and educated us about their vacations destinations. Countless hours in time, love, money and energy are spent by Stephen and Joanna dissolving the looming dark cloud over the patients and families they fly. I’m forever grateful for our trip and time together. These incredible humanitarians clearly do this for everyone that is blessed to meet them.
Steve and Joanna are extremely considerate of each passengers situations – always concerned about their health and well-being. They go out of their way to make sure all their needs are accommodated – showing concern about whether that might make the flight uncomfortable (even if the flight is safe – sometimes weather could make it uncomfortable)
Steve purchases commercial tickets for passengers when weather or other conditions make it unsafe or difficult to fly himself.” – Quote from Sherryl York
Videos/Media:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MrGAs05djkfUK_2FzpsCTaELM-bZla9Y/view?usp=sharing
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Stanley has volunteered for search and rescue, search for fires as well as counter drug for Civil Air Patrol. He also teaches AeroSpace Education for the Civil Air Patrol all over the State of Washington.
“Mr. Dammel, as our Angel Flight pilot, flew my wife Kathleen and I across the state of Washington on numerous occasions in 2018. When he determined conditions unsafe for the flight he offered us ground transportation using his personal vehicle. We were well looked after whether in the air or on the ground.” – Quote from Peter Roesler
Videos/Media:
His local weekly newspaper, The Evergreen Civil Air Patrol Magazine, International Flying Farmers Magazine, Washington Official Asso. Meritorious Service to the youth of Washington through Officiating, Odessa High Sch. hall of fame for over 50 years of sports photography.
Special Recognition:
Earned the Wright Bros. Award and was the Aerospace Training Officer of the Year in Civil Air Patrol for Washington State and also at the Regional level.
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Jim Dell started flying Angel Flights in Atlanta with his friend Martin Harrel in 2004 or 2005. Commander Martin Harrel was a Navy diver who dove on Sea Lab with astronaut Scott Carpenter. Jim owes a lot to Martin for introducing him to charitable flying. Jim’s goal is to fly 2,000 missions before he goes kaput as he’s been quoted. Jim has done volunteer flights for Angel Flight West, Angel Flight South Central (Hurricane Harvey 2017), Angel Flight Soars (Hurricane Katrina and others), Veterans’ Airlift Command, Challenge Air.
“I was privileged to have James fly me from Santa Monica airport to Santa Barbara airport after I had visited UCLA Hospital for a diagnosis of my gait instability. As I am 81 years I have experienced many medical issues (kidney failure, sleep apnea, neuropathy, loss of vision etc) and have found that issues that could not be dealt with in my home town a are easily cured by hospitals like UCLA and Stanford. I have therefore had a lot of experience being flown by volunteer pilots. With my background as an oceanographer, I am familiar with navigation and safety issues.
What immediately struck me with Jim’s piloting was his meticulous attention to safety issues. I was struck by how carefully he took care of all the safety concerns. When I learned of his background as a safety officer I began to understand how his training had led to him to be able to provide me with the safest flight I have ever experienced. Thank you Jim!” – Quote from John Mudie, Ph. D
“Jim flies to Mammoth Lakes, CA which isn’t easy to help me get to my medical appointments in San Diego. He is gentle and kind and makes me feel calm!
I feel like Jim truly cares about me and my health issues but sees me as a regular person instead of disabled status.” – Quote from Marissa Tierney
Videos/Media:
http://www.angelflightwest.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/afw_2017_fall_newsletter.pdf
Special Recognition:
Jim has received two “Top Flyer” Awards from Angel Flight West; “California Hero” by State Senator Joel Anderson for helping seriously ill children (pro bono legal); Public Service Award (Professional Alliance for Children) by San Diego Co Bar Association; Jumpin Jack Flash Award (pro bono legal service); CFP service Award (Alliancepro bono financial planning); FPA pro bono service award;
Guardianship Service Award from Marion County, IN; Carrier Air Wing Safety Service Award; Commodore’s List (USN flight school); Outstanding military graduate (University of Illinois)
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Volunteer Pilot Captain Gary Dyson flies for Project Orbis International, a US Non-Profit. Orbis operates the McDonald Douglas MD-10 Flying Eye Hospital (FEH) in an effort to prevent avoidable blindness. Inside the 3rd Generation FEH is a state of the art US Accredited mobile hospital.
The Flying Eye Hospital brings the gift of sight to locations all over the world. Worldwide there are 253 million people that are blind or visually impaired. With a simple surgery, 75% of visual impairment could be prevented or treated. Orbis trains local doctors, nurses, and medical professionals in developing countries. Since 1982, Orbis has performed medical programs in 95 countries and trained millions of medical professionals.
Gary’s flying career started as a pilot serving his country honorably in the United States Air Force. Currently, he is an MD-10/MD-11 Captain with FedEx. His initial introduction to Orbis was through interaction with United Airlines pilots, volunteering for Orbis, who came to FedEx for training on the 2nd Generation FEH, a DC-10, in 2000.
Gary volunteered to spearhead and develop the training curriculum for the Orbis Volunteer Pilots. Thus, his long association with Orbis began. In 2001, Gary had the honor of becoming the first volunteer FedEx pilot to fly the Flying Eye Hospital.
After 12 years of transporting the FEH and its medical staff around the world, Gary became the Orbis Chief Pilot and began assembling a cadre of MD-10 pilots to fly the 3rd generation FEH. The Orbis mission became very important to him as he witnessed the transformation of people as they came out of blindness and the joy that transformation brought to families in remote corners of the world.
