Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger

Denison, Texas, born Chesley Sullenberger made news in January 2009 when he and his crew safely guided US Airways Flight 1549 to a successful emergency landing in the Hudson River following a total loss of engine power due to multiple bird strikes.  Sullenberger’s masterful water landing only 208 seconds after losing power saved the lives of his 155 passengers and crew.   His quick thinking and coolness under pressure was due in part to his decades-long commitment to safety, crew coordination and training.