Commemorative Air Force Announces David Oliver as President and CEO
[Dallas, Texas] – December 9, 2024 – The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) proudly announces that David Oliver has been selected to fill the organization's President/ CEO position. In August, the General Staff (CAF’s Board of Directors) announced a nationwide search to choose a new President. David Oliver, the organization’s Chief Operating Officer, was named Interim President/CEO, and a committee began to explore candidates using an executive search firm.
"Throughout this process, it became evident that the individual best suited for this role was already a part of our team, said Eric Zipkin, Chief of Staff. David has consistently demonstrated the vision, passion, and expertise to guide the CAF as we grow and expand our impact."
A member of the CAF for 15 years, David Oliver, has held various leadership roles within the organization, including serving on the Headquarters staff for 13 years. His deep understanding of the CAF’s mission and unwavering commitment to preserving and honoring aviation history made him the clear choice to lead the organization into the future.
David Oliver’s leadership comes at an exciting time for the CAF. As the organization continues its mission to Educate, Inspire, and Honor through flight and living history experiences, it is confident that it will continue to thrive under Oliver’s stewardship.
"It is an incredible honor to serve as the new President / CEO of the Commemorative Air Force. Our mission is more important today than ever before. I look forward to working alongside our incredibly dedicated members, volunteers, and supporters to continue our vital work of educating generations and keeping the legacy of these historic aircraft and the heroes who flew them alive. Together, we will ensure that the history of our country remains a source of inspiration and pride for years to come," said David Oliver.
About the Commemorative Air Force
Founded in 1957, the Commemorative Air Force has amassed more than 180 vintage military aircraft – the largest flying collection in the world. Through the work of volunteers located nationwide, the CAF’s educational outreach programs reach an estimated 20 million Americans each year, providing unique, compelling, hands-on access to history. For more information about the Commemorative Air Force, please visit www.commemorativeairforce.org.
About the Commemorative Air Force Corporations
The Commemorative Air Force consists of four corporations: the Commemorative Air Force, the American Airpower Heritage Museum (also known as the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center—NAEC), the American Airpower Heritage Flying Museum, Inc., and the American Airpower Heritage Foundation, Inc. Each corporation has a separate board, and the President/CEO of the Commemorative Air Force is the President/CEO of the other corporations.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Leah Block, Vice President of Marketing
lblock@cafhq.org
