FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 10, 2009

Contact:

Frank Lennon (401) 831-8696

Little did those skeptics know just how rich and varied our aviation history is, and just how many wonderfully skilled and talented contributors to the aerial age have been born in Rhode Island, were educated here, lived here for a portion of their lives or performed some great aviation-related act or service here.

"Since 2003 we have inducted 36 individuals, one entire family (the Allen family of balloonists/aeronauts) and given 14 special recognition awards," said Frank Lennon, the Hall's founder.

Despite having honored more than 50 people since 2003, the list of viable nominees is longer now than it was five years ago.

"Each year’s induction, and the publicity it receives, generates more recommendations,” Lennon explained. “Many people have written or called to let us know about the role a family member, neighbor or friend may have played in our state's rich aviation history. In fact, over the past three years, 13 of our 16 inductees came from public nomination, and in most cases we were previously unaware of the scope of their accomplishments," Lennon said.

The selection committee already knows that trend will continue. Five new public nominations received in 2009 are under serious consideration for recognition.

If you know of someone who has made a contribution to aviation and would like to nominate him or her for recognition, please call Frank Lennon at 401-831-8696, or e-mail riahof@aol.com. Deadline for public submissions is September 25. The dinner and induction will take place on Saturday, November 21 at the Varnum Armory in East Greeenwich.

Last Updated:
9/15/09