LEXINGTON, Ky. – The Kentucky Aviation Association presented the Excellence in Aviation Award to Robert G. Riggs at the 42nd Annual Kentucky Aviation Conference, held Sept. 26-28 in Lexington, Ky.
The Excellence in Aviation Award is KAA’s most prestigious award and recognizes a lifetime of achievement in aviation.
“Robert Riggs has demonstrated outstanding, exemplary leadership in advancing aviation in the commonwealth,” said Ret. Maj. Gen. Jerry D. Humble, KAA president.
Since the beginning of KAA 40 years ago, Riggs has let others know the value of general aviation to Kentucky’s economy and quality of life. As chair of KAA’s Legislative Committee, he led KAA’s efforts to educate Kentucky’s state and national leaders on the importance of general aviation airports and the need to retain the safe and efficient movement of general aviation aircraft operations throughout the nation’s airspace.
Riggs originated the idea for hosting an annual Aviation and Aerospace Day at the Capitol and continues to lead this effort for KAA in association with the Kentucky Aerospace Industry Consortium. He is respected as a voice for aviation in Kentucky. He is steadfast in promoting aviation and aerospace education in our secondary schools, is very active in the Aviation Museum of Kentucky and currently serves on the Kentucky Airport Zoning Commission.
The Excellence in Aviation Award honors the lifetime achievements of Mr. Henry Ogrodzinski, known to friends and associates as Henry O. Henry was an advocate for aviation his entire professional life. He was a strong supporter of the nation’s aviation system and was a special friend to aviation in Kentucky. Henry was a past president and CEO of the National Association of State Aviation Officials.
He served on the board of directors of the National Aeronautic Association, the Oversight Committee of the Airport Cooperative Research Program, and the Board of Nominations of the National Aviation Hall of Fame. He was a close friend of Henry Ogrodzinski and truly exemplifies the outstanding leadership qualities recognized by this award’s namesake.
Add Comment