The following post is by Southwest's Sr. Director Federal Affairs David Richardson
On December 16, I was proud to join about 750 members of the Washington, DC aviation community – including FAA Administrator Michael Huerta, TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger, and several former DOT Secretaries and FAA Administrators – to honor and celebrate the unique and impactful career of Colleen C. Barrett – Southwest’s President Emeritus.
As you probably know by now, Colleen is the 2016 recipient of the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy, which is arguably the most prestigious aviation award in the nation, if not the world. The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) selected Colleen for this special honor, and the Aero Club of Washington hosts an annual black tie gala that generally coincides with the anniversary of the first successful powered flight by Wilbur and Orville Wright in 1903.
As a regular attendee of these Wright Brothers dinners – aka, the “Aviation Prom” – this one was truly special and extremely “Southwesty.” The program included a uniquely “Herb-esque” tribute speech by our Founder and Chairman Emeritus, first-class musical entertainment by our very own Why? Nots, and a touching tribute video. The Why? Nots even performed a special song for Colleen, using (naturally) the melody of Willie Nelson’s "Always on My Mind."
Not surprisingly, I’ve never seen so much laughter or tears at one of these dinners before. Colleen and SWA kicked DC butt – just sayin’.
I’m also very pleased that Colleen’s extended family, including her son, Patrick; grandson, Evan; and brother and sister-in-law, Pat and Heidi Crotty; could be with her during this wonderful night. Also in attendance were numerous members of Colleen’s Southwest Family, including many retirees who worked closely with Colleen, four of our Board Members, Gary Kelly, as well as many of our current Leaders.
Toward the end of the dinner, Jim Albaugh, Chairman of the NAA and retired CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, formally presented the 2016 Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy to Colleen. The trophy citation reads: "For dedicating nearly 50 years to aviation, including serving as President of Southwest Airlines, where she devoted herself to creating a unique, service-oriented corporate culture which made her one of the most successful leaders in U.S. airline history." Please join me again in congratulating Colleen on this well-deserved honor!
