Nationwide Search Underway For Replacement
Aero-News has learned
Bob Rice, president of the Commemorative Air Force, announced his
resignation in August to accept the position of executive director
for the American Red Cross of Southwest Texas. Rice, who remained
in his capacity as CAF president through this past weekend's
AIRSHO, takes the helm of the American Red Cross on October 8.
Gordon Stevenson, chairman of the CAF's Board of Directors,
tells ANN a nationwide search is underway to find Rice's
replacement.
In 1991, Rice joined the CAF when it moved its headquarters to
the Midland-Odessa area. After serving as vice president of flight
operations for seven months, he assumed the position of president
in January 1992. Rice, who is active in several local
organizations, also serves on the board of the International
Council of Air Shows.
"The CAF is fortunate to have the support and friendship of the
Midland and Odessa communities," said Rice. "It has been a
wonderful experience for me to get to know and work with so many
dedicated people not only in this area but across the United
States."
Since relocating from Harlingen to the Permian Basin, the CAF
has expanded both its programs and its facilities. The American
Airpower Heritage Museum (AAHM), under the direction of Tami
O'Bannion, has added several galleries including the Aviation Nose
Art Gallery, a conservation lab, a research library, and the
Dynamics of Flight Discovery Center.
In 1997, the AAHM received accreditation by the American
Association of Museums, and in 2007 the AAHM achieved another
milestone by becoming a Smithsonian affiliate. The CAF's Nose Art
collection is recognized as an official project of Save America's
Treasures.
Each year, the CAF hosts AIRSHO. The two-day event -- which
wrapped up its most recent gathering September 30 -- draws tens of
thousands of spectators including reunion groups and overseas
visitors. Besides serving as an annual homecoming for members,
AIRSHO weekend has been expanded to include the Special Show for
Special People, Save the Girls Lunch and ACAHOF, an induction
ceremony honoring World War II units and individuals.
Having seen the CAF extend its presence in the Permian Basin
during the last 16 years, Rice says he looks forward to continuing
his work with another West Texas non-profit organization.
"AIRSHO and the dedication of the chapel in memory of Bob Reiss
are great reminders for me of the wonderful friendships I've made
in the CAF," Rice said. "Now, I look forward with excitement
and enthusiasm to beginning my partnership with the people of the
American Red Cross. As we all know, the Red Cross is a humanitarian
organization that has a proud heritage of service. It plays a vital
role not only in our community but in every community throughout
this nation."