Vertical Flight Society Award Recipients
Honorary Fellows
The title of Honorary Fellow is granted to highly distinguished Society members who have made exceptional leadership, innovative or other meritorious contributions that have significantly advanced Vertical Flight Society and the vertical flight community during their career. The granting of Honorary Fellows is in perpetuity, and a certificate and life membership in the Society is given to each Honorary Fellow elected. No more than two such awards are given in any single year.
2026
Ajay Sehgal
Senior Technical Fellow EMERITUS
KBR
For over 50 years of sustained and distinguished contributions to vertical flight across industry, government, and academia through technical innovation, program leadership, mentorship, and enduring dedication to the Vertical Flight Society; and for influential work on the design, testing, certification, and sustainment of manned and unmanned rotorcraft, resulting in multiple U.S. patents and inspiring future generations of vertical flight engineers.
Senior Technical Fellow EMERITUS
KBR
For over 50 years of sustained and distinguished contributions to vertical flight across industry, government, and academia through technical innovation, program leadership, mentorship, and enduring dedication to the Vertical Flight Society; and for influential work on the design, testing, certification, and sustainment of manned and unmanned rotorcraft, resulting in multiple U.S. patents and inspiring future generations of vertical flight engineers.
Marilyn J. Smith
Georgia Institute of Technology
For her pioneering contributions to computational rotorcraft aeromechanics and her global leadership in advancing vertical flight.
Georgia Institute of Technology
For her pioneering contributions to computational rotorcraft aeromechanics and her global leadership in advancing vertical flight.
2025
John O’Neill
Retired
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company
O’Neill has dedicated over 40 years to advancing vertical flight, pioneering rotorcraft model-scale testing at Sikorsky, while providing exceptional service to the Society as a technical leader, committee chair, and organizer, strengthening industry collaboration, mentorship and pre-college outreach.
Retired
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company
O’Neill has dedicated over 40 years to advancing vertical flight, pioneering rotorcraft model-scale testing at Sikorsky, while providing exceptional service to the Society as a technical leader, committee chair, and organizer, strengthening industry collaboration, mentorship and pre-college outreach.
Mike Hirschberg
Director of Strategy
Vertical Flight Society
Hirschberg’s contributions over the past three decades reflect his deep commitment to advancing vertical flight and aerospace education, while making a significant impact on technology, policy and the global community across industry, academia and government agencies.
Director of Strategy
Vertical Flight Society
Hirschberg’s contributions over the past three decades reflect his deep commitment to advancing vertical flight and aerospace education, while making a significant impact on technology, policy and the global community across industry, academia and government agencies.
2024
Gene P. Munson
Retired
Munson devoted his career to flight testing rotorcraft at Bell Helicopter and Boeing. After retiring, Munson continued as a vertical flight consultant. Munson has been a member of VFS for over 55 years, he served as advisor on the Board of Directors, helped build the VFS Vertipedia database, and held numerous local and national offices.
Retired
Munson devoted his career to flight testing rotorcraft at Bell Helicopter and Boeing. After retiring, Munson continued as a vertical flight consultant. Munson has been a member of VFS for over 55 years, he served as advisor on the Board of Directors, helped build the VFS Vertipedia database, and held numerous local and national offices.
Clifford B. Smith
Lockheed Martin Fellow
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company
Dr. Clifford B. Smith is a leader in the test community who always engages on complex test efforts developing innovative test solutions while mentoring coaching young engineers. He is recognized for this exceptional leadership in Test and Evaluation and for his inspiring leadership of the next generation of vertical flight engineers, as well as his dedicated and energetic service of the Vertical Flight Society for the last 30 years.
Lockheed Martin Fellow
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company
Dr. Clifford B. Smith is a leader in the test community who always engages on complex test efforts developing innovative test solutions while mentoring coaching young engineers. He is recognized for this exceptional leadership in Test and Evaluation and for his inspiring leadership of the next generation of vertical flight engineers, as well as his dedicated and energetic service of the Vertical Flight Society for the last 30 years.
2023
Robert Hood
Principal Consultant
Quartek Engineering Services
For his countless contributions to the rotorcraft community and aerospace sector at large, to the VFS Australia Chapter, to the education of next-generation rotorcraft engineers at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, and as technical chair for a number of VFS Australian-Pacific conferences.
Principal Consultant
Quartek Engineering Services
For his countless contributions to the rotorcraft community and aerospace sector at large, to the VFS Australia Chapter, to the education of next-generation rotorcraft engineers at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, and as technical chair for a number of VFS Australian-Pacific conferences.
Tomasz Krysinski
Vice President - Research and Innovation
Airbus Helicopters
For his technical excellence and visionary leadership over 35-years in the development of advanced rotorcraft, including today's Racer compound helicopter, as well as authoring two books, 18 VFS and European Rotorcraft Forum (ERF) technical papers and 12 patents, mentoring generations of new engineering leaders (including 36 PhD students), and, most recently, leading the VFS Board of Directors.
Vice President - Research and Innovation
Airbus Helicopters
For his technical excellence and visionary leadership over 35-years in the development of advanced rotorcraft, including today's Racer compound helicopter, as well as authoring two books, 18 VFS and European Rotorcraft Forum (ERF) technical papers and 12 patents, mentoring generations of new engineering leaders (including 36 PhD students), and, most recently, leading the VFS Board of Directors.
2022
Philip J. Alldridge
Flight Test Fellow
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company
As a member of VFS for over 40 years, Alldridge has provided extraordinary contributions in rotorcraft flight test development, design and certification. He was instrumental in developing fly-by-wire control system certification policy for the CH-148 Cyclone and modernizing existing policy for rotorcraft with traditional mechanical flight controls.
