Jim Rice Inducted into the AMA Hall Of Fame

I have had a chance to let my induction into the Academy of Model Aeronautics Hall of Fame soak in and I am still excited, humbled and surprised by the selection.

I said during the presentation that I felt as if I did not belong among the greats in our hobby and sport and probably that is true for me alone, but you are a compilation of all you have known, who have trained, supported, loved and raised you.  If you consider all these folks…I am pretty awesome!

 From parents who not only gave me my love of aviation and modeling but also instilled the values in me that have stood the test of time through a very long and satisfying military career to a supportive family headed up by an understanding and very tolerant wife and children who were and are the best anyone could imagine or desire; I have been blessed and raised up beyond my own expectations.

Add to those great beginnings of my persona the many friends around the world who helped, harassed, cajoled, and accepted me.  They include soldiers, modelers, folks who helped 2nd Chance Hobbies succeed and AMA staff and EC members that maintained the focus and dedication toward keeping model aviation viable and fun for all.  I know I will leave folks out if I try to list all who made me what I am so to avoid insulting someone I will list one friend, Jack Matlock, one Staffer, Dave Mathewson, one EC member, Bob Brown and one employee at 2nd Chance, Rick Grim, to accept my heartfelt thanks on behalf of all the other folks who were always in my camp.  You guys and all those you represent share in the accolades this induction brings.

Thanks to Mark Johnston for the nomination and the committee for its efforts.

I have been an AMA member since 1956 and am committed to this organization for life.  I will never intentionally bring discredit to it or the Hall of Fame!

Jim Rice

To learn more about the AMA Hall of Fame visit https://www.modelaircraft.org/museum/hoflist.aspx