Foil: 6 Panel: Distinguished Flying Cross Society Column: 4 Line: 37

Wall of Honor Level:
Air and Space Friend

Honored by:

John M. Cottam earned a commission in the United States Marine Corps through the PLC program after graduation from Arizona State University. Upon completion of flight training and transitioning to the Sikorsky CH-53 transport helicopter, served a tour in Vietnam with HMH-463 in 1970-71. Received the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) while participating in Operation Lam Son 719 in March 1971. Interest in aviation continued after completing active duty in the USMC. Obtained a commercial pilot license including fixed wing and helicopter multi-engine ratings. Owned and flew several different types of light general aviation aircraft for business and pleasure. Civilian career includes almost four decades working in the Aerospace Defense business with companies such as Garrett, Sikorsky and Goodrich, and the ownership of a consulting business. Various management positions were held in Marketing and Programs. Also was selected as the test pilot for the Garrett Small Tactical Aerial Mobility Platform (STAMP) research and development program under contract to the Marine Corps.
Became a member of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society in 2011. Also belongs to numerous professional aviation organizations such as American Helicopter Society, Association of Naval Aviation, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association and AOPA.