Every Orbis mission begins with patient screening day and navigating the various medical screening stations can be stressful to someone without sight. Gary saw a need and creatively responded; he brought his guitar and sang to the patients. Music is the universal language and Gary regularly puts it to use on Orbis screening days. Gary loves connecting with the patients and their families and stands ready to brighten or celebrate the moment with his guitar and a song. Seeing the face of a child brighten at the sound of a song made a lasting impression. From Gary’s first medical program in Fuzhou, China he has continued to witness firsthand the impact of his volunteerism. Seeing patients who had walked onto the plane blind leave with sight inspired him and continues to motivate him to volunteer.
Gary has witnessed young children that were blind on Monday and by Wednesday their sight had been restored. Their world is changed forever, in a matter of minutes. Gary has witnessed parents that see their children for the first time, grandparents that see their grandchildren for the first time, children that see their parents for the first time and people who see themselves in a mirror after a long term of blindness. It becomes very emotional and he has been very grateful that he can provide a crucial part of the process by flying the airplane to the countries in need of Orbis doctors.
Today, 19 years since first being introduced to Orbis pilots, Gary continues to serve as the Chief Pilot, training, planning and assigning crews for all FEH programs flown each year. He participates in public relations through fundraising, aircraft tours and community outreach. His commitment and dedication to the Orbis goal of preventing avoidable blindness will keep him deeply involved with Orbis for many years.
Gary has piloted the FEH on 36 medical programs that include 2-3 flights legs per program. In addition, Gary has flown countless flights in support of the FEH for maintenance, repositioning and development tours.
Bringing the 3rd Generation MD-10 FEH online took several years of planning to ensure a smooth transition from the 2nd generation DC-10. As Chief Pilot Gary needed to find and train a new group of 15-20 pilots to fly the 3rd generation FEH. He initiated a selection process to include multiple interviews. There are many items unique to the FEH and all pilots need to be trained on the differences. Gary volunteered to spearhead and coordinate the operational and training support for the Orbis volunteer pilots. Annually, Gary develops and conducts a three-day recurrent training course to all Orbis volunteer pilots.
The Orbis FEH routinely travels to parts of the world that require not only experienced piloting skills but also diplomacy and patience with the local aviation authorities. Every location is unique and requires exceptional adaptation skills by our flight crews. Gary excels in this environment and enjoys the experiences. As every FEH program is planned, Gary pores overall flight details, airport information, and security assessments to ensure the flight can be operated safely, legally, and as efficiently as possible by his MD-10 volunteer pilots.”
Gary’s time commitment and level of involvement in the organization distinguishes him from other volunteer pilots. Gary has volunteered longer and has been more involved in the successful operation of the Orbis Flying Eye Hospital than any other active volunteer pilot. He spends countless hours each year tending to all aspects of the FEH because he is dedicated to do his part to treat avoidable blindness. Gary is always available prior to or during any MD-10 program, tracking each flight and readying for any situation that may arise requiring his expertise. With Gary’s leadership style, leading by example, he has set high standards for all our pilots. He spends his vacation time to fly for Orbis and always stays a few days longer to help out the program.
Videos/Media:
https://twitter.com/aopa/status/971109372343521281
https://www.cnet.com/news/inside-orbis-the-flying-hospital-that-battles-blindness/
http://www.alpa.org/news-and-events/air-line-pilot-magazine/our-stories-gift-of-sight
https://www.pilotweb.aero/features/adventures-with-the-flying-eye-hospital-1-4161967
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUS2_csWzDg
Special Recognition:
Humanitarian Award from FedEx for the initial coordination of operational and training support for the Orbis Flying Eye Hospital in 2003.
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Nora Feddal’s lifetime contribution to charitable aviation flying includes being a role model for other women, giving back to the aviation community through volunteer flight missions and promoting women pilots. She has a passion for sharing her joy of flying, inspiring others to learn to fly. Nora helps create innovative ways to give back to the aviation community at every opportunity, recruiting new pilots and gathering volunteers along the way.
Nora was born and raised in France. In 1997 she moved to West Hollywood with her brand new private pilot license. Transitioning to LA airspace from a small town in France was a challenge for Nora, but even more challenging was learning to communicate on the radio in English. Determined to learn, she decided to take a ground school at Santa Monica College. She joined the Santa Monica based Air-Spacers Flying club in 2005. That same year, she joined the Los Angeles Palms Chapter of the 99s. She joined the EAA in 2008 where she began participating in Young Eagles, getting the best reward when a kid stepped down from the plane with an amazing smile and said: “Can we go again?” In 2008 & 2010, she participated in the “Challenge Air for Kids & Friends” flying handicapped children. She has flown eight missions to Baja, California with Flying Samaritans. Nora has flown seven flight missions with LIGA International Flying Doctors. With LIGA, she flies and gives help wherever needed at the clinics. She documents each mission by taking pictures and sharing online, getting more exposure to the missions.
Nora loves to fly, especially air racing. Her first air race was in 2006 with Women In Aviation nonprofit Ninety-Nines ” Palms to Pines Air Race”. In addition to racing every year in the Palms to Pines, she has flown twice in the Rio Colorado Air Derby – ” Rivers to Ridges, Desert ‘N’ Bridges, a few times in the “Tucson Treasure Hunt”. She has also flown 3 times in the “Havasu 600 Air Race – Don and Tookie Hensley Memorial Race”. Nora also flew aerobatics over Mojave and is working on her instrument rating. Her volunteer activities in the Ninety-Nines includes webmaster for the LA Palms 99s (2007-2009), race committee for the Palms to Pines Air Races (2006 – 2009) three years as SFV Chapter Treasurer and four years Newsletter editor, attending several Section Meetings and Winter Workshops. She has also taken an active role in many other significant activities including Girl Scout Days, fundraising activities, the 99s booth at air shows & open houses, Her many contributions to the Ninety-Nines gave her the honor of being titled Southwest Section 2017 Woman Pilot of the Year, winning the 2015 Trixie Schubert Service Award and being named 2013 Woman Pilot of the Year from the SFV99s Chapter.
