News

Reservists help build memorial honoring deceased hero

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jake Chappelle
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  A memorial statue and aerospace scholarship honoring fallen Columbia Space Shuttle astronaut and Spokane, Wash. native, Lt. Col. Michael P. Anderson, was dedicated Friday at the Museum of Flight in Seattle.

The purpose of the memorial is to assist underprivileged and underserved kids of color who have a passion for mathematics, engineering, and aviation, said Lt. Col Ron Limes, a pilot with the 97th Airlift Squadron.

"Michael's life is a guideline for my own," said Maj. Kimberly Scott, a pilot with the 728th Airlift Squadron. "Try your best, be passionate about what you do, serve, give back to the community, and value family. I try to remember these guidelines in my own life and in service with the 446th Airlift Wing."

The planning for the memorial and scholarship began two years ago, said Major Scott. 

Washington State governor, Chris Gregoire, had asked why there was not a memorial in Seattle. So a team was put together between Spokane and Seattle to make this dream a reality. A replica of the statue was commissioned and fundraising began for the memorial and an aerospace scholarship to ensure that underserved youth get a chance to take part in the wonderful aviation programs at the Museum of Flight in Seattle.

The planning, committees, and progress was spearheaded by Maj. Gen. Harold "Mitch" Mitchell, mobilization assistant to the commander, U.S. Transportation Command, Scott Air Force Base, Ill. General Mitchell resides in Redmond, Wash.

"General Mitchell is a friend and mentor," said Colonel Limes. "I got a phone call from him and he asked if I wanted to help with the program. My role was coordinating with fundraising for the memorial and the scholarship. I was excited because it's finally here." 

Major Scott was also hand-picked to lead the effort. 

"I was chosen by General Mitchell to be a part of the team planning committee, which was a great honor," said Major Scott. I coordinated with fundraising, working with the media, the local community, and the museum to take this to fruition. General Mitchell and I carefully drafted the script for the memorial, to make sure that we put a personal touch on memorializing Michael's service and sacrifice. But I truly learned a lot and feel very passionate about this cause. It has been very hard work!"

"The statue is just the beginning," said Colonel Limes. "The scholarship will have the biggest impact." 

But it's not just a matter of impact -- the memorial is also about inspiration.

"Michael Anderson encouraged children to reach for their dreams," said Major Scott. "He was very active in the schools, the local community and his church. He felt strongly about his service to his country and his dedication to his community."

Contributions may be sent to:

Michael Anderson Memorial Scholarship Fund
c/o The Museum of Flight
9404 East Marginal Way S.
Seattle, WA 98108-4079