Inaugural Award to be Presented on Former President's 80th Birthday

In a tribute to America's 41st president, the Association of Naval Aviation (ANA) will present its inaugural President George H. W. Bush Award on his 80th birthday at the 29th Annual Convention finale, the ANA/Naval Aviation Ball Saturday, June 12, 2004.
 
The annual award will be presented to a first-tour, aircraft carrier pilot whose performance of duty best embodies the qualities of courage, commitment and professional skill which were exemplified by President Bush during his first tour of duty as a World War II Naval Aviator. Sponsor of the trophy for this prestigious honor is the Lockheed Martin Corporation.

"Naval Aviators have a keen appreciation for the patriotism of George Bush. They remember that with his nation at war he enlisted in the Navy as an aviation cadet on his 18th birthday," said Admiral James L. Holloway III, USN (Ret.), former Chief of Naval Operations, ANA's Chairman of the Board Emeritus and a friend of the former President. "He was just out of high school, setting aside his plans to attend Yale University where he was already accepted, to take his place on the front lines of World War II as a carrier pilot, flying TBM Avengers. When he received his wings and commission, just days before his 19th birthday, he was the youngest Naval Aviator on record." Admiral Holloway, who conceived the prestigious award, also said, "it was necessary for the Naval Aviation community to further honor President Bush for his service as a Navy pilot -- his 80th birthday is a more than appropriate date."

This award showcases today's young Naval Aviators who aptly carry on the legacy of President Bush and his shipmates. Aviators on their first duty assignment aboard an aircraft carrier face unique challenges. In addition to launching from and landing on runways at sea, intense aerial combat operations are almost the norm in today's Global War on Terrorism.

The Convention & Symposium will be held from Wednesday, June 9 through Saturday, June 12, 2004 at the Sheraton Premiere at Tysons Corner Hotel.

The Association of Naval Aviation with headquarters in Alexandria, VA is the professional, non-profit, educational and fraternal society of Naval Aviation, whose main purpose is to educate the public and our national leaders on the vital roles of the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard Aviation as key elements of our national defense posture.

FMI: www.anahq.org