Helicopter Association International’s mission is to advance the helicopter as a safe, effective method of commerce. That mission charges each of us to commit ourselves to promoting the highest level of safety and efficiency. This culture of professionalism is nurtured when we encourage and recognize outstanding achievement and contributions made by individuals and organizations. Each year the “Salute to Excellence” Awards program recognizes these outstanding achievements.
Igor I. Sikorsky himself once said, “If you are in trouble anywhere in the world, an airplane can fly over and drop flowers, but a helicopter can land and save your life.” As a helicopter industry professional, you are aware of and come in contact with many individuals and organizations that have indeed saved lives and provided humanitarian services above and beyond the call of duty. One of the most popular features of RotorNews is “Helicopters Saving Lives” – international rescue stories that remind the world how helicopters and their operators bring happy endings to desperate situations. By nominating those who have impacted our society in such a way, you can help shine a positive light on our industry, and remind the public of the importance of helicopter rescues and humanitarian work. Nowhere is this service recognized more than with the awarding of the Sikorsky Humanitarian Service Award, presented to the person(s) who best demonstrates the value of civil rotorcraft to society by saving lives, protecting property, and aiding those in distress. The award may be for a particular mission, or for outstanding service for a period of time. Also encapsulating this ideal is the Eurocopter Golden Hour Award, recognizing the efforts of the Air Medical Service helicopter pilot and crew who, through a particular rescue, or through contributions over time, have advanced this use of helicopters.
A list of all the different awards and all the forms you need can be found on HAI’s Web site www.rotor.com, under “Salute to Excellence.” Nominations may be submitted online, or by printing out a Nomination Form and mailing it to Helicopter Association International, 1635 Prince Street, Alexandria, Virginia, 22314-2818, or faxing it to 703-683-4745. Please give concise details that support your nomination. Supportive materials aid consideration in the selection process, and may include awards, training certifications, photographs, newspaper and magazine articles, and letters of recommendation that relate to the nomination. These items must be suitable for photocopying; please do not send videotapes and non-paper items prior to selection.
All nominations must include a signed “Acknowledgement Form,” indicating that the nominee knows they are being nominated and, if selected, that they would be willing to receive the award in person or by representation at the “Salute to Excellence” Awards Banquet, which will be held on Monday, February 22, 2010, during HELI-EXPO 2010 in Houston, Texas.
The deadline for nominations is Thursday, November 12th, 2009.
For more information on the “Salute to Excellence” awards, please contact HAI’s Communications Department at 703-683-4646, or by email at rotor@rotor.com.