Easton, MD — On October 5, 2025, Easton Airport (KESN) was the setting for a heartwarming moment in aviation and family history when Brigadier General Richard E. Pezzullo Sr. (USAF, Ret.), age 93, returned to the skies for the first time in years. With the help of his son, Rich Pezzullo Jr., and a few good friends, General Pezzullo was able to reconnect with his lifelong passion for flying.
Since becoming wheelchair-bound, General Pezzullo had believed his flying days were behind him. Through creativity, determination, and teamwork, his family, friends, and the airport community came together to devise a safe hoist system using a full-body sling to gently lower him into Rich’s experimental RV-12 aircraft (N582VA). Once settled in the cockpit, the General was excited and ready to fly.
As they prepared for departure, a touching moment came over the radio when the Easton Air Traffic Control Tower recognized the General.
“Good morning, General.”
The controller respectfully greeted General Pezzullo, thanked him for his service, and shared that both controllers on duty were also former Air Force personnel. That message meant the world to General Pezzullo, who was deeply moved by the greeting and camaraderie shared among fellow airmen.
Father and son were then cleared for takeoff and enjoyed a 1.2-hour flight. The General even took some long-awaited stick time, once again feeling the thrill of piloting an aircraft.
“This was an unforgettable day for our family,” said Rich Pezzullo Jr. “We can’t thank the Easton Airport community enough, especially the tower staff, for their kindness, professionalism, and enthusiasm. They helped make a dream come true.”
Moments like this highlight the spirit of aviation and community that defines Easton Airport, a place where pilots, veterans, and families come together to share their passion for flight.
