Dick Rutan

Year Inducted: 2018

Richard Glenn “Dick” Rutan piloted the Voyager aircraft around the world non-stop with co-pilot Jeana Yeager. During the Vietnam War, Rutan was one of the founding members of the “Mistys” of Operation Commando Sabre, pioneering the use of tactical jets as a “FastFAC” (Fast Forward Air Controller) for the FAC(A), Forward Air Controller (Airborne) mission, searching for and marking targets ahead of the strike package. He flew 325 missions, and had to eject when his North American F-100D Super Sabre was hit. He ejected a second time in his Air Force career when his aircraft suffered an engine failure over England. He has been awarded the Silver Star, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, 16 Air Medals, and a Purple Heart.