The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) is pleased to announce the completion of the James Edwin Craig Memorial Pavilion at Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (JAXEX). To celebrate its completion and honor the legacy of James E. Craig, the airport’s namesake, a formal dedication ceremony and ribbon cutting was held today at the new pavilion that included Craig family members, community dignitaries, local military leadership, JAXEX tenants and JAA leadership and board members.
A Jacksonville native, Lieutenant Commander James Edwin Craig (1901-1941) was killed in action aboard the USS Pennsylvania during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
“Craig is an important part of the airport’s history and we are committed to honoring his legacy through this memorial project,” said JAXEX Airport Manager Tiffany Gillem. “We have been especially honored to welcome members of the Craig family to this meaningful dedication event, and we welcome our community to pay tribute as well by visiting this beautifully designed James Edwin Craig Memorial Pavilion.”
“The dedication ceremony is a chance for us all to reflect on the rich history here at JAXEX. It is also a chance to honor our local military and their families,” JAA’s Director of External Affairs Michael Stewart said.
The JAA also presented a $2000 donation to The Greater Jacksonville Area USO during the ceremony with dollars raised from the inaugural JAXEX Runway 5K, held last month. The funds will be used to further enhance the USO center and services at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), which serves active duty and retired military. Normal flow into the center is between two to three thousand military members a month. It is staffed 100% by volunteers and is open 365 days a year.
“JAA is proud of our military, and is pleased to support local troops and their families through a monetary gift to the USO,” Stewart said. “As we remember Lieutenant Commander Craig and his ultimate sacrifice, it is important that we also recognize and support our local heroes still with us today.”
The James Edwin Craig Memorial Pavilion, located adjacent to the JAA Administration Office at JAXEX, will serve as a public observation area for the community. The shaded pavilion has seating, as well as information about the history of aviation at JAXEX and biographical information about Lieutenant Commander Craig.
View photos of the event at http://bit.ly/1dKlXXT
For more information about JAXEX, visit flyjaxex.com.
