Anne Baddour spent her life committed to the advancement of careers in aviation through encouragement and support. She made the opening of the first two locations of Massachusetts Air And Space Museum possible. The museum board dedicated a large exhibits to her accomplishments Anne achieved ratings in single-engine land aircraft, multi-engine land aircraft, single-engine sea aircraft with an instrument endorsement, and as a licensed airline transport pilot. She worked for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Lincoln Laboratory Flight Test Facility, where she conducted airborne research for the Department of Defense and the FAA from 1977 until 1997, Anne held the merit of being the first female pilot hired by MIT. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum tapped her to help with plans for the development of the Udvar-Hazy Museum. She served on the board of directors at the Smithsonian from 1998 to 2005. Anne donated funds for a dormitory and a new library for Daniel Webster College. She served on its board from 1995 to 2009 and brought on several well-known individuals to serve with her on that board. Her donations of time and treasurer are evidenced by the large number of pilots and maintenance people who have their careers thanks to her. Anne’s support of the Aero Club of New England and MASM allowed both to create and distribute scholarships in excess of $700,000 to more than 600 students. Here is a partial list of her awards and honors: 1992 Amelia Earhart Medal of Honor: The Ninety-Nines Pilot of the Year in recognition of her contributions to aviation. • 1998 Winner of the International Clifford B. Harmon Trophy, Aviatrix: The trophy is held by the museum. • 2000 Aero Club of New England’s Lifetime Achievement Award: For her commitment to youth as “aviation’s lifeblood.” • 2005 Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame: Recognizing her adding to the advancement of aviation throughout the international aviation profession. • 2018 Katharine Wright Memorial Trophy: For women pilots who have helped others achieve status in regard to the art, sport, and science of aviation. Anne participated in 16 air races, since 1954. She set 5 national and international world speed records in 1985. She also achieved 11 national and international speed records in 1998, and 11 more in 1991. Anne Baddour’s life purpose was to enhance aviation education in so many diverse ways. Anne Bridge Baddour’s life is an inspiration to all with a dream. The Massachusetts Air and Space Museum inspires new generations to explore, experience, and pursue interests and opportunities in science and technology. “Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.” She will be missed.
