Manakin-Sabot, Virginia

Inducted in 2010, Albert M. Orgain IV, Chairman of the VAHS Board from 2002 to 2010 used his varied talents, unsurpassed leadership skills, and passion for Virginia’s aviation history to raise the Virginia Aeronautical Historical Society to a state of recognition unmatched in its history. Al laid the groundwork for new programs and re-invigorated established programs. This has increased the Society’s visibility and strengthened its ability to fulfill the mission statement of telling the story of Virginia’s rich aviation history. Through Al’s leadership the VAHS has enjoyed a significant increase in monetary donations greatly improving not only the Society’s day to day operation but its ability to provide Virginia with a quality “product” in the form of programs and information. Programs strengthened and developed during Al’s tenure have placed the Society and its mission in view of the general public in a manner that has not been enjoyed in the past. A resident of Virginia since the age of 5, Al learned to fly in 1964, and is a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, class of 1965, and the Washington and Lee University School of Law. Al served as a rotorcraft pilot in the U.S. Army (1965-1968) and flew in Vietnam in UH-1C Huey gunship helicopters. He was wounded twice by enemy fire and awarded two Purple Hearts and two awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross. Al is past Chairman for the Air and Space Transportation Committee of the Transportation Section of the Virginia State Bar Association and was a charter member of the Virginia Aviation Foundation. Al is the lead attorney for the Sands Anderson Law Firm’s Aviation Team where, for over 30 years, he has served clients in the aviation, transportation and insurance business, earning a national reputation for his skills in aviation accidents, especially “wire strike” matters involving collisions between aircraft and surface-bound towers and cables. He is listed in Best Lawyers in America, Super Lawyers of Virginia and other compilations for his aviation and transportation work.