Tonight, I would like to adjourn in memory of a local Southern California veteran and passionate pilot, Chris Rushing.
Last week, Chris tragically passed away while competing in the National Championship Air Races in Reno, Nevada.
Chris was an award-winning pilot who had just taken second place in the championship before colliding with another pilot while flying a T-6 Warbird.
Chris served in the United States Air Force for more than 40 years and was also a former California National Guard aircraft mechanic.
It was his passion as a pilot that led him to become the president of the nonprofit known as the Condor Squadron in Van Nuys.
The squadron is comprised of aviation enthusiasts who are dedicated to preserving the memory of those who have served our country over the years.
Most notable are their flyovers in restored North American Aviation AT-6/SNJ trainers which were originally flown during World War Two.
He led the Condor Squadron on its mission to preserve our Nation’s military aviation history and flew hundreds of memorial flights in honor of our veterans and in support of our local communities.
Chris organized many flyovers for Memorial Day and other events here in Santa Clarita.
We are deeply saddened by his passing and our hearts are with his family, friends, squadron and the countless lives he impacted as a teacher.