While attending the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, Young Eagles Chairman Jimmy Graham had the opportunity to show some extra gratitude to a small group of Young Eagles volunteers that were in attendance.

Each year, 4,700 Young Eagles pilots, approximately 4,000 ground support volunteers, and 1,000 chapter coordinators bring the program to life. Without the unwavering dedication of these individuals, the program simply would not be possible.

Jimmy has flown 100 Young Eagles, and he understands more than anyone the level of passion Young Eagles volunteers bring to the table. These folks truly are the wings that provide lift to the program.

When asked about the importance of these volunteers, Jimmy said, “These are the men and women behind the scenes; early mornings; long days; just pure passion for aviation and giving back. Because of them, the Young Eagles program is pushing toward 2.5 million kids flown. Think about that. 2.5 million lives changed by a single flight.”

“That doesn’t happen without a community that shows up, gives their time, and believes in something bigger than themselves,” Jimmy added.

To show his appreciation for a handful of the dedicated volunteers, Jimmy offered them a flight of a lifetime in his Bell UH-1H helicopter, serial number 67-17279. These volunteers spanned the entire spectrum of involvement from ground volunteers, pilots, and chapter coordinators.

Jerry Latvala, EAA Lifetime 536709, has been Young Eagles coordinator of EAA Chapter 905 since 2012 and has flown nearly 200 Young Eagles of his own since 2008. Jerry is also a dedicated AirVenture volunteer at North 40 Aircraft Registration and the EAA Blue Barn.

Jerry Latvala, John FitzGerald, and Shirley FitzGerald enjoying the open views from the UH-1H.

Also along for the flight were John and Shirley FitzGerald, EAA Lifetime 1064989 and 1195022, respectively. John has flown more than 200 Young Eagles, served in a number of chapter leadership roles with EAA Chapter 613, and serves on EAA’s Chapter Advisory Council. In addition, he and his wife Shirley support Young Eagles activities throughout AirVenture by checking in attendees at the Young Eagles Banquet and Breakfast. Shirley is also a dedicated ground volunteer for EAA Chapter 613 rallies.

Victoria Stevens, EAA Lifetime 1318073, took her first of seven Young Eagles flights at age 15 in 2009, during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. She is now a certificated pilot and volunteer Young Eagles pilot. Victoria also holds a number of leadership roles with EAA chapters 24 and 1612, including Young Eagles coordinator since 2024. She is also key volunteer at the EAA Blue Barn.

Victoria Stevens and Allen Brinckerhoff were also along for the ride. Allen got to sit up front with Jimmy.

This flight meant a little extra to Allen Brinckerhoff, EAA 604645, who has been an EAA Young Eagles volunteer pilot since 2014. In addition. Allen has been involved with EAA Chapter 1551 since 2013, including as the scholarship coordinator since 2021.

While Allen’s involvement with EAA certainly deserves recognition, it was his time with the U.S. Army that made this an extra special flight.

Allen enrolled in the Army ROTC flight training program in 1968, entered Rotor Wing flight training in October 1969, and graduated in July 1970. He joined D Troop, 3rd Squadron, 4th U.S. Cavalry on September 10, 1970, flying the OH‑6A. After being wounded on September 29, 1970, he returned to flight status on October 20, this time flying the UH‑1H. In early June 1971 he transferred to the 117th Assault Helicopter Company, and he departed Vietnam on September 7, 1971.

The day ended as more than a simple thank‑you to Young Eagles volunteers, as it was a reminder of how aviation connects generations, honors service, and inspires the future. For the volunteers, the flight was a gesture of gratitude; for Allen, it was a return to the aircraft that shaped his life; and for Jimmy, it was another step in his mission to lift others through aviation.

All involved in these special flights embody the spirit that has carried the Young Eagles program toward 2.5 million lives touched.

The flight in Jimmy’s helicopter was a great addition to the SUN ‘n FUN experience for these Young Eagles volunteers.