Since 1992, EAA’s Young Eagles program has provided more than 2.3 million youths with a free flight in a general aviation aircraft, all thanks to the thousands of volunteers who provide their time, aircraft, and fuel to introduce and inspire the next generation of aviators.
Also supporting the cause has been a succession of well-known chairmen, starting with film actor and pilot Cliff Robertson, Gen. Chuck Yeager, film actor and pilot Harrison Ford, co-chairmen Capt. Chesley Sullenberger and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles, to today’s co-chairmen Sean D. Tucker and Jimmy Graham.
Sean D. Tucker, a multi-award-winning world champion aerobatic pilot, took over as chairman in 2013, and he was joined by Jimmy Graham, experienced aerobatic and helicopter pilot and NFL tight end, in 2018 as co-chairman.
After 11 years of championing youths in aviation and the volunteer pilots who make the program possible, Sean will be passing the ball to the eligible receiver Jimmy Graham, and EAA thanks him for his efforts to support general aviation.
“Sean epitomizes what it means to be a Young Eagles volunteer. His passion for flight and willingness to share that passion with youths is unrivaled,” said David Leiting, EAA Young Eagles program manager. “As much as Sean loved to share the magic of flight with youths, as a volunteer himself, he recognized the importance of thanking Young Eagles volunteers for their efforts.”
Young Eagles will remain in good hands, with Jimmy becoming the sole chairman of the program.
“Jimmy has been Sean’s wingman for the past six years, and he is thrilled to get more involved with the Young Eagles program,” David said. “Jimmy’s appreciation for the impact that a Young Eagles flight can have on youths makes him the perfect ambassador for the program. Being a mentor to the younger generation and showing them the dedication it takes to achieve their dreams is a role that Jimmy takes seriously.
“I am incredibly grateful for all the passion that Sean has poured into the Young Eagles program,” David said. “He raised the bar of what it means to be the Young Eagles chairman, but if anyone can grab the ball and run just as hard, it’s Jimmy.”