Flight Test Fellow
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company
As a member of VFS for over 40 years, Alldridge has provided extraordinary contributions in rotorcraft flight test development, design and certification. He was instrumental in developing fly-by-wire control system certification policy for the CH-148 Cyclone and modernizing existing policy for rotorcraft with traditional mechanical flight controls.
2021
Daniel (Dan) Newman
Chief Engineer
The Boeing Company
Newman’s 38-year career in industry, academic and government has had major impacts on the development of advanced rotorcraft and other VTOL systems, while his leadership within VFS continues to support the education and development of future generations of engineers.
Chief Engineer
The Boeing Company
Newman’s 38-year career in industry, academic and government has had major impacts on the development of advanced rotorcraft and other VTOL systems, while his leadership within VFS continues to support the education and development of future generations of engineers.
Dr. James Wang
Professor
Nanyang Technical University, Singapore
Wang’s career has included leadership positions at Sikorsky and AgustaWestland/Leonardo, developing advanced rotorcraft and other VTOL systems, for which he received eight patents. He has been an ardent supporter and contributor to VFS, including educating and inspiring the next generation of VTOL engineers.
Professor
Nanyang Technical University, Singapore
Wang’s career has included leadership positions at Sikorsky and AgustaWestland/Leonardo, developing advanced rotorcraft and other VTOL systems, for which he received eight patents. He has been an ardent supporter and contributor to VFS, including educating and inspiring the next generation of VTOL engineers.
2020
Andy Keith
Chief, Propulsion Engineering
Sikorsky, A Lockheed Martin Company
This year’s Honorary Fellow is Andy Keith, Chief, Propulsion Engineering for Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company. The title of Honorary Fellow is granted to highly distinguished Society members who have made exceptional leadership, innovative or other meritorious contributions that have significantly advanced VFS and the vertical flight community during their career.
Chief, Propulsion Engineering
Sikorsky, A Lockheed Martin Company
This year’s Honorary Fellow is Andy Keith, Chief, Propulsion Engineering for Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company. The title of Honorary Fellow is granted to highly distinguished Society members who have made exceptional leadership, innovative or other meritorious contributions that have significantly advanced VFS and the vertical flight community during their career.
2019
Prof. Peretz P. Friedmann
François Xavier Bagnoud Professor of Aerospace Engineering
University of Michigan
Prof. Peretz Friedmann has made outstanding and lasting seminal contributions to understanding rotary-wing aeroelasticity, on-blade control of vibration and noise, optimum design of low vibration helicopter rotors, rotorcraft aeromechanics and unsteady aerodynamics, as well as longtime support of VFS.
François Xavier Bagnoud Professor of Aerospace Engineering
University of Michigan
Prof. Peretz Friedmann has made outstanding and lasting seminal contributions to understanding rotary-wing aeroelasticity, on-blade control of vibration and noise, optimum design of low vibration helicopter rotors, rotorcraft aeromechanics and unsteady aerodynamics, as well as longtime support of VFS.
William Welsh
Technical Fellow
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company
Welsh was recognized for more than three decades of leadership in advancing the state of the art in the active control of noise and vibration in helicopters, for his leadership in mentoring the next generation of vertical flight engineers, and consistent and energetic support of VFS.
Technical Fellow
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company
Welsh was recognized for more than three decades of leadership in advancing the state of the art in the active control of noise and vibration in helicopters, for his leadership in mentoring the next generation of vertical flight engineers, and consistent and energetic support of VFS.
2018
Susan A. Gorton
Revolutionary Vertical Lift Technology Project Manager
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
For more than 30 years of vertical flight research and outstanding leadership, including an unprecedented 12 years heading NASA’s vertical lift research.
Revolutionary Vertical Lift Technology Project Manager
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
For more than 30 years of vertical flight research and outstanding leadership, including an unprecedented 12 years heading NASA’s vertical lift research.
Dr. William D. Lewis
Aviation Development Director
Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center (AMRDEC), US Army
For 40 years of advancing Army Aviation technology.
Aviation Development Director
Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center (AMRDEC), US Army
For 40 years of advancing Army Aviation technology.
2017
Mark F. Miller
Vice President of Research and Engineering
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company
For spearheading Sikorsky’s “Three Pillars” vision for practical, next-generation vertical lift aircraft
Vice President of Research and Engineering
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company
For spearheading Sikorsky’s “Three Pillars” vision for practical, next-generation vertical lift aircraft
Dr. David A. Peters
McDonnell Douglas Professor of Engineering
Washington University in St. Louis
For outstanding contributions in advancing rotorcraft technology over five decades
McDonnell Douglas Professor of Engineering
Washington University in St. Louis
For outstanding contributions in advancing rotorcraft technology over five decades
2016
Steven D. Weiner
Chief Engineer for the Sikorsky-Boeing Joint Multi-Role Rotorcraft (JMR) and Chief Engineer of Innovations
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.
For 40+ years of innovation and leadership at Sikorsky Aircraft
Chief Engineer for the Sikorsky-Boeing Joint Multi-Role Rotorcraft (JMR) and Chief Engineer of Innovations
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.
For 40+ years of innovation and leadership at Sikorsky Aircraft
Dr. Arvind K. Sinha
Director of Engineering, Helicopter Systems Division, Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Department of Defence, Australia
Australian Department of Defence
For a career in helicopter operations, academia and government leadership.
Director of Engineering, Helicopter Systems Division, Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Department of Defence, Australia
Australian Department of Defence
For a career in helicopter operations, academia and government leadership.
