Georgia Wing Pilots Honored with Prestigious FAA Master Pilot Awards
SAVANNAH, Ga. – The Federal Aviation Administration recently honored two distinguished Civil Air Patrol Georgia Wing pilots, Lt. Col. Don Conaway and Lt. Col. Mark Knight, with the esteemed Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates an extraordinary milestone—50 consecutive years of safe flight—and underscores their unwavering commitment to aviation safety, professionalism, and leadership in the skies.
The award presentation took place during a weekly gathering at the Savannah Composite Squadron, where colleagues and peers applauded their exceptional achievements. With fewer than 1% of licensed pilots earning this honor since its establishment in 2003, the Master Pilot Award represents the pinnacle of aviation accomplishment.
To qualify for this honor, candidates must navigate a rigorous evaluation process, including a detailed application package that documents at least 50 years of flight experience. Supporting materials include proof of the pilot’s first solo flight date and three letters of recommendation from aviation professionals attesting to the nominee’s exemplary skill, sound judgment, and commitment to safety. Additional criteria include maintaining an unrevoked pilot certificate, U.S. citizenship, and an outstanding reputation of moral character.
Conaway, a retired U.S. Army Colonel, has dedicated more than 6,000 flight hours across both rotary and fixed-wing aircraft to his aviation career. His service in Vietnam as part of the 71st Air Cavalry (1971–1972) is among his many notable accomplishments, showcasing his adaptability and skill as a pilot. In 2016, Conaway brought his expertise to Civil Air Patrol, where he serves as a Mission Pilot, Orientation Pilot, and Deputy Commander for Seniors. Recognized in the Spring 2023 issue of CAP Volunteer magazine for his Vietnam-era service, Conaway continues to inspire future generations of aviators through his leadership and dedication.
Knight’s aviation journey began with CAP in 1971 as a cadet. By 1974, he had earned a CAP flight scholarship, and by 1975, he was a licensed pilot. Knight’s distinguished career includes 44 years of piloting multi-engine jets and amassing over 15,000 flight hours. A holder of the Airline Transport Pilot certification, Knight rejoined CAP in 2011 and has since served as Group IV Commander for Georgia Wing. His trajectory exemplifies leadership, mentorship and excellence in aviation.
Conaway and Knight personify Civil Air Patrol’s core values and the highest standards of aviation. Their achievements serve as a beacon of inspiration for CAP members and the broader aviation community. Georgia Wing proudly celebrates their historic accomplishments, which reinforce Civil Air Patrol’s dedication to excellence in service and flight.
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2nd. Lt. Penny Barnett
Georgia Wing Public Affairs Officer