Nora is active in the Airspacers Flying Club at Santa Monica Airport and has served as the clubs Treasurer for 4 years, the election committee twice & has worked as the bookkeeper with the Board.
Her volunteer participation is notable. Her greatest passion is flying. Her second love is photography. She taught a photography class at the Variety Boys and Girls Club in Boyle Heights, photographed several charitable events including the YMCA Stair Climb for Health; and led a group of inner-city children on a walking photography outing through downtown Los Angeles.
Nora has done volunteer work for EAA Young Eagles, Flying Samaritans, “Challenge Air For Kids & Friends” flying handicapped children, LIGA International Flying Doctors and Ninety-Nines. She has completed 28 Volunteer Flights + 4 Palms to Pines Air Race flights for the Ninety-Nines, 3 Havasus Air Races, 2 Rio Colorado Derbys, 2 Tucson Treasure Hunts.
Since 1997, Nora has consistently made significant contributions and provided extraordinary service as a volunteer and as an active member of many aviation organizations including the Flying Samaritans, Flying Doctors, Ninety-Nines, AOPA, ACA, WAI, EAA, Angel Flight West, Airspacers Flying Club, Santa Monica Airport Association.
Nora serves as a role model for women in aviation with her many contributions to a multitude of aviation and non-aviation nonprofits. She is an enthusiastic woman pilot, passionate about furthering women in aviation by donating her time and talents to the various aviation and nonprofit organizations she is involved in.
On behalf of the Los Angeles Ninety-Nines Chapter, it is my honor and pleasure to nominate Nora Feddal for the Endeavor Award.
Vanessa Gibson
Vice Chairman/Tech Talk Chair/Fundraising Chair
Los Angeles 99s Chapter
Videos/Media:
2017 Woman Pilot of the Year – Southwest Section of the Ninety-Nines
https://drive.google.com/file/d/14jxM7P7fHDcIlmdtPz-QPAa3yYgb9cKi/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/12pTAy1K2JeidBw35sF2PRqDA21JNuw8i/view?usp=sharing
Special Recognition:
2017 Woman Pilot of the Year – Southwest Section of the Ninety-Nines.
2015 Trixie Schubert Service Award SFV99s
2013 Woman Pilot of the Year – SFV99s
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Co Founder and President of San Juan Eagles
Wright Brother Master Pilot Award and author of 17 books and two flying books
Piloted over 17 airplanes over the years including seaplane,instrument,commercial, CFI, glider
Videos/Media:
http://http://johngeymanmd.org/
Special Recognition:
Multiple year Pilot of the Year awards in the Southeast Region
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
At Above the Clouds we bring joy and hope through the wonder of flight. Below are listed some of the ways that David has gone “above and beyond” to help our young charity.
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- David became involved with ATC a number of years ago as a Dream Pilot (providing “one-off” flights to kids facing adversity.
- David became a Discovery Pilot (flying monthly with an at-risk teen). One of the teens he worked with was so inspired by their time together that she applied for (and was accepted) into Embry Riddle.
- David joined the Board at Above the Clouds and has provided incredible guidance an enthusiasm to the organization.
- David worked hard to raise funds for ATC by riding his bike (100 miles!) in the Rodman Ride for Kids.
- At his insurance agency, David discounts the insurance that ATC pay for its airplane and donates a portion of all new business to ATC
- Earned pilots license in 2012 and started charitable flying as soon as he had accumulated enough hours.
David changed the life of young Kate Martinez who never would have imagined she could pursue a career in aviation and was recently accepted to Embry Riddle
David is the first to volunteer to fly kids on Dream Flight Days and will often do several missions on a single day when we are short on pilots.
Videos/Media:
Special Recognition:
Angel Served on the board of ACONE for 2 years, trustee of the Children’s Museum of NH, prior board member of the Exeter Chamber of Commerce, and Exeter Lions Club, served on the Economic Development Commission for the town of Exeter NH.
WCVB 5 For Good: Volunteer pilots teach kids facing adversity how to fly
Dozens of volunteer pilots are helping to lift up kids facing adversity, teaching them to fly airplane Apr 27th, 2017
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Jeremy is a young engineer, working at a regular day job designing complex aircraft control systems. He is not a wealthy individual with a lot of spare time. Jeremy makes special efforts to contribute his time and resources to benefit Angel Flight passengers. I believe Jeremy is an outstanding example of a young pilot committed to public benefit flying, and his public example would be an encouragement for others.
Jeremy is a careful pilot and takes extra time to communicate with the passenger before the flight, especially where weather could be an issue and cause potential alternatives and delays.
Jeremy is an outstanding example of a young volunteer pilot that pays out of his own pocket. Most that I’ve seen receive awards are older, with more free time and money (theirs or their corporation’s).
Videos/Media:
Jeremy was featured in an article written last year in the Washington Pilots Newsletter.
