About

Wings of Liberty Award

The Aerospace Wings of Liberty Award is given by AIA to recognize members of Congress who have made significant contributions to the aerospace industry, and have reflected credit upon America and themselves. The award derives its name from a description of aviation's early years from the 1919 Yearbook of the Aeronautical Chamber of Commerce, which was the predecessor organization of AIA:

"The airplane came at a time when the world urgently need it (WWI). The physical need was great and the mind of man was ready to accept it - so it came with liberty riding upon its wings."