2015
Dr. Michael S. Torok
Vice President for the CH-53K Program
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.
Vice President for the CH-53K Program
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.
Tommie L. Wood
Senior Technical Fellow
Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc.
Senior Technical Fellow
Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc.
2014
L. Kim Smith
Former AHS International Deputy Director
AHS International
Former AHS International Deputy Director
AHS International
Philip J. Dunford
VP/Operating Executive, Boeing Military Aircraft
The Boeing Company
VP/Operating Executive, Boeing Military Aircraft
The Boeing Company
2013
Robert B. Bossler
Drive System Consultant
Bossler Technical Service
Drive System Consultant
Bossler Technical Service
Nicholas D. Lappos
Senior Technical Fellow
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
Senior Technical Fellow
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
2012
Arthur Linden
Joint Program Office (JPO) Manager (Ret.)
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Ret.)
Joint Program Office (JPO) Manager (Ret.)
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Ret.)
Prof. Akira Azuma
Professor Emeritus
University of Tokyo (Ret.)
Professor Emeritus
University of Tokyo (Ret.)
2011
Albert Winn
Former Vice President Attack Helicopter Programs
Boeing Military Aircraft Division (Ret.)
For making notable and outstanding technical contributions to the vertical flight community.
Former Vice President Attack Helicopter Programs
Boeing Military Aircraft Division (Ret.)
For making notable and outstanding technical contributions to the vertical flight community.
David Matuska
CH-53K Chief of Test
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.
For making notable and outstanding technical contributions to the vertical flight community.
CH-53K Chief of Test
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.
For making notable and outstanding technical contributions to the vertical flight community.
M.E. 'Rhett' Flater
Former Executive Director
AHS International (Ret.)
For making notable and outstanding technical contributions to the vertical flight community.
Former Executive Director
AHS International (Ret.)
For making notable and outstanding technical contributions to the vertical flight community.
2010
Larry F. Plaster
Manager, Apache Modernization Programs
The Boeing Company
His work within the civilian and defense rotorcraft industry has supported notable advances in the frontiers of vertical flight technology and its applications.
Manager, Apache Modernization Programs
The Boeing Company
His work within the civilian and defense rotorcraft industry has supported notable advances in the frontiers of vertical flight technology and its applications.
2009
John M. Davis
Former Chief, Aviation Advanced Design Office
Aeroflightdynamics Directorate, US Army
Former Chief, Aviation Advanced Design Office
Aeroflightdynamics Directorate, US Army
Kenneth L. Lauck
Lead Rotorcraft Head Design
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
Lead Rotorcraft Head Design
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
2008
Dr. Inderjit Chopra
Professor and Director of the Alfred Gessow Rotorcraft Center
University of Maryland
Professor and Director of the Alfred Gessow Rotorcraft Center
University of Maryland
Roy G. Fox
Chief of Flight Safety
Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc.
Chief of Flight Safety
Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc.
2007
Michael D. Blake
Executive Vice President, Programs
Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
Executive Vice President, Programs
Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
Dr. E. Roberts Wood
Professor Emeritus
US Naval Postgraduate School
Professor Emeritus
US Naval Postgraduate School
2006
Barry J. Baskett
Former Associate Director, Aviation Technology
US Army
Former Associate Director, Aviation Technology
US Army
Thomas E. Laux
Program Executive Officer, Anti-Sub Warfare, Assault and Special Mission Programs
US Navy
Program Executive Officer, Anti-Sub Warfare, Assault and Special Mission Programs
US Navy
2005
Edwin W. Aiken
Chief
NASA Ames Research Center (Ret.)
For being long-time member of the Society and greatly contributions to the stature of AHS.
Chief
NASA Ames Research Center (Ret.)
For being long-time member of the Society and greatly contributions to the stature of AHS.
Somen Chowdhury
Manager, International Research
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada, Ltd.
For being long-time member of the Society and greatly contributions to the stature of AHS.
Manager, International Research
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada, Ltd.
For being long-time member of the Society and greatly contributions to the stature of AHS.
2004
Dr. Tomoari Nagashima
Professor Emeritus
National Defense Academy
Professor Emeritus
National Defense Academy
Cecil Richardson
Lockheed Martin Corporation (Ret.)
Lockheed Martin Corporation (Ret.)
2003
John R. Murphey
Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
Long time member and greatly contributed to the stature of AHS.
Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
Long time member and greatly contributed to the stature of AHS.
Akira Sato
Churyo Engineering Co. Ltd.
Long time member who greatly contributed to the stature of AHS.
Churyo Engineering Co. Ltd.
Long time member who greatly contributed to the stature of AHS.
2002
Roger A. Krone
Vice President/General Manager, Army Programs
The Boeing Company/Aircraft & Missiles
Vice President/General Manager, Army Programs
The Boeing Company/Aircraft & Missiles
David J. Weller
Director, Advanced Systems Directorate (ASD), Aviation & Missile Research, Development & Engineering Center (AMRDEC)
US Army Aviation & Missile Command (AMCOM)
Director, Advanced Systems Directorate (ASD), Aviation & Missile Research, Development & Engineering Center (AMRDEC)
US Army Aviation & Missile Command (AMCOM)
2001
Harry Pember
RCM Technologies
RCM Technologies
Myron Michael Kawa, Jr
Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
2000
George T. Singley, III
Made significant contributions toward furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society
Made significant contributions toward furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society
S. Michael Hudson
Made significant contributions toward furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
Made significant contributions toward furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
1999
Marc Sheffler
Motoi Yoshiwaka
1998
Gary F. Rast
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.
