Inducted in 2016
Pioneered helicopter rescue techniques
1917-2016
Inducted into the Paul E. Garber First Flight Shrine at Wright Brothers National Memorial on December 17, 2016, celebrating the 113th Wright Brothers Anniversary of Powered Flight. This aviation hero was a pioneer in the development of techniques the helicopter is renowned for to this day.
Commander Graham, trained by his mentor Capt. Erickson, was soon designated as the second Coast Guard helicopter pilot. Commander Graham become “awestruck” by the new “machine”, and captivated by its possibilities. Instructor and student were an outstanding team – and deservingly earned their titles as HELICOPTER PILOT #1 and HELICOPTER PILOT #2.