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The Aviation Speakers Bureau has keynote speakers and motivational speakers
for every engagement. View videos and read speaker biographies by selecting
a topic or speaker's name:
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Historical, Firsts
Joe Kittinger served three combat tours in Vietnam in 1963-64 flying B-26s, in 1966-67 flying A-26 and 1972-72 flying F-4s. He was shot down near Hanoi in 1973 and held as a prisoner of war for over a year. As Squadron Commander of the famous 555 (Triple Nickel) TFS-F-4s, this gregarious pilot with bright red hair was well liked and respected by the pilots in his command. Joe has been awarded the Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Harmon Trophy and a host of other military and civilian awards. After 483 combat missions and 28 years in the United States Air Force, Joe became Vice President of Flight Operations for Rosie O’Grady Flying circus. For the next 14 years, his duties included banner towing, skywriting, and operating the Rosie O’Grady helium balloon and hot air balloon. He is currently an aviation and aerospace consultant and barnstorms in a 1929 New Standard open cockpit bi-plane. He was enshrined into the National Aviation Hall of Fame as well as named an Elder Statesman of Aviation by the NAA. Joe Kittinger is a genuine American hero.
A few highlights from his colorful career include:
World’s record parachute jump, 102,800 feet – August 16, 1960
First man to exceed sound barrier in free-fall and longest free-fall – August 16, 1960
First Atlantic Ocean crossing solo balloon flight – September 14-18, 1984
Five stratospheric balloon flights
Over 16,000 hours of flight time in 68 different types of aircraft
Four time winner of Gordon Bennett Trophy (Gas Balloon Race)
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Customers Comments
"We had Joe as our guest speaker at our Safety Day. He was terrific. Everyone really enjoyed it. The tip off was the number of folks that stuck around afterwards to shake his hand. Joe was the best we have seen. I couldn't recommend him highly enough."
Sandy Sanderson VTARNG.
"It turned out to be a great evening. Joe was a very entertaining speaker. After his address I concluded that he is the craziest man I have ever met in my life. Everyone enjoyed his presentation and plenty of people stayed afterward to meet him, shake his hand, take pictures, and get an autograph. He shares quite a story."
Jeff Ramsden, So. Florida Business Aviation Association.
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Joe Kittinger, Jr.
