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Announcing the 2025 Commemorative Air Force Hall of Fame Inductees

Dallas, TX (October 10, 2024) - The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) proudly announces the 2025 inductees into its prestigious Hall of Fame. These individuals have been selected for their outstanding service, dedication, and contributions to preserving aviation history. Their remarkable careers and deep commitment to the CAF mission inspires fellow members and aviation enthusiasts worldwide.

Rick Bell

A CAF Platinum Colonel from Shalimar, Florida, Rick Bell has dedicated 26 years of service to the CAF since joining on May 18, 1998. Rick, a Platinum Life Member, and Lifetime Museum Member has served in various leadership roles, including as a former member of the General Staff. He currently serves as a New Unit Mentor, guiding and supporting members starting to put together new CAF Units in their community. Rick’s extensive involvement includes being the former Unit Leader of the Delta Blues Squadron and the T-33 Sponsor Group, as well as the Executive Officer (XO) of the FloriBama Wing. Rick has been actively involved in at least 16 CAF Units throughout his years of service, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the organization.

Beth Jenkins

A CAF Life Member Colonel from Georgetown, Texas, Beth Jenkins has been a member of the organization for an impressive 35 years, joining on September 20, 1988. A Life Member passionate about aviation, Beth has held multiple key positions, including Unit Leader, Finance Officer, and Operations Officer for the Devil Dog Squadron. She has also served as the Finance Officer for the WASP Squadron. One of her most remarkable achievements is her role as the lead pilot on the iconic Devil Dog aircraft, where she has logged countless hours. Beth’s recruitment efforts have brought over 120 new members into the CAF, further cementing her legacy as a driving force behind the organization’s growth.

Ray Norton

Ray Norton, a CAF Colonel from McAllen, Texas, boasts an extraordinary 45 years of service since joining the CAF on October 7, 1978. Ray’s voice became synonymous with CAF events as he served as the announcer for Homecoming shows in Harlingen and Midland from 1977 to 2008, a span of 31 years. He was also the announcer for the Wings Over Houston Airshow from 1985 to 2008 and the Rio Grande Valley Airshow for 15 years. In recent years, Ray has taken on the role of Lead Narrator for the famous TORA TORA TORA reenactment from 2012 to 2023. Even after decades of service, Ray remains actively involved with the CAF, sharing his passion for aviation history with audiences nationwide.

Lonnie Thomas “Tommy” Reedy Jr.

Lonnie Thomas “Tommy” Reedy Jr., posthumously honored, was a revered CAF Colonel from Angleton, Texas. Joining the CAF in March 1972, Tommy was instrumental in the creation and success of the TORA TORA TORA reenactment. Known as “the father” of TORA TORA TORA, he developed the first routine and crafted the original flight plan for the participating aircraft. On June 17, 1972, Tommy served as the first Tora Lead, holding the role until 1976. Beyond Tora, he was a successful business partner with J.K. West and remained actively involved with the CAF and Tora until his passing in 1983. Tommy’s vision and leadership have left a lasting impact on the CAF and the aviation community.

These four inductees have each left an indelible mark on the Commemorative Air Force and the aviation community. Their dedication and contributions to preserving the legacy of military aviation will be remembered for generations. The CAF Hall of Fame is a testament to their unwavering commitment to honoring the past, inspiring the future, and ensuring that the stories of aviation history are shared with the world.

This class will be inducted into the CAF Hall of Fame during the CAF Conference at a banquet ceremony on March 1, 2025, at the CAF National Airbase in Dallas.

Friends and family of the inductees are encouraged to share photos, videos, and stories with the CAF media team by emailing media@cafhq.org.

About the CAF Hall of Fame For over 65 years, the CAF has grown through the efforts of tens of thousands of members. A few members have made monumental contributions to the success and worldwide impact that the CAF enjoys. The CAF Hall of Fame was established in 2010 to honor those members. Hall of Fame inductees must have dedicated themselves selflessly, significantly contributing to the CAF’s mission, growth, and strength. To be inducted into the CAF Call of Fame Must have held a CAF membership for 15 years and be a currently active member or active at their death. Past Inductees are listed online, click here to view them.

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