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Bob’s dedication to the advancement in aviation began when he earned his pilot’s license in 1978. The legacy created by the educational executive and civil leader has impacted generations of pilots. He has flown as a private/commercial pilot in a variety of scenarios, particularly that as a volunteer pilot. He’s flown for Angel Flight, Air-Sailing of Nevada as a glider two pilot, and multiple EAA chapters and their Young Eagles programs.
In addition to contributions made as a pilot, Bob has been driving force within the aviation industry. He has served as a board member multiple organizations, including the Reno-Tahoe Users Group (general aviation), Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, and Pathways to Aviation. His quest to create opportunities, advance the industry, and mentor its future labor force is remarkable. The tireless enthusiasm, relationships formed, and strategies developed have earned him praise within the industry. In fact, the Reno-Tahoe Airport honored him for relentless commitment to general aviation.
For nearly four decades, Bob has dedicated himself to advancing aviation in numerous ways. While fellow pilots and other aviation leaders share concerns, Bob spearheaded initiatives to create a more effective foundation for general aviation. He organized the Reno-Tahoe Aviation Association to support general aviation activity and programs in aviation communities surrounding Reno-Tahoe airports. Years after tutoring its new leaders on how to communicate and develop mutually-beneficial relationships with the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, he has remained an active member of the Association.
Bob has served the Reno-Tahoe International Airport as an Airport Support Network volunteer for many years. His goal was always to keep an active pulse of the airport community, ensuring the protection and advancement of general aviation, as well as organizations such as AOPA and EAA.
Since general aviation is a regular topic with the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, Bob has been a vocal leader, representing the needs and concerns of the general aviation community. As the Airport Authority develops a new master plan every four or five years, Bob has been as the forefront of its development, ensuring the survival and sustainability of general aviation. He also facilitated resolutions for continued support of general aviation facilities at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
Recognizing that leaders in the greater community needed to understand the opportunities presented through general aviation, Bob served as a county commissioner for the Washoe County Commission. Serving in this capacity for several years, Bob represented the county in the role of Vice Chairperson. His quest to bring about a new view of general aviation operations both to the airport and greater communities were met during his civic service.
Bob is an active flight instructor and a member of the local FAA Safety Team (FAAST). He’s an incredible proponent of helping the general aviation community fly safely.
And, in recent years, he’s been a stalwart leader for Pathways to Aviation, a local non-profit
organization. Formerly focused solely on educational activities for K-8 students, Bob helped spearhead a rebrand of the organization and changed its primary focus to answer the aviation industry’s growing workforce shortage. He was instrumental in the design of a unique program to connect high school and college students to aerospace industry leaders. Recognizing that wasn’t enough, he helped ignite an initiative to provide career readiness training and resources to these students, thus facilitating their paths toward becoming ready for internships and part- and full-time employment.
Bob’s contributions are far beyond significant. During his journey of leadership, he has inspired and mentored countless future leaders to not only follow his footsteps, but create legacies of their own in other aviation communities.
Bob has a knack for inspiring people to pursue their dreams. By doing this, he’s created a following of pilots and other aviation leaders to make their own marks in the aviation industry. His passion for volunteering is evident, as many of his students paid it forward by volunteering their flying service, ideas, and involvement with local aviation organizations.
He has given countless presentations over the years and continues to educate and conduct workshops and discussions for organizations like Angel Flight, EAA, AOPA, and Pathways to Aviation. He also conducts classes at a local Christian school, where he educates young students in the areas of science, technology, engineering, math and, as you might guess, aviation.
Bob was also recruited to serve on the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority’s board of trustees. Through his service as a trustee, he sought to maintain the airport as the region’s finest example of well-maintained public infrastructure. He believed in transparency in the airport process and worked improve the region’s economic recovery through enhanced air service.
Videos/Media:
Bob’s service on non-profit organizations, county commission, and in the aviation industry landed him in the public’s eye on a regular basis. Finding the right press clippings was difficult. However, here are two which provide a sample of Bob’s leadership, commitment, and value to our area’s aviation community
Special Recognition:
Bob has been the recipient of numerous awards and distinctions throughout his illustrious career. However, one, in particular, is mentioned far more often than the others. His proudest recognition was AOPA’s 2011 Recipient of the Lawrence P. Sharpels Perpetual Award for the advancement of General Aviation. The award was earned for his leadership and service as the Airport Support Network Volunteer for the Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
From the day Bert walked into our office, we knew we had an angel. Bert received his pilot’s license in 1992, and started flying for Angel Flight Soars in 1999. On his first mission, Bert met his patient and saw that he had a tackle-box in hand. Hoping to alleviate the young boy’s mind, Bert quickly asked if the young boy was planning on fishing when he got to Boston. His response shocked Bert to his core. This young warrior opened the tackle-box, that was filled with pill bottles, and explained that he had almost no immune system and these pills kept him alive between treatments. Since that first flight, Bert Light has made it his personal mission to provide hope to as many patients as he can. He always explains about how his ability to fly gives others the ability to live life, and that is what makes Bert Light so incredible.
As a partner at Artlite Pens and Office Supply, Bert helps out Angel Flight Soars by contributing all of our furniture and office supply needs. While at events, Bert’s employees volunteer their time to help us out in any way possible. Bert includes us in every aspect of his life. Bert has made us a part of his personal life and business life, because he believes in our mission and is able to utilize his passion for flying to put a smile on every patients’ face.
As a partner at Artlite Pens and Office Supply, Bert donates furniture and office supplies to Angel Flight Soars.
