Foil: 14 Panel: Retired United Pilots Association Column: 2 Line: 86

Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Friend

Honored by:

Captain Vanderwest started his aviation career by service as a U.S. Navy enlisted man on the aircraft carrier, USS Forrestal, where the airplane "bug" bit. After discharge from the Navy in 1961, he joined United Airlines as a Customer Service Agent in Muskegon, MI, during which time he acquired his flying licenses and experience in several general aviation airplanes, as well as learning the business side of the airline. He applied for Flight Officer training with United and was accepted in 1964. Following training in Denver, Colorado, John served at United's Chicago O'Hare domicile until his early medical retirement in 1981. While with United, John worked his way through the ranks from Flight Engineer and First Officer to Captain. He flew United's DC-6, DC-7, B-720, B-737, and DC-10 aircraft. Following his early retirement with United, John joined and served the Federal Aviation Administration for 15 years as a Flight Standards inspector and training specialist.