Allen Banen was born January 2, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois. From an early age he developed an interest in aviation by building models, and throughout his life he has undertaken many modeling projects including a ten-foot model of the USS Intrepid which he meticulously built from scratch in vesting an estimated 2000 hours. I He has lived in the greater metropolitan areas of Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston and Phoenix. In 1954 he proposed to the former Norma Feldman, to whom he has been married for more than 50 years.

Allen served two years active and two years inactive in the Naval Air Reserve. He earned his private pilot's license in 1954, his commercial certificate in 1962 and his instructor’s certificate in 1963, when he began flight instructing. He has logged more than 14,000 hours and flown 45 different types of aircraft, and has owned a Stinson 108-3, Mooney, Apache, Geronimo, S Model A Bonanza, Aztec Twin Comanche, Bonanza V35BV and a B55 Baron. He is active in the Beech Pilot Proficiency Program, which is affiliated with the American Bonanza Society. As a member of that organization, Allen teaches proficiency flight training throughout the United States. He has also volunteered to introduce children to aviation by providing airplane rides at EAA Young Eagle events and transporting children to Shriner Children's Hospital.

Allen also plays trombone and was a professional musician from 1951 to 1962. He played in big band and stage bands as well as symphony and pit orchestras in the Chicago area. He has also played for the Shriner's band in Phoenix, and currently is in his fifth season with the Scottsdale Symphony.

In the 1950's and 60's he worked in the photo industry. He was a sales marketing executive for Braun North America Co., a division of Gillett Co., from 1969 to 1970. From 1979 until 1999 he and Norma owned and operated Noral Enterprises, a cabinet and custom furniture manufacturing company in Phoenix, Arizona.

This honorarium is dedicated with love to Grandpa and co-pilot Grandma,
from
Steve, Lisa, David, Louis & Samuel
and
Renee, Kevin, Brandi, Colten & Trey.
January 3,2005