Endeavor Awards recognize aviators
Mark Baker one of three inspiration award honorees
Angel Flight West also honored Los Angeles aerial firefighters and first responders for their critical work. Actor Greg Kinnear introduced the firefighters, who then received a standing ovation. The third Inspiration Award was given to the Polaris Dawn crewmembers for their civilian leadership in the commercial space sector and highlighted the crew’s completion of research objectives including the first-ever commercial spacewalk.
Baker honored at Living Legends event
Endeavor honorees included Lisa Fusano, a volunteer pilot with Aviation Explorers Post 747, and Mike Evans, a volunteer pilot with Angel Flight West. With Aviation Explorers, Fusano helps young people achieve their aviation goals through scholarships and ground school. One such student who has benefited from participating in Aviation Explorers, Emma Coulter, presented Fusano her award; Coulter earned a private pilot certificate with help from Aviation Explorers, and will attend an aviation college in the fall.
Evans is one of the most prolific Angel Flight West volunteers, having flown more than 600 flights. Hardworking and dedicated, he hasn’t let a recent aircraft accident stop him, and wants to get back in the air as soon as possible and reach 1,000 volunteer flights.
“Our mission at Angel Flight West is more important than ever,” said Angel Flight West Executive Director Mary Hunter, as she described air travel as not only a convenience, but a lifeline. “We must rise to the occasion together.”
The awards, emceed by the “pink jet pilot” Stephanie Goetz, concluded with a live auction. By the end of the night, Angel Flight West had raised more than $700,000. 
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