Merryl Tengesdal Accepting the Crystal Eagle (2023)
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Merryl Tengesdal Accepting the Crystal Eagle (2023)
Aero Club of Northern California Mission(s)
We embrace the goals of our parent organization in our efforts to support a vigorous aviation and space program for students at all levels of learning, and to recognize and honor those who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of aviation and space flight.
Learn more about our 2023 Crystal Eagle Awards Recipient Merryl Tengesdal
Merryl Tengesdal stands as a pioneering aviator, shattering aerospace barriers and inspiring excellence. Her remarkable journey fuels motivation for future generations, exemplifying the heights one can achieve in the sky and beyond.
The Aero Club of Northern California was formed to promote activities that advance aviation and aerospace in Northern California.
We are an affiliate of the National Aeronautic Association (NAA), the oldest national aviation organization in the United States. NAA is the record-keeper for United States aviation.
Anita Farris
Aero Club of Northern California
rsvp@aeroclubnorcal.org
Mailing address:
Aero Club of Northern California
PO BOX 610234
San Jose, CA 95161-0234
39th Annual Crystal Eagle Awards: "Shattering the Sky" with Colonel Merryl Tengesdal, USAF(Ret)! 
The 39th Crystal Eagle Awards and Scholarship Dinner will be at 6:00 p.m. Saturday, November 04th, 2023, at the Hiller Aviation Museum, 601 Skyway Road, at San Carlos Airport. The cocktail Reception starts at 6:00 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m.
Colonel Merryl Tengesdal, an aviation luminary, will be recognized as our 39th Crystal Eagle Award Recipient. With a rich legacy, Merryl Tengesdal made history as the first African American woman to fly the U-2 reconnaissance aircraft. She's a trailblazer, amassing over 3,400 flight hours across diverse platforms, including the C-141, C-5, and KC-135. Her exceptional military journey encompasses service in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Tengesdal's achievements radiate, inspiring generations, as she stands as a symbol of excellence in aerospace.
Scholarships will be awarded to several students enrolled in Northern California college and university aviation programs. Dinner ticket prices cover the cost of the event, so we rely upon contributions and Silent Auction bids to fund the scholarships.
The Aero Club first presented the Crystal Eagle Award in 1983 to legendary aviator Gen. Jimmy Doolittle. Among past recipients are Gen. Chuck Yeager, Stanley Hiller Jr., Jim Nissen, George Cooper, Jeana Yeager, James S. Ricklefs, Darryl Greenamyer, Clay Lacy, Paul Poberezny, Wayne Handley, Eileen Collins, Sean D. Tucker, Steve Fossett, Brian Shul, C.E. "Bud" Anderson, Julie Clark, Rod Machado, John and Martha King, and Barry Schiff.
Dinner tickets, including museum admission, are $150 for non-members. Reservations are due by October 27th, 2023. Reservations are required; tickets will not be sold at the door, and attendees can purchase tables reserved for 8 guests. You can further support the Aero Club and the Crystal Eagle Awards by becoming or renewing your Aero Club Membership.
Come join us and help make it a night to remember!
Sincerely,