The International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) recently presented Ralph Royce with its Sword of Excellence, which recognizes outstanding service, individual achievement and personal contributions to the air show industry. Royce is best known as the Wings Over Houston Airshow air boss, but his numerous other achievements include his role as air show operations instructor, a keen commitment to air show safety and his active involvement in numerous air show sponsoring organizations across the country.
Additionally, Royce was cited for his role as liaison between the air show industry and the Federal Aviation Administration. He has been a Board Member of the Ron Carter Wings Over Houston Airshow for 24 years, responsible for all flying activities in the event.
Royce has been associated with the Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston since 1991, serving as its president until his retirement in 2006. He has served as the president of the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame, executive director of the Commemorative Air Force, chairman of the ICAS Safety Committee and currently is a partner in AirPros, an aviation event management company.
“I am fortunate to have experienced a full corporate career and to have retired to an industry that I truly love,” said Royce at the presentation. “Air shows help keep aviation history alive. It’s great to see grandparents sharing stories with their children and grandchildren about flying a B-17, or dads showing their kids a warbird and the relevance of the aircraft in history.”
Wings Over Houston is a non-profit event produced by volunteers from the Gulf Coast Wing and West Houston Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force, with support from the Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston. It is dedicated to showcasing World War II aircraft, along with the thrills of modern aviation.
For information: www.airshows.aero or www.wingsoverhouston.com
