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In April, we shared a story about the relaunch of the Warbirds 20 Under 40 Rising Stars Program. Initiated by the National Warbird Operators Conference (NWOC) in 2019, this program aims to engage younger generations in vintage military aviation, both as pilots and maintainers. Known as ’20 Under 40,’ the initiative recognizes young men and women who have made significant contributions to the warbird community.
Photo via Warbirds 20 Under 40
That last article back in April encouraged the warbird community to nominate individuals under 40 who they felt were making the grade, and now we can report the 2024 honorees for all to see… the 20 Under 40 Rising Stars of the Warbird World! Congratulations to all who took part … you are all making a difference!
Katrina Hodges
Keegan Chetwynd
Job Savage
Stephen Koewler
Joe Greene
Curt Lewis
Bevan Dewes
Zachary McNeil
Josh Miller
Andres Morales
Lain Wayman
Garrett Fleishman
Ryan McNeill
Savannah Weaver
Lindy Linebaugh
Sean VanHatten
James Webb
Jennifer Kanakis
Nick Kanakis
Christopher Hicks
The program was originally developed by Mark Clark and Darcky Kapke of Courtesy Aircraft Sales, who later passed the torch to Peter DeLisa. “What is not often seen or acknowledged is the number [of] younger people who are carrying on the movement. These people need to be recognized and thanked for their efforts,” DeLisa said.
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
