On May 23 Valparaiso orthodontist Tom Cavanaugh was presented with the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award from the Federal Aviation Administration for 50 years of safe flying. The award was handed out at the Porter County Regional Airport in front of a large audience.
Cavanaugh has an impressive track record of flying that a full time pilot would be proud of, let alone someone who flies as a hobby like he does. His five decades worth of aviation accomplishments make him a very deserving recipient of the award.
“I’ve been able to get so much enjoyment out of aviation,” Cavanaugh said. “I’ve been able to travel around the country.”
The Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award goes to a pilot who has demonstrated professionalism, skill and aviation expertise. To qualify for the award, a person must have at least 50 years of piloting experience. The person’s pilot records must show compliance and safety throughout his career. Through aviation, Cavanaugh has learned valuable lessons that apply to life in general.
“Nothing comes easy, you have to work at it,” he said.
Cavanaugh’s mechanic Larry Bub also received an award during the ceremony. He was given the Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award for his 50 years in the business.
“I had 50 years of safe flying because Larry took care of my airplane and helicopter,” Cavanaugh said. “He is the very best. He can repair anything and diagnose a problem very rapidly.”
Tim Sokol and Sam Heiter of the FAA Safety Team were on hand to help honor the aviation careers of Cavanaugh and Bub.
“I think this is our first time in this office where we actually have presented two awards, one for the mechanic and one for the pilot,” Sokol said. “This is quite a treat for us.”
Cavanaugh took his first flying lesson on July 23, 1961 before making his first solo flight on August 3, 1961. He received his commercial certificate in 1965.
“Preparing for this presentation it was obvious that he has a passion for aviation and his aviation friends,” Heiter said. “This is a real honor for us to be able to do these programs. We appreciate Tom’s dedication to aviation and safety that he’s proven over the years.”