Harrison Ford
names Sullenberger and Skiles as successors to lead EAA Young Eagles Program
September 29, 2009 —
Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles, known for their expert handling of their
airliner’s emergency landing in the Hudson River in January, today took the helm as co-chairmen of the EAA Young Eagles
Program. In a news conference, EAA member, pilot, and famed actor Harrison Ford officially passed the baton after having served
for five years as chairman.
EAA Chairman/President Tom Poberezny, who launched the EAA Young Eagles Program in
1992, moderated the news conference. Later that evening, Poberezny hosted a special dinner recognizing Ford for his service
and welcoming the program’s new co-chairs.
“Harrison and I were delighted when Sully and Jeff agreed
to co chair the program,” Poberezny added. “They were ideal candidates not only because of the skill they demonstrated
on that fateful day in January but also, and perhaps more significantly, because of the leadership they’ve shown since
that time. “They’ve been excellent ambassadors on behalf of aviation.” Ford agreed. “For five years as the program chair, I’ve stressed the program’s message
of earned reward, showing that, by disciplining and applying themselves, Young Eagles can earn marvelous rewards, such as
the freedom and thrill of flight. Now, Sully and Jeff will add an emphasis on the value of training, preparation, and teamwork.
No one could bring more credibility in sharing these concepts with our youth.” Sullenberger
and Skiles accepted the offer to lead the program in discussions with Poberezny and Ford that took place during this year’s
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, which is widely considered the world’s premier aviation event.
“After having
the opportunity to learn more about the EAA Young Eagles Program while I was in Oshkosh, Jeff and I were inspired to get involved,”
Sullenberger said. “Co-chairing the program is an opportunity that I welcome. Jeff and I are honored to take the stick
from Harrison Ford, who has gracefully guided the program for the past five years.”
For Skiles, a rekindled
enthusiasm for flight fueled his acceptance of the co-chair role. “I’m grateful to EAA and the AirVenture Oshkosh
convention for allowing me to fall in love with aviation for a second time in my life, Skiles said. “I’m eager
to share this passion with young people and encourage their participation in aviation.”
The EAA Young Eagles
Program, now in its 17th year, has provided inspirational and educational flight experiences to 1.5 million people, thanks
to the volunteer efforts of 42,000 EAA member pilots and countless supporters around the globe.
In addition to
Ford, previous EAA Young Eagles Program chairs were: Oscar-winning actor and avid pilot Cliff Robertson (1992-1993); and aviation
legend Chuck Yeager (1994-2003). | | 
New Young Eagles Co-chairmen Sully Sullenberger and Jeff Skiles.
Sully Sullenberger, Jeff Skiles and Harrison Ford pause for photos after the news conference
For More Information: EAA Radio:
Interview - Harrison Ford Interview - Jeff Skiles Interview - Sully Sullenberger Interview: Tom Poberezny EAA Video: News Conference Tribute to Harrison Ford Young Eagles Testimonial A Night to Remember - Harrison Ford Tribute Photo Gallery 
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