2023 CAF Hall of Fame

Dallas, TX (February 10, 2023)- For over 65 years the CAF has grown through the efforts of tens of thousands of members. The dedicated and passionate members of the CAF are critical in carrying out the mission, essential in sustaining the organization, and responsible for honoring the core values and esprit de corps which makes the CAF so unique.

The CAF Hall of Fame was established in 2010 to honor members that made extraordinary contributions to the success and worldwide impact that the CAF enjoys. Each year a maximum of two living and two deceased members are inducted at the CAF’s annual CAF Conference. Please join us on March 18, 2023 in Dallas, Texas as we induct JK West, Charlie Wood, and Brad Pilgrim into the CAF Hall of Fame. Tickets for the event may be purchased online by clicking here.

JAMES KING “JK” WEST (POSTHUMOUS) - West was asked to join the CAF in 1972. At a time when the CAF’s fleet was rapidly expanding, West’s vast flight experience was invaluable to pilots who sought out his advice and knowledge, which he enthusiastically gave. West was one of the founders of TORA TORA TORA and served as the CAF’s Chief Bomber Pilot.

CHARLIE WOOD - Wood became a CAF Colonel in 1990, a Life Member in 2008, and one of the first members of the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center in 2021. As a pilot and a patriot Wood has staunchly promoted the mission of the CAF and encouraged others to join the organization. Wood has recruited over 150 members by sharing his passion for the CAF.

BRAD PILGRIM - In 1984 Pilgrim took his first ride in a vintage warbird and became an Associate Member of the CAF. He couldn’t become a Colonel, he was only 11. Pilgrim had the foresight to collect all things CAF from old photos to receipts for aircraft purchases—earning him the title of the CAF’s Official Historian.

Commemorative Air Force Hall of Fame Banquet honoring CAF Col JK West, CAF Col Charlie Wood, and CAF Col Brad Pilgrim.

March 18, 2022 Cocktails at 6 p.m. Dinner at 7 p.m.

$70 per person

Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center 5661 Mariner Drive Dallas, Texas, 75237

Tickets for the event may be purchased online by clicking here.