Delaware Air National Guard Airmen and Delaware youth recognized by Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Benjamin Matwey
  • 166th Airlift Wing, Delaware Air National Guard
NEWARK, Delaware --  The Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame (DAHF), a non-profit organization whose motto is, "Onward and upward," is a collection of aviation enthusiasts that recognizes the talents and contributions of men and women with a strong First State connection to aviation.

Since its inception in 2000, the Hall of Fame has inducted 67 individuals, including 10 women, and 28 people have been posthumously inducted. The criteria are: Outstanding contribution(s) to the advancement of aviation in Delaware; Achievement in aviation bringing singular credit to the First State; Gallantry in aviation by a Delawarean in service to state or country.

Delaware Army and Air National Guard members have been inducted.

Delaware ANG inductees into Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame:

2002: retired Brig. Gen. William W. Spruance (1916-2011)
2003: retired Tech. Sgt. John G. Hite (1914-2008)
2004: retired Lt. Gen. Clarence E. (Ed) Atkinson
2007: retired Brig. Gen. William F. Hutchinson, and Colonel Carol Anne Timmons
2009: retired Lt. Col. James M. Kohler

An annual "Youth Aviation Achievement Award" is also made to the young man or woman who has distinguished himself or herself in aviation training, career development and participation in aviation community activities. Delaware youths ages 15 through 21 are eligible. Non-residents engaged in training and career programs in Delaware are also eligible.
The Hall of Fame invites written nominations from the public. Nominations should not exceed two single-spaced pages. Supporting documents are welcome. Nominations must be postmarked no later than June 1, 2011.

The Delaware Army National Guard's "Stardust Knights" combo of musicians frequently entertains the large crowd.

The annual DAHF Honors Banquet will be held September 24, 2011 at the University of Delaware's Clayton Hall in Newark, Del., and is open to the public. It is attended by a few hundred people with a background in military or civilian aviation, and their friends and family. Contact DAHF for ticket costs and other details of the 2011 Honors Banquet.

For further information, contact DAHF: P.O. Box 4303, Wilmington, DE 19807-0303, or visit their website, www.DAHF.org.