Local Pilot Earns Wright Brothers “Master Pilot”
Former Executive Flyer Instructor Celebrated For 50 Years of Safe Flying
Ray Kinney, one of the original instructors at Executive Airport* has been awarded a top honor by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Mr. Kinney has been recognized for 50 years of accident-free safe flying!
“The Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award recognizes pilots who have demonstrated professionalism, skill and aviation expertise by maintaining safe operations for 50 or more years. Recipients are awarded a certificate and a lapel pin and are recognized in our Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award”
The FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award was first issued in 2003 and has recognized over 2800 pilots for their achievements in safe flying. A few notable FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilots include Astronauts Neil Armstrong (USN Ret), Gene Cernan (USN Ret), golfing legend, Arnold Palmer and former Cessna Aviation CEO Russ Meyer Jr.
Maj. Raymond Kinney has also distinguished himself in the United States Air Force where he earned a Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for service during the Battle of Khe Sanh in Vietnam. Then Captain Kinney flew as navigator on C-130 tactical resupply missions to resupply the besieged base Marines and USAF personal at Khe Sanh.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Raymond C. Kinney, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a C-130 Navigator at Khe Sanh, Republic of Vietnam, on 16 March 1968. On that date, Captain Kinney flew on a tactical emergency resupply airdrop of vitally needed ammunition to friendly combat ground forces besieged at Khe Sanh. Under extremely hazardous and challenging conditions, Captain Kinney aggressively pursued and successfully completed this crucial mission. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Kinney reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
(16 March 1968 35th Troop Carrier Squadron).
Executive Flyers, Inc. extends a hearty congratulations to Ray Kinney for his Master Pilot award and thanks him for both his service to the nation and his leadership in the general aviation community of Northern California.
For more information about the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award CLICK HERE
*Edited / Correction: Mr. Kinney did not teach at Executive Flyers, Inc., but instead at Executive Airport.