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Captain “Sully” Sullenberger to be presented with the 2019 Spreading Wings Award

Colorado non-profit Wings Over the Rockies (Wings) is pleased to announce Captain “Sully” Sullenberger as the recipient of their 2019 Spreading Wings Award on Thursday, December 5th at 6:30 PM. 

After logging more than 20,000 hours of flight time Sullenberger became internationally renowned on January 15, 2009 when he and his crew safely guided US Airways Flight 1549 to an emergency water landing in New York City’s frigid Hudson River. The Airbus A320’s two engines had lost thrust following a bird strike. Sullenberger and his crew received international acclaim for their actions that day, including the passage of a Congressional resolution recognizing their bravery.

Sullenberger was ranked second in TIME’s “Top 100 Most Influential Heroes and Icons of 2009” and was awarded the French Legion of Honour.

“Captain Sullenberger is the pinnacle of aviation excellence,” explained Wings Over the Rockies President and CEO, Maj Gen John Barry, USAF (Ret).

“His exceptional acts during Flight 1549, his leadership in transportation safety and a lifelong passion for flight are the cornerstones of aviation merit and we are thrilled to be honoring him with our annual award.”

“Wings Over the Rockies is an important part of shaping and encouraging the future aviators of our country,” stated Captain “Sully” Sullenberger.

“It is an honor to accept this award and support an organization so committed to educating and inspiring the next generation.”

The evening will feature a special presentation by Captain Sullenberger, delicious food and drink, as well as a celebration of Wings contributions to Colorado’s aerospace community.

The Spreading Wings Gala will take place at Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum in Denver, CO on Thursday, December 5th beginning at 6:30 PM.

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