Shortly after he started flying with us, Bert became one of our most frequent flying pilots. He quickly soared his way to Treasurer of Angel Flight Soars, and eventually; Chairman of the Board. During his tenure as Chairman, Bert was diagnosed with Cancer. He was slowly unable to do what he enjoyed most, flying and providing hope to others. Bert unfortunately had to step down as Chairman to focus on recovery. After years of successful treatments, Bert was Cancer free and ready to get back in the air. From the day Bert was back in the cockpit, it seemed as if he doing a mission flight every day. It did not take long for Bert to be right back where he was, and then some. He is our Chairman Emeritus, and Bert is always looking for ways to impact others.
Videos/Media:
As Bert received ECi Software Solutions’ 2017 “”Everyday Hero”” award:
https://www.ecisolutions.com/about-us/everyday-hero-award/
As Bert was noticed in the Atlanta Business Chronicle:
https://youtu.be/-efzPWcJzNU
Special Recognition:
In 2017, Bert Light was the recipient of ECi Software Solutions’ “Everyday Hero” award. This award is presented to business individuals that have shown their dedication to volunteering with non-profits organizations. This is a national award presented to 1 individual each year.
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Richard “RT” Linsenbach has flown with Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic for well over 10 years. In that time he has been instrumental in ensuring that patients are able to receive the life-saving medical care they need. Not only does RT volunteer to help fly patients for medical care, during the recent hurricane’s RT went above and beyond and not only helped fly the supplies to the much needed areas, but organized and participated in collection drives. With a lifetime public benefit of over $570,000 and countless lives saved RT is just as much a part of Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic as the staff here.
RT has been with Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic for over 10 years and for 2018 RT is the Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic Pilot of the year!
RT directed a fire company from the air to an isolated area in the Washington Area and also reports ground fires from time-to-time. During the hurricane relief efforts RT not only flew much needed items, such as formula and diapers, but also hosted the collections and brought over 1,800 per trip on his Cessna Conquest.
Videos/Media:
https://www.ecisolutions.com/about-us/everyday-hero-award/
https://angelflightmidatlantic.org/pilot-day-2018-high-honors/
Special Recognition:
Volunteer Pilot of the Year for PA- 2017 and 2018
Angel Flight Mid Atlantic Pilot of the Year- 2018
2011 Outstanding Local Community Service Award
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Paul Marshall is the kind of guy who thrives on challenge and the opportunity to turn great ideas into reality. He co-founded a successful tech company that operated for 20 years reaching maximum employment of 600 people worldwide and $114M per year in sales. He sold the company and retired early in order to have the freedom and flexibility to pursue other dreams. His most ardent dream was the creation of the California Disaster Airlift Response Team (CalDART) Network. Its mission is to provide disaster-stricken communities with air support to help in their response and recovery efforts.
The CalDART concept emerged at the San Martin (E16) Airport in the wake of the October 17, 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. Damage from the 6.9 magnitude earthquake damage blocked all roads leading into and out of the City of Watsonville. The only transportation option available to the City was air until the roads were reopened. Pilots from San Martin were among the many general aviation (GA) pilots flying relief missions to the stricken city.
The stories told by pilots who flew in the Watsonville airlift inspired Paul and Rod Pharis, a fellow San Martin pilot to do something to better prepare themselves for the next disaster. From that idea the SCAPA (South County Airport Pilots Association) DART was born. SCAPA is one of the many statewide sub chapters of the California Pilots Association (CalPilots). The plan they created is fully developed and exercised as a daylong disaster drill every 12-18 months. These exercises include participation from community volunteer organizations, first responder agencies, and local government representatives. The drill includes media coverage of the event.
Creating a fully functioning DART meant that Paul and Rod had to raise enough money to equip the DART. The two raised $15,000 in grants from The AOPA Foundation and Northrop Grumman Corporation. They used the money to equip the DART, and the San Martin Airport Manager provides SCAPA with free hangar space to store their gear. The team is now well equipped and fully operational. In 2016 Paul received the Santa Clara County Emergency Manager Mick McDonald Volunteer of the Year award for his work creating the DART.
But, as satisfied as he was with SCAPA’s success, Paul knew more had to be done so he decided to build a statewide and national network of DARTs. Using the SCAPA team model and plan as a template, he took the DART on the road. The first airport to adopt the DART concept was Watsonville Airport. Using SCAPA’s plan as a template, and Paul’s help, Rayvon Williams the airport manager and pilots created the Watsonville Emergency Airlift Command Team (WEACT). WEACT is equipped, and fully functional, and Rayvon provides space on the airport for that team to store its gear. WEACT conducts exercises and other public outreach activities to support and sustain its self.
Half Moon Bay airport is home to another fully functional DART. This team has developed close working relationships with the local emergency response agencies in Santa Clara, and San Mateo Counties, and is fully integrated into those county’s disaster response plans. They participate in County exercises and conduct their own full-scale disaster drills. Many community volunteer organizations and local government agencies also participate in the drills. The Half Moon pilots also do community outreach promoting DART awareness at community disaster preparedness days.
The Santa Monica Airport DART is California’s newest functioning DART, and 14 more airports are in some stage of development or otherwise participating in the CalDART Network. Several airports in San Diego County are in the early stages of creating the first regional multi airport DART.
Paul’s outreach and DART promotion includes presentations at the EAA’s Airventure in Oshkosh WI. He’s been a guest speaker at several airport manager organizations including the Southwest Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives, and multiple Association of California Airports conferences throughout California. He has also made connections with the Air Care Alliance to promote the DART concept.
