- February 9, 2021, 12:29 PM
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) honored four “remarkable” aerospace innovators and leaders famed designer Burt Rutan, retired U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Charles McGee, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Kenyatta Ruffin, and BRS Aerospace founder Boris Popov during its fifth annual R.A. “Bob” Hoover Trophy Awards. Presented virtually on February 3 in a ceremony hosted by airshow announcer Rob Reider, the awards recognize individuals who have exemplified courage, perseverance, and service, AOPA said.
“Bob Hoover radiated a remarkable spirit and overcame many obstacles in his life s journey to become an inspiring and motivating, innovative pilot not the least of which was surviving (and escaping) a POW camp during World War II,” AOPA president and CEO Mark Baker said. “It s in this spirit for adventure, and for giving back to the aviation community, why this award and this evening exists.”