NAA Names Astronaut, Labor Leader, and Vietnam Combat Pilot

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) announced its recipients of the 2024 Wesley L. McDonald Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation Award. This year’s group includes air traffic control, air racing, and Army Special Ops missions.

The Distinguished Statesman and Stateswomen Award has been an annual presentation since 1954 to Americans who have made significant contributions to aviation for at least two decades “while exhibiting patriotism, integrity, and moral courage worthy of emulation.”

The 2024 recipients are:

• Gen. Ronald Fogleman, U.S. Air Force (Ret) – decorated Vietnam combat pilot, USAF Chief of Staff, and active aerospace advisor
• Capt. Robert “Hoot” Gibson, U.S. Navy (Ret) – Naval Top Gun, Space Shuttle Commander, Reno Air Race Champion, and test pilot
• Patricia, “Trish” Gilbert – Air traffic controller, executive labor leader, Presidential and FAA appointee
• Greg Principato – Gubernatorial and Presidential appointee, aviation association executive, general aviation advocate, and global aviation leader
• Maj. Bobbi Wells, U.S. Army (Ret) – Military leader, aviation safety pioneer, commercial airline executive, and FAA appointee
• Col. James “Jim” Viola, U.S. Army (Ret) – Military leader, combat aviator, Army Special Ops leader, FAA director, aviation safety specialist, and association executive

“The 2024 Distinguished States-People are extraordinary leaders whose impact and legacy serve to energize the women and men serving in aeronautics today, as well as inspiring those who have yet to enter our industry,” said Amy Spowart, NAA President and CEO. “Like the remarkable people who have paved the way before them, their stories show us that aviation remains one of the most dynamic and exciting career fields that a young person can choose.”

FMI:  naa.aero/