Paul’s developed connections with pilots in Washington state who are developing their own disaster response plans using waterborne aviation assets to take advantage of Washington’s many lakes and rivers, because water access may be the only transportation access isolated communities have after earthquakes destroy the state’s road system. The Washington pilots adopted the DART model and Paul has helped the incorporate DART concepts into their disaster planning efforts.
This concept of this collaboration was tested during a joint exercise in 2016. The Washington pilots conducted a food drive for disaster relief in California. The food donations were airlifted from Washington the San Martine Airport during a SCAPA exercise. The food delivered to SCAPA was than donated to a food bank in California. The successful collaboration between the two states, lead to the recruitment of pilots in Oregon to join the effort. The three west coast states are now connected and working together with a commitment to support the other when needed.
Because of their work with the SCAPA DART, Paul and Rod were invited to serve on the advisory panel as representatives of the GA community on the advisory panels for two disaster resilience studies done jointly by the California Department of Transportation, and the Association of Bay Area Government, a 9-county regional government agency. The focus of these studies was to identify the role that airports have in supporting large scale regional disaster response, recovery, and resiliency efforts. These studies identified the vital role airports play in regional resiliency planning and
disaster response and recovery.
Under Paul’s leadership CalDART formed a Board of Directors who elected him as their president. Working with CalPilots he helped create a partnership between the two organizations that resulted in CalDART becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of CalPilots. This relationship allowed CalDART to secure its own 501 c (3) status. Paul oversaw the creation of the CalDART web site. He frequently travels throughout California to support new DART development and promote the DART concept to the emergency management community.
In December 2018 Paul asked Rocky Green, a CalDART pilot to fly to Chico to offer CalDARTs assistance to the massive Camp fire in Butte County. Green met with the Butte County Emergency Operations Center, and American Red Cross. Due to the nature of this disaster airlift support was not needed, but the meeting created a contact for the County and Red Cross, should they need airlift in the future.
Supporting DART development isn’t Paul’s only volunteer pilot activity. He owns a 6 place Bonanza A36, has over 2,300 hours of flight time, holds single engine land, private pilot, and instrument ratings, logged 600 hours of formation time, and was formerly a Formation Flying, Incorporated lead pilot. Paul’s piloted more than 230 Young Eagle flights, several of his young passengers have earned appointments to the Air Force Academy, while others have become commercial and military pilots. In the past six years Paul flew 19 trips to Mexico in support of Liga International, the Flying Doctors of Mercy who provide medical and dental services to people deep in the heart of Mexico. These trips typically average 930 miles each way and involve filing forms with Mexican Government and US Customs and Border Protection. He typically flies 2-4 medical personnel on each flight.
As a small startup with huge aspirations, Paul understands the value that winning the Endeavor Award is to CalDARTs continued growth. The money associated with this award will be used to support new DART team formations, pay for necessary insurance, member recruitment, and support the continued outreach and public education to inform communities regarding the value of GA support in disaster response and relief aid. The generous contributions of time, aircraft, and support made by Paul and the CalDART pilots to their local communities in time of need reflects the goals of the AFW Endeavor Award, and creates a compelling reason why they should be selected as one of this year’s award recipients.
Over 350 flights including 230 Young Eagle flights, 19 international trips supporting Liga, and over 100 flights in support of CalDART, plus many car miles
The effort is ongoing, see narrative for the chronology. Paul Marshall continues to work to build the CalDART network of pilots and doing what’s needed to support CalDART’s growth. The Liga flights require special coordination and international border clearance and procedures between the US & Mexico.
The size and scope of the undertaking to create a new statewide and national network of local GA pilot teams formed around a unifying plan and organization that has both the flexibility to adapt to local needs, yet have a framework to allow for easy integration to other state’s disaster response needs
Videos/Media:
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
LightHawk (1987-2014), Angel Flight (2003-2017), Grace Flight (2009-2011), Wings of Change (2001)
The criteria for The Endeavor Award calls for performance that “exceeds expectations and distinguishes the nominee from others.” To use that phrase to describe Merry Schroeder is to use almost British understatement. Becoming a volunteer pilot in 1987, Merry is not just LightHawk’s longest-serving volunteer pilot, she’s made (and donated-no reimbursement) 387 LightHawk flights to date. She was a volunteer pilot for two of the Angel Flight wings between 2003 and 2017 and made 215 flights for them. In addition, she was a volunteer pilot making flights for the VPO Grace Flight from 2009-2011. She also made volunteer flights for the unfortunately short-lived Wings of Change VPO in 2001.
Merry Schroeder has recognized that being a volunteer pilot means more than acting as an airborne taxi driver and walking away once the airplane is refueled and stashed in the hangar. She knows that for volunteer flights to take place the underlying Volunteer Pilot Organization has to be healthy and remain viable in the long run so that it can continue to serve people in need. A review of LightHawk records showed that she has been a financial donor to LightHawk for over 30 years—and, happily, gave substantially in years when she had financial success. She has actively helped in fundraising for LightHawk. She became a board member of in 2007, only leaving when family health issues required more of her attention.
As she became more experienced with the challenges and nuances of the demands of conservation flying over remote areas—her flights have been primarily over the remote, rugged and mountainous terrain of New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, Utah, Wyoming and California—she increasingly donated her time to mentor newer LightHawk pilots. (She has been willing to fly long distances from her home base in Santa Fe, NM.) In addition, she has been an enthusiastic champion of volunteer aviation, constantly engaging in outreach to recruit pilots for all types of VPOs. She has never hesitated to say yes when asked to speak about volunteer flying to an individual or a group.
