Pilots, Best Friends Awarded For More Than Half Century of Aviation Work

Two Michigan men were honored Saturday at Selfridge Air National Base in Harrison Township for being certified licensed pilots and licensed aircraft mechanics for more than 50 years.

Charles "Charlie" Bahn of Garden City and James Poulter of Chelsea—lifelong best friends—were honored during the FAA ceremony at the air base that was attended by family and friends, according to Charles' daughter, Sharon Bahn.

In addition, John Poulter, son of James Poulter, was recently elevated to the rank of Lt. Colonel in the Air Guard. He had served with the 191st TFW at Selfridge as an F-16 pilot, Sharon Bahn said.

The Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award was initiated by the FAA in honor of the Wright Brothers. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrated professionalism, skill and aviation expertise by maintaining safe operations for fifty years or more. 

The Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award was initiated by the FAA, in honor of the first aviation mechanic of powered flight, Charles Taylor. The award recognizes those individuals that have contributed and maintained safe aircraft for fifty years or more.

Bahn retired as a Chief Master Sergeant from the 191st TFW MANG, Selfridge Field, Michigan after more than 34 years service. Poulter retired from United Airlines as an Airlines Captain, Sharon Bahn said, adding the award ceremony was a surprise to her delighted father.