Made significant contributions toward furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.
Made significant contributions toward furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
Dr. Andrew Z. Lemnios
Renneselaer Polytechnic Institute
Made significant contributions toward furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
Renneselaer Polytechnic Institute
Made significant contributions toward furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
1997
Webb F. Joiner
Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
William J. Snyder
NASA Ames Research Center
NASA Ames Research Center
1996
Dr. Jing Yen
Bell Helicopter Textron
For his significant contributions toward furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
Bell Helicopter Textron
For his significant contributions toward furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
Robert D. Powell
Retired
Kaman Aerospace
For his significant contributions toward furthering the goals of American Helicopter Society.
Retired
Kaman Aerospace
For his significant contributions toward furthering the goals of American Helicopter Society.
1995
Robert J. Huston
Research Associate
Langley Research Center
Research Associate
Langley Research Center
Gary P. Smith
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
1994
Dean C. Borgman
General Manager
McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Systems
General Manager
McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Systems
Emmett Knight
Charter Committee Chairman
Boeing
Charter Committee Chairman
Boeing
Dr. John Shaw
AHS Technical Director
Boeing
AHS Technical Director
Boeing
1993
Dev Banerjee
For making significant contribution towards furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
For making significant contribution towards furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
Allen Schoen
For making significant contribution towards furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
For making significant contribution towards furthering the goals of the American Helicopter Society.
1992
Dean E. Cooper
Barnes McCormick
1991
Walter G.O. Sonneborn
Bell Helicopters
Bell Helicopters
William W. Walls Jr.
Boeing Helicopters
Boeing Helicopters
1990
W. Euan Hooper
Boeing Helicopters
For his countless contributions to the Society and the industry in his long, active career.
Boeing Helicopters
For his countless contributions to the Society and the industry in his long, active career.
Kenneth Rosen
Sikorsky Aircraft Div., UTC
For his countless contributions to the Society and the industry in his long, active career.
Sikorsky Aircraft Div., UTC
For his countless contributions to the Society and the industry in his long, active career.
1989
Julian L. Jenkins Jr.
Bell Helicopter Textron
Bell Helicopter Textron
Andrew H. Logan
McDonell Douglas Helicopter Company
McDonell Douglas Helicopter Company
1988
Thomas L. House
US Army - AVSCOM's ARTA's AATD
US Army - AVSCOM's ARTA's AATD
Andrew W. Kerr
US Army - ARTA
US Army - ARTA
1987
Paolo Bellavita
Agusta
Agusta
William Kuczynski
Sikorsky
Sikorsky
1986
David S. Jenney
Sikorsky Aircraft
David S. Jenny, Sikorsky Aircraft, director of technical engineering, was honored for his work toward the interests of the Society. A member since 1954, he was the outgoing AHS (now VFS) technical director.
Sikorsky Aircraft
David S. Jenny, Sikorsky Aircraft, director of technical engineering, was honored for his work toward the interests of the Society. A member since 1954, he was the outgoing AHS (now VFS) technical director.
Richard B. Lewis
Technical Director
ITT Defense Group
Lewis was honored for his work toward the interests of the Society since 1971, Lewis has held almost every Society office.
Technical Director
ITT Defense Group
Lewis was honored for his work toward the interests of the Society since 1971, Lewis has held almost every Society office.
1985
Kenneth Amer
Manager Advanced Analysis and Chief Scientist
Hughes Helicopters Inc.
Amer's support of the Society was within the technical realm. He has served five times as session chairman, once as Forum technical chairman, once as the Society's technical director and for three years as a member of the technical council.
Manager Advanced Analysis and Chief Scientist
Hughes Helicopters Inc.
Amer's support of the Society was within the technical realm. He has served five times as session chairman, once as Forum technical chairman, once as the Society's technical director and for three years as a member of the technical council.
Fred Smith
Chief Executive Officer
Kaman Aerospace Corp.
Smith served as the 38th president of the Society, oversaw the hiring of the current executive director and spearheaded the Society's move to Alexandria, VA.
Chief Executive Officer
Kaman Aerospace Corp.
Smith served as the 38th president of the Society, oversaw the hiring of the current executive director and spearheaded the Society's move to Alexandria, VA.
1984
Jack G. Real
President
Hughes Helicopters
For his work toward the interests of the American Helicopter Society.
President
Hughes Helicopters
For his work toward the interests of the American Helicopter Society.
Robert Zincone
Executive Vice President
Sikorsky
For his work toward the interests of the American Helicopter Society.
Executive Vice President
Sikorsky
For his work toward the interests of the American Helicopter Society.
1983
William J. Crawford, III
Vice President and General Manager
General Electric Aircraft Engine Group
For his outstanding contributions and leadership in the development of propulsion system for vertical flight aircraft.
Vice President and General Manager
General Electric Aircraft Engine Group
For his outstanding contributions and leadership in the development of propulsion system for vertical flight aircraft.
Raymond W. Prouty
Hughes Helicopters
For his distinguished career and accomplishments in the area of helicopter and vertical flight aerodynamics.
Hughes Helicopters
For his distinguished career and accomplishments in the area of helicopter and vertical flight aerodynamics.
1982
James F. Atkins
President
Bell Helicopter Textron
For the outstanding leadership hehas displayed as president of Bell and as a former president of the American Helicopter Society ( 1974-74).
President
Bell Helicopter Textron
For the outstanding leadership hehas displayed as president of Bell and as a former president of the American Helicopter Society ( 1974-74).
