Aviators Honored

Several aviators were honored by being “inducted into the Arkansas Aviation Hall of Fame.” (Arkansas Democrat Gazette) On Nov. 9, 2017 Harold Johnson, William Y. Smith, and Zane Anderson were ceremonially inducted, starting with a reception, followed by the actual induction. “Proceeds from the event  fund scholarships for students enrolled in the aviation degree programs at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia and Ozarka College in Melbourne.” (Arkansas Democrat Gazette) “Inductees into the Arkansas Aviation Hall of Game are chosen by the society board of directors because each of the inductees has made significant contributions to the development of aviation either in the state or the nation” said Richard Holbert, the runner of Central Flying Service, and who helped to establish the honor. Johnson, the co-pilot of a plane when it was hijacked in 1972, helped to establish a museum as a salute to World War II pilots. Smith taught at West Point after the loss of his right foot in a combat mission in the Korean War, and eventually retired as a four-star general. Anderson was at the head of civil helicopter operation in Arkansas, flying Chpper 7, Arkansas first electronic news gathering helicopter. They are truly honored.