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."

FMI: www.commemorativeairforce.org/, www.airsho.org