1997
Maj. Frank DeWinne
Senior flight test pilot for the Belgian Air Force
DeWinne was selected among nominees submitted from countries that operate the F-16. DeWinne demonstrated his airmanship and systems knowledge during a flight on 12 February 1997 when his aircraft experienced an engine anomaly. He successfully restarted the engine and landed safely, despite challenging weather conditions that forced him to rely on standby instruments during the engine-out portion of the flight. DeWinne saved the aircraft for his country and attained a personal goal for himself — he made it home for his son's tenth birthday.
"Lockheed Martin salutes Major Frank DeWinne for his superior airmanship and F-16 knowledge and for carrying out the fighter pilot tradition of Joe Bill Dryden," said Tim Roels, director of F-16 customer requirements, who presented the award on behalf of the company.
Above image: Maj. DeWinne (with award) chats with (left to right) Tim Roels, Lt. Gen. Guido Vanhecke, and Kevin Dwyer.
Award Winner Details:
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