Both LightHawk and Angel Flight staff have valued the time and attention that Merry puts into pre-flight planning, passenger preparation, safety briefings and putting safe flight and extraordinary customer service at the top of her priorities. Merry became an oft-requested pilot for many missions in the Southwest US as her reputation grew. She’s been more than “just” a volunteer — a mentor of VP peers, an ambassador on behalf of her VP organizations, a cheerleader of other women in aviation, a generous and consistent donor, and a willing volunteer whenever help was needed.
Merry’s volunteer flights have been in her normally aspirated Cessna 210. She has almost 6,000 hours of flying time in a number of types of aircraft and holds commercial, instrument and flight instructor ratings. When she started as a volunteer, she was immediately involved in flying into some of the most rugged and remote areas of the country—before GPS made finding the right mountaintop or river valley easy.
Some of the more interesting flights she’s made have included one of amazing length. As part of an education program for the Museum of Natural History and Science of New Mexico, she carried two volcanologists and a videographer over every single one of the ancient volcanoes of northern New Mexico—it has more than any other state. This was pre-GPS. The imagery that resulted became a major portion of an IMAX production for the education of school children.
On another, the Navajo Nation was dealing with a serious problem of radioactive pollution in water and grazing lands from abandoned uranium mines on its lands. The sites of the mines and their extent needed to be accurately surveyed and charted so that the mines and tailings piles and ponds could be sealed to stop the further spread of radiation due to flooding. The Nation approached LightHawk for help. Merry made the flights over the area that allowed an accurate survey to be made.
One of the most interesting flights Merry made was a follow up to the Navajo Nation radiation poisoning survey. It was a cross-cultural flight over the same area to assist native peoples of the Japanese island of Hikado who were also affected by radiation poisoning from uranium mines. The flight involved not only making sure that the passengers could see the affected areas, it involved requiring the various passengers to translate comments about what they could see and questions about what was being done to protect the area from Ainu (the language of a native Japanese race) to Japanese to English to Navajo and back.
In closing, we’ve paid attention to the Endeavor Awards for many years and I’m privileged to have known some of the recipients. I feel strongly, as do other members of the VPO family, that Merry’s inclusion of LightHawk and Angel Flight as part of her family for over 30 years, her flying and overall service to the missions of conservation aviation and medical transport flight as well as multi-faceted support of volunteer flying to serve the public good makes her one of our most deserving nominees in memory.
When and where has the nominee made significant contributions or provided extraordinary service under special circumstances?
Refer to narrative for details; In short – being consistently willing to conduct challenging flight operations in environments and projects demanding exceptional skills, safety awareness, navigational challenges (pre-GPS) and specialty accommodation for the wide variety of mission profiles required for LightHawk, as well as the exceptional service provided to Angel Flight passengers — to do that year in and year out, flying more hours a year as a VP than many GA pilots fly total — that’s exceptional.
In addition to this – the summary above stories about the volcano imagery project and the multi-lingual translation project are some highlights.
What other qualities distinguish the nominee from other volunteer pilots?
Longevity and consistency of flight (over her 30 years of flying she consistently flew 35-40 hours/year as a VP.
Additional contribution as a board member, major financial donor, fundraising event host, community outreach ambassador, and willing on-the-ground volunteer for anything you ask. Merry will roll up her sleeves and pitch in everything she can for the cause.
Videos/Media:
Press release on the NAA award.
This is an internal interview we made to capture some of our VPs. A chance to hear from Merry herself.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kv_hguHpfHQ&feature=youtu.be
Special Recognition:
2018 National Aeronautic Association Distinguished Volunteer Pilot Award awarded in Arlington, VA November 27, 2018
LightHawk VP of the Year – various years
She has mentioned some Angel Flight recognitions, but I don’t know what they are.
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Patient AirLift Services (PALS) is pleased to nominate Alan Sheiness for the Endeavor Award. Through his personal commitment to general aviation piloting and volunteer flying, Alan has helped to advance public benefit flying for almost two decades. He has demonstrated truly outstanding achievement in his role as a co-founder of Patient AirLift Services, a public benefit flying organization dedicated to arranging free air transportation for individuals in need of free flights to access critical medical treatment, wounded soldiers and veterans; and for disaster relief.
As a co-founder of PALS, he has turned his passion for public benefit flying into a critical resource for those in need, and a vehicle for engaging pilots to use their unique skills for the public good. He has set a high standard for others to emulate, both in the requirements and responsibilities of a volunteer pilot and as a steward of the donations that support these efforts.
Alan Sheiness has been a private pilot since 1995. Since founding PALS in 2010, he has logged more than 29,000 flying miles and over 110 PALS flights, as a volunteer pilot on charitable missions. Prior to PALS Alan had volunteered with numerous volunteer pilot organizations, including AirLifeLine, Angel Flight West and Angel Flight NE. In addition to donating his time and aircraft, Alan has both personally donated to the volunteer pilot organizations he has been associated with, as well as facilitated major corporate sponsorship’s on their behalf. Alan is directly responsible for donations to PALS totaling over $300K. Alan’s success in business is second to his passion for helping people, and he has chosen to take his blessings and share them with those who are in need.
As a founding Board member of PALS, Alan was motivated by the need to create an organization that would engage pilots to use their unique skills to help others, while upholding the trust of those who offer their financial support for the cause. His experiences and credentials as a volunteer pilot were essential in establishing the criteria for pilots entrusted with patients during free flights arranged by PALS, going above and beyond those established by the FAA for volunteer pilot organizations. Additionally, his commitment to upholding rigorous standards for financial accountability and transparency attracted well-qualified and accomplished individuals to the PALS Board of Directors that include both pilots and non-pilots alike.
