ANA 2001 in pictures

Wings of Gold, Summer 2001

ANA 2001, which took place at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel in Southern California was a memorable gathering and demonstrated the Association's profound and abiding support of active duty Naval Aviation. The five-star hotel was extremely accommodating; the food was superb; MGEN Charles Bolden, Commander of the 3rd Marine Air Wing, gave an inspiring talk at the Keynote Luncheon; the Friday night Salute to Active Duty at the San Diego Aerospace Museum was a big hit; the Aviation Flag Officer panel told it straight; the Saturday night banquet with CNO ADM Vern Clark as guest speaker was terrific; and ANA's annual awards luncheon held on Friday shined the light of recognition for outstanding achievement in 2000 on officers, Sailors and civilian supporters of Naval Aviation.

Of special significance was the strong support of Industry throughout the entire convention/symposium. The panel briefings were acclaimed for their content as key officers and flags described the state of today's weapons, personnel, aircraft and challenges. The Captains of Industry briefings were especially informative.

Aspecial treat occurred when LT Shane Osborn of VQ-11, pilot of the EP-3 Aries II which was struck by a Chinese fighter and had to land on Hainan Island, gave a first-hand account of the mid-air collision and his crew's subsequent detainment by the Chinese. All in all it was a wonderful and uplifting gathering and procession of events.