Wieslaw Z. Stepniewski
In recognition of his outstanding contributions as one of the pioneers of the helicopter and VTOL aircraft.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions as one of the pioneers of the helicopter and VTOL aircraft.
1981
MG Story C. Stevens
Commanding General
US Army Aviation Research & Development Command (AVRADCOM)
For his many notable achievements in advancing the state-of-the art of rotary wing aircraft. His efforts have led to the creation and continued success of AVRADCOM.
Commanding General
US Army Aviation Research & Development Command (AVRADCOM)
For his many notable achievements in advancing the state-of-the art of rotary wing aircraft. His efforts have led to the creation and continued success of AVRADCOM.
John B. Wheatley
In recognition of his pioneering achievements in rotary wing development. His initial work at NASA in the early 1930s set the standard and tone for all of NASA's subsequent rotary wing efforts and influenced everyone's thinking in the helicopter field.
In recognition of his pioneering achievements in rotary wing development. His initial work at NASA in the early 1930s set the standard and tone for all of NASA's subsequent rotary wing efforts and influenced everyone's thinking in the helicopter field.
1980
Charles C. Crawford Jr.
Jr. Director Development and Qualification
U.S.Army AVRADCOM
Crawford, demonstrating over twenty years of contributions to the rotary wing industry, was cited for his leadership in building an outstanding Army engineering and flight test organization for aircraft qualification and for his leadership of the Society in carrying through its transition from a struggling organization to the now healthy and vital association it is today.
Jr. Director Development and Qualification
U.S.Army AVRADCOM
Crawford, demonstrating over twenty years of contributions to the rotary wing industry, was cited for his leadership in building an outstanding Army engineering and flight test organization for aircraft qualification and for his leadership of the Society in carrying through its transition from a struggling organization to the now healthy and vital association it is today.
Franklin D. Harris
Manager, Preliminary Design
Bell Helicopter Textron
Harris, having over twenty years of contributions to rotary wing engineering, was recognized as a leading authority on aerodynamics and an active and provocative participant in the technical debates of the Society and the industry at large.
Manager, Preliminary Design
Bell Helicopter Textron
Harris, having over twenty years of contributions to rotary wing engineering, was recognized as a leading authority on aerodynamics and an active and provocative participant in the technical debates of the Society and the industry at large.
Dr. W. Laurence LePage
Chairman
Franklin Institute
LePage, recognized as a pioneer in rotary wing development, was cited for his lifetime of contributions to the advancement of vertical flight technology.
Chairman
Franklin Institute
LePage, recognized as a pioneer in rotary wing development, was cited for his lifetime of contributions to the advancement of vertical flight technology.
1979
Leon L. Douglas
Evan A. Fradenburgh
1978
Jan M. Drees
Director of Technology
Bell Helicopter Textron
For excellence and persistence in developing helicopter technology including the ramjet helicopter, vibration isolation, flight dynamics, aerodynamics, rotor design, and helicopter testing.
Director of Technology
Bell Helicopter Textron
For excellence and persistence in developing helicopter technology including the ramjet helicopter, vibration isolation, flight dynamics, aerodynamics, rotor design, and helicopter testing.
Dr. Alfred Gessow
NASA Headquarters
For outstanding rotary-wing contributions including inspirational teaching and writing, applying computer technology to rotor blade aerodynamics, and leadership in helicopter airfoil development.
NASA Headquarters
For outstanding rotary-wing contributions including inspirational teaching and writing, applying computer technology to rotor blade aerodynamics, and leadership in helicopter airfoil development.
1977
Edward S. Carter Jr.
AHS
Work for the Society over many years won AHS recognition and Honors.
AHS
Work for the Society over many years won AHS recognition and Honors.
Richard L. Wernecke
AHS
Work for the Society over many years won AHS recognition and Honors.
AHS
Work for the Society over many years won AHS recognition and Honors.
Alfred L. Wolf
AHS
Work for the Society over many years won AHS recognition and Honors.
AHS
Work for the Society over many years won AHS recognition and Honors.
1976
Heinrich K. Adenstedt
Former Senior Vice President
Avco Lycoming
Former Senior Vice President
Avco Lycoming
Wayne Wiesner
Manager- Civil Helicopters R&D
Boeing Vertol Co.
Manager- Civil Helicopters R&D
Boeing Vertol Co.
Harry M. Lounsbury
Executive Director
AHS
For sustained and outstanding service and achievement in furthering the advancement of vertical-lift aircraft throughout his 24 years of leadership as the Society's first employee, first Secretary, and first Executive Director.
Executive Director
AHS
For sustained and outstanding service and achievement in furthering the advancement of vertical-lift aircraft throughout his 24 years of leadership as the Society's first employee, first Secretary, and first Executive Director.
1975
Harry T. Jensen
Vice President Engineering
Sikorsky Aircraft
For his pioneering effort in fail-safe criteria for design of fatigue-loaded helicopter structures, and for his leadership in development of the BIM system for inspection of main rotor blades.
Vice President Engineering
Sikorsky Aircraft
For his pioneering effort in fail-safe criteria for design of fatigue-loaded helicopter structures, and for his leadership in development of the BIM system for inspection of main rotor blades.
Rene Mouille
Deputy Director, Helicopter Design
Aerospatiale
For the design of the Fenestron fan-in-fin tail rotor system and his continued efforts to improve the technology of our industry.
Deputy Director, Helicopter Design
Aerospatiale
For the design of the Fenestron fan-in-fin tail rotor system and his continued efforts to improve the technology of our industry.
Wieslaw Z. Stepniewski
Manager-Advanced Research
Boeing Vertol Co.