During its first year of operation in 2010, PALS had 100 pilots signed up as volunteer pilots and arranged 723 missions with 460 completed. Under Alan’s continued leadership and outstanding effort, PALS has increased the number of volunteer pilots sixfold, bringing the total to over 600 pilots, co-pilots and mission assistants. In its eighth year of operation, PALS reached the milestone of completing over 20,000 missions and flying over 4.6M miles.
A critical initiative under Alan’s leadership was the application for the Fuel Reimbursement Program. With a waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), PALS applied for the Fuel Reimbursement Program to reimburse eligible pilots for fuel costs incurred during flights arranged by PALS. PALS implementation of this program includes a training course prepared in conjunction with PALS by a qualified flight instructor under the direction of a flight training facility. In order to qualify for this program with PALS, pilots are required to take this course, at their own expense, and meet all the requirements set forth by the FAA as well as PALS. This program is fully funded by PALS.
Alan’s leadership has helped to guide all those affiliated with PALS, including its Board and staff, to pursue its mission of helping those in need with integrity and compassion. Emphasizing financial transparency at all levels of the organization, each board member serves in a volunteer capacity and has committed to ensuring that there are no conflicts of interest in its transactions on behalf of PALS. Board members serving also as volunteer pilots, have agreed not to participate in the fuel reimbursement program and continue to accept missions at their own expense.
Videos/Media:
http://www.swaviator.com/html/issuema03/Hangar3403.html
https://newyork.cbslocal.com/video/3287579-patient-airlift-services/
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Unfortunately, David is suffering from cancer and has not been able to fly more than one mission in 2018. David has been flying for Angel Flight Southeast since 2004. He’s flown over 500 missions and demonstrates genuine concern for the well being of the passengers. He not only flies the passengers, but cultivates a friendship with them, flying recurring patients to their medical appointments as often as he can. Throughout the years David has demonstrated compassion, dedication and kindness to the other pilots and passengers he’s flown. We are grateful beyond words for his commitment to Angel Flight and to the passengers.
When a mission is lacking a pilot and is on the verge of being canceled, David has stepped up time and time again to fly it without prior notice. He frequently takes round trip flights waiting for the passenger to complete their treatment making it as convenient as possible for them and efficient for us.
He is a passenger favorite, often driving them to and from their appointments and treating them to meals as well.
Videos/Media:
https://www.ocala.com/article/LK/20160420/News/604229947/OS/
https://www.dailycommercial.com/news/article_cc96bab7-115b-516b-93b9-0756d775e1ca.html
Special Recognition:
Multiple year Pilot of the Year awards in the Southeast Region
Lifetime Contribution to Charitable Aviation Flying/Significant Service:
Most Angel Flight South Central pilots that you talk to will tell you that they learned to fly, heard about Angel Flight, and joined because they appreciated the nonprofit’s mission and the opportunity to fly more. Scott Young actually learned to fly SO THAT he could fly for Angel Flight. He had long wanted to become a pilot, but when he graduated from college in the late 1970s, the opportunities were scarce. Well into his career in petroleum engineering, and after putting his youngest child through college, Scott came across an article about Angel Flight in a magazine. He knew this was his moment. With his wife’s blessing, he earned his pilot’s license, bought a small plane, and signed up with Angel Flight South Central in 2006.
“At first,” he says, “flying with Angel Flight was about moving people. But then you find after a while that, yeah, people appreciate being moved, but they’d really like to have someone to chat with. It’s not just about delivering the service of transportation; it’s about talking with people about their circumstances.” Over time, Scott began seeing some passengers regularly.
Regular passengers often specially request Scott because they value his company and his care. Jessica Weller flew regularly with Scott when she was in her teens and confronting a cancer diagnosis. (She is now fully recovered and an RN.) “I loved flying with Scott,” Jessica says. “He’s a really great guy. He may not realize it, but he was really there for my family whenever we needed help. He is a hero for families that need health treatment and can’t make it to where they need to go.
Scott has a special commitment to the patients who fly with him. While many of our pilots understand that their passengers often need some personal attention and care, Scott keenly enjoys getting to know them, caring for them on their journey, and keeping up with them over the years if they become regular passengers.
When Hurricane Harvey devastated southeast Texas, where Scott calls home, he pitched in to help. After receiving an urgent request from Project TX Fragile Kids, he was one of several Angel Flight South Central pilots who flew to Waco to retrieve lifesaving medicated formula destined for babies in a Beaumont-area hospital NICU.”
Scott is arguably our most dedicated volunteer when it comes to boosting the signal about Angel Flight. Although he would prefer to fly missions, Scott has served twice as our Southeast Texas Wing Leader (2014-15 and currently) so that we can continue to recruit and cultivate pilots in our most critical wing. (The vast majority of Angel Flight South Central’s flights are traveling to and from MD Anderson Cancer Center.) “What you learn when you’re wing leader is that it is good to enable others to fly. You don’t just get the joy interacting with passengers, but you also get to help grow an organization that has great capacity to do good.”
He also maintains the most regular social media conversation about Angel Flight that we have in the organization.
Videos/Media:
https://generalaviationnews.com/2017/09/07/angel-flight-pilots-help-in-aftermath-of-harvey/
https://www.angelflightsc.org/about/news/former-afsc-passenger-beats-cancer-becomes-rn
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=398099320928649&id=100021857536136
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=379405389464709&id=100021857536136
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=352325962172652&id=100021857536136