Sims receives distinct flying honor from FAA

Oct. 25—Hal Douglas Sims loves flying. It's something he's done for more than three-quarters of his life.

Recently, Sims, a retired Army veteran with many years of experience as a pilot, was bestowed the prestigious Wright Brothers' Master Pilot Award by Roger Williams, program manager with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Safety Team.

The special ceremony took place in the conference room of the Baldwin County Regional Airport.

Before the presentation, those gathered for the special recognition were shown a historical video of the men known as the pioneers of aviation in America, Orville and Wilbur Wright. The Wright Brothers flew the famous "Wright Flyer" in the skies overlooking Kitty Hawk, N.C. on Dec.17,1903.

The Wright Brothers were the first to invent aircraft controls that made fixed-wing powered flight possible.

"This award, itself, is named after Orville and Wilbur Wright," Williams said as he talked about Sims' accomplishments in aviation over the past 50 years. "It is always a high honor and privilege to be a part of presenting this award."

Williams said of everything he does with the FAA, nothing gives him more joy than recognizing senior airmen like Sims.

"[On behalf of] the Federal Aviation Administrator, the FAA's Southern Region's Headquarters Leadership and my boss, the manager of the Atlanta Flight District Office, I am very pleased to present the Wright Brothers' Master Pilot Award to Mr. Hal Douglas Sims," Williams said.

His comment led to a rousing applause from those invited to the special ceremony, the majority of whom included family members and neighbors who live near Sims and his wife, Beverly.

Also in attendance at the ceremony was Jim Wolfgang and his wife. Wolfgang is the longtime chairman of the Baldwin County Airport Committee.

"The Wright Brothers' Master Pilot Award is considered the most prestigious award that the Federal Aviation Administration issues to aviation pilots," Williams said. "The certificate is under Title 14 of the code of federal regulations. It expressly recognizes senior aviators, who as safety-minded professionals, have contributed over 50 years to the operation of aircraft."

Williams said men like Sims exhibit careful dedication, technical expertise, and outstanding contributions in the field of aviation in flying and safety, and are invaluable to providing the mission and goals of the Federal Aviation Administration.

Sims was later presented a commemorative plaque, which was inscribed with his name, as well as certificate personally signed by the FAA administrator.

He also was presented a distinctive lapel pin, signifying his 50 years of flying. Beverly Sims also was presented a pin in recognition of her support for her husband through the years.

"The FAA also provides Hal with an official blue ribbon adorned copy of your entire airman's record as it is currently maintained by the Airman's Certification Branch in Oklahoma City," Williams said. "And finally, and in lasting tribute, your name will be recorded for posterity in the Roll of Honor, also known as the Aviation Safety Hall of Fame, and prominently displayed at FAA Headquarters in Washington, D.C."

Sims becomes the 244th recipient to receive the honor in Georgia.

"Roger, thank you on behalf of the FAA, for coming here and presenting this award," Sims said. "It's something that you hear about, but you just never think it's going to be something you're going to achieve when it comes to that level of safety and opportunity to stick around for 50 years of aviation service."

Sims said the FAA had always been a big part of his life and the lives of his family members.

"My father was a career FAA maintenance technician for radar, and I used to go down to the Anchorage Center in Alaska and watch the controllers running traffic," Sims said. "It was just amazing to watch these guys work."

Sims spent nearly 30 years in the military and 16 years with a Cessna Aircraft company.

He said his years in aviation were a blessing and he was deeply appreciative for having opportunity to fly such a vast number of various aircraft.

"It was a tremendous opportunity for me and a blessing."