For the development of the successful tilt-wing aircraft (VZ-2) and for his dedicated efforts and many publications in the field of rotary-wing aerodynamics.
Manager-Advanced Research
Boeing Vertol Co.
For the development of the successful tilt-wing aircraft (VZ-2) and for his dedicated efforts and many publications in the field of rotary-wing aerodynamics.
1974
Dr. Richard Carlson
Chief
Advanced Systems Research Office, AMRDL Headquarters
For his long-term contribution to rotary-wing, development in this country. His work has encompassed flight test, structural analysis and the overall system design for a wide range of helicopters and vertical take-off-aircraft.
Chief
Advanced Systems Research Office, AMRDL Headquarters
For his long-term contribution to rotary-wing, development in this country. His work has encompassed flight test, structural analysis and the overall system design for a wide range of helicopters and vertical take-off-aircraft.
Dr. William P. Jones
Professor of Aerospace Engineering
Texas a & M University
Jones was recognized for his outstanding contribution to the understanding and solution of rotary-wing aero-elasticity and unsteady aerodynamics problems, significant of his status.
Professor of Aerospace Engineering
Texas a & M University
Jones was recognized for his outstanding contribution to the understanding and solution of rotary-wing aero-elasticity and unsteady aerodynamics problems, significant of his status.
1973
Robert R. Lynn
For twenty-three years of outstanding helicopter and V/STOL research contributions.
For twenty-three years of outstanding helicopter and V/STOL research contributions.
Robert J. Tapscott
For outstanding contributions to helicopter development including research in rotary wing aerodynamics, dynamics and testing.
For outstanding contributions to helicopter development including research in rotary wing aerodynamics, dynamics and testing.
1972
Edward Katzenberger
One of the founders of the Society, who has been responsible in whole or in part for Sikorsky helicopter designs, and whose concepts and innovations have played a major role in the success of rotary-wing aircraft.
One of the founders of the Society, who has been responsible in whole or in part for Sikorsky helicopter designs, and whose concepts and innovations have played a major role in the success of rotary-wing aircraft.
Dr. Gerhard Sissingh
For his early recognition of problems inherent in the rotor mechanisms of helicopters, his pioneering and successful solutions to rotor operation, and for these significant contributions to helicopter flight over a period of more than 30 years.
For his early recognition of problems inherent in the rotor mechanisms of helicopters, his pioneering and successful solutions to rotor operation, and for these significant contributions to helicopter flight over a period of more than 30 years.
1971
Charles W. Ellis
For sustained and outstanding service and achievement in furthering the advancement of rotary wing aircraft while employed by Kaman Aircraft and now by Boeing Vertol as Director of Technology for the Vertol Division. He is a past Technical Director of the American Helicopter Society and has served the Society faithfully over many years.
For sustained and outstanding service and achievement in furthering the advancement of rotary wing aircraft while employed by Kaman Aircraft and now by Boeing Vertol as Director of Technology for the Vertol Division. He is a past Technical Director of the American Helicopter Society and has served the Society faithfully over many years.
Charles L. Morris
For his incomparable record of contributions to the development of rotary wing flight. A founder of the A.H.S., its second president, the first commercially licensed rotary wing pilot and instructor, he completed the first autorotation, and taught the first Twirly Birds to fly.
For his incomparable record of contributions to the development of rotary wing flight. A founder of the A.H.S., its second president, the first commercially licensed rotary wing pilot and instructor, he completed the first autorotation, and taught the first Twirly Birds to fly.
Hans Weichsel, Jr.
For early flight test work at Cornell Aeronautical Laboratory, Inc. and for his continued efforts in promoting the use of helicopters and for his many contributions to the work of the American Helicopter Society.
For early flight test work at Cornell Aeronautical Laboratory, Inc. and for his continued efforts in promoting the use of helicopters and for his many contributions to the work of the American Helicopter Society.
1970
Bernard Lindenbaum
Deputy for Studies and Analyses in V/STOL Technology Division of the Air Force Flight Dynamics Laboratory
USAF
For notable and meritorious service in the advancement of rotary wing aeronautics during his more than 25 years of service as a civilian employee of the Air Force and his contributions to the technical activities of the American Helicopter Society.
Deputy for Studies and Analyses in V/STOL Technology Division of the Air Force Flight Dynamics Laboratory
USAF
For notable and meritorious service in the advancement of rotary wing aeronautics during his more than 25 years of service as a civilian employee of the Air Force and his contributions to the technical activities of the American Helicopter Society.
Robert A. Wagner
Director of Aeronautical Engineering Division Hughes Tool Company, Aircraft Division
Hughes Tool Company
For his unselfish devotion to the objectives of the American Helicopter Society and his contributions to the rotary wing art.
Director of Aeronautical Engineering Division Hughes Tool Company, Aircraft Division
Hughes Tool Company
For his unselfish devotion to the objectives of the American Helicopter Society and his contributions to the rotary wing art.
1969
Harvey Gaylord
President, Bell Aerospace Corporation
Bell Aerospace Corporation
For outstanding and remarkable achievement in the development of the helicopter industry, and for his fostering of vertical flight philosophy at the highest levels of American business.
President, Bell Aerospace Corporation
Bell Aerospace Corporation
For outstanding and remarkable achievement in the development of the helicopter industry, and for his fostering of vertical flight philosophy at the highest levels of American business.
Dr. Henry R. Velkoff
Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering Dept., Ohio State University
Ohio State University
For continuous contributions to helicopter and VTOL technology including planning of governmental research programs and important work in the related field of higher education.
Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering Dept., Ohio State University
Ohio State University
For continuous contributions to helicopter and VTOL technology including planning of governmental research programs and important work in the related field of higher education.
1968
Dr. James A.J. Bennett
Assistant Superintendent, College of Aeronautics, Cranfield, Bedford, England
College of Aeronautics
For his pioneering and continuing scientific efforts directed toward the advancement of vertical lift aircraft, and for his leadership in education in this field
Assistant Superintendent, College of Aeronautics, Cranfield, Bedford, England
College of Aeronautics
For his pioneering and continuing scientific efforts directed toward the advancement of vertical lift aircraft, and for his leadership in education in this field
Charles M. Seibel
Chief Experimental Project Engineer, Bell Helicopter Company
Bell Helicopter Company
For his many inventive contributions to helicopter design and development.
Chief Experimental Project Engineer, Bell Helicopter Company
Bell Helicopter Company
For his many inventive contributions to helicopter design and development.
1967
Woodrow L. Cook
Assistant Chief Full-Scale and Systems Research Div., Ames Research Center, NASA
NASA
Assistant Chief Full-Scale and Systems Research Div., Ames Research Center, NASA
NASA
Ralph B. Lightfoot
Engineering Manager Sikorsky Aircraft Division, United Aircraft Corporation
United Aircraft Corporation
Engineering Manager Sikorsky Aircraft Division, United Aircraft Corporation
United Aircraft Corporation
1966
Dr. Robert G. Loewy
Chief Scientist United States Air Force
USAF
For serving the Society in variety of capacities.
Chief Scientist United States Air Force
USAF
For serving the Society in variety of capacities.
John P. Reeder
Assistant Chief Flight Mechanics and Technology Division, Langley Research Center National Aeronautics and Space Administration
NASA
For serving the Society in variety of capacities.
Assistant Chief Flight Mechanics and Technology Division, Langley Research Center National Aeronautics and Space Administration
NASA
For serving the Society in variety of capacities.
1965
Charles W. Kuehne
Deputy for Systems Management, Headquarters, Aeronautical Systems Division (ASZT) Air Force Systems Command
USAF
Deputy for Systems Management, Headquarters, Aeronautical Systems Division (ASZT) Air Force Systems Command
USAF
Herbert M. Toomey
Project Manager, Project Management Staff-FS-103, Engineering and Manufacturing Division, Flight Standards Service, Federal Aviation Agency
FAA
Project Manager, Project Management Staff-FS-103, Engineering and Manufacturing Division, Flight Standards Service, Federal Aviation Agency
FAA
1964
Ralph P. Alex
Chief, Research & Development Sales Application, Sikorsky Aircraft Division, United Aircraft Corporation
United Aircraft Corporation
Chief, Research & Development Sales Application, Sikorsky Aircraft Division, United Aircraft Corporation
United Aircraft Corporation
Joseph Mashman
Assistant Vice President, Bell Helicopter Company
Bell Helicopter Company
Assistant Vice President, Bell Helicopter Company
Bell Helicopter Company
1963
Michael E. Gluhareff
Engineering Consultant, Sikorsky Aircraft Division, United Aircraft Corp.
United Aircraft Corporation
Engineering Consultant, Sikorsky Aircraft Division, United Aircraft Corp.
United Aircraft Corporation
Robert Strange
Rotary Wing Flight Test, Naval Air Test Center, Patuxent River, Md.
Naval Air Test Center
Rotary Wing Flight Test, Naval Air Test Center, Patuxent River, Md.
Naval Air Test Center
1962
LTG Hamilton H. Howze, US
Commanding Officer, 18th Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, North Carolina
US Army Air Corps
Commanding Officer, 18th Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, North Carolina
US Army Air Corps
Don Ryan Mockler
Director, Vertical Lift Aircraft Council, Aerospace Industries Association
Aerospace Industries Association
Director, Vertical Lift Aircraft Council, Aerospace Industries Association
Aerospace Industries Association
1961
Bartram Kelley
Vice President - Engineering, Bell Helicopter Co.
Bell Helicopter Company
Vice President - Engineering, Bell Helicopter Co.
Bell Helicopter Company
Clarence W. Moore
Executive Vice President, Chicago Helicopter Airways, Inc.
Chicago Helicopter Airways, Inc.
Executive Vice President, Chicago Helicopter Airways, Inc.
Chicago Helicopter Airways, Inc.
1960
John O. Emmerson
Vice-President - Engineering, The Kaman Aircraft Corporation
The Kaman Aircraft Corporation
Vice-President - Engineering, The Kaman Aircraft Corporation
The Kaman Aircraft Corporation
Igor Alexis Sikorsky
Chief Aerodynamicist, Sikorsky Aircraft Division
Sikorsky Aircraft Division
Chief Aerodynamicist, Sikorsky Aircraft Division
Sikorsky Aircraft Division
1959
Carlyle C. Agar
Vice President-Research & Training, Okanagan Helicopters, Ltd.
Okanagan Helicopters, Ltd.
Vice President-Research & Training, Okanagan Helicopters, Ltd.
Okanagan Helicopters, Ltd.
BG William B. Bunker
Commanding General, Transportation Supply and Maintenance Command
US Army
Commanding General, Transportation Supply and Maintenance Command
US Army
1958
Rene H. Miller
Associate Professor, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
AHS Honorary Fellowship presented by Jack E. Leonard (left) to Professor Rene H. Miller of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, for having distinguished himself by notable and meritorious service in the advancement of rotary-wing aeronautics.
Associate Professor, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
AHS Honorary Fellowship presented by Jack E. Leonard (left) to Professor Rene H. Miller of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, for having distinguished himself by notable and meritorious service in the advancement of rotary-wing aeronautics.
COL Robert R. Williams
President, US Army Aviation Board, Fort Rucker, Alabama
US Army
AHS Honorary Fellowship presented by Jack E. Leonard (left) to Col. Robert R. Williams, President, US Army Aviation Board, Fort Rucker, Alabama, for having distinguished himself by notable and meritorious service in the advancement of rotary-wing aeronautics.
President, US Army Aviation Board, Fort Rucker, Alabama
US Army
AHS Honorary Fellowship presented by Jack E. Leonard (left) to Col. Robert R. Williams, President, US Army Aviation Board, Fort Rucker, Alabama, for having distinguished himself by notable and meritorious service in the advancement of rotary-wing aeronautics.
1957
Jean Ross Howard
Assistant to the Director, Helicopter Council, Aircraft Industries Assn.
Aircraft Industries Assn.
For her contribution to the vertical flight society.
Assistant to the Director, Helicopter Council, Aircraft Industries Assn.
Aircraft Industries Assn.
For her contribution to the vertical flight society.
S. Paul Johnston
Director, Institute of the Aeronautical Sciences
Institute of the Aeronautical Sciences
For his contributions to the vertical flight society.
Director, Institute of the Aeronautical Sciences
Institute of the Aeronautical Sciences
For his contributions to the vertical flight society.
1956
Jackson E. Beighle
Sales Mgr., Sikorsky Aircraft Division
Sikorsky Aircraft Division
Sales Mgr., Sikorsky Aircraft Division
Sikorsky Aircraft Division
Friedrich L. Von Doblhoff
Helicopter Chief Eng., McDonnell Aircraft Corporation
McDonnell Aircraft Corporation
Helicopter Chief Eng., McDonnell Aircraft Corporation
McDonnell Aircraft Corporation
1955
Anton Flettner
President, Flettner Aircraft Corporation
Flettner Aircraft Corporation
President, Flettner Aircraft Corporation
Flettner Aircraft Corporation
CMDR William G. Knapp, USN
Bureau of Aeronautics, Navy Department
US Navy
Bureau of Aeronautics, Navy Department
US Navy
1954
Floyd Carlson
Chief Test Pilot, Helicopter Division, Bell Aircraft Corporation
Bell Aircraft Corporation
Chief Test Pilot, Helicopter Division, Bell Aircraft Corporation
Bell Aircraft Corporation
Ferdinand D. Moran
Civil Aeronautics Board Examiner
Civil Aeronautics Board
Civil Aeronautics Board Examiner
Civil Aeronautics Board
1953
Kurt H. Hohenemser
Chief of Aerodynamics, Helicopter Division, McDonnell Aircraft Corporation
McDonnell Aircraft Corporation
Chief of Aerodynamics, Helicopter Division, McDonnell Aircraft Corporation
McDonnell Aircraft Corporation
Dimitry D. Viner
Chief Test Pilot, Sikorsky Aircraft Division, United Aircraft Corporation
United Aircraft Corporation
Chief Test Pilot, Sikorsky Aircraft Division, United Aircraft Corporation
United Aircraft Corporation
1952
Lawrence D. Bell
President, Bell Aircraft Corporation
Bell Aircraft Corporation
President, Bell Aircraft Corporation
Bell Aircraft Corporation
Bernard L. Whelan
General Manager, Sikorsky Aircraft Div., United Aircraft Corp.
United Aircraft Corporation
General Manager, Sikorsky Aircraft Div., United Aircraft Corp.
United Aircraft Corporation
1951
BG Clayton C. Jerome
Director of Aviation and Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps for Air
US Marine Corps
Director of Aviation and Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps for Air
US Marine Corps
1950
Stanley Hiller, Jr.
Charles H. Kaman
1949
L. Welch Pogue
Clarence H. Belinn
1948
Boris P. Labensky
1947
Frank Piasecki
Founder, Chairman
Piasecki Helicopter Corp.
Outstanding contributions to the field of helicopter development for the year of 1945-1946.
Founder, Chairman
Piasecki Helicopter Corp.
Outstanding contributions to the field of helicopter development for the year of 1945-1946.
1946
Dr. Alexander Klemin
Director/Dean (1925-45)
Guggenheim School of Aeronautics at New York University's College of Engineering
Outstanding contributions to the field of helicopter development through consulation and education.
Director/Dean (1925-45)
Guggenheim School of Aeronautics at New York University's College of Engineering
Outstanding contributions to the field of helicopter development through consulation and education.
1945
Frank Erickson, Commander
Commander
United States Coast Guard
The American Helicopter Society (now Vertical Flight Society) awarded honorary fellowship to Commander Frank Erickson, USCG, at its second annual banquet on December 7th, 1945.
Commander
United States Coast Guard
The American Helicopter Society (now Vertical Flight Society) awarded honorary fellowship to Commander Frank Erickson, USCG, at its second annual banquet on December 7th, 1945.
Arthur M. Young
Bell Aircraft Corp.
The American Helicopter Society (now Vertical Flight Society) awarded honorary fellowship to Arthur Young of Bell Aircraft, at its second annual banquet on December 7th, 1945.
Bell Aircraft Corp.
The American Helicopter Society (now Vertical Flight Society) awarded honorary fellowship to Arthur Young of Bell Aircraft, at its second annual banquet on December 7th, 1945.
1944
Igor I. Sikorsky
Engineering Manager
Sikorsky Aircraft
Engineering Manager
Sikorsky Aircraft
H. Franklin Gregory, Colonel
US Army Air Corps
US Army Air Corps
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