Cajun's Aviation Dream Fund
Donation protected
Maj. Stephen Del Bagno lived for aviation. As a high school student, he mopped floors in exchange for flying lessons at his local airfield. From these humble beginnings, Stephen embarked on a world-spanning adventure, flying more than 3500 flight hours in over 30 civilian and military aircraft.
As a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, Stephen proved to be a natural leader and skilled aviator, ultimately being trusted to fly the most advanced fighter aircraft ever built, the F-35 Lightning II.
As Thunderbird #4, the Slot Pilot for the elite U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, he inspired countless young Americans to dream big. When engaging with fans and friends, he always stressed his four Ps to Prosperity: find your Passion, know your Purpose, be Persistent, and be Personable.
Both in and out of the cockpit, Stephen embodied the finest qualities of his country, his service and the spirit of the Thunderbirds. This fund will continue Stephen's legacy and allow his family to help stellar young Americans chase their own dreams to fly and pursue their passion.
Update: Thank you all for your generous donations, we are truly humbled by the outreach and support in Stephen's honor. We are working diligently to set up a non profit organization called Cajuns Aviation Dream Fund and I am responsible for withdrawing the money here into mine and my mother's personal bank account where it will sit until the foundation is set up and we have a bank account specifically designated to the foundation where the money will be disbursed accordingly once the formalities are worked out. The plan is to have a competition among aspiring aviators for a scholarship that will pay for flight lessons at a school of their choice. We are extremely excited to focus our energy on this and are so grateful for all the love and support and will be updating you on the progression as it takes shape.
As a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, Stephen proved to be a natural leader and skilled aviator, ultimately being trusted to fly the most advanced fighter aircraft ever built, the F-35 Lightning II.
As Thunderbird #4, the Slot Pilot for the elite U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, he inspired countless young Americans to dream big. When engaging with fans and friends, he always stressed his four Ps to Prosperity: find your Passion, know your Purpose, be Persistent, and be Personable.
Both in and out of the cockpit, Stephen embodied the finest qualities of his country, his service and the spirit of the Thunderbirds. This fund will continue Stephen's legacy and allow his family to help stellar young Americans chase their own dreams to fly and pursue their passion.
Update: Thank you all for your generous donations, we are truly humbled by the outreach and support in Stephen's honor. We are working diligently to set up a non profit organization called Cajuns Aviation Dream Fund and I am responsible for withdrawing the money here into mine and my mother's personal bank account where it will sit until the foundation is set up and we have a bank account specifically designated to the foundation where the money will be disbursed accordingly once the formalities are worked out. The plan is to have a competition among aspiring aviators for a scholarship that will pay for flight lessons at a school of their choice. We are extremely excited to focus our energy on this and are so grateful for all the love and support and will be updating you on the progression as it takes shape.
Fundraising team (3)
Jeannette Crowder
Organizer
Valencia, CA
Tiffany Speaks
Team member
Cindy Del Bagno
Team member
