About Champions of Flight
Join us for an extraordinary evening celebrating the pioneers of aviation at the prestigious Champions of Flight fundraiser, benefiting the March Field Air Museum. This year, we are proud to honor Lt. Col. Ed Yeilding, a true legend in the field of aviation.
Date: October 25, 2024
Location: March Field Air Museum
The Champions of Flight award recognizes the extraordinary men and women who have pushed the boundaries of aviation, challenging the limits of human achievement and inspiring generations to reach for the skies. Lt. Col. Ed Yeilding exemplifies the spirit of innovation and courage that this award represents.
Your attendance and support will directly contribute to the preservation of aviation history and the continued education of future generations through the March Field Air Museum’s programs and exhibits.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of an unforgettable night honoring the champions who have shaped the course of aviation history. Join us in celebrating human ingenuity, bravery, and the relentless pursuit of new horizons.
Tickets are limited, so secure your place among the stars today!
Dress Code: Cocktail Attire
Together, let’s soar to new heights in support of aviation heritage and innovation!
About the Honoree
Lt. Col. Edward Yeilding, born in 1949 in Florence, Alabama, is a highly respected U.S. Air Force officer renowned for his remarkable contributions as a pilot. His military career began with active-duty Phantom assignments from 1974 to 1983, where he piloted the RF-4C, F-4D, and F-4E. During his Okinawa assignment in 1979, then-Captain Yeilding flew alongside Lt. Ralph E. Gholson, a Weapons System Officer from Texas. To honor Gholson’s memory after his tragic death in 1981, Yeilding named the rear canopy of their Phantom in Gholson’s honor, celebrating his dedication and sacrifice.
In 1983, Yeilding transitioned to the SR-71 Blackbird, a supersonic reconnaissance aircraft. Over the course of his SR-71 career, he flew 93 overseas missions and served as both an instructor and developmental test pilot. As the SR-71 fleet was retired in 1990, Yeilding, alongside Lt. Col. J.T. Vida, was entrusted with delivering an SR-71 to the Smithsonian Institution and setting an official coast-to-coast speed record. On March 6, 1990, they achieved a record time of 67 minutes and 54 seconds at Mach 3.3, cementing their place in aviation history.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Individual Tickets $125: Includes admission and dinner (Member Price: 20% discount; Early Bird Price: 10% discount)
Four Star Sponsorship (One Available) $10,000: Included in all event marketing • Front row seating for up to sixteen guests (two reserved tables) • Top line acknowledgement in event program • Top line acknowledgement in all printed and digital media • Full color back cover in event program for your message or advertisement • Full page slide for your message or advertisement during presentation • Opportunity to speak at event (optional, up to 5 minutes)
Three Star Sponsorship $5,000: Near stage seating for up to eight guests (one reserved table) • Special acknowledgement in event program • Acknowledgement in all printed and digital media • Full page program message or advertisement • Full page slide for your message or advertisement during presentation
Two Star Sponsorship $2,500: Seating for up to four guests • Special acknowledgement in event program • Acknowledgement in all digital media • Half page program message or advertisement • Half page slide for your message or advertisement during presentation
One Star Sponsorship $1,000: Seating for up to four guests • Special acknowledgement in event program • Quarter page program message or advertisement • Recognition on sponsor slide during presentation
Friend of March Field Air Museum Sponsorship $500: Seating for two guests • Special acknowledgement in event program