Garden City, NY (May 13, 2024)— The Long Island Air & Space Hall of Fame, presented by GSE Dynamics, Inc., proudly announces the inductees for its 2024 class. The event is scheduled for noon on Monday, June 10, 2024, at noon.
Each year, the Long Island Air & Space Hall of Fame honors individuals with significantly advanced aeronautical and technological achievements. Proceeds generated from the luncheon support the museum's exhibition and preservation programs.
About the Class of 2024 Dayton T. Brown Sr. (1898-1978): A pioneering aeronautical engineer, Dayton T. Brown Sr. founded Dayton T. Brown, Inc. During his tenure as Chief Engineer at Brewster, he played a crucial role in developing the Brewster F2A, a groundbreaking all-metal monoplane fighter for the U.S. Navy. Later, he established his own firm, which evolved from sheet metal work to become a leading testing laboratory for aircraft and space components.
Dayton T. Brown Jr. Following his engineering studies and military service, Dayton T. Brown Jr. joined the business in 1951, rising through the ranks to become President and Chairman. Under his leadership, the company diversified into multiple divisions, supporting military initiatives nationwide. Today, Dayton T. Brown, Inc. utilizes its cutting-edge expertise to meet the defense needs of 38 states.
Fernando 'Frank' Caldeiro (1958-2009) Aerospace engineer Fernando 'Frank' Caldeiro's journey began with degrees from SUNY Farmingdale and the University of Florida degrees. He later oversaw the B-1 bomber program at Rockwell before joining NASA, where he contributed to 52 Space Shuttle launches and was selected as an astronaut. Sadly, he passed away in 2009 before his scheduled space mission.
Jacqueline 'Jackie' Cochran (1906-1980) was a pioneering female aviator who broke through aviation barriers. Her passion for flight led her to become a licensed pilot by age 22. Defying gender stereotypes, she dominated air races in the 1930s. During WWII, she led the WASPs, training over 1,000 women pilots. After the war, she broke the sound barrier, becoming the first woman to do so, and tirelessly advocated for equal opportunities for women in the Air Force.
About the Air & Space Hall of Fame Sponsor: GSE Dynamics, Inc. is a Women-Owned Small Business, and full-service engineering and manufacturing company engaged in the manufacturing, assembly, and testing of military mechanical and structural components and assemblies. GSE is a recognized member of the Defense Industrial Base with a consistent record of best-value pricing, delivery, quality, and technical expertise.
About the Cradle of Aviation Museum: Experience one of the world's finest collections of air and spacecraft! Explore over 100 years of air and space history through eight galleries and the Island's giant Screen Dome Theater. The museum is located on Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City, NY. For more information: Call 516-572-4111 or visit https://www.cradleofaviation.org
