Oregon’s Aurora State Airport now Wes Lematta Field

Both the Oregon Senate and House of Representatives supported Senate Joint Resolution 8, voting to honor Wes Lamatta's pioneering contributions to helicopter operations, aviation in general, and his philanthropic work throughout Oregon and Washington.  As of May 26th, the airport was officially designated "Wes Lamatta Field at Aurora State Airport".

During the legislative process, both the Oregon Senate and House Transportation Committees heard testimony on Wes’ behalf. Mark Gibson, General Manager of Ashland, Oregon-based Timberland Helicopters and incoming Chairman of the Board of Directors of Helicopter Association International (HAI), spoke on Wes’ contributions to the helicopter and vertical lift industries. Dick Clark, Executive Director of the Providence St. Vincent Medical Foundation, testified on behalf of Wes’ philanthropic contributions to his state and community. The Positive Aurora Airport Management (PAAM), a group representing Aurora airport businesses, tenants, pilots and neighbors, also voiced their support in renaming the airport in Wes’ honor.

“I was surprised to learn this was happening,” said Wes. “I would like to share this honor with my brothers and my family, who each helped me to build Columbia Helicopters to where it is today.
 
“Wes Lematta is one of the most humble men I know,” said Mike Fahey, President of Columbia Helicopters. “Consequently, most of his contributions to the helicopter industry, aviation in general and to the State of Oregon are not widely known. I am very happy for Wes that the Oregon Legislature recognized his achievements and has chosen to honor all that he has accomplished.”

Wes Lematta’s achievements have been previously honored by the HAI, The Boeing Museum of Flight, The American Helicopter Society and by the various charities that he and his family support.

FMI: www.colheli.com