Achievement in Aviation Award
The Achievement in Aviation Award is presented each year by the Planes of Fame Air Museum. It recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of aviation.
2026 Honoree
Si Robin
Si Robin was a pioneering aviator whose passion for flight helped shape the early culture of American aviation. Known for his skill, precision, and dedication to the craft, Si Robin earned recognition as a talented pilot during a time when aviation was still in its formative years. Throughout his career, he contributed to the advancement of flight through both his technical abilities in the cockpit and his role in promoting aviation to broader audiences.
Joseph "Joe" Peterburs
Born into a generation called to serve, Joseph “Joe” Peterburs enlisted on November 30, 1942 in the United States Army Air Force. He would fly the P-51 Mustang in combat in Europe and is one of the few men credited with downing a German Me 262 jet fighter.
Joe would continue to serve and fly in the Korean War and serve with the 7th Air Force Headquarters in Vietnam. Today Joe continues his mission as an author and public speaker, preserving firsthand history to inspire younger generations.
Past Award Recipients
WWII P-38 pilot and P-59 Test Pilot, James "Jim" Kunkle, earned a Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism during WWII.
Exemplary aerospace and military career and for being selected as the Artemis II pilot.
Navel aviator and founder of the TOP GUN program.
2008: The Doolittle Raiders. These brave men helped rally a nation in April 1942 by conducting America’s first offensive action against Japan.
2009: Major General William Anders. The Lunar Module Pilot for the Apollo 8 space mission, Anders went on to serve in high-level positions with NASA, the Atomic Energy Commission, and in private business.
2014: Colonel Bud Anderson. With 161 missions in his P-51 Mustang “Old Crow,” Clarence “Bud” Anderson attained just over 16 aerial victories, demonstrating incredible skill and grit. 2016: Colonel Bud Anderson. Returning to the podium, this time in recognition of his role as an air force test pilot. Through his example, we saluted all flight test pilots for advancing aviation technology.
2010: The Pacific War Veterans of WWII. From Pearl Harbor to the shores of Japan, the armed services of the United States and her allies fought a series of tenacious island battles for four hard years. Aircraft became their most potent offensive tool.
2012: Robert “Bob” Hoover. From his service during WWII to his work in test flight, Hoover excelled. Today, he is perhaps best remembered as the man who delighted millions at air shows with his flying prowess.
2018: Lt. Colonel Robert Friend. Recognized for his service to our nation as a member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen of World War II, as well as his help in breaking down the barriers of race in aviation, and his lifelong commitment to the betterment of the industry.
2015: Clay Lacy. Exemplifying the man who does it all – pilot, air racer, successful innovator and business trailblazer. The Planes of Fame Atrium is named in his honor.
2011: Louis Zamperini. From Olympic and collegiate track achievements to his role as a B-24 bombardier and his subsequent capture, Zamperini demonstrated remarkable inner strength. His grace and dignity